Two newly graduated Queensland Police Service First Year Constables will begin their policing careers in Innisfail following the latest graduation of 126 officers from the Queensland Police Academy. Photo supplied

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Innisfail will welcome two new First Year Constables to the frontline following the Queensland Police Service’s largest graduation of the year.

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A total of 126 new officers graduated from the Queensland Police Academy at Oxley last week, with 13 set to begin their careers across the Far North and two specifically allocated to Innisfail.

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The local deployment comes as the Queensland Government says more than 2,000 police officers have been sworn into the service since October 2024, with the latest graduating cohort taking the Queensland Police Service beyond 13,000 officers for the first time.

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Acting Commissioner of Police Brett Pointing said the newest officers would play an important role in the communities they join.

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“From metropolitan centres to regional and remote communities, these officers will play an important role in strengthening community confidence and keeping everyday Queenslanders safe,” Acting Commissioner Pointing said.

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“From the moment our first year constables put on the blue uniform, they commit to making a meaningful difference in serving the community.”

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The two incoming officers will join Innisfail’s existing policing team as they begin their first year on the frontline, gaining practical experience across duties including emergency response, crime prevention, community engagement and public safety.

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Across the wider Far North region, four new constables will be deployed to Cairns, two to Cooktown, three to Mareeba and one each to Edmonton and Ravenshoe, alongside the two heading to Innisfail.

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The graduating class includes former Australian Defence Force personnel, tradespeople, hospitality workers and emergency services employees, with recruits ranging in age from 18 to 53.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the latest graduation represented continued investment in frontline policing across Queensland.

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“Queenslanders are answering the call to serve in record numbers, bringing with them the skills, experience and resilience gained from careers across every corner of our community,” Minister Purdie said.

Mission Beach and Tully police allegedly located 24 cannabis plants, a grow tent, horticultural supplies and drug utensils during a search of a Mission Beach property last month. Picture source: QPS

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Two Mission Beach residents have been charged with multiple drug offences after police allegedly uncovered cannabis plants and drug-related equipment during a search of a local property earlier this month.

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Mission Beach and Tully police executed a search warrant at a Yamala Close address on 11th August, where officers allegedly located 24 cannabis plants.

Police also allegedly found a grow tent, horticultural supplies and other drug utensils at the property.

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Following the search, a 29-year-old Mission Beach man and a 25-year-old Mission Beach woman were each charged with one count of possessing dangerous drugs, one count of producing dangerous drugs and one count of possessinganything used in the commission of a crime.

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Both were issued notices to appear before Tully Magistrates Court on 1st October.

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Anyone with information for police can contact Policelink 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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Police reference: QP2601557654.

Bespoke plaque on display as defibrillator is given to the nursing home Photo Credit: Sherie Hensler-Adams

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By Sian Bantock

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Tully Nursing home has received a significant donation from Mission Beach Meals on Wheels providing a much-needed exercise equipment for the elderly residents.  

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Manager Gail Mears, who has led the community owned not-for-profit facility since 2021 said she was deeply moved.  

“I’m overwhelmed in sense, you feel yourself you’re making a change in the community, any amount that gets donated it doesn’t matter it’s all important’  

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Karen Taylor from Mission Beach Meals on Wheels gave a financial donation that was spent on replacing vital gym equipment when the previous set was deemed unusable from smoke damage, the fire was caused by an exhaust fan in May.  

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Maintaining regular movement is important for residents to avoid frailty and so the gym plays a key role in supporting strength, movement and independence.  

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Exercise physiologist David Musumeci, said the equipment will make a huge impact on the residents physical well-being.  

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“The facility gym will help support our residents in improving their strength, mobility and balance with our overall goal of maintaining and improving their independence and quality of life.” Said David

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The donation has enabled the nursing home to purchase a recumbent bike, cable station, rehabilitation staircase and a defibrillator.  

In honour of the generous donation a plaque has been installed in the gym as a permanent reminder of the good deed from Mission Beach Meals on Wheels.

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Remember September, Pankind’s flagship fundraising campaign, brings communities together each year to remember those affected by pancreatic cancer while raising vital funds for research and support. Photo supplied 

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Cassowary Coast and Hinchinbrook residents are being encouraged to lace up their walking shoes or ditch a daily vice this month to support those affected by pancreatic cancer.

Pankind’s Remember September 2026 campaign is calling on the community to take action against Australia’s third biggest cancer killer, with two challenges available.

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Participants can Move It by walking or running 78km throughout September, representing the 78 Australians who die from pancreatic cancer every week, or Give It Up by going without a vice such as coffee, sugar or alcohol for the month.

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More than 4,500 Australians are expected to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year, with 80 per cent dying within 12 months. The five-year survival rate is just 13 per cent, dropping to around six per cent in rural and regional areas.

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Pankind CEO Michelle Stewart said research was key to changing those outcomes.

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“Remember September is about solidarity, action, and progress. Every step taken and every dollar raised fuels research that could help Australians live longer and live better after diagnosis.”

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Since its inception, Pankind has invested more than $20 million in research grants across 76 projects at leading Australian institutions, and those wishing to become involved in this month’s fundraiser are encouraged to register online via www.rememberseptember.org.au.

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Year 10 students Trade Training Centre. Photo supplied: Gilroy Santa Maria College

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Contributed By Gilroy Santa Maria College

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Stepping onto the grounds of Gilroy Santa Maria College is equal parts historic nostalgia and modern innovations.

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In the heart of the school grounds is the 1948 built College Chapel. The red bricks stand as a reminder of the foundations of the College in a space that is still utilised today.

The iconic GSMC Art Room remains at the entrance of the College and allows students to express their creativity leading to opportunities like the 2026 Traces of Growth Art Exhibition at the Tyto Regional Gallery.

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Transformed from its original form, GSMC now houses a multi-purpose hall true to its name. From hosting netball games to Debutant Balls, the fully airconditioned space inside the Santa Maria Centre allows for students and the wider community to experience a variety of opportunities in comfort.

Most recently the College has added the Edmund Rice Centre to house the College Library, Pastoral Care space and Guidance Counsellors.

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GSMC students with a flair for food creations are able to explore these talents in the state-of-the-art hospitality industrial training facility, the Catherine McAuley Centre. Neighbouring this building is the Ferlazzo Centre (Trade Training Centre).  

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GSMC has long been regarded as the leaders for developing the next generation of tradespeople in the district, offering Junior Design & Technology, Graphics, Certificates in Electro Technology, Construction and Engineering- meaning students experience many entry level trade skills before they embark on their working lives after Year 12.

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College Principal, Mrs Johanna Smith invites families from across the district considering GSMC for their child’s education, to explore the exceptional facilities and grounds via a guided tour. Future tour dates will be announced on the College Facebook page.

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Residents and road users in Halifax and Cordelia are being advised to expect changes around Eddleston Drive and Halifax Road as Hinchinbrook Shire Council begins a major water main upgrade.

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Approximately one kilometre of water main infrastructure will be upgraded in the area, with works scheduled to commence on Monday 31^st August and expected to continue until Friday 11^th September.

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The project forms part of Council’s 2026-2027 Budget and is aimed at upgrading essential water infrastructure serving the local area.

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During the works, traffic control will be in place and motorists are advised to allow additional travel time, with minor delays expected. Temporary single-lane closures may also be required while construction is underway.

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Council has advised that further updates will be provided to the community as more information about the progress of the water main upgrade becomes available.

Residents and road users are encouraged to take care when travelling through the work area and follow all traffic control directions while crews are carrying out the upgrades.

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Council thanked the community for its patience and understanding while the essential infrastructure works are undertaken.

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

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Students at St Peter’s participate in many diverse extracurricular programs. Photos supplied

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Contributed with thanks by St Peter's Catholic School

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Students at St Peter’s continue to benefit from a wide range of extracurricular activities that support learning, leadership and community involvement. Throughout the year, students participate in significant First Nations events, including NAIDOC Week and National Reconciliation Week activities, which promote understanding, respect and cultural awareness.

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The school also provides coaching and development opportunities in a variety of sports, including basketball, cricket and tennis, helping students build teamwork, resilience and healthy lifestyles. Participating in local sporting events such as Romanello Shield, the Macknade Touch Carnival and the interschool sports also encourages strong community spirit and good sportsmanship. Academically, students are challenged through enrichment programs such as the Australian Mathematics Competition and the national Write a Book in a Day competition, encouraging creativity, problem-solving and collaboration.

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Students also represent the school in local lecturette competitions, developing confidence and public speaking skills. Our talented choir regularly performs for local nursing homes and community events, bringing joy to audiences while strengthening their connection to the community.

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These varied opportunities ensure our students can discover their interests, develop new skills and make meaningful contributions both within and beyond the school community.

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I know I probably look like every other Staffy X looking for a forever home but before you look past, remember the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” That’s me!

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I’m a well-mannered girl with lots to offer. I’m already toilet trained, love hopping in the car for adventures, enjoy long walks where I can suss out all the interesting smells but I’m just as happy being lazy curled up on the couch watching TV with my people.

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I think the world is a pretty amazing place! Whether it’s exploring the beach, playing with toys, soaking up the sunshine, wandering around the garden, or finding the perfect cosy spot for a nap, I’m always ready to enjoy life with my family.

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I would do best as the only dog in the home so I can have all your love and attention. The good news is, I’m cat friendly, making me a great companion for the right household.

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If you’re looking for a loyal best friend who will be by your side through every adventure—and every movie night—I might just be the perfect match.

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Included in adoption fee of $530 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated & and on PROHEART. Enquire today at  angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/dogs/

Sex: Female

Colour: Brindle

Breed: Staffy X

DOB: 29/12/2024

Cat Friendly: Yes

Dog Friendly: No

Kid Friendly: Yes

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Teacher Mr Max Fenoglio assists students from Forrest Beach State School to make fresh sugar cane juice during the recent Year 5 Transition Day. Photo supplied: Ingham State High School

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Contributed with thanks by Ingham State High School

At Ingham State High School, we recognise the importance of preparing future students for the transition from primary to secondary education. To give students the best possible start to their high school journey, the school offers a comprehensive Transition Program involving all local primary schools across the district.

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The program begins in Year 5, with students attending a full day of engaging rotational activities focused largely on STEM — Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.  

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The program continues throughout Year 6, with High School Experience Days held across the year. These days provide students in their final year of primary school with a valuable opportunity to become increasingly familiar and comfortable with the high school environment before making the transition to Year 7.  

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A particularly important part of the program is the involvement of the school’s Year 9 Student Leaders. These students play a key mentoring role throughout the transition days, welcoming future students, escorting them around the school and helping them feel comfortable and confident in their new surroundings.  

Two further Year 6 Experience Days will be held in 2026 on Friday 23rd October and Monday 7th December.

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Through opportunities to explore, learn, connect and build confidence, Ingham State High School's Transition Program aims to ensure students feel supported and ready to embrace the opportunities of secondary education.

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For further information about the Transition Program or enrolment opportunities, parents and caregivers are encouraged to contact Ingham State High School on (07) 4797 1333 or email admin@inghamshs.eq.edu.au

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Photos supplied: Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch

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A new addition was recently added to the previously refurbished 40mm Bofors gun at the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch, with four stainless steel simulated rounds crafted to accompany the historic weapon.  

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The addition was made possible through the concept provided by Toby Wilkes, a former Royal Australian Navy stoker, who put his Defence Force experience to work on the project. The lathe work was provided by a local boat repair workshop.

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Cardwell RSL Sub Branch President Robert Lang said the team was grateful for Toby’s contribution and the work of volunteers who continued to lend their skills to the community.

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“Our thanks to Toby Wilkes, a former Royal Australian Navy stoker. Toby is one of many talented volunteers who regularly apply their skills learned in the Australian Defence Force to good effect at the Cardwell RSL.”

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The four stainless steel simulated rounds add another visual element to the Bofors gun, helping present the historic piece as part of the sub branch’s ongoing recognition of Australia’s military history.

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For the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch, the project is also another example of the contribution former Defence personnel continue to make long after their service has ended.

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I would like to formally recognise and congratulate Council's Strategic Communications Coordinator, Carenda Jenkin, on recently being named Queensland's Communications Professional of the Year at the Local Government Association of Queensland's LGx Awards for Excellence.

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This is a significant achievement when you consider that the award recognises communication excellence across local government in Queensland.  

It is a highly competitive field, particularly given the size, resources and budgets available to many of the larger city councils throughout the state. In my view, Carenda's success reflects her exceptional ability to communicate effectively and her deep understanding of regional communities.

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Carenda has spent almost 25 years telling the stories of country towns, local people, volunteers, businesses and community organisations. She understands that communication is not just about sharing information.  

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It is about connecting people, building trust and helping communities understand what is happening around them.

Communication in local government is critical. It is important that our community remains informed about what Council is doing, what we are proposing to do and what we are delivering on behalf of residents. That is what accountability is all about. Effective communication ensures information is shared openly and the community has the knowledge it needs to understand Council's decisions and actions.

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Since joining Hinchinbrook Shire Council in June 2025, Carenda has thrown herself into the role. If you have ever worked with her, you will know there is very little she will not put her hand up for. Whether it is helping community groups, supporting Council projects, promoting tourism opportunities, advocating on major issues or communicating during disaster events, she genuinely cares about achieving positive outcomes for the people of Hinchinbrook.

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Community members have already commented on the improved flow of information coming from Council over the past year, and that is something we want our community to become accustomed to and can be confident will continue.

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One of my biggest concerns arising from the 2025 flood event was our inability to get information out to the community as quickly and effectively as we would have liked. At a time of crisis, our community needed timely and accurateinformation. While widespread power outages and the resulting loss of communication capabilities were major factors, we also navigated the early stages of that event without dedicated communications expertise. That created significant challenges for Council. Fortunately, we have now addressed that gap through securing the services of Carenda, whose expertise will continue to strengthen our communications capability into the future.

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On behalf of Council and the Hinchinbrook community, congratulations, Carenda, on this well-deserved recognition. We are incredibly proud of your achievement and grateful for the contribution you continue to make to our organisation and our community.

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During the Hinchinbrook by-election, one message came through loud and clear – our community wanted stronger action on crime.

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People were frustrated with the revolving door of offenders being granted bail, breaching their conditions and going on to commit more offences.

I heard that message, and since being elected I have continued to advocate for stronger consequences when offenders breach the trust that comes with being granted bail.

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Last week, we took a significant step forward.

The Crisafulli Government introduced Breach Bail, Go to Jail legislation into the Queensland Parliament, delivering what will be the toughest bail laws in the country.

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Under the proposed laws, if a youth offender is on bail and commits an Adult Crime, Adult Time offence, they will face a mandatory minimum 12 months detention.

Importantly, the reforms also apply consequences to adult offenders who commit prescribed serious offences while on bail.

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The legislation will also strengthen the test applied when bail is being considered. Courts will need to be reasonably satisfied that an offender will comply with their bail conditions and will not commit another offence while released into the community.

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That is an important change.

Bail should be a privilege, not a revolving door back onto our streets.

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Adult Crime, Adult Time was an important first step in restoring consequences for serious offending. We are starting to see progress, but we have always said that when the laws need to be strengthened, we will act.

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That is the difference listening to the community can make.

For me, this is also about delivering on what people across Hinchinbrook told me during the by-election. I said I would take their concerns about bail and repeat offending to Brisbane and fight for stronger laws.

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We have done that, and now legislation is before Parliament.

There will always be more work to do when it comes to community safety. No government should ever declare the job finished while Queenslanders continue to become victims of crime.

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But this is another significant step towards putting victims first, holding offenders accountable and making our communities safer.

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The people of Hinchinbrook asked for stronger consequences.

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We listened. We advocated. And now we are acting.

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Funding Opportunity Opens for Hinchinbrook Events

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Hinchinbrook event organisers have a new opportunity to secure funding to grow local events, attract visitors and deliver greater economic benefits to the region.

The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc. is encouraging local event organisers to explore the newly opened Homegrown Round 2, 2026 funding program, delivered as part of the Queensland Government's Destination 2045 tourism strategy.

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The program provides grants of between $15,000 and $100,000 across four funding streams, supporting Queensland events that have the potential to attract visitors, generate overnight stays and strengthen local economies.

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For a region such as Hinchinbrook, where community events play an important role in bringing people into our towns and showcasing what the region has to offer, funding opportunities such as Homegrown can provide valuable support for event growth.

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Funding can be used for activities including out-of-region marketing, program enhancements, accessibility and sustainability initiatives, as well as specialist support to help events increase their tourism impact.

The Queensland Government invested $1.17 million through the first round of Homegrown funding in 2026, supporting 21 events that are anticipated to generate more than $90 million for the Queensland economy.

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The second round builds on this investment, with eligible events taking place between April 2027 and June 2028 able to apply.

The Hinchinbrook Chamber sees the program as an opportunity for local organisers to think beyond simply staging an event and consider how events can contribute to the broader visitor economy.

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Well-promoted events can encourage visitors to stay longer, dine locally, shop locally and explore other attractions throughout the Hinchinbrook region. This creates flow-on benefits for accommodation providers, hospitality businesses, retailers, tourism operators and other local businesses.

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The Chamber also recognises the important role that events, community festivals, sporting events, markets and cultural activities can play in positioning Hinchinbrook as a destination for many and diverse visitors.

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Well planned and delivered events are not only about what happens on the day. They provide an opportunity to tell the story of our region, showcase local talent and businesses, encourage visitation and build reasons for visitors to return.

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The Chamber encourages eligible local event organisers to investigate the Homegrown program and consider whether funding could assist in taking their event to the next level.

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Applications for Homegrown Round 2, 2026 close Tuesday 6th October 2026, with funding available for eligible events held from April 2027 to June 2028.

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For Hinchinbrook, continued investment in events means continued investment in our visitor economy, our local businesses and the vibrancy of our communities.

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For more information visit teq.queensland.com. 

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Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Ramon Jayo is part of a growing chorus of North Queensland leaders warning proposed changes to federal disaster funding could leave regional councils and ratepayers shouldering a greater share of recovery costs.

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council is among five councils within the North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (NQROC) opposing proposed changes to disaster funding arrangements expected to take effect from July 2027.

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Under current arrangements, in place since 2018, the Federal Government contributes 75 per cent of eligible costs associated with disaster preparation, reconstruction and resilience, while Queensland contributes 25 per cent.

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NQROC says the proposed model would reduce the Federal Government's contribution to 50 per cent.

According to Queensland Reconstruction Authority figures cited by NQROC, Queensland could receive $213.5 million less each year under the proposed arrangements, while the Federal Government would gain almost $329 million annually when changes across the country are considered.

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For Hinchinbrook, a region regularly exposed to cyclones, flooding and severe weather, Mayor Jayo said local governments were already stretching ratepayer dollars as far as possible.

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“Our communities expect essential services and infrastructure to be restored quickly after a disaster, but that becomes increasingly difficult if councils are required to shoulder more of the financial burden,” Mayor Jayo said.

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“Strong disaster recovery funding isn't a luxury for regional communities, it's a necessity.”

Hinchinbrook Shire Council has joined councils from Townsville, Burdekin, Charters Towers and Palm Island in lodging submissions outlining concerns about the potential impact on communities, infrastructure and long-term disaster recovery.

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Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto backed the concerns, calling for the Federal Government to listen to councils responsible for rebuilding following natural disasters.

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“We're calling on Canberra to listen to the people on the ground who are rebuilding roads, bridges, water networks and community facilities after every flood, cyclone and severe weather event,” Mayor Dametto said.

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“Councils across Australia are waiting with bated breath to see whether their voices are being heard. If Canberra doesn't listen, this will be a disaster of a deal.”

Queensland Senator and Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Susan McDonald has also criticised the proposed changes after hearing concerns from councils at the Australian Local Government Transport Conference in Cairns.

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“These are councils already struggling with rising costs, stretched budgets, low rates bases and increasing demands on their services,” Senator McDonald said.

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“Regional Queenslanders already face higher costs and longer recovery times. The last thing they need is Labor shifting more of the burden onto councils and local ratepayers.

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“The Albanese Government should scrap these cuts and ensure councils have the support they need to rebuild when disaster strikes.”

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NQROC is calling on the Federal Government to ensure regional communities are not left carrying a greater share of disaster recovery costs and is seeking greater transparency around the review process through a public submission dashboard.

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Image from Pexels

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Parents and carers across the Cassowary Coast are invited to take part in a FREE online workshop designed to help children develop healthy relationships from an early age.

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The Raising Respectful Kids Workshop will explore practical ways parents can teach children about consent, personal boundaries and healthy friendships, providing families with tools to start important conversations at home.

Hosted online via Zoom, the session will run from 1pm to 2:30pm on Thursday 3rd September, making it easy for parents and carers to join from home.

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The workshop has been made completely free for families across the Cassowary Coast, Atherton Tablelands and Mareeba as part of an Australian Government-funded children and parenting initiative by VPG.

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Bookings are essential, with registrations required by Wednesday 2nd September.

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To register or find out more, contact Kate at kate@vpginc.com.au or 0488 321 605.

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