Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Introducing Hinchinbrook Life and Cassowary Coast Life Newspaper, a newly extended newspaper uniting our regions and highlighting the importance of sharing local community news to inform and uplift. Produced weekly and running on the flipside of this newspaper, Cassowary Coast Life will be distributed to Tully, El Arish and Mission Beach, along with the paper’s current footprint of Cardwell, Ingham, Halifax, Lucinda, Forrest Beach, Rollingstone and more. We have some exciting news to share — Hinchinbrook Life is welcoming a little sister to the family, and she’s going to be part of this very newspaper! You may have noticed her gradually taking shape over the past several months as we’ve expanded our coverage across the broader region. What started as a growing presence has now become something official. In fact, next week she will take her first breath when Cassowary Coast Life is born. Most importantly, we want to reassure our loyal readers that Hinchinbrook Life will remain exactly what it has always been. You will still receive the same 28–32 pages of dedicated local news, stories and community coverage each week. The only difference is that, from next week onwards, you’ll receive a second newspaper completely free on the flip side of this publication. Essentially, it’s two newspapers in one - a Hinchinbrook Life masthead on one side and a Cassowary Coast Life masthead on the other. This expansion has been almost a year in the making. Over that time, we’ve seen increasing demand for more Cassowary Coast news and greater coverage of the communities that sit just beyond our traditional footprint. Since launching Hinchinbrook Life, Cardwell has always been an important part of both our news coverage and distribution network. Now, we are extending that reach further south to include Tully, Mission Beach and El Arish. Our goal is simple: to strengthen the connection between neighbouring communities and encourage the flow of people, ideas and opportunities across the region. From next week, readers will be able to discover local events, community stories, business news and inspiring people from both regions every week. This is the second time Life Publishing Group has adopted this unique newspaper format. We first introduced it with our flagship publication, Mackay and Whitsunday Life, where readers embraced the opportunity to share stories and celebrate what makes each community special. We hope you enjoy it just as much. As always, we value your feedback and would love to hear your thoughts, so please feel free to reach out and share your views. Rach
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Missed calls cost money. Patchy reception, dropped calls, and “can you hear me now?” isn’t a great look, especially when customers are trying to reach you. Logilytics helps locals set up modern phone systems that are reliable, clear, and built for the way you work (or live). Whether you’re in an office, on the road, juggling multiple locations, or just want better calling at home, we’ll design a solution that keeps you connected. We can help with: New business and residential phone system supply and setup Desk phones, cordless handsets, headsets, and mobile-friendly options Call routing, hunt groups, after-hours messages, and voicemail-to-email Better call quality and coverage (including network/Wi‑Fi checks) Clean installs and tidy cabling where needed Most importantly, you get local support. If something isn’t right, you’re not stuck on hold to a provider, you can call us and we’ll sort it. If you want a phone system that makes your business easier to reach – or your home setup clearer and more reliable – talk to Logilytics. Captipn: Logilytics helps locals set up modern phone systems that are reliable, clear, and built for the way you work and live. Photo supplied
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A Cassowary Coast ambulance leader who has weathered the storm of Queensland’s biggest natural disasters has been recognised for community leadership and her role in reinforcing local disaster preparedness. Officer in Charge, Tully Ambulance Station, Vanessa Schafranek is one of three Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) paramedics announced as an Ambulance Service Medal (ASM) recipient in the King’s Birthday 2026 Honours List. This prestigious recognition is awarded to ambulance staff who have consistently exemplified the highest levels of dedication and professionalism throughout their career. As Officer in Charge of Tully Ambulance Station, Vanessa Schafranek has served her beloved Tully community for the past 15 years, after first commencing as a paramedic in 2002. As goes hand-in-hand with working in the Cassowary Coast region, Officer Schafranek has led her community through numerous natural disasters, including Tropical Cyclone (TC) Larry in 2006, TC Yasi in 2011, TC Ita in 2014, TC Debbie in 2017, and most recently TC Jasper in 2023. Drawing on her boots-on-the-ground experience during these disasters, Officer Schafranek has been instrumental in developing procedures that assist the QAS in preparing for natural disasters to this day. In addition to Officer Schafranek’s efforts during disasters, she continues to exemplify the characteristics of a frontline operational leader. She leads by example, mentoring and guiding up-and-coming leaders and remaining active in ensuring positive welfare, wellbeing and psychological health in the workplace. Officer Schafranek fell into the service by happenstance, when her husband saw an advertisement in the paper. “It was nothing I'd ever thought of beforehand - it was never, ever on my radar,” she said. “It was just completely by chance that the paper was there that day, which we didn't usually have.” Officer Schafranek hasn’t looked back since, with 24 years of service now under her belt. Officer Schafranek values the trust and support of her colleagues and the community, explaining that her love for rural areas is what drives her. “I think working in a rural setting is very rewarding because you see the whole circle. You see patients after whatever has happened and see the results of what you’ve done,” Officer Schafranek said. With a preference to fly under the radar, she was shocked to discover she had been nominated for the award. “It's nice that someone's noticed that you've gone above and beyond, and you're doing a great job in that space,” Officer Schafranek said. “It’s very heartwarming.” QAS Commissioner Craig Emery said that Officer Schafranek’s dedication and professionalism have made her a standout leader in the service. “This prestigious medal is a testament to her exceptional service, her tireless work ethic, and her passion for helping others,” Commissioner Emery said. “I commend Officer Schafranek on her exemplary service, and her fitting recognition as she joins the distinguished few to receive an Ambulance Service Medal.” 1 - Officer in Charge, Tully Ambulance Station, Vanessa Schafranek is one of three QAS paramedics announced as an Ambulance Service Medal recipient in the King’s Birthday 2026 Honours List. Photo supplied 2- Vanessa promoting the CPR Awareness Program at an expo for local school students. Photo source: Facebook.
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Queensland children and teenagers who are uncomfortable with needle vaccinations can now access a free nasal spray flu vaccine under an expansion of the State Government’s FluMist program. The Government has widened eligibility for the free nasal spray vaccine to children and teenagers aged six to 17, building on the existing program already available to children aged two to five years. The expanded rollout forms part of the Government’s $31 million free flu vaccination program, which is available through participating GPs, pharmacies and vaccination clinics across Queensland. The expansion comes to help fight the winter chills with families being urged to get vaccinated while FluMist stock remains available. More than one million Queenslanders have already received a flu vaccination this year, including a significant rise in vaccinations among younger children. The Government said the expansion followed feedback from health professionals and families, including parents of children with disability or sensory sensitivities, who said the needle-free option would make vaccination less stressful and more accessible. Families have been encouraged to book vaccinations sooner rather than later, with FluMist supplies expected to run out nationally after early August due to the vaccine’s shorter shelf life. More information about the free flu vaccination program and participating providers is available through the Queensland Health Flu Vaccination website via www.health.qld.gov.au.
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Tec-NQ delivers specialised training across a range of trade and vocational areas, like carpentry and construction. Photo credit: Tec-NQ
Tec-NQ is a leading provider of senior education, vocational training, and boarding opportunities in North Queensland, creating pathways for students to succeed both in the classroom and in industry. With a strong focus on hands-on learning, Tec-NQ offers students the opportunity to gain practical skills while completing their education in a supportive and industry-focused environment.
Located in Townsville, Tec-NQ delivers specialised training across a range of trade and vocational areas including engineering, automotive, plumbing, construction and electrical. The organisation prides itself on preparing students for real-world careers by working closely with local industries and employers to create work experience, apprenticeship, and employment opportunities.
It’s home to a growing boarding community, welcoming students from regional and remote areas across Queensland. The purpose-built boarding facilities provide students with a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment while they pursue their education and training goals.
Beyond the classroom and workshops, Tec-NQ places a strong emphasis on community involvement, student wellbeing, and personal growth. From sporting teams and leadership opportunities to community events and industry partnerships, students are encouraged to build confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills.
With a commitment to innovation, opportunity, and student success, Tec-NQ continues to empower young people to achieve their goals and build successful futures.
Roadworks have begun on the Bruce Highway between Ingham and Townsville. Photo credit: Queensland Department of Roads and Transport
Motorists travelling between Townsville and Ingham are being advised to prepare for changed traffic conditions, with asphalt pavement maintenance works set to begin on the Bruce Highway between Scovazzis Road and Larsens Road.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) says the works are part of ongoing road maintenance efforts aimed at improving the condition of the highway and maintaining safety for motorists using the route.
Construction activities will take place across two stages. Day works are scheduled from Thursday, 14th May to Thursday, 21st May between 7:00am and 5:00pm. Night works will then continue from Sunday, 24th May through to Tuesday, 2nd June between 7:00pm and 5:00am. All construction remains subject to weather and site conditions.
During the works, motorists should expect changed traffic conditions. Traffic controllers will be on site during active construction periods to direct traffic and assist motorists travelling through the area.
TMR has advised that access to all properties along the route will remain available throughout the works, while two-way traffic arrangements will be maintained outside active construction periods.
Drivers may also notice increased noise associated with heavy machinery and should be aware that traffic management signage may remain in place after construction activities have finished while final works such as line marking, pavement markers and signage reinstatement are completed.
Variable message signs and advanced warning signs will be placed on approaches to the site to notify motorists of upcoming changes. Road users are encouraged to drive carefully through work zones, follow traffic directions and allow extra travel time where possible.
Serving the Hinchinbrook region and beyond, Damo's Workwear has built a reputation as a trusted local supplier of quality workwear, safety gear and boots for a wide range of industries. The family-owned business focuses on helping customers find practical, durable clothing and protective equipment suited to demanding North Queensland conditions.
From steel-capped boots and hi-vis clothing through to corporate uniforms and accessories, Damo’s Workwear stocks leading brands including Steel Blue, Bisley, Hard Yakka and FXD. The business also offers embroidery, screen-printing and clothing alteration services, giving local businesses and workers access to customised solutions tailored to their needs.
Known for its friendly service and strong local knowledge, the team prides itself on creating a welcoming environment where customers can receive practical advice and personalised support. Whether fitting out a large workforce or helping an individual find the right gear, Damo’s Workwear continues to be a go-to destination for reliable workwear across the region.
Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa at Queensland Parliament in support of the work of Cancer Council Queensland. Photo credit: Wayde Chiesa MP Offices
Local Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa is encouraging the community to get behind Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, highlighting the impact cancer continues to have on families across the region and throughout Queensland.
Speaking after attending Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea at Queensland Parliament in support of the work of Cancer Council Queensland, Mr Chiesa said cancer remains an issue affecting countless households.
“Cancer touches far too many families across Hinchinbrook and Queensland,” he said.
“Every 20 minutes, a Queenslander receives a cancer diagnosis. If you can, put the kettle on, host a morning tea, and help support Queenslanders impacted by cancer.”
Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea raises funds to support cancer research, prevention programs and support services for people affected by cancer. Community groups, workplaces, schools and individuals can all take part by hosting their own event and encouraging donations.
Local residents wanting to get involved, host an event or support the campaign can register through the official Australia's Biggest Morning Tea website: www.biggestmorningtea.com.au
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has confirmed start dates for the 2026 sugar production season, with mills across the Burdekin, Proserpine and Plane Creek regions preparing to begin crushing in early June.
The company’s four Burdekin mills; Invicta, Pioneer, Kalamia and Inkerman, along with Plane Creek Mill at Sarina, are scheduled to begin operations on 2 June. Proserpine Mill and the Herbert region’s Victoria and Macknade mills will follow on 9 June.
General Manager Operations James Wallace said the start dates were determined by crop forecasts, factory readiness and expected paddock conditions.
“We've got a bigger crop than last year, and we're keen to get the season under way to minimise the risk of a late finish and the associated challenges of pushing into the wet season,” Mr Wallace said.
“Our goal is to have all of our factories crushed out by mid-to-late November.”
Wilmar is forecasting a statewide crop of 15.19 million tonnes for the 2026 season, almost one million tonnes higher than last year’s total throughput of 14.23 million tonnes.
Regional estimates include 7.97 million tonnes in the Burdekin, 1.67 million tonnes in Proserpine and 1.45 million tonnes at Plane Creek.
General Manager Engineering Istvan Torok said maintenance and upgrade works across factories, rail networks and rolling stock were nearing completion ahead of the season start.
General Manager Cane Supply and Grower Relations Dave Zeller said loco driver training was already under way and reminded motorists to remain vigilant around cane rail crossings.
“We’re reminding residents and visitors to take extra care on the roads and look out for cane trains,” Mr Zeller said.
Image from Shutterstock
Queensland families are continuing to benefit from the State Government’s Back to School Boost initiative, with more than $15 million already used to help cover the cost of school expenses for primary school students.
So far, more than $15.2 million has been accessed by families across Queensland. However, with only around half of the available funding currently used, many students still have credits sitting on their school accounts waiting to be claimed.
If you are a parent or guardian, check your school account for unused credit.
The program provides $100 per year for every Queensland primary school-aged child (Prep to Year 6), including students attending state schools, non-state schools and home-schooling programs. The funding is applied directly to school accounts and can be used throughout the year to assist with education-related costs.
Parents and carers can put the funding towards a range of school expenses including uniforms, stationery, equipment, excursions, musical instruments and extracurricular activities.
The initiative is designed to ease cost-of-living pressures and give families greater flexibility in managing education expenses throughout the year.
Education support programs such as the Back to School Boost aim to reduce some of the financial pressure associated with the school year and ensure students have access to essential items and opportunities.
Families seeking more information or wanting to check eligibility and available credits can visit the relevant Back to School Boost information page.
The free mulch is available for Hinchinbrook residents at Lucinda. Photo sourced: Shutterstock
Residents looking to improve their gardens or landscaping projects will have an opportunity to access free mulch through a Hinchinbrook Shire Council initiative beginning this month.
Council is making mulch available to residents for personal household use, with stockpiles created from local tree maintenance activities and contractor works across the region. The initiative provides an opportunity for the community to reuse organic material while helping residents with gardening and property maintenance needs.
The mulch will be available for collection from the Lucinda BMX Track at 1–7 Dungeness Road, Lucinda, from Tuesday, 19th May through to Tuesday, 26th May. Collection hours will operate daily, including weekends, from 7:00am until 5:00pm.
Council has advised that the mulch is being provided as-is and, like any recycled organic material, may contain natural debris including leaves, seeds and other organic matter. Residents are asked to collect and use the material at their own discretion.
Those wishing to collect mulch will need to load their own trailers or vehicles and should ensure they bring suitable equipment for loading. Residents are also reminded that access to the site is at their own risk, children must remain supervised at all times and all on-site signage and safety directions should be followed.
The free mulch is available strictly for personal use and commercial collection will not be permitted. Supply will also be limited to available stock and offered on a first come, first served basis, with entry gates only open during the advertised collection period.
For more information email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or call Council’s customer service centre on (07) 4776 4600.
Photo from Shutterstock: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/empathy-trust-nurse-caregiver-holding-hands-2376127109
Rights in Action ensures individuals are heard, respected, supported, and empowered to assert their rights.
Through individual, self, systemic, and citizen advocacy, Rights in Action walks beside people as they navigate decisions that affect their lives, propelling opportunity and empowerment. This is not about speaking for someone, but about strengthening their voice and ensuring their views are recognised and taken seriously.
The North Queensland Community Skill Building Program extends this impact by focusing on long-term empowerment. As a federally funded initiative, the program builds awareness and provides accessible information so people with disabilities can develop their self-advocacy skills. This includes practical toolkits, webinars, online resources, and workshops such as the upcoming NDIS Appeals workshop, which will be held in Ingham on Thursday, 28th May.
Understanding rights and knowing how to respond when those rights are challenged is essential to achieving independence and inclusion.
Together, independent advocacy and community skill building create meaningful, lasting change by shifting power away from complex systems and back to individuals.
Rights in Action demonstrates that advocacy is not just a service, it is a pathway to dignity, confidence, and genuine choice.
Unfortunately, the Federal Budget handed down on Tuesday night did not include anything specific for our part of Kennedy.
Our requests included funding assistance for better waste and recycling facilities, as well as support for disaster resilience. Perhaps announcements impacting our region may appear in the finer details to be released later — I remain hopeful.
We do, however, welcome the $2 billion boost for housing-related trunk infrastructure nationally, along with the additional $750 million to continue programs such as Growing Regions.
These funding opportunities are not guaranteed and are available to all councils as contestable grants. This means councils must apply and compete against one another, and smaller councils like ours face significant challenges competing with larger regions.
While we see some willingness to partner with councils through increased housing investment — such as the $2 billion housing fund — it must be remembered that this funding is proposed to be rolled out over four years across the entire country.
As I said, it is going to be a challenge.
Councils need a fairer share of funding from the Commonwealth to support day-to-day operations however; this was largely absent from Tuesday’s Budget.
Local governments and their communities are continuing to see the core funding program — Financial Assistance Grants — decline as a percentage of total taxation revenue, now sitting at just 0.49 per cent.
This was once 1 per cent, but successive governments have failed to maintain the payment to local government, even in line with CPI. Decreasing federal support ultimately shifts the burden onto ratepayers as operational costs continue to rise.
This is extremely disappointing, as untied funding from FA Grants allows councils to allocate resources in line with their communities’ priorities because no one understands their communities better than local government.
It was encouraging, however, to hear that the government will spend $2.55 billion to reduce the fuel excise and heavy road user charge for three months, in response to global energy market disruptions and as a short-term cost-of-living measure.
A separate $10 billion fuel security investment will expand national stockpiles to 50 days, increase storage capacity, and assess options to strengthen domestic refining capability. However, once again there was no mention of support or consideration for biofuels as a means of improving future fuel security and reducing dependence on overseas sources.
North Queensland is perfectly positioned to capitalise on and deliver biofuel production for Australia, thanks to our existing agricultural practices, infrastructure, and supply chains.
Yet we continue to receive no clear answer as to why the government will not support the creation of this new industry, let alone actively invest in getting it underway.
Our turn must surely be coming.
Looking Forward to Welcoming Visitors
As the Hinchinbrook community continues to progress through recovery from last year’s weather event, we are now facing additional challenges as a result of global events.
Many residents and businesses who depend on the agricultural sector for their livelihoods are closely monitoring the world sugar price and ever-increasing input costs, to understand how this will translate in their personal situations.
The impacts of sugar prices that do not cover production costs, the ongoing crisis in Iran, and the concerning increase of input costs and significant cost of living increases across the board, is cause for concern for many. For these reasons, the growth of visitor economy in the Shire continues to be of significant importance in supporting the local traditional agriculture-based economy.
As the weather improves, traditionally this time of year provides an opportunity welcome increased visitor numbers into the Shire. Whether they be interstate visitors venturing north to enjoy our milder weather, or regional visitors who travel to explore their neighbouring communities and enjoy the spectacular natural attractions or diverse events offered, they are all welcome. Each visitor makes a difference for our community, and their contributions are appreciated and acknowledged.
Events, whether large or small, make an important contribution to the lifestyle on offer to local residents and visitors, yet at the same time support the local economy. From community events, to arts, craft and live entertainment, outdoor experiences visiting natural attractions or marine adventures, human sporting carnivals to animal-based events – they all make a contribution and the visitation they attract is critical to the diversity of our local economy.
Visitor feedback provided indicates the easy going and welcoming nature of the local communities is a highlight of their time in our region – so let’s continue to demonstrate the famous North Queensland hospitality and welcome all to our Shire!
Doorknocking is scheduled Monday, 18th May 2026 and Friday, 22nd May 2026. Photo supplied
Heads up Hinchinbrook, officers from the Queensland Reconstruction Authority will be in the Hinchinbrook region between Monday, 18th May 2026 and Friday, 22nd May 2026 checking on homes and businesses still damaged from last year’s floods.
These assessments are an important part of our disaster recovery process, ensuring impacted residents are receiving the assistance they need to recover.
Around 600 properties are scheduled to be doorknocked throughout north Queensland over the week.
If residents are not home or available when a QRA officer visits, a calling card will be left containing information about the assessment and contacts for support.
To find out more visit www.qra.qld.gov.au/reconstruction-monitoring
The pile of stones looked unremarkable as often is the point of burglars marking potential opportunities. Photo sourced: Everything Ingham Facebook group.
A recent social media discussion has prompted local residents to think more closely about home security after one woman shared concerns over finding a strange collection of stones placed at the top of her driveway.
“I noticed a collection of rocks at the top of my driveway just before the roller door this morning when I took the wheelie bin out,” she wrote.
“Asked son if it was him or friends, wasn’t them.
“Few years back people's houses were marked including mine with zip ties. At the time I had three dogs and three thick zip ties on a side gate.
“Just wondering if anyone else have come across something similar recently.”
The post quickly drew responses from locals sharing experiences and concerns, with some suggesting unusual objects left around properties, unexpected markings, stickers on mailboxes or repeated unanswered phone calls can sometimes be viewed as suspicious activity.
While there is no evidence that items such as stones, cable ties, stickers or markings automatically indicate criminal activity, Queensland Police encourage residents to stay aware of unusual activity and report concerns rather than assume a break-in is certain to occur.
Queensland Police say many home burglaries are opportunistic, often targeting homes that appear empty or have easy access points. Homes with windows or doors left unlocked or unsecured can become more attractive to offenders. Similarly, curtains remaining closed throughout the day, overflowing letterboxes and bins left unattended for extended periods may indicate that nobody is home.
Offenders are often searching for items that can be quickly taken and sold, including cash, credit cards, jewellery, electronic devices and vehicle keys. Car keys left on benches, near doorways or in visible locations inside homes can also become a target.
Residents can reduce their risk by locking doors, windows and garages, even while at home, keeping valuables and keys out of sight, installing sensor lighting or security cameras and trimming shrubs or vegetation that create hiding places around a property. Informing trusted neighbours if something unusual is occurring or if you are going away can also add an extra level of security.
If a break-in does occur, police advise avoiding touching anything unnecessarily in order to preserve evidence, moving to a safe location if an offender could still be nearby and contacting Triple Zero (000) in an emergency or Policelink for non-urgent incidents.
Police also encourage residents to mark and record valuable property where possible. Recording serial numbers and proof of ownership can help deter theft and assist in identifying and returning stolen items.
Perhaps the strongest message to come from the discussion was one echoed by many community members, that neighbours looking out for one another remains one of the most effective forms of community safety.
(This article was written with thanks to the advice and contributions of the Ingham Police Station & the Media & Communications Division of the Queensland Police Service.)
Hinchinbrook Shire Council has completed a legislated 10‑year review of the Hinchinbrook Shire Planning Scheme 2017, confirming the scheme continues to provide a strong framework for managing growth and development across the Shire.
The review was considered by Council at its General Meeting on 28 April 2026, and forms part of Council’s obligations under the Planning Act 2016, which requires all local governments to regularly review their planning schemes to ensure they remaincontemporary and effective.
Council engaged an independent, multidisciplinary regional planning and advisory firm, to provide expert advice and independently inform the recommendations arising from the statutory review.
The firm examined how the Planning Scheme has performed since its commencement in 2018 and whether it continues to align with community expectations, development trends and State and regional planning policy.
Mayor Ramon Jayo said the review was an important housekeeping step.
“Planning schemes need regular review to make sure they continue to reflect how our communities live, work and grow,” Mayor Jayo said.
“This review helps Council understand where the scheme is working well and where improvements may be needed in the future.”
Rather than making immediate changes, Council has endorsed a strategic pathway for considering future planning scheme amendments. This approach allows improvements to be prioritised and delivered progressively, taking into account available funding, Council resources and future budget considerations.
The review also drew on community input gathered through Council initiatives such as the Liveability Strategy and Local Housing Action Plan, alongside internal consultation with Council officers.
Council has emphasised that the review does not change the current Planning Scheme and does not include public consultation at this stage.
“If Council decides to move forward with planning scheme amendments in the future, there will be formal public consultation at that time,” Mayor Jayo said.
“For now, this review provides a clear and responsible way forward.”
The Hinchinbrook Shire Planning Scheme 2017 remains in effect. For more information, visit Council’s latest news section at hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or contact Council on (07) 4776 4600.
Do it for Dolly Day saw locals raise funds for Dolly’s Dream. Photo supplied
The Cardwell community has continued to demonstrate its generosity, with recent fundraising efforts supporting local schools and raising more than $3,000 for Dolly’s Dream.
Following successful fundraising activities surrounding Anzac Day and the Battle of the Coral Sea commemorations, the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch announced a total of $5,500 in donations to Parents and Citizens groups at several schools across the region.
Cardwell State School received $2,000, while Kennedy State School and Murray River Upper State School each received $1,000. Tully High School, Gilroy Santa Maria College and Our Lady of Lourdes College also received donations of $500 each.
Cardwell RSL President Robert Lang said the committee was proud of its fundraising efforts, particularly through events held around Anzac Day and the Battle of the Coral Sea ceremonies.
The school donations form part of the Cardwell RSL’s 2026 donations program, with further support planned later in the year for local community organisations and events.
The spirit of giving has also extended beyond the RSL, with Cardwell businesses, schools and community groups recently coming together in support of Dolly’s Dream. Collectively, the community raised more than $3,000 for the organisation.
Businesses and organisations involved in the fundraising effort included Cardwell RSL, Cardwell Early Learning and Cardwell Op Shop, alongside support from local schools and community members.
The recent efforts highlight the strong community spirit in Cardwell, with fundraising and support continuing to benefit both local causes and broader initiatives.
The Queensland Government’s Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program aims to boost local refining and storage capacity, with regional communities like Hinchinbrook expected to benefit from stronger long-term fuel security. Photo source: David Crisafulli MP
In the Hinchinbrook Shire, fuel security is back in focus as the Queensland Government rolls out new measures aimed at strengthening supply and reducing reliance on global markets. Expressions of interest have opened under the Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, inviting industry to develop refining and storage projects on government-owned land at key ports across the state.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said the issue remains a growing concern locally, with residents already feeling the effects of rising costs and supply uncertainty. In response, Council has introduced real-time fuel updates through the Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard, helping residents plan ahead and reduce pressure on local supply while broader state initiatives take shape.
“It’s so important to make fuel availability information easier to access, so people can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary trips between service stations.”
Just last week, the government announced it is actively working to strengthen Queensland’s fuel security through a plan to expand local drilling, refining and storage capacity, including unlocking additionalinfrastructure at ports across the state.
On Saturday, 2 May, expressions of interest opened, inviting industry to submit proposals for fuel refining and/or storage on government-owned land and ports in Townsville, Mackay, Gladstone, Abbot Point, Bundaberg and Brisbane, under the new Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program.
The Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program was developed as a joint initiative between the Office of the Coordinator-General and Economic Development Queensland and includes a statewide audit of government-owned industrial and port land suitable for new refineries or fuel storage facilities (already underway), targeted market engagement to attract industry proposals (now open), and streamlined approval and delivery processes for projects on these sites.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo, who has regularly spoken on the importance of fuel security in the region, said the issue remains a key concern for regional and remote communities, noting that a program like the Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program comes at a critical time.
“Fuel has been a regular topic around our dinner tables and workplaces for weeks now, and I know many locals are feeling concerned about availability and rising costs,” he said.
“We understand how important fuel is to everyday life in Hinchinbrook. Whether you’re commuting to work, running a business, taking kids to school, or travelling long distances to access services,” Mayor Jayo said.
“For us, fuel isn’t a luxury.”
“While Australia has fuel security measures in place, regional and remote communities like ours can still feel the impact of international instability through transport delays, increased demand and temporary supply pressures.”
Hinchinbrook Shire Council is encouraging residents to stay informed and plan ahead as global pressures continue to impact fuel supply, with new tools now available to help the community navigate potential disruptions. In response, fuel availability information has been made more accessible through the Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard, providing near real-time updates sourced directly from the Queensland Government.
The dashboard allows users to view participating fuel retailers, check availability and monitor local supply trends, helping residents make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary travel between service stations.
“It’s so important to make fuel availability information easier to access, so people can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary trips,” Mayor Jayo said.
“When people can see where fuel is available, it helps everyone — it reduces panic buying, supports fair access, and helps ensure essential services and vulnerable community members aren’t left without fuel.”
Council is also encouraging residents to use fuel responsibly and remain mindful of others during periods of supply pressure.
“A little consideration goes a long way,” Mayor Jayo said.
“Using fuel responsibly helps ensure there’s enough for emergency services, essential workers, local businesses and those who rely on fuel the most.”
Under the Queensland Fuel Security Plan, alongside the rollout of the Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, the Queensland Government has introduced a series of broader measures in recent weeks. On 22 April, a $25 million investment in renewable diesel production at Ampol’s Lytton refinery was announced, aimed at delivering Australia’s first sustainable domestic production of second-generation low-carbon liquid fuels, with initial output targeted from 2028.
Premier David Crisafulli said the Queensland Government aims to deliver both security and opportunity, ensuring the state is better protected from reliance on global supply chains in the future.
“More storage and refining fuel locally means it’s easier for families to fill up, and small businesses to stay afloat amidst rising national cost pressures,” he said.
“We have a plan across the short, medium and long-term to get projects moving to produce oil, refine it and store fuel locally, as well as deliver relief and fight for Queenslanders receiving the most accurate information available.”
Collectively, the initiatives reflect a broader effort to strengthen fuel security and reduce vulnerability to global disruptions, particularly for regional communities like the Hinchinbrook Shire.
Residents can access the dashboard via the Hinchinbrook Disaster Information Facebook page or the Disaster Dashboard website, https://disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au, alongside updates on weather warnings, road conditions and community safety information.
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