The Queensland Training Awards celebrate outstanding achievements, best practice and innovation across the vocational education and training (VET) sector.

Now in its 65th year, the Awards recognise the individuals, employers, training providers and community organisations who make a lasting contribution to skills development and workforce capability across Queensland.

From apprentices, trainees and vocational students to teachers, trainers and employers, the Queensland Training Awards showcase how skills and training change lives, strengthen communities and support Queensland’s economy.

Finalists and winners receive statewide recognition, with state-level winners progressing to represent Queensland at the Australian Training Awards.

Nominations close: 11:59pm (AEST), Sunday 22 March 2026

See the list of awards at https://dtet.qld.gov.au/training/qta/enter-awards/award-categories

For more information https://dtet.qld.gov.au/training/qta/enter-awards

‍

The Government is delivering a comprehensive package to crackdown on antisemitism and terrorist symbolism, bolster safety around places of worship, and make Queensland safer.  

The tough laws - recently introduced in Parliament - deliver a suite of changes focused on terrorist symbols and phrases, and safety around places of worship, and is the first of several strong measures being delivered by the Government in the wake of the Bondi beach terrorist attack.  

The reforms deliver on the Government’s commitment to stamp out antisemitism and terrorist extremism to ensure every Queenslander – including the Jewish community, which has experienced a rise in antisemitic attacks – can live, worship and gather safely.  

To address intimidation at places of worship, the Bill:

• Increases penalties for assaulting or threatening a person officiating a religious ceremony from 2 to 5 years’ imprisonment;
• Introduces new offences for impeding or harassing people attending religious services (maximum 3 years’ imprisonment);
• Creates a new special case of wilful damage for damage to a place of worship, with a maximum penalty of 7 years’ imprisonment.

The Bill introduces tougher measures to curb terrorist symbols, including:  

• Increasing penalties for displaying terrorist symbols from 6 months to 2 years’ imprisonment.
• Extending the existing prohibition on the display of symbols to include terrorist organisations or state sponsors of terrorism, including:

• the Hamas flag and emblem, the Islamic State flag, the Hizballah emblem and Nazi symbols.

To restrict terrorist slogans, the Bill:  

• Proposes a new offence prohibiting the public distribution, publication, public display or public recitation of a prescribed phrase to cause menace, harassment or offence, applicable to:

• “globalise the intifada”
• “from the river to the sea”

• Distributing, publishing, displaying or reciting a prohibited phrase imposes a 2 year maximum penalty.

Premier David Crisafulli said the reforms delivered the strongest possible protections to address the growing threats faced by the community and was making Queensland safer.  

“We called this out from the beginning, we said we’d act, and through this legislation, we are delivering a strong and considered response,” Premier Crisafulli said.  

“This is about drawing a clear line - and stamping out the embers of hatred that were allowed to burn unchecked for too long - to ensure we protect Queenslanders.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the Government was standing with the Jewish community - unwaveringly - in both words and action.

“This Bill represents a focused and practical step forward for Queensland. It introduces targeted reforms to ban terrorist symbols and phrases and improve safety around places of worship," the Attorney‑General said.

Full media statement: https://statements.qld.gov.au/

‍

The Government is delivering nation-leading penalties to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and terrorists, in the next steps of its reforms to make Queensland safer.  

The tough laws deliver a suite of strengthened powers targeting terrorists and criminals, including nation-leading penalties for illegal firearms, drive-by shootings at places of worship, emerging threats such as 3D-printed weapons, and are the next step in the Crisafulli Government’s calm and methodical response to the Bondi Beach terror attack.

The Bill includes:

• Increased penalties for trafficking firearms or ammunition, increasing the maximum penalty to a nation-leading life imprisonment;
• Strengthened police powers to disrupt illegal firearm trafficking;
• A new offence prohibiting the reckless discharge of a weapon towards a building or vehicle to crackdown on the rise in drive-by shootings, including those targeting places of worship, and;
• Expanded powers for police to consider a broader range of matters when determining weapons licence eligibility, including any history of violence, threatened violence or weapons-related offending;
• New requirements for Queensland weapons licence holders to be Australian citizens subject to limited exceptions;
• A new offence prohibiting the possession and distribution of blueprints for 3D-printed firearms.

This legislation follows the Crisafulli Government’s announced reforms to crackdown on intimidation at places of worship, tougher measures to curb terrorist symbols and chants, to ensure all Queenslanders can live, worship and gather safely.  

Premier David Crisafulli said the new legislation was about drawing a clear line and making Queensland safer.  

“We said we would go after criminals and terrorists, and through this strong reform, we are delivering exactly what we promised,” Premier Crisafulli said.  

“These laws are tough, targeted, and focused on criminals and terrorists as we work to make Queensland safer.”  

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the reforms would deliver nation-leading penalties for the misuse of firearms, while equipping police with modern tools to combat organised crime and extremism.

“This Bill is about making Queensland safer by ensuring criminals and terrorists with guns face the toughest consequences possible,” Minister Purdie said.

“We are giving police stronger powers to stop illegal firearms from entering our communities and strengthening the laws that determine who is fit and proper to hold a weapons licence.

“These reforms also target the alarming rise in drive-by shootings, including those targeting places of worship, and crackdown on emerging threats like 3D-printed firearms.

“These laws are squarely aimed at terrorists, criminals and organised crime syndicates, not law-abiding Queenslanders, as we continue to make Queensland safer.”

‍

The search on for the State's outstanding innovators in science, mathematics, engineering and technology, with applications open for the 2026 Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in STEM education.  

Queensland Year 12 students, teachers, support officers, schools and education partners (including volunteers, mentors, school clusters or other organisations) are encouraged to apply for the awards.

The prestigious awards have a total prize pool of $140,000.

Now in the 23rd year, the annual awards recognise outstanding and innovative contributions to STEM education in Queensland across eight categories:  

• Outstanding Senior STEM Student Awards;
• Outstanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Senior STEM Student Awards;  
• Outstanding Rural and Remote Senior STEM Student Awards;  
• Outstanding Teacher of STEM Awards;
• Outstanding Rural and Remote Teacher of STEM Awards;
• Outstanding STEM Support Officer Awards;
• Outstanding School STEM Awards; and
• STEM Education Partnership Awards.

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said students should feel encouraged to develop a lifelong passion for learning.  

“The Crisafulli Government is proud to deliver the 2026 Peter Doherty Awards to recognise and celebrate our high achievers across STEM,” Minister Langbroek said.

“There’s an awards category for everyone to reflect the breadth of STEM education we offer here in Queensland – so whether you’re a student, a teacher or school support officer – I encourage everyone to get involved!

“The Crisafulli Government is focused on reducing red tape for teachers by 25 percent, just like we promised, so they can get back to teaching and learning.”

Since 2004, 599 individuals, schools and organisations have received a Peter Doherty Award, including: 304 students; 184 teachers; 37 support officers; 37 schools; and 27 education partnerships.

28 prize winners across the eight categories will receive a $5,000 prize each, with the award ceremony to be held in Brisbane on Tuesday 18 August 2026.

For more information and to apply for the 2026 Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in STEM Education, visit: www.qld.gov.au\PeterDohertyAwards

Applications close on 30 March.

‍

What really happened in that lagoon in 1966? Why does this case still intrigue researchers around the world? And what haven’t we been told?

This January marks 60 years since the mysterious Tully Saucer Nest sighting, one of Australia’s most iconic UFO cases. To commemorate the anniversary, the Australian UFO Festival 2026 will host the C-Files Forum, officially showcasing the Tully Nests case, revisiting witness accounts, evidence, and the lasting impact this extraordinary event has had on the region and beyond.

Ground Control is calling on locals – past and present – who may have information, stories, memories, or family connections to the event. Every detail helps build a clearer picture of what happened, particularly accounts relating to the reported footprints found at the site.

If you have information to share, you can do so confidentially and anonymously if preferred. Your voice matters, and this anniversary is the perfect opportunity to preserve a unique piece of local history. Information can be emailed to groundcontrol@australianufofestival.com.au, or if you’d prefer to speak directly, you can call Thea on 0447 660 248.

The forum will also feature Shane Pennisi, who will speak about how the Tully Nests case has impacted his life personally. Shane says, “Now is the time for the whole truth to be told.”

This is more than a case file. This is part of the region’s history. If you have information or stories to share, contact Ground Control or Thea to ensure your voice is included in this landmark anniversary.

What: Australian UFO Festival 2026, C-Files Forum

When: Friday 6th August 2026
Where: Cardwell and surrounds

‍

Residents Urged To Be Responsible With Garden Waste

‍

Beachside forests are feeling the love, with a blitz on invasive weeds and escaped garden plants and fruit trees at Mission Beach, Kurrimine Beach and Ingham’s Forrest Beach.

Littoral rainforest is critically endangered on the east coast of Australia and work is underway to better protect what is left in the Wet Tropics region.

Work crews from Hinchinbrook Shire Council have been removing weeds, including lantana, prickly pear and guinea grass from the largest patch of littoral rainforest in their region: an 80-hectare council reserve between the ocean and wetlands just north of homes at Forrest Beach.

They are also removing garden plants, and cashew trees believed to have spread from an agricultural trial in the area back in the 1960s. Biosecurity and Open Spaces Portfolio Councillor Kate Milton said cashew trees had been taking over some areas of forest.

“First our council crews spent time walking through the forest area mapping weed sites, then they treated areas,’’ Cr Milton said.

“There is a lot less now but seed banks are a problem. Our crews are doing follow-up work at the moment and that’s something we’ll keep doing once a year.”

Hinchinbrook Shire Council received funding from not-for-profit organisation Terrain NRM through a project centred on the Wet Tropics region’s littoral rainforest, lowland rainforest, Mabi forest and broad leaf tea-tree woodland – all of which are threatened ecological communities. The project is also helping threatened species in wet sclerophyll forest and upland rainforest.

Terrain NRM’s Tony O’Malley said Forrest Beach’s littoral rainforest was in good condition considering its closeness to developed areas.

“The Forrest Beach community and Council are to be congratulated for preserving this outstanding patch of beachfront rainforest with its at least a century-old white apple trees.

“The best investment is keeping these kind of forests in the best possible condition so they are more resilient to threats like erosion, pest species and fire,’’ he said. “As well as its ecological value, including being home to wildlife, this reserve is an erosion buffer and a scenic area for the Forrest Beach community.”

Terrain’s ‘Forest Resilience’ project is also supporting other activities in littoral rainforest, including weed management in 122 hectares of national parkland at Kurrimine Beach by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, and weed management across 22 hectares of council reserve at Clump Point in Mission Beach by the Girringun Aboriginal Corporation which is working with Djiru people.

Mr O’Malley urged people to be responsible with garden waste and to be on the lookout for plants that might be weeds at the edges of forests.

“It’s a tough gig for beachfront rainforest. On the seaside, weed seeds like pond apple get washed in on extreme tides. On the landside, there is often coastal development where people are introducing a host of exotic plants.”

The Forest Resilience project is funded by the Australian Government’s Saving Native Species program. These patches of littoral rainforests are part of the Eastern Forests of Far North Queensland priority place, identified in the Australian Government’s Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032.

To learn more about littoral rainforest in the Wet Tropics region, download a new booklet on Terrain NRM’s website at www.terrain.org.au/littoral-rainforest/

Contributed with thanks by Terrain Natural Resource Management

Designer notes: make this ‘Fast Facts’ into a little box down the side of the article

FAST FACTS: WHAT IS LITTORAL RAINFOREST?

• It’s a critically endangered forest type that grows along coastlines by the sea.
• It is home to 70+ threatened plants and animals and is particularly important for migratory butterflies and birds, including pied imperial pigeons.
• It’s under pressure from coastal development, storm-tide erosion and sea-level rise. Weeds, including garden escapees, are an additional threat.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council work crews are removing weeds and garden escapees from endangered littoral rainforest at Forrest Beach. Photo supplied

Littoral rainforest at Mission Beach. Photo supplied

Prickly pear weed growing wild at Forrest Beach. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch has recently celebrated a series of proud milestones, recognising both long-serving members and the branch’s ongoing contribution to the wider Cardwell community.

A special presentation was held to honour Ken Langham for 30 years of membership with the Returned Services League. The award was presented by George Murray, acknowledging Mr Langham’s decades of dedication to the RSL and his continued service well beyond his time in uniform.

Pictured at the presentation were Carl Neilsen, Lenora Clarke, Garry Hanson, Ken Winkley, Ken Langham, Glenda Rosendohl, Mark Adams and George Murray.

The Queensland RSL recognises members who, long after completing their military service, continue to make meaningful contributions to both the organisation and the broader community. The Cardwell Sub Branch extended its wholehearted congratulations to Mr Langham on reaching this significant milestone.

The branch has also been formally recognised for its wider community involvement, receiving the 2026 Community Group Award at the Australia Day Awards Ceremony hosted by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

The award acknowledges the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch’s strong support for local events and organisations, including the UFO Festival, Seafest weekend, local schools, the Coastguard and a range of not-for-profit groups throughout the district.

Further recognition followed in the form of a certificate and letter from Bob Katter, congratulating the branch on its achievement.

In his message, Mr Katter wrote: “Just a short note to congratulate you on the outstanding achievement of being awarded the 2026 Community Group Award by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council,” he said.

“I am sorry that time and distance do not allow me to congratulate you personally, but I would be delighted if you could accept the enclosed certificate honouring your award as a treasured remembrance of this highlight in your life.”

Members of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch said the recognition reflects the dedication of their volunteers and the strong support they receive from the local community.

“It’s impressive that our ageing veteran group can still make a worthwhile contribution to Cardwell and District,” a spokesperson said.

The branch looks forward to continuing its work in the community, supported by its volunteers and the ongoing generosity of the Cardwell community.

Ken Langham was honoured for 30 years of membership with the Returned Services League. Photo supplied

‍

Disaster recovery assistance has been extended to support flood-affected communities across the Cassowary Coast, with not-for-profit organisations now eligible to apply for disaster loans of up to $100,000.

The expanded support follows recent severe flooding across parts of the state and is being delivered through the joint Commonwealth–State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Cassowary Coast is one of 13 local government areas where impacted not-for-profit organisations can now access disaster loans to help restore cashflow, repair damage and return to normal operations.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor, Mayor Teresa Milwood encourages local organisations needing support to submit loan applications to contact Council on 1300 763 903 for guidance.

“Flooding doesn’t just impact homes and businesses, it affects our grassroots organisations,” Mayor Milwood said.

“Many of our not-for-profit community groups operate on tight budgets and rely on volunteers, so access to disaster loans and financial support is essential to help them recover quickly and continue supporting our community.”

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the assistance reflected the scale of the disaster and the needs of affected communities.

“We have 46 LGAs receiving disaster assistance following the devastating summer floods and we’re making sure we continue extending support where it’s needed,” Minister McBain said.

“The disaster loans for community not-for-profits will provide grassroots organisations with vital cashflow to guide their recovery and return to regular operations. We’ve also co-funded more than $66 million in extraordinary recovery assistance for primary producers, small businesses, flood clean-up and mental health support, and we’re looking at more targeted support packages for the future.”

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the flooding had required a large-scale response.

“As tough as Queenslanders are, they need our support now, and we will continue to be with them every step of the way through their recovery journey,” Minister Leahy said.

“Our focus remains on ensuring every necessary assistance measure is available to those hardest hit by these floods. Whether you’re a farmer in the remote north-west or run a sporting club in a regional centre, the support we’re announcing today will help keep you afloat through this challenging period of recovery.”

Local organisations seeking assistance can find information on disaster grants and loans through QRIDA, with further support available via local councils and the Queensland Department of Primary Industries.

Flooding in Innisfail. Photo credit: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

‍

Good news for Hinchinbrook fishers — Spanish mackerel season in southern east coast waters reopened on Sunday, 22 February.

Following the first seasonal closure, recreational anglers can once again target Spanish mackerel in east coast waters south of latitude 22˚S (just north of Stanage Bay). The reopening provides a short window of opportunity, with a second closure set to take effect from 1 to 21 March inclusive.

Local fishers planning to head offshore are encouraged to make the most of the reopening while ensuring they remain within size and possession limits.

Current regulations require a minimum size of 75cm, with strict bag limits of one fish per person, or four per boat when four or more people are onboard.

Seasonal closures are designed to protect breeding stocks and ensure the long-term sustainability of popular species such as Spanish mackerel, which are a prized catch along the North Queensland coastline.

Fishers are reminded that other species remain subject to separate closed seasons throughout the year, and penalties apply for non-compliance.

For the latest information on closures, size limits and regulated waters, anglers can download the Queensland fishing 2.0 app or visit the fisheries section of the Queensland Government website.

Checking the rules before heading out helps protect local fisheries and ensures Hinchinbrook’s strong recreational fishing culture can continue for years to come.

‍

What a weekend of live music and community activity, with two major events drawing strong local and regional attendance despite the wet weather.

Nothing like dancing in the rain on Friday night with award-winning Australian artist Tones and I performing at the Ingham Showgrounds before a crowd of about 5,000 people.

This was followed on Saturday night by a performance from Diesel at the Shire Hall, attended by nearly 300 patrons.

Despite intermittent rain, community attendance and support remained strong. The weekend reflected our businesses, industry and community’s willingness to come together and support local events, even in less-than-ideal weather conditions.

The Friday concert came about following a nation-wide initiative led by Tones and I, inviting regional communities to demonstrate why they should host a one-off performance. Hinchinbrook’s response was broad and community driven.

Local businesses and residents participated through shopfront displays, murals, social media campaigns and storytelling that highlighted the district’s natural assets, agricultural history and community character.

As a result of that collective effort, Ingham was selected as the host location.

In the lead-up to the event, Council undertook substantial preparation works at the Ingham Showgrounds to ensure the site was suitable and safe for the large-scale gathering.

Ongoing wet weather presented challenges, particularly in surrounding areas including Miles and Morehead Streets, where ground conditions were affected.

To assist with safe access and movement, Council funded and coordinated a dedicated shuttle bus service for patrons.

Prior to the performance, it was an honour to formally welcome Tones and I to our district and present her with a ceremonial cane knife, symbolising our region’s strong agricultural heritage and the contribution of local farming families.

Local businesses reported increased patronage across hospitality, retail and accommodation sectors over the course of the weekend.

The combined economic impact of the events is estimated at approximately $221,000, reflecting expenditure across event services, food and beverage providers, retailers and accommodation operators.

The successful delivery of both events was the result of coordinated efforts between performers and their teams, Council staff, local businesses, community organisations and volunteers. That’s a real community effort. I am very, very proud of each and every one of you. You have been great ambassadors of our Shire. I would like to genuinely thank all those involved in contributing to a safe and well-attended weekend of events for the district. This could be the start of something special for Hinchinbrook.

‍

Lucinda’s Jetty Follows the Earth’s Curve. Here’s a fact that bends minds (and horizons): Lucinda’s bulk sugar jetty stretches 5.76 km into the Coral Sea, making it the longest service jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, and yes, it’s so long it visibly follows the curvature of the Earth. Straight up science flex.

Built to export North Queensland sugar to the world, the jetty features a covered conveyor system that carries raw sugar from shore to ship in about 22 minutes. It’s a working piece of industrial history, which means no public access but don’t worry, the public fishing jetty next door delivers big views and family-friendly casting space.

At sunset, the jetty transforms into a steel ribbon of molten gold. Photographers swear by arriving 15 minutes either side of sundown for colours that cling. Engineering meets escapism with proof that even infrastructure can glow up on holiday. See it: hinchinbrookway.com.au

‍

From 11–17 March, communities across the state will celebrate Neighbourhood Centre Week, recognising the vital role neighbourhood centres play in building stronger, more connected communities.

Across Queensland, more than 140 neighbourhood and community centres operate as part of a statewide network supported by Neighbourhood Centres Queensland.

Neighbourhood Centres Queensland strengthens the voice of centre's at a state level, provides training and sector development, and advocates for sustainable funding to ensure communities continue to receive early intervention and preventative support.

Neighbourhood Centre are not-for-profit organisations, largely government funded, and deeply embedded in their local communities. They are pillars of stability and are continuously adapting as community needs change over time. Their purpose is to create safe, welcoming spaces where people can connect, seek guidance, and feel heard.

For many individuals and families, a Neighbourhood Centre is the first place they turn when facing financial stress, housing challenges, family difficulties, or social isolation. They are spaces of belonging, inclusivity and community voice.

The Hinchinbrook region is incredibly fortunate to have its own established Neighbourhood Centre on 51 McIlwraith Street Ingham.

This as many know is called the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, also known as “The HUB.”

Proudly serving Ingham and surrounding suburbs, The HUB works collaboratively with other local organisations to ensure community members feel supported and can be easily referred when services are not available onsite. This strong network approach strives to ensure that no one feels alone when navigating difficult circumstances.

The HUB provides a wide range of supports, including:

• Community Support Services
• Homelessness Support
• Domestic and Family Violence Support
• Youth Support
• Social Enterprise Services
• Housing Assistance
• Volunteer Opportunities
• Emergency Food Relief

Beyond direct services, The HUB fosters connection by creating opportunities for people to build friendships, access information, develop skills and strengthen their sense of belonging.

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre looks forward to continuing its service to the region for many years to come and extends great thanks to its donors, partners, volunteers and stakeholders whose ongoing support makes this work possible.

Community members are encouraged to:

• Visit The HUB and learn more about available services
• Explore volunteer opportunities
• Support local fundraising initiatives
• Share awareness during Neighbourhood Centre Week (11–17 March)

Neighbourhood Centres are powered by community and together, Hinchinbrook continues to thrive through connection, compassion and collaboration.

‍

Before her concert on Friday evening, Tones and I toured Ingham township, meeting and greeting everyone who was excitedly waiting to see her.

She kicked off the day's public appearances with a surprise visit to Ingham State High School, where the hall erupted with amazed screams as she walked through the doors. She took pictures with every class, signed students’ fan art, gave hugs, and listened to the excited words of so many students.

From the high school, she visited establishments around town, popping in for photo opportunities with fans, signing murals, and greeting townsfolk and travellers who had journeyed to the region just to see her. She even wandered down the street, saying hello to people carrying their groceries.

For many, her visit will be remembered for years, especially by the children she gave free tickets to when the show was sold out. Thanks, Tones and I, for stopping by!

‍

Hiya Hinchinbrook, wow, what a weekend. I don’t know about all of you, but my feet were so sore after chasing Tones around town all day Friday and then standing through her whole concert. Followed by another show Saturday night, and I think I’m all concert-ed out.

Across both shows, the region experienced a huge range of musical genres, which was really refreshing to hear. The Tones concert brought us indie with Comfort Royal warming up the crowd, then country with Josie to get things heating up, followed with cheers and screams by Tones and I with her pop repertoire. On Saturday, Diesel took it home with a mix of rock, soul and blues.

I got to meet Tones and her crew, and they were all such lovely, down-to-earth people. She was a perfect fit for the people of Hinchinbrook, sharing aspirations, passion and lots of love for what they do. It is no wonder Ingham scored the first concert (and at the time the only concert) on her regional towns tour.

Amazing work, Hinchinbrook. Your spirit and drive could move mountains. What a wonderful community to be a part of, truly.

Future musings: Since Tones proved Ingham could host such large events on short notice, I wonder what other big names we could get to perform in the region?

‍

Those curious to experience it for the first time and those who just enjoy a good laugh, Ingham Theatre Group is excited to announce its first production for 2026 - “In Good Audience”, a collection of comedic plays, sketches and skits sure to entertain and amuse.

This year the fun is happening at the Forrest Beach Community Centre – a sea change after the wet weather cancellation of ‘25’s production. Dates are Friday 20th and Saturday 21st March at 7pm with a 2pm matinee on the Saturday.

Doors open an hour before curtain-up, and refreshments will be available, including a licensed bar at evening performances. Ticket prices are $20 adult and $10 student, senior and concession. They are available online from www.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au and also at the door.

The title of the evening showcases the special connection created between those on stage and in the audience. Magic happens when this bond is formed. Be part of that magic.

Tickets available now.

‍