Cassowary Coast residents are being urged to lend a hand in a major revegetation effort, with Council’s Innisfail Nursery calling for donations of native seeds to support upcoming environmental projects.

The initiative, dubbed “The Need for Seed,” aims to help grow between 50,000 and 65,000 trees for local planting programs planned throughout 2026.

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With demand for native seedlings on the rise, the nursery team is relying on community contributions to help meet ambitious revegetation targets across the region.

Locals can drop off native seed donations at the Innisfail Nursery, located on the corner of Campbell Street and Sundown Road, on Thursdays during opening hours. After-hours donations can also be left at the designated area beside the nursery gate.

Council says every contribution, big or small, will play an important role in supporting the region’s natural environment, helping to restore habitats, improve biodiversity and strengthen local ecosystems.

The large-scale planting effort is part of ongoing work to enhance green spaces and protect the Cassowary Coast’s unique landscapes for future generations.

Community members are encouraged to get involved, with Council noting that any donation will make a meaningful difference.

“We deeply appreciate any support you can provide.”

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Reconstruction works are progressing along Mount Spec Road, and there are 35 damaged sites identified along the route.

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Over the past month, you may have noticed crews working on steep sections of the road, including specialists abseiling down damaged upslopes to carry out reconstruction works. Here's what’s happening at each location as works move through the reconstruction phase to restore the road to its pre-event function.

Upslope site 15 (U15) - Formerly known as high-risk site 7 - Workers have been removing loose rocks from the slope in preparation for reconstruction works.

A temporary three-layer shipping-container wall has been installed to maintain safety for road users while permanent reconstruction works are completed. We installed 27 large shipping containers each one weighing about 3.15 tonnes: that’s 85 tonnes of steel in total.

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Together, they provide just under 600 cubic metres of capacity. The containers were filled with about 1,070 tonnes of a sand and aggregate mix - that's the equivalent of almost 400 Landcruiser wagon's worth of material delivered and installed on site.  

Upslope site 1 (U1) - Similar to a number of sites, at U1, Geobinder, an eco-friendly natural binder, has been sprayed onto the slope to minimise erosion risk until reconstruction works are completed. This site also has a heritage listed stone kerb and channel for directing water runoff. To protect this important asset, a timber protection is installed first to safeguard the stonework prior to the installation of the Geobinder.

Upslope site 2 (U2) - Workers have installed passive fixing dowels to help stabilise the slope. During the past fortnight, crews have drilled holes into the slope, secured steel rods in place with grout (a strong concrete-like material), and have installed weep holes to help release built-up water to reduce pore pressure behind the slope repair.        

Upslope site 7 (U7) - Workers have been removing loose rocks from the slope in preparation for reconstruction works. Environmental controls are in place to protect the surrounding environment during the works.

Specialist equipment (depth gauges) has been installed to ensure correct depths are achieved when passive fixing dowels are installed.

These steps are all part of the preparation for the next stage, where a protective concrete layer using Fibre Crete will be sprayed onto the surface.

Upslope site 8 (U8) - Workers have been removing loose rocks from the slope in preparation for reconstruction works.

Workers have been abseiling down the slope to carry out the next stage. They are installing passive fixing dowels, which are strong steel rods placed deep into the rock to help hold it securely in place. To do this, they drill holes into the rock and fill them with grout, a strong concrete-like material that locks the steel rods in position and helps stabilise the slope.      

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Prepare for unplanned road closures

During the wet season there may be heavy rainfall in the Paluma area which could result in unplanned road closures on Mount Spec Road for safety.  Please plan ahead.  

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Vehicle escort service

Daytime vehicle escort service from 6am to 6pm for approved permit holders. Runs hourly on the hour, for example, 7am, 8am and so on. Final service at 6pm, up and down. Two vehicle escorts operate simultaneously at both gates. Bookings not required.

Nighttime vehicle escort service from 6pm to 6am for exceptional circumstances such as work commitments. Pre-arranged bookings are required, please contact  engagement.northern@tmr.qld.gov.au to arrange.

Night works may impact nighttime vehicle escorts. Advance warning will be provided to stakeholders.

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Emergency access

TMR has an emergency access process in place during the scheduled road closure period, between 6pm and 6am. In the case of an emergency, please call 000. Traffic controllers are stationed at the top and bottom gates 24/7.

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Contributed with thanks by Department of Transport and Main Roads Queensland

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Ingham’s next generation of energy workers has officially stepped into the spotlight, with local apprentices among Ergon Energy Network’s newly inducted Northern Stars Class of 2026.

The cohort was welcomed at the Townsville Training Centre, where they began their apprenticeships and got their first taste of life in the energy industry.

“These faces represent the future of energy across a vast region, including Bowen, the Burdekin, Charters Towers, Cloncurry, Ingham, Innisfail, Mount Isa and Townsville,” Ergon Energy Network said.

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For communities like Ingham, where reliable power is essential for homes, businesses and agriculture, the program plays a vital role in building a skilled local workforce to maintain and strengthen the region’s energy network.

The apprentices will complete a mix of practical, on-the-job training and formal study, gaining the skills needed to work across North Queensland’s diverse and often challenging environments.

As they begin their careers, the new recruits are being encouraged to embrace the opportunity and take pride in the important role they will play in keeping communities connected.

Ergon Energy Network also called on locals to show their support, adding:

“We wish them all the very best for their apprenticeship and beyond.”

With their training now underway, Ingham’s Northern Stars are set to help power the region into the future.

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‍A Local Love Story

June And Doug Dredge Celebrate 70 Years Together

Hinchinbrooke locals June and Doug Dredge are celebrating their 70th anniversary this week, after a lifelong love story.

The pair met at school as teenagers and soon fell in love. They moved from Sydney to the Hinchinbrook region 23 years ago, where they now are full-fledged, integrated members of the community.

Their marriage bore three wonderful children, and seven beautiful grandchildren.

When asked the secret to a long, love-filled marriage, June gave simple, but profound advice:

“You just keep going.”

Whether you agree or disagree she says, “You take life as it comes, together.”

The secret is to maintain trust in the foundations of your relationship and don’t worry if your marriage fluctuates as through the ups and the downs, know that the love will always be there, and every obstacle will pass.

June says spiritedly that sometimes “Life sucks - but just get on with it! Don’t worry - it will come back around.”

Their long relationship is testament to the deep bonds that tie families in our community; a shining example of shining example of choosing love, every day, and walking through life with your most cherished companion by your side.

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Queenslanders could soon see some welcome relief on their power bills, with new figures showing electricity prices are set to fall under the latest draft Default Market Offer.

According to the Australian Energy Regulator, residential electricity prices are expected to drop by 10.1 per cent in 2026–27, while small business customers could see a reduction of 12.8 per cent.

The changes form part of the Queensland Government’s Energy Roadmap, aimed at delivering more affordable, reliable and sustainable power across the state.

Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki said the draft determination showed progress after a period of rising costs.

“The draft Default Market Offer from the Australian Energy Regulator demonstrates that the Energy Roadmap is putting downward pressure on power prices, as we said it would,” Treasurer Janetzki said.

“Under Labor power prices soared by 19.9% in a single year due to Labor’s failure to properly maintain our power plants. The Government is doing its bit to put downward pressure on power bills and it is now up to retailers to ensure savings are passed to customers.”

The Default Market Offer acts as a benchmark for electricity retailers, setting the maximum price for customers on standard contracts.

The regulator is expected to finalise the determination in May, with a separate announcement for regional Queensland to follow in the coming weeks.

The Government is delivering more affordable power for Queenslanders, with the default electricity reference price set to drop by more than 10 per cent next financial year. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Creating a stylish and functional bathroom has never been easier with the Cartia Avoca Vanities and Kyvos Basin Mixer from Interbath. Perfectly balancing practicality with design, these products transform everyday routines into a luxurious experience.

The Cartia Avoca Vanity comes in a variety of sizes – 400mm, 750mm, 900mm, and 1200mm – making it ideal for bathrooms of any dimension. Its high gloss white finish brings a modern, fresh look, while the vitreous ceramic top with overflow ensures efficient water drainage. Storage is a standout feature, with combinations of drawers and doors designed to hold bath towels, skincare essentials, and toiletries neatly out of sight. A flat pack kicker hides pipes and provides a clean, minimalist aesthetic, and the vanity’s raised legs make for a comfortable, accessible height. Whether you’re updating a compact powder room or a spacious ensuite, the Avoca Vanity offers a versatile solution that combines style with organisation.

Pair your vanity with the Kyvos Basin Mixer for a complete contemporary look. Available in High Polish Chrome, Brushed Nickel, Matte Black, and Brushed Gold, the Kyvos Mixer delivers precise control of water pressure and temperature. Its soft radius modern design, European 35mm cartridge, and solid brass construction ensure durability while maintaining a sleek, minimalistic appearance. Compatible with inset, semi-recessed, and undermount basins, it is rated 5 stars for water efficiency and operates across a wide pressure range, making it as practical as it is stylish.

Together, the Cartia Avoca Vanity and Kyvos Basin Mixer provide a sophisticated, functional upgrade to any bathroom, combining generous storage, elegant design, and high-quality performance. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference in daily comfort and home style, shop instore now at Ingham Manufactures Mitre10, 100 Herbert street, Ingham.

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Felix has been in the Real Estate Industry for 44 years and counting. His Grandfather started in Ingham in 1923 at the now location of United Petrol Service Station, where it was called the Central Sale Yards.

“He passed the Real Estate Business to Bert Reitano, my uncle, who arranged me to do an Auctioneers Course in 1982. On his retirement my Uncle Bert handed me the Auction Bell which we still ring before every Auction.”

The Family Business has prided itself in providing honest and knowledgeable service to all their clients on a 7 day a week basis. Amongst other accolades over the years, Felix was awarded Life Membership from the REIQ in 2024.

Advice for prospective buyers?

“Buy within your means first. Do your research about the property you are interested in. If you want a lifestyle that has great people values with the natural attractions, we have them for you when investing into the Hinchinbrook Shire”

Caption: Felix Reitano with the Auction Bell in hand. Photo sourced: Felix Reitano Real Estate

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Beaumont Tiles Ingham would like to advise customers that the store will be closed 12 Midday on Friday, 27 March and reopening on Monday, 30 March 2026, due to family commitments. They understand this may cause some inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.

Their team is committed to providing the best possible service to our local community, and this short closure will allow staff to attend important family matters. They will reopen as normal on Monday, 30 March, ready to assist with all your tiling, renovation and design needs.

Customers are encouraged to plan ahead for any purchases or enquiries prior to the closure or visit us once we reopen. We thank the Ingham community for its continued support and look forward to welcoming you back in store soon.

For any urgent enquiries, please reach out prior to the closure date and our team will do their best to assist.

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Residents had the chance to learn more about faster internet upgrades at the recent nbn Community Coffee Connect Drop-In Session, held outside JKs Deli on Wednesday, 18 March. The relaxed morning event invited locals to chat directly with the nbn team, ask questions about eligibility for full fibre upgrades.

With new full fibre connections now available for eligible homes and businesses across Ingham, the session provided valuable insights into what the upgrades mean for everyday users and local organisations.

Rodger Bow, a local resident and RSL member, shared his positive experience after making the switch.

“I signed up to nbn Fibre to the Premises in January and it's working fine ever since,”

“Prior to this, I've had a lot of trouble around home where my connection at the Node was deteriorating, and I had no internet or anything at all.

“I would say to locals that as time goes on, the old copper cable is going to deteriorate, and I recommend they go to Fibre to the Premises where that problem will be eliminated.

Benjamin Barbi from Logilytics also highlighted the benefits of upgrading and the support available to customers.

“We're assisting customers to facilitate nbn full fibre upgrades to the premises. If they're having issues with their provider, initiating the process, we're assisting with that as well.

“Fibre to the Node is old technology, and it's so old that it's not even being maintained anymore. Fibre to the Premise is just a lot better, a lot sharper.

“So many customers in Ingham on the old copper line experience problems, some drop out daily.

“With regards to the nbn Fixed Wireless Plus upgrades, we love it. It is the best thing to come to the outlying areas of town.

So, whether you’re in or out of town, with the nbn upgrades for your downloads or for streaming, if you've got a family with a couple of kids, and you've got one-three people on streaming, and you want to watch your Foxtel, it's not going to drop out the way it used to.”

Ben Barbi and the Logilytics team, with Cassie Scott. Photo supplied

Rodger Bow, one of the first people that raised Fibre to the Node issues. Photo supplied

Casie Scott Regional Development & Engagement Manager, North Queensland, with Jane Carne, and Deputy Mayor Mary Brown. Photo supplied.

Locals came to speak to nbn staff at their pop up on Lannercost Street. Photo supplied

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Leaseholders across the Cassowary Coast are set to receive additional financial relief following recent severe weather events, with the Queensland Government announcing a 12-month land rent deferral.

The support package comes in response to impacts from the North Queensland monsoon trough, widespread flooding and Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, which have affected communities across the region.

Eligible state land tenure holders, including primary producers, residents and businesses, will automatically receive the deferral, providing much-needed breathing room as recovery efforts continue.

The measure forms part of a broader relief package supporting nearly 3,000 tenures across North and Central Queensland, including those within the Cassowary Coast.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the initiative was designed to assist communities still recovering from a difficult start to the year.

“We know North and Central Queenslanders have endured a tough start to the year with the monsoon trough, flooding and Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji,” Minister Last said.

“The Government has been on the ground listening and that’s why we are delivering targeted support through automatic land rent deferral across almost 3,000 tenures. This is about supporting our farmers and regional Queenslanders by giving them time to focus on their recovery and get their operations back on track. We’re focused on helping Queenslanders recover faster and rebuild stronger for the future.”

The rent deferral will be automatically applied, allowing eligible Cassowary Coast leaseholders to focus on rebuilding without the immediate pressure of land rent payments.

Additional information is available via  https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/land/state/rents/hardship-deferral.

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The Cassowary Coast community has farewelled a piece of local history, following the removal of the old jetty pylons along the Cardwell Foreshore on Tuesday, 17 March.

The decision was made by Cassowary Coast Regional Council following assessments which found the timber structures had deteriorated to a point where they posed a significant safety risk.

While the pylons have long held historical and sentimental value for the community, council said their condition created potential hazards, particularly for children and families visiting the popular foreshore area.

To preserve their historical significance, the timber will be carefully removed and stored in a secure location. Council will now work in partnership with the Cardwell Historical Society to determine the future of the pylons and how they may continue to play a role in the region’s shared history.

Council thanked residents for their understanding, emphasising that the safety of the community and visitors remains the highest priority.

Further information is available by contacting council directly via phoning 1300 763 903 or emailing enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.

CAPTION: To ensure the safety of the Cassowary Coast community, the pylons were removed the morning of Tuesday, 17 March 2026. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

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Swiftwater firefighters were deployed across Far North Queensland over the weekend as emergency services prepare for the potential impacts of Tropical Cyclone Narelle.

Specialist teams from Queensland Fire and Rescue have positioned themselves in key locations including Port Douglas, Mossman, Mareeba, Halifax, Cardwell, Ingham, Tully and Innisfail to ensure a rapid response if flooding occurs.

Ahead of the cyclone, crews have been training alongside local responders in flood-prone waterways, identifying hazards that can become difficult to detect once water levels rise.

Authorities say this preparation is critical in regions where fast-moving floodwaters can pose significant risks to both residents and emergency personnel.

A rotary aircraft has also been placed on standby in Cairns, ready to transport swiftwater teams into remote or isolated communities if needed.

Residents are being urged to stay informed as conditions develop and to follow all official warnings and advice.

Emergency services have reinforced a clear safety message: never enter floodwaters under any circumstances. In life-threatening situations, the public is reminded to call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Authorities warn residents to stay up-to-date with weather forecasts and act quickly on any advice from authorities. Photo source: Queensland Fire and Rescue

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Have a child or teenager in your life who just needs a little extra nudge to step into the spotlight? The Cassowary Coast Talent Quest 2026 is the perfect opportunity to build confidence, showcase creativity and have some fun along the way.

This exciting variety show competition is open to ages 5 to 18 and welcomes a wide range of performances. Whether it is singing, dancing, playing an instrument, comedy, poetry, spoken word, dramatic monologues, magic, cultural performances or something completely unique, all talents are encouraged to take part.

With supportive and encouraging judges, participants will have the chance to refine their skills while performing in front of a live audience. There are also fantastic prizes up for grabs in each age category.

For ages 5 to 9, 10 to 13, and 14 to 18, first place winners will receive a trophy and $500 cash, second place a trophy and $300 cash, and third place a trophy and $200 cash.

There will also be four Judge’s Favourite Awards, each receiving $100 cash and a trophy. On top of that, the People’s Choice Award, voted by the live audience, will take home $100 cash and a trophy.

More information will be released soon, so stay tuned.

To find out more or register your interest, get in touch via Facebook Messenger at Cassowary Coast Talent Quest or email cassowarycoasttalentquest@gmail.com

Give It A Go!

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The upcoming school holidays are shaping up to be anything but boring, with a packed program of activities popping up across the Cassowary Coast.

Running from Friday 3 April to Sunday 19 April, the region will come alive with a mix of outdoor adventures, creative workshops, markets and family-friendly events — giving locals and visitors plenty of reasons to get out and about.

Get Outside and Get Moving

Kick-start the holidays with some fresh air and exercise with the whole family (four-legged members included) at one of the region’s weekly parkruns. Held every Saturday, these relaxed community runs welcome all ages and fitness levels. Paradise Run Mission Beach begins bright and early at 6:45am, while Cardwell and Greenbark parkruns start at 7am, offering scenic routes and a great way to explore the outdoors.

Markets, Music and Coastal Vibes

Nothing says holidays quite like a morning at the markets, and the Cassowary Coast delivers in style. The much-loved Cardwell Jetty Easter Markets will return on Saturday 4 April at the Cardwell Foreshore, bringing with them live music, local stalls and the always-entertaining crab races.

Marketgoers can turn it into a full weekend outing, with the Mission Beach Markets taking place the following day at Ulysses Park on Sunday, 5 April and Sunday 19 April from 7am to 12pm. The holiday period will also see markets pop up in Tully on Saturday, 11 April from 7am to 12pm on Butler Street and in the El Arish Community Hall from 7am to 12pm on Sunday 12 April, giving visitors plenty of chances to browse handmade goods, sample local produce and soak up the relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Action-Packed Fun Days

Children bursting with energy will have a blast at the School Holiday Fun Days at Marc’s Park in Mission Beach, with organisers promising the days will entail buckets of high-energy excitement. Held on both Thursday 7 and Tuesday 14 April, these sessions are designed for primary school-aged children (6 to 13) and will feature team games, challenges and sports including basketball, handball and football.

With limited spots available, organisers are encouraging families to book early to secure a place in what is expected to be a popular program via contacting Latesha Taylor on 0456 307 214.

Get Creative at Mission Arts

Creativity will be front and centre at the Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, where a variety of painting and pottery workshops will run throughout the holidays.

With acrylic painting sessions and hands-on pottery classes led by experienced artists on offer, there are opportunities for both beginners and more experienced creatives to try something new and take home their own handmade pieces. Our Cassowary Coast Event Guide features a full, detailed list of what’s on… keep an eye out for that one in issues to come!

The centre will also host a special screening of The Penguin Lessons on Saturday 11 April from 7pm to 9pm. The heartwarming film, based on a true story, follows a teacher whose life, and the lives of his students, are transformed after rescuing a penguin!

Library Fun

Several activities will be held across the Cassowary Coast Libraries over the course of the school holidays, with Cardwell Library kicking things off with an Anzac Wreath Workshop on Wednesday, 8 April from 10am to 11am. Other activities set to be held at the Cardwell Library, Tully Library, Mission Beach Library and Innisfail Library including Coral Reef Creations Workshops, Nature Paint Play, Red Dirt Robotics and much more, will be listed on our Cassowary Coast Event Guide in issues to come!

If a quieter, but equally rewarding experience sounds more appealing to you and your children, then pop on down to the Innisfail Library to meet several adorable therapy dogs on 14 April!

Something a Little Different

Aspiring performers can also step into the spotlight at the Mission Arts Theatre Ensemble’s Kids Improv Class, offering a fun and confidence-building introduction to acting and performance on Tuesday 14 April from 4:30pm to 5:30pm.

A Holiday to Remember

With such a diverse range of activities on offer, from sunrise runs and seaside markets to art workshops and theatre, the Cassowary Coast is set for a vibrant and memorable school holiday period! Whether it’s getting active, getting creative or simply spending time together, there’s no shortage of ways for families to make the most of the break.

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1. Get out and get active with one of the several parkrun events on offer across the shire! Photo source: Paradise Run Mission Beach
2. The beloved Cardwell Jetty Easter Markets will be held on Saturday 4 April. Photo source: Cardwell Jetty Markets
3. Mission Beach Markets has been featured on multiple “Top 10 Things to do in Mission Beach” tourism guides! Photo source: Mission Neach Tourism
4. Close Girls Hands Sculpting Cup Clay Stock Photo 2550125787 | Shutterstock - Craft up a storm with Mission Beach Community Arts Centre’s Pottery Workshops! Photo source: Shutterstock
5. Several school holiday workshops will be held across all Cassowary Coast Library branches. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Libraries
6. Children Enjoying Art Class Painting Drawing Stock Photo 2473500545 | Shutterstock – Mission Beach Community Arts Centre will host several workshops focused on painting and creativity. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Queenslanders are being encouraged to play a role in the future of the state’s fisheries, with nominations now open for a series of advisory working groups.

The Queensland Government is calling for expressions of interest from stakeholders to join fishery working groups, which provide operational advice on the management of fisheries across the state.

These groups play an important role in bringing together a wide range of voices and helping guide sustainable practices within the industry.

Pauline Jacob said the department was seeking a diverse mix of representatives.

“This is a real opportunity for Queenslanders to play a vital role in the sustainable management of our fisheries, so they continue to grow and thrive,” Ms Jacob said.

“We are looking for people to join 11 working groups, including commercial and recreational fishers, charter operators, seafood marketers and processors, conservation representatives and First Nations peoples.

“While these working groups are not decision-making bodies, we rely on the advice of these groups to improve community engagement, prioritisation and our own decision-making,” she said.

The working groups aim to ensure Queensland’s fisheries are managed effectively, both now and into the future.

Nominations are open until 5pm, Tuesday 31 March 2026, with application details, guidelines and terms of reference available online via the Department of Primary Industries engagement hub.

Queenslanders with an interest in fisheries, sustainability or the marine environment are encouraged to apply.

The Queensland Government is seeking expressions of interest from stakeholders to join fishery working groups. Photo source: Shutterstock

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