Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
With nearly two decades in real estate, Nathan Henderson has built a career grounded in experience, local knowledge, and a genuine understanding of people. After working as an agent for several years, he gained his Principal’s licence in 2007, marking the beginning of a long-standing presence in the Hinchinbrook property market. Nathan specialises in residential sales, rentals, and rural properties, with a particular appreciation for the people behind each transaction. “Residential sales and rentals and rural sales are the bulk of our work and having been around for a while, the people are the best part. We are truly grateful when people are referred to us and we have sold to parents and then children in the same family. Being an agent means helping people navigate an important transition in their life.” With a rural background, Nathan values getting out on the land and understanding how properties function within their environment and community. “It’s easy to focus too locally… we take care to understand what is happening outside of our area to ensure we are reacting quickly to changes in our market for clients.” “Understanding what people are aiming to achieve and when, helps us give advice and strategy in selling their property. We assist with the happiest and saddest moments in people's lives and we are always grateful for the trust our clients put in us.” What advice would you give to first-home buyers looking to settle in the region? “Avoid the FOMO, don’t rush unless it’s the right place… build a relationship with agents so you have a chance of seeing things as they come on the market.”
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Caption: Mr Blake and students at the Halifax memorial
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Last week I was in Brisbane for Parliament, continuing to advocate for the issues that matter most to our region, before returning home to spend time across the Hinchinbrook electorate. A key focus during the sitting week was the need for Queensland to become more self-sufficient, particularly when it comes to critical inputs like fuel and fertiliser. For communities like ours, these are important issues that directly impact the cost of living, our farmers, and the strength of our local economy. We have seen how global events can disrupt supply chains and drive-up costs. That’s why I have continued to push for greater sovereign capability, so Queensland is less exposed to international uncertainty. The Crisafulli Government is committed to strengthening this self-sufficiency and ensuring regional communities like Hinchinbrook are better protected into the future. We also passed the third tranche of Adult Crime, Adult Time laws in Parliament. This builds on the work already underway to restore community safety after a decade where victim numbers rose 193% under the former government. While we are starting to see some early signs of progress from stronger laws and a more focused approach, I know from conversations across our community that there is more to do. Turning around long-term challenges takes time, but the commitment remains clear: to back our police, hold offenders accountable, and make our communities safer. On Saturday, I had the privilege of attending a number of ANZAC Day services across the electorate, including the Dawn Service, RSL service, cemetery service, as well as services at Forrest Beach, Halifax and Cardwell. Each service was moving in its own way, and it was encouraging to see such strong attendance across all locations. It speaks to the deep respect our community holds for those who have served, and the importance of continuing to honour their sacrifice. It is always a privilege to stand alongside our community on ANZAC Day and reflect on the values of service, mateship and sacrifice that continue to shape our nation. As always, I will continue to take the voices of Hinchinbrook to Brisbane, while staying closely connected to our community here at home.
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The Crisafulli Government is launching a new international prize for eight high-achieving Queensland students and two teachers. Successful applicants will fly to London to visit the birthplace of Westminster democracy and will undertake trips to Canberra and Brisbane parliaments. Applications for the inaugural program open on Monday 18 May to Queensland Year 9 students. The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future and supporting the State’s students and teachers. The Crisafulli Government is delivering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Queensland students and teachers to experience the birthplace of parliamentary democracy through a prestigious education prize. Launching today, the Westminster Prize is open to all Year 9 students across Queensland’s state schools, non-state schools, and homeschool settings who have a strong interest in civics and citizenship. It’s just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future after a decade of decline under Labor. Eight successful students will fly to London next year with two teacher chaperones to experience first-hand aspects of the Westminster system of government, which is the foundation of Australia’s parliamentary democracy. The prize also includes trips to Canberra and Brisbane parliaments where students will gain valuable knowledge, insights and experiences with Australia’s political system. The Westminster Prize is a new initiative from the Crisafulli Government and adds to existing excellence programs including the Premier’s ANZAC Prize, the Premier’s Reading Challenge and the Peter Doherty Awards. Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the Westminster Prize aimed to strengthen Queensland students’ understanding of civics, citizenship and democratic participation. “This exciting new program offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students to travel to London, Canberra and Brisbane to learn about our rich history and political system,” Minister Langbroek said. “Today’s students are our future leaders, and the Crisafulli Government’s new Westminster Prize is a fantastic opportunity for them to travel, explore and deepen their understanding of democratic values. “Through the Westminster Prize, the eight students will grow their understanding of Queensland’s parliamentary system, Australia’s federal democracy and the Westminster model in the UK. “As well as their travels, the prize winners will deliver a local civics project focused on a community issue, applying their learning to real-world contexts.” British Consul General for Queensland and the Northern Territory Richard Cowin said he was delighted to support the fantastic initiative. “This exciting award gives students an amazing opportunity to see how the Westminster system works in real life and to experience the democratic traditions that connect the UK and Australia,” Mr Cowin said. “In a fast-changing world, understanding our shared values and approaches is more important than ever. “This prize will enable a lucky group of young Queenslanders to experience these principles firsthand and draw on them throughout their lives.” Applications to be part of the inaugural Westminster Prize open on 18 May and close 31 July, with interviews and selection in August and September. For more information, visit the website.
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Selectability is celebrating after their Ingham team was named a finalist in the Workplace �E��E�E���E��E Community Wellbeing category of the 2025 Queensland Mental Health Achievement Awards.
Essential programs such as the Ingham Clubhouse continued, giving recipients structure, connection and confidence during a time of uncertainty. The team also distributed close to 50 food and hygiene packs with the support of local businesses.
�E��E�E���E��ERecipients were very excited to receive supplies!�E��E�E���E��E the team shared, as their efforts extended well beyond immediate recovery, creating safe, inclusive spaces where recipients could stay engaged and supported.
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Ingham Meals on Wheels has been named the recipient of the prestigious Rhoda Cameron Award 2025, recognising the branch as the best in Queensland. The award honours Member Services that demonstrate the values of Rhoda Cameron, the founder of Meals on Wheels�E��E�E��E�E�� in Queensland.
Ms Phillips paid tribute to the branch�E��E�E���E��Es team, saying "ve a very special team, the Management Committee, Paid Staff and super-caring Volunteers who go above and beyond their call of duty for the vulnerable residents of this district."
"Ingham Meals on Wheels is for our Community and was built by the Community, and we appreciate very much the generosity given by everyone from this Community and also outside the Ingham District. The Herbert Valley Community is a place to be really proud to be part of."
Ingham Meals on Wheels is always looking for extra volunteers to help with delivering meals. If you can assist, please call the office and support this vital service.
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Ingham�E��E�E���E��Es brand-new electric vehicle charging station is already proving its worth, with one of its very first users, Bradley, a retired tradie turned traveller, sharing his excitement about the addition.
Mayor Ramon Jayo, who was on hand to mark the milestone, reflected on the journey to get the project completed, "We�E��E�E���E��Ere really pleased to see this finally in place, after three to four years in the making. One of the main challenges was finding a relatively flood-free and accessible site that met the company�E��E�E���E��Es requirements. It�E��E�E���E��Es very pleasing to see it up and running, because this (electric vehicles) is where people are heading.
With the charging station now live, Ingham is set to welcome more travellers, boost the local economy, and showcase the beauty of the district to a new wave of visitors. The charging station is located in the car park behind Ingham's Westpac bank, accessable via Hawkins or Euclid St.
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Singapore Airlines has ushered in a new era of comfort and connectivity for Far North Queensland with its upgraded Cairns�E��ESingapore service, operating four times weekly on the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900.
But the real game-changer lies in the connections. Flights are timed to integrate smoothly with Singapore Airlines�E��E extensive global network, unlocking effortless onward travel to the UK, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
Planning a getaway to Europe, the UK or beyond? Fly direct from Cairns with Singapore Airlines - and take advantage of their Early Bird Sales, available until 30 September 2025.
Did you know that the Cairns Airport is having a $55 million International Terminal Upgrade?
Cairns Airport is undergoing a $55 million transformation of its international terminal - the first major upgrade in over 30 years. The redevelopment, set for completion by the end of 2025, includes a refurbished terminal, including remodelled bathrooms, new seating, all-new baggage reclaim belts and four air-conditioned glass airbridges.
Guests departing from the international terminal can now also take advantage of a newly opened airport lounge experience. Operated by Escape Lounges, the stylish space offers premium facilities and complimentary dining in comfort.
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When people look back at the flying fox story in Ingham, they often remember the heatwaves. The flying foxes dropping from the trees, the overwhelming smell, and the struggles families faced living, schooling, and working with colonies that grew to hundreds of thousands.
But what�E��E�E���E��Es sometimes overlooked is the extraordinary science, strategy, and teamwork that turned things around. Back in 2019, our community was in crisis. Half a million flying foxes spilled out of the Botanical Gardens and into our parks and schoolyards. The usual tricks �E��E�E���E��E pots, pans, and pool noodles �E��E�E���E��E didn�E��E�E���E��Et make much of a difference, just sending the animals from one backyard to the next.
It was noisy, smoky, and relentless work �E��E�E���E��E more like mustering cattle than managing wildlife �E��E�E���E��E but it worked. And none of this would have been possible without the unsung heroes of the whole effort: our dedicated staff.
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With the cane harvest season now passed the halfway mark and the traditional southern state tourist season moving toward its latter weeks as the temperature starts to warm up, it is timely to reflect on how far our community has progressed since the impactful weather event in February this year.
The harvest figures to date have revealed a more positive trend, which has seen the current crop estimate increase throughout the district. The recent announcement by the Federal Government of a $1.1 billion biofuels program has created much excitement for the future of value-adding opportunities for the sugar industry.
Recorded local visitor numbers to date have seen very encouraging increases and positive upward trends, with hospitality and retail businesses reporting strong visitor spending in the district. The appointment of an experienced international hike operator to conduct tours on Hinchinbrook Island, planned to commence in the first half of 2026, is a long-awaited and exciting tourism opportunity for the Shire and region.
This year has also seen several additional new tourism products enter the local market, which has further increased visitor spending in the Shire. The development of products that support the visitor experience and showcase Hinchinbrook Shire to the world has been many years in the making, and it is exceptionally pleasing to now witness these new opportunities being delivered.
The launch on Friday by Townsville Enterprise of the largest-ever tourism marketing campaign for North Queensland will provide the opportunity for the Hinchinbrook Shire to be showcased on the state, national, and international stage, providing more opportunities for tourism growth in our Shire.
Despite the incredibly challenging start to 2025, which many residents continue to navigate, these positive developments in the sugar and tourism industries should provide confidence that some exciting opportunities are on the horizon.
Macknade Mill has completed its largest capital program in a decade, with a new high-grade fugal station already delivering positive results halfway through the 2025 sugar production season.
The $10.76 million project saw the installation of seven Silver Seibull 1250E fugals during the maintenance season, along with new supporting structures, civil works, services, and switch rooms.
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables Senior Project Engineer Joseph Bonassi said the project was about more than just new equipment.
�E��E�E���E��ELocal drainage and access systems were also improved as a portion of the scope of the project, with the aim of improving upon safety culture and factory performance,�E��E�E���E��E he said.
�E��E�E���E��EThe quality of work was outstanding, reflecting the care and pride our people put into every detail. This achievement speaks volumes about the dedication and skill of our people,�E��E�E���E��E he said.
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The resilience, beauty, and spirit of rural Australia have been captured in the winning entries of Rural Aid�E��Es sixth annual Spirit of the Bush Photography Competition.
�E��EThis year�E��Es photos are a moving tribute to life outside the city limits. They tell stories of perseverance, pride and connection,�E��E Mr Warlters said.
Since 2015, Rural Aid has provided vital support to farmers and rural communities, from hay and drinking water to mental health counselling and community-building initiatives. Now celebrating its 10th year, the charity continues to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with rural Australians, ensuring their stories �E��E and their resilience �E��E are never forgotten.
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Ingham State High School is delighted to announce that School Captain, Amayah Hague, has been awarded the prestigious Order of Australia Association�E��E�E���E��Es Secondary Schools�E��E�E���E��E Citizenship Award for 2025 �E��E�E���E��E a distinguished honour that recognises exemplary young Australians who demonstrate outstanding leadership, citizenship, and service to their communities.
The entire Ingham State High School community joins in congratulating Amayah on this extraordinary accomplishment. Her success stands as a proud reminder of the positive impact that young people can have �E��E�E���E��E and reflects the values and spirit that define Ingham State High School.
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Established in 1953 to serve the children of cane-farming families west of Ingham, Abergowrie State School has a long tradition of nurturing students in a caring, supportive environment. Over the decades, it has grown into a close-knit hub where families, staff, and students work together to create a positive and welcoming learning community.
Today, student wellbeing remains a priority at Abergowrie. From Early Childhood through to Year 6, teachers take the time to know each child, understand their learning needs, and provide tailored support to help them reach their goals. Classrooms are calm and focused, offering hands-on learning opportunities that build strong foundations in literacy and numeracy while encouraging curiosity and creativity.
Alongside academic learning, students are supported to develop respect, resilience, and responsibility. Community involvement plays an important role, with families regularly invited to school events and celebrations that strengthen the connection between home and school. This partnership helps students see learning as a shared journey and builds pride in their achievements.
Abergowrie�E��Es personalised learning environment meets each student where they are, guiding them on a journey of growth that extends beyond curriculum outcomes. By addressing the whole child, the school prepares students to thrive as balanced, confident lifelong learners who contribute meaningfully to their communities.
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On 4 September, Gilroy Santa Maria College�E��Es Year 12 Emerging Leaders were honoured at the Blak Excellence Lunch, a powerful celebration of First Nations excellence, leadership, and contribution to education. This special event, organised by Townsville Catholic Education, recognised the strength, resilience, and brilliance of these students as they continue to shape a future grounded in culture, community, and country.
The College community commends these students for their dedication and achievements, acknowledging the positive example they set for their peers. Their journey reflects a commitment to education and cultural identity, inspiring younger students to follow in their footsteps with confidence and pride.
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Choosing the right beginning for your child�E��E�E���E��Es education is an important step, and families are warmly invited to get to know St Peter�E��E�E���E��Es Catholic School, Halifax. Nestled in the heart of the community, St Peter�E��E�E���E��Es offers a caring, faith-filled environment where every child is supported to grow academically, socially, and spiritually.
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Macknade State School came alive on Thursday, 18 September, as it hosted a district-wide Touch Football competition for primary schools. The Macknade Touch Carnival proved to be a great success, bringing together students, staff, and families for a day of sport and fun.
Organiser Mrs Phillips was warmly thanked for her efforts in coordinating the event, which was enjoyed by students across the district. Appreciation was also extended to the dedicated staff and community helpers who kept everyone refreshed at the canteen and drinks stalls throughout the day.
Competition was fierce across all divisions, with the following winners announced:
Junior B Final �E��E�E���E��E Lourdes All Stars
Junior A Final �E��E�E���E��E ISS Gators
Senior B Final �E��E�E���E��E Lourdes Broncos
Senior A Final �E��E�E���E��E Lourdes Aces
Open Final �E��E�E���E��E Forrest Beach
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Tec-NQ House Year 11 boarder Max has taken a big step toward his future, securing a school-based plumbing apprenticeship with Hilditch Plumbing in Townsville. He splits his week between paid work on real sites, training with Tec-NQ, and the study he needs to complete his Senior Certificate, earning while he�E��E�E���E��Es learning and loving every minute.
With Hilditch Plumbing backing his development and Tec-NQ House providing the platform, Max is building momentum one trench, one length of pipe, and one solid day�E��E�E���E��Es work at a time.
kk in before 7:00pm to join the competition and experience the friendly spirit of the game.
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The countdown is on to the Cardwell Seafest Carnivale, returning over the King�E��E�E���E��Es Birthday long weekend from the 3rd to the 5th of October.
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