Community News

Social Media Myths Can Cause Cancer

Social Media Myths Can Cause Cancer

Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.

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Bushtucker Bliss

Bushtucker Bliss

There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.

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Meet Kevin Wang

Meet Kevin Wang

Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.

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New Crocodile Management Plan To Prioritise Public Safety

New Crocodile Management Plan To Prioritise Public Safety

The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."

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Room For All At The Cardwell RSL

December 2, 2025

A small moment at the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch recently captured the spirit of what makes the venue such a valued part of the community. During the weekly Sunday BBQ and buffet lunch, a guest arrived using a motorised scooter, navigating the hall with ease. According to President Rob, it is the first time the branch has welcomed a motorised scooter or wheelchair inside the space. It's a simple sight that said plenty about how the RSL continues to evolve with their community.

The lunch itself was cheerful and full of conversation, much like every weekend. Volunteers helped with serving meals, checking in on visitors, and keeping the afternoon running smoothly. Their efforts, week after week, allow the RSL to be a place where people can gather comfortably and feel welcome.

Seeing mobility equipment in the hall for the first time shows how accessible the venue has become, and how the Cardwell RSL continues to welcome people as they are, creating a space where locals can enjoy themselves without barriers or fuss.

The guests enjoying their BBQ lunch at the Cardwell RSL. Photo supplied
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Lenny Chiesa Honoured With Statewide Service To Sport Award

December 4, 2025

Hinchinbrook’s Lenny Chiesa OAM has been recognised on the statewide stage, taking home the prestigious Service to Sport Award at the QSport 2025 Queensland Sport Awards on 27 November. The achievement follows his recent win at the North Queensland Sportstar Awards and reflects more than fifty years of service to Surf Lifesaving and Rugby League.

Lenny’s sporting journey began locally after he won the Ingham Lions Club Sportstar of the Year Award. From there, the club nominated him for the North Queensland Sportstar Awards. His commitment has shaped generations of athletes, volunteers and community members, and he continues to be held in high regard throughout Hinchinbrook.

The night’s ceremony highlighted the breadth of his impact, and Lenny expressed heartfelt gratitude for the honour.

"I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this special recognition. To be acknowledged in this way, especially among so many inspiring people who give so much to sport and to their communities across our state, is truly overwhelming."

He reflected on the lifelong role Surf Life Saving has played.

"Surf Life Saving has been a huge part of my life for many years. From the age of 14, when I earned my Bronze Medallion, it has shaped me, challenged me and connected me with incredible people. But above all, it has given me the privilege of serving others—and I believe that is why we all do what we do."

Lenny also shared his appreciation for the mentors who guided him.

"I have been extremely fortunate to have amazing mentors in my life from such a young age through sport, some of the very best, who helped shape me into who I am today. Many of them are no longer with us, but I honour them with this award as well."

He spoke warmly about working with First Nations young men in recent years.

"In recent years, I’ve had the privilege of working with First Nations young men, helping them gain their lifesaving awards, become lifesavers and coaching them in surf sports. These boys have certainly left a mark on my life, and I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside them."

Lenny thanked those who had supported him throughout his journey.

"I want to thank the Queensland Government, QSport for this recognition. Thank you also to my club, my colleagues, and my family—your support has made every step of this journey possible. My wife, who is with me tonight, has served by my side from the very beginning. This award is very much hers as it is mine. And to my children and grandchildren, who are all part of the lifesaving movement. They remind me every day of the generational power of sport and community. Seeing them walk the same beaches, wear the same colours, and serve the same people fills me with pride beyond words."

Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club also celebrated Lenny’s achievement, noting his more than 55 years of service and the proud tradition continued by his children and grandchildren.

Sharon Fighera from Lions Club said, "Lenny is such a deserving winner and does so much for our Ingham Community. Congratulations Lenny you are our local hero."

The entire Hinchinbrook community joins in congratulating Lenny on this well-deserved statewide recognition. His decades of service continue to inspire and strengthen the spirit of sport and community across our region.

Leonardo "Lenny" Chiesa with his Service to Sport Award at the QSport 2025 Queensland Sport Awards on 27 November. Photo supplied
Lenny and his wife at the QSport 2025 Queensland Sport Awards. Photo supplied
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Stinger Net Installed At Taylors Beach

December 2, 2025

On Sunday, 30th November, the Taylors Beach community installed the stinger net/swimming enclosure ready for the 25/26 holiday season. This has been an annual event for the past 40 years or more, with the stinger net remaining in place until after the Easter holiday.

The Taylors Beach Stinger Net is a public facility free to use by all residents and visitors in the Hinchinbrook Shire and is located at the southern end of Taylors Beach on John Dory Street. This facility is funded by individual contributions, funding from Hinchinbrook Shire Council & a grant from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.

The enclosure is unique in its design. with the net suspended on poles above the HWM [high water mark], which prevents marine life and trash from entering the enclosure. It is 25 metres wide and deep, by 50 metres long, with two sets of stairs across a rocky bank to enter the swimming area. The sandy beach provides water depths between 0.5 metres and 2 metres, depending on the tide, with the headland of Forrest Beach opposite ensuring calm water in the net and shelter from the wind.

There is a shower at the net and 100 metres away in the Robert Nazzari Park. there are toilets, a shower and changing facilities with the added benefit of undercover seating, an electric barbecue area, a play area and plenty of parking. Also, this is a popular spot for fishing off the beach.

So please support this wonderful facility and join us at Taylors Beach, where the best swimming can be had an hour either side of high. See you there!

Contributed with thanks by Greg Sexton, President, Taylors Beach Stinger Net Association Inc.

A historic photo of the nets being installed on their posts. Photo supplied
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$50 Million Bruce Highway Investment To Boost Flood Resilience Near Ingham

December 2, 2025

A major $50 million upgrade is set to strengthen a flood-prone stretch of the Bruce Highway between Ingham and Innisfail, improving safety, drainage, and reliability for North Queensland motorists.

Detailed designs have been finalised for the Gairloch to Ripple Creek section near the Seymour River, with the project expected to go out to tender in the coming months. Construction is scheduled to begin next year.

The resilience works will include reconstructing the highway to a higher standard, widening the road, installing wide centreline treatments, and replacing ageing culverts to improve drainage. The goal is to reduce the frequency and duration of closures during the disaster season, keeping communities and supply routes open for longer.

The project forms part of the $450 million Queensland Resilience and Risk Reduction Program (QRRRP), jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and administered by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the Australian Government is investing in practical upgrades that strengthen essential connections in the north.

“These works on the Bruce Highway will make a real difference for North Queenslanders who rely on this route for essential travel, supplies and emergency access,” Minister McBain said.

“By replacing ageing culverts and strengthening the pavement, we’re ensuring this stretch of highway can better withstand the floods that impact the region year after year.”

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said delivering resilient infrastructure is a key priority for the Crisafulli Government.

“Betterment projects like this are smart investments in our state’s future, using the lessons we’ve learned from past disasters to strengthen us for the future,” Minister Leahy said.

“Our upgrades to the Bruce Highway will be transformational for our state and benefit every Queenslander, particularly in our regions and the north.”

“We can’t stop severe weather from occurring, but we can improve our resilience to its impacts, and that’s what these Gairloch to Ripple Creek road improvements are all about.”

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the works represent a long-term investment in the reliability of North Queensland’s most important transport corridor.

“We are committed to building stronger infrastructure, making sure Queensland is better prepared for disasters in the future,” Minister Mickelberg said.

“For more than a decade this section of road has been a choke point as it floods regularly during the storm season and holds up logistics, so we are going to deliver the road improvements the region has been asking for.”

“Workers will be on-site in the next year building a more durable stretch of road that ensures safer and more reliable travel on the Bruce Highway while reducing the time and cost of road closures and repair works.”

This upgrade follows the $48 million Gairloch Floodway project, also funded by the Australian Government and currently in the design phase. Meanwhile, both levels of government are working together to finalise the scope of a further $205 million in betterment funding to strengthen the Bruce Highway and other key regional roads damaged during this year’s extreme rainfall.

Gairloch Bridge, March 2025. Photo credit: Hinchinbrook Shire Council
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Cardwell RSL Bingo Christmas Wrap-Up

December 2, 2025

The Cardwell RSL Bingo players enjoyed a meal as they wound up for their Christmas break at Terry and Mamiko’s Fish and Chip Shop opposite the Jetty. This was their second dining-out experience for the year, and the local RSL and its associated groups continue to share their patronage among local businesses.

Congratulations to Tookie and Janet for organising Bingo each week. 2026 has been a very successful year for everyone involved with the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch.

"On behalf of the Management Committee, I’d like to wish all our patrons a very Merry Christmas and all the very best for 2026." - Robert Lang.

Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch.

The Cardwell RSL Bingo players at Terry and Mamiko’s Fish and Chip Shop. Photo supplied
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Councillor Column Councillor Mark Spina 2nd December

December 2, 2025

Our home is our castle is a phrase that you may have heard before.

The great Aussie dream of being able to buy a block of land to build on is the goal of many, but there is a concerning increase in what that “home” or dwelling may be.

The classification rating for an approved dwelling is there for a reason. It ensures that the structure proposed to be built on the land meets the building requirements set by the National Construction Code.

Some requirements include that the dwelling meets the wind rating category for the area, complies with energy efficiency requirements, and meets the minimum habitable floor height for flooding, to name a few. It means that the dwelling is approved and safe for habitation.

This structure is what is called a Class 1a structure, or habitable dwelling, with all plumbing and services connected and certified as a Class 1a habitable dwelling.

The increase in people constructing sheds on their land and then living in them is concerning because this type of construction is classified as Class 10a structures, and they do not meet the required standards for a Class 1a habitable dwelling.

These are not approved dwellings. They do not meet the building code for a habitable dwelling and are therefore not legal to occupy either as a permanent or part-time place of residence.

This is not a local council law; this is statewide legislation. However, it is up to the local council and, in particular, the Development and Regulatory Services Department within the local council to manage.

To add to this, if you choose to invest money in making a Class 10a structure more homelike, it may not add value to the property when you go to sell it, as it is not an approved habitable dwelling.

This is not a new issue and is not isolated to our shire. However, the building code is there for a reason—to make our home our castle. If you have any concerns or enquiries, call Council on (07) 4776 4600, and our planning department will be happy to assist.

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Minute With The Mayor Ramon Jayo 2 December

December 2, 2025

The 2025 crushing season is now done and dusted, and what a season it has been. From all reports, the Herbert mills finished on a high, processing a total of 3.82 million tonnes of cane — slightly above the crop forecast of 3.70 million tonnes.

That’s a fantastic result, especially when we think back to February when things looked far less certain.

This outcome is something we can all be proud of.

Sugar remains the backbone of our district, and the more cane we cut, the better it is for our local economy.

Every tonne matters, and this season’s performance reinforces just how important this industry is to Hinchinbrook.

The provisional season commercial cane sugar averaged 12.82 units, reflecting solid sugar content, and the average bin weight held steady at 6.6 tonnes.

These are figures that speak to the resilience and hard work of everyone involved.

I want to extend a big thank you to all who made this possible.

That’s our farmers, harvesting contractors, train crews, the milling sector, and the sugar terminal teams.

Behind these workers are families who supported them through long hours and demanding schedules, and their contribution deserves recognition too.

This season wasn’t without its challenges. Weather events and significant debris left in fields after flooding made conditions tough, yet the industry pulled together and got the job done.

The final bin was tipped at Victoria Mill at 2:27pm on 23 November 2025, with Macknade Mill finishing a few days earlier on 20 November 2025.

These milestones mark the end of a season that tested us but ultimately delivered a strong result.

To everyone who played a part, thank you.

Your efforts keep this district moving forward and remind us of the strength of our community when we work together.

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Where Crocs, Clouds, And Canefields Collide

December 1, 2025

There’s nowhere quite like the Herbert River delta — where crocs sun themselves on muddy banks, sugarcane hums in the breeze, and clouds cling to the peaks of Hinchinbrook Island like slow-moving smoke. It’s the kind of place that feels unchanged by time, equal parts beauty and bite. Locals know the tides by heart and tell stories of “Old Charlie,” a crocodile said to have ruled one particular bend for decades.

Whether myth or memory, it’s all part of Hinchinbrook’s charm: raw, unfiltered nature sitting side by side with generations of hard-working cane farmers. Bring a camera, an open mind, and a dash of respect — this is North Queensland at its quirkiest and most real, where the sugar’s sweet but the rivers have teeth.

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Grazie! Italian Pop-Up Consulate A Huge Success

December 1, 2025

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo is calling on more consulates to bring their services to regional Queensland following the success of the Italian pop-up consulate in Hinchinbrook.

The two-day event attracted more than 40 appointments, providing vital assistance to residents without the need to travel to Brisbane or Canberra.

“This is an invaluable service to our community, and I truly wish more nationalities would take it up,” Mayor Jayo said. “We’ve seen how time-consuming progress can be when operating outside of Canberra, so bringing these services to the regions makes a real difference.”

Consul Luna Angelini Marinucci from the Consulate of Italy in Brisbane said the visit was about connection and respect.

“It’s important we go into the regions, see the places, meet the people, understand the immigration stories, the canefields, and show maximum respect — that’s the real passport to making a difference,” she said.

Consul Luna Angelini Marinucci from the Consulate of Italy in Brisbane with Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Ramon Jayo. Photo supplied
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Pre-Season Payment Opens Early To Support Growers

December 1, 2025

Simon Hood Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

As we move towards the end of the year, it has been a valuable time to reconnect with growers across the Herbert.

Our recent market update sessions were well attended, and we appreciated the opportunity to sit down with growers, discuss the current price environment, and talk through the options available to help manage risk. These sessions are an important way for us to understand what is happening on farms and to make sure we’re providing the right support at the right time.

One of our key initiatives to support growers is the early opening of the 2026 Pre-Season Payment. With the significant fall in sugar prices and the resulting impact on monthly advance payments, we know many growers are facing cash flow pressures leading into the Christmas period.

To help ease that pressure, growers who market with Wilmar can now access a $5 per tonne payment on their nominated 2026 season cane from 1 December. Repayments will not begin until the 2026 crush starts, and the current interest rate is 5%. This option is there for growers who need some extra breathing room heading into the New Year.

This month, we also say farewell to Franco Zaini, who is finishing up after an incredible 23 years in the sugar industry, including the past eight years with the Grower Marketing team. Franco has supported growers across the regions with professionalism, honesty and genuine care, and his contribution to both the industry and our team has been significant. We thank Franco sincerely for his dedicated service and wish him all the best for the next chapter.

As the year winds down, we would like to acknowledge the hard work and resilience shown by growers in what has been a challenging year for pricing. On behalf of the Grower Marketing team, we wish all growers and their families a safe and Merry Christmas. We hope you enjoy some well-earned time with loved ones, and we look forward to working with you again in 2026.

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An Adventure Is On The Horizon

December 1, 2025

This festive season, NQ Travel & Cruise is celebrating the joy of giving — and the joy of exploring — with our popular Christmas Gift Vouchers now available in store. Whether you’re searching for the perfect present or wanting to surprise someone with the promise of a future adventure, a travel gift voucher is a meaningful way to wrap up an experience they’ll never forget.

As Ingham’s local, accredited travel specialist, I’m passionate about helping our community see the world with confidence. Backed by the award-winning Travellers Choice network and more than 15 years of industry experience, NQ Travel & Cruise offers personalised itineraries, trusted global suppliers, and the reassurance that every detail is handled with genuine care.

With the new year just around the corner, many travellers are already planning their 2025 and 2026 holidays. January appointments are filling quickly, so if you’re thinking about starting your travel plans, now is the perfect time to secure your spot. Call 07 4440 3310 to lock in your appointment today.

"Wishing you a Merry Christmas and happy travels from NQ Travel & Cruise." - Kathleen Lynch, Owner and Manager at NQ Travel & Cruise.

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Did You Know? Christmas Comes Early At Mick’s Bread Kitchen

December 1, 2025

It’s that time of year again when the ovens start to warm up and Mick’s Bread Kitchen begins preparing for one of its busiest and most delicious seasons. As Christmas draws near, Mick’s is once again inviting locals to get in early and place their festive orders before the shelves are cleared.

The kitchen team is already planning a mouth-watering range of holiday favourites that will be available in the lead-up to Christmas. Keep an eye out for their much-loved Christmas Fruit Cakes, baked fresh in-store and available in both small and large sizes, perfect for gifting or sharing around the table. The ever-popular Plum Puddings will also make a return, but numbers are limited, so early orders are strongly recommended.

Fans of sweet festive treats can look forward to the bakery’s famous White Christmas Slice, Rocky Road, Rumballs, and Apricot Balls, each one handmade with care and packed with nostalgic Christmas flavour. If you can’t decide which one to take home, Mick’s Christmas Snack Packs offer a little of everything and make the perfect gift or grazing treat for gatherings.

Of course, no visit to Mick’s Bread Kitchen is complete without one of their legendary pies. Made from scratch using locally sourced ingredients, each pie is baked to perfection with a signature flaky pastry and hearty fillings that keep customers coming back for more. From traditional beef and steak varieties to gourmet options packed with rich flavour, they’re the ultimate comfort food and perfect for a quick lunch during the festive rush.

Beyond the baked goods, Mick’s Bread Kitchen will also be serving piping hot and iced coffees, and while the festive range takes centre stage, regular favourites are still rolling out daily. From sushi to cream buns, matchsticks, and freshly baked bread, the team continues to deliver the comforting flavours the community loves all year round.

Christmas always comes early at Mick’s, and with so many festive goodies on the horizon, now’s the perfect time to start planning your orders. Get in early, beat the rush, and make your Christmas table shine with a touch of local tradition by Micks Bread Kitchen.

Christmas slice from Micks. Photo credit: Mick's Bread Kitchen
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A Christmas Classic

December 1, 2025

Homemade Nuts & Bolts

Nothing says Christmas quite like a big bowl of homemade nuts and bolts! It’s a snack that marks the true start of the festival season, and with November now here, there’s no better way to prepare for the month ahead than by whipping up a batch of these tasty little savoury treats.

Just like many Christmas traditions, every household has its own version of this classic recipe. Some swear by Nutrigrain and pretzels, while others mix in Ritz, cheese crackers, or peanuts for extra crunch. But one thing everyone agrees on? There’s never enough garlic or butter.

To make your own batch, toss your favourite cereals, crackers, nuts, and pretzels in a melted mix of butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and seasoning salt, then bake low and slow for about an hour, stirring every 15 minutes. The result: a golden, crispy party mix that’s equal parts nostalgia and deliciousness.

Best of all, nuts and bolts keep beautifully in an airtight container (if you can resist eating them all straight from the tray). It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, very customisable, great for road trips, or wrapping up as a homemade gift. So what are you waiting for? Jump into the kitchen and put together some Christmas cheer!

Nuts & Bolts with a Christmas beer. Photo sourced: www.bestrecipes.com.au

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Festive Fun Bike Bargains At Bike & Power Ingham

December 4, 2025

This holiday season, Bike & Power Ingham is the go-to destination for riders looking to upgrade their gear or find the perfect electric bike. From Kawasaki’s global powersports line comes the Elektrode 20, an electric balance bike designed for riders aged eight and older. With a powerful 750 W in-wheel motor, three selectable speed modes, and a large-capacity 48V battery, the bike delivers up to three hours of riding time and speeds up to 39 km/h. Adjustable seat and handlebar positions, premium disc brakes, and a lightweight aluminium frame make it ideal for everyday fun, off-road play, and building confidence on two wheels.

The Elektrode 20’s motocross-inspired design and striking lime green finish ensure riders feel part of the Kawasaki family from the moment they swing a leg over. Built tough with high-quality components, 20-inch wheels, and foldable pedals, it combines durability with excitement for young riders stepping up from smaller models or just beginning their motocross dreams.

Bike & Power also has festive bargains across Kawasaki KLX and KFX models, providing cash savings for those looking to treat themselves or the family this Christmas. The team at Bike & Power invites the community to visit in-store and see the range of the latest electric and petrol-powered bikes from Kawasaki.

Make this season one of fun, adventure, and outdoor thrills! Come in-store to Bike & Power Ingham at 51 Herbert Street, Ingham, and find the perfect ride for Christmas today.

The Electrode 20 in dirt-shredding action. Photos supplied
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Gear Up For Christmas With Ingham Agencies

December 1, 2025

This Christmas season, Ingham Agencies is the place to stock up on top-quality tools and safety gear. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, their store at 21–25 Halifax Road, Ingham, has everything you need to work smarter, safer, and more efficiently.

Now that the crush season has wrapped up, Sugar Dissolving Oil 20L is the ideal choice for washing down equipment and getting machinery back to its best. Designed specifically for cane machinery, it provides effective lubrication for light-loaded gears and bearings, slides, chains, cams and rams. It also helps free bolts or parts that have seized due to sugar build-up, and its water-washable formula makes clean-up fast and simple. Available now in convenient 20-litre drums.

For hand protection, Ingham Agencies stocks MACK Traction Nitrile Disposable Gloves. With a heavy-duty diamond grip, resistance to oils, chemicals, and punctures, and sizes from S to 2XL, these gloves are perfect for every task in the workshop or on-site.

Milwaukee’s Black Friday deals are also in-store at Ingham Agencies, offering unbeatable savings on power tools, battery packs, and hand tool sets. From M18 FUEL power packs to circular saws, soldering kits, and combination wrench sets, there is a deal for every tradesperson, but stock is limited.

Come in-store to Ingham Agencies today and see the full range for yourself. Whether you’re upgrading your welding gear, preparing your workshop with gloves, or securing premium Milwaukee tools, these Christmas deals make it easy to finish the year well-equipped and ready for 2026. Don’t miss out, visit Ingham Agencies at 21–25 Halifax Road, Ingham, and claim your festive savings before they’re gone.

MACK Traction Nitrile Disposable Gloves, perfect for every task in the workshop or on-site. Image supplied
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Located in high foot traffic areas around your region.
Including your Local Grocery store, Cafes, Doctors, Fuel stations, News agencies and more!

Locally Owned. Community Loved.