The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) last Wednesday 20 November, with Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto in attendance on the night.

At the AGM the executive committee were re-elected and are as followed:

President: Mary Brown
Vice-President: Peter Reitano
Treasurer: Siobhan Pelleri
Secretary: Debbie Camp
 
The new Committee Members are: Sam Torrisi, Ted Cogger and Christina Spencer.

Mary Brown issued a President’s Report during the AGM and touched on several key initiatives Chamber have been involved with over the year.

In November/December of 2023 the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Mayor other sponsors launched the new ‘Shop & Win’ initiative.

The Chamber was pleased to report that, in 2024 the project met with great success with many businesses feeling more support as visitors and locals were encouraged to shop locally.

In May 2024 Chamber managed to deliver an Agricultural Machinery Operator training course. Eleven candidates participated in the course and eleven of them subsequently gained employment.

In other Chamber news, building on the success of the 2023 Markets at the Mosaic, Chamber continued to grow these markets in the last calendar year.

‘Shop The Hinchinbrook Way’ is another initiative managed by Chamber and operated in partnership with Hinchinbrook Shire Council and other major sponsors.

With a marketing campaign to encourage and promote locals and visitors to support local businesses, Chamber were pleased to report that sponsorship grew to a value $13,000 ahead of the event this year.

Chamber also continued their ‘Whole of Shire’ radio promotion discussing Retail & Food, Accommodation, Marine & Beaches, and Nature.

Chamber’s social media profile also increased this year, mainly thanks to Christina Spencer and all of her work in Administration and Social Media Management.

From now on the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce has said they will be hosting more informal occasions, with formalities talked about first, followed by informal chit-chat/networking.

If you would like to join the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce reach out to the team. You can call 4776 0090 or go to hinchinbrookchamber.com.au.

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The 2024-2025 Executive Committee: Vice President Peter Reitano, Secretary Debbie Camp, Treasurer Siobhan Pelleri, and President Mary Brown.

(BACK ROW) State Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto, Ted Cogger, Vice President Peter Reitano, President Mary Brown, and Sam Torrisi. (FRONT ROW) – Secretary Debbie Camp, Christina Spencer, and Treasurer Siobhan Pelleri.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Ready to launch your career while gaining a nationally recognised qualification?
Council’s 2025 Apprentice and Trainee Program is here to help you take the next step toward a brighter future.
This exciting initiative offers on the job experience, structured training, and a chance to earn while you learn, all without racking up study debt.
Whether you are passionate about technology, business, or skilled trades, there is a place for you in our team.
Available positions:
Information Technology Traineeship – Certificate III in Information Technology;
Business Traineeship – Certificate III in Business;
Apprentice Plumber – Certificate III in Plumbing; and
Apprentice Fitter and Turner – Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade.
 
Applications close 5.00pm Friday 29 November 2024.
Interested applicants must submit a cover letter, address the Selection Criteria and complete the Recruitment Eligibility Form. To apply, please visit Council’s website, Careers at Council page. For further information regarding the 2025 Apprentice and Trainee Program, please contact Council’s Human Resources Team on 4776 4632.

 
(Left to Right) Council's Human Resources Administration Trainee Amaya Fortini who is currently undertaking a Certificate IV in Business Administration and Council's Human Resources Manager Jodi Spencer.
 
Hinchinbrook’s Bold Step Toward a Brighter Future
Regional University Study Hub Application
Council is advancing toward a game changing opportunity for local education and workforce development, as its application for the 2024 Regional University Study Hubs Program progresses to the assessment stage. This initiative aims to establish a Country Universities Centre (CUC) co-located at the TAFE Queensland North Ingham Campus, creating a vital educational lifeline for the region.
CUC Hinchinbrook seeks funding for both its infrastructure and operations from 2024 through to 2028, with an ambitious goal to bridge Hinchinbrook’s educational and workforce gaps. As a community-driven and community owned organisation, CUC Hinchinbrook would bring regional residents closer to accessible, high quality tertiary education.
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A Region Ready for Change
Hinchinbrook Shire is grappling with a unique set of challenges. The local workforce, while increasingly qualified, has seen most growth in certificate level qualifications, lagging behind Queensland’s regional average in professional occupations. At the same time, migration patterns show younger residents leaving for larger cities while older populations grow, a trend that leaves industries struggling to attract skilled workers from outside.
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Grow Your Own Skilled Workforce
The proposed Regional University Study Hub aligns with Hinchinbrook’s “Grow Your Own Skilled Workforce” strategy, which focuses on equipping residents with the skills required to support local industries. With projections from Oxford Economics Australia indicating that 90% of individuals aged 25 to 34 will need tertiary qualifications by 2050, the timing for such an initiative is crucial.
CUC Hinchinbrook would not only address immediate skill gaps but also prepare residents for emerging opportunities in sustainable farming, low carbon agriculture, and agricultural data analysis fields that align with Hinchinbrook’s agricultural strengths.
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A Game Changer for Education Access
The challenges of pursuing higher education in Hinchinbrook are well documented geographic isolation, financial constraints, technological barriers, and limited awareness all play a role in hindering access. The Regional University Study Hub promises to tackle these head on, offering localised academic resources, financial assistance, and comprehensive support services.
More than just a facility, CUC Hinchinbrook would foster a culture of learning and community engagement, empowering residents to achieve their aspirations while fuelling the region’s economic growth.
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A Vision for Hinchinbrook’s Future
Hinchinbrook’s application with the Regional University Study Hub Program is more than a request for funding, it’s a declaration of intent to transform the region’s future. By investing in education and skills, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council aims to build a robust, self sustaining workforce that meets the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.
As the application moves to the next stage of assessment, hopes are high that the proposed study hub will become a cornerstone of Hinchinbrook’s growth, setting the stage for a more equitable, prosperous, and resilient community.
The final decision is anticipated in early 2025, with successful applicants to be announced by February 2024. If approved, CUC Hinchinbrook is expected to open its doors to students for Semester Two 2025, marking the beginning of a new era for education and opportunity in the Hinchinbrook region.
 
 

 
Council's Economic Development and Tourism Coordinator Julie Mac Pherson, Founder of Country Universities Centre Duncan Taylor, Director of Strategic Partnerships Country Universities Centre Paul Cranch and Councillor Mary Brown.

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It is with great excitement and privilege that I pen my first contribution to the new community newspaper – Hinchinbrook Life. There are many people who have contributed to bringing this weekly newsprint to life and I would like to express my deep gratitude to all those involved in any way.  A special thanks must go to every foundation member, whose financial commitment has enabled the vision of a community newspaper being returned to the Hinchinbrook Shire, to be realized.
As we approach the end of an exceptionally busy and challenging year within the Hinchinbrook district, it is a good time to reflect on what has been achieved in the area that is my portfolio –being Economic Development (including Tourism and Skills Development).
This year has seen a very strong focus by Council, in developing local training and skilling opportunities for residents. The major project being the development of a skills and training hub within the Shire.  
Council brings together on a monthly basis, representatives from local secondary schools, tertiary training providers, apprenticeship and workforce agencies, industry representatives and employers, through the Hinchinbrook Employment and Skills Development Reference Group. This group has identified many further education opportunities that could be pursued locally and has now submitted a funding application to establish a Regional University Hub, co-located with TAFE at their Ingham Campus. If this application is successful, many new and exciting study options will open to residents in 2025.
The school holidays and Christmas period is a time of year where visitors from around the region take the opportunity to explore neighboring communities and we welcome home family and friends to celebrate the festive season with loved ones. It is a wonderful time of year to renew friendships, welcome new residents and celebrate our community – Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas in Hinchinbrook.

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The TYTO Wetlands is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting over 230 species of permanent and seasonal birds. With 4kms of well-maintained walking tracks, four dedicated bird viewing platforms, seating areas and diverse ecosystems, it offers a tranquil retreat for bird lovers and adventurers alike.
The diversity of birdlife at TYTO Wetlands is astounding, rivalling that of the iconic Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory—yet it’s packed into an area 18,000 times smaller. Remarkably, this compact sanctuary is home to 27.4% of all Australian bird species in one location.
Visitors can enhance their experience with maps, bird lists, and local tips available at the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, photographer, or simply enjoy the serenity of nature, TYTO Wetlands is an unmissable destination.

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Absolutely delighted to welcome the first edition of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper!
 
We are grateful to Life Publishing Group for agreeing to service our district with a community paper. As you may not be aware, Life Publishing has been successfully  running  similar community paper operations in other centres including the Burdekin, Whitsundays and Mackay for many years and we feel confident that they will emulate their success right here in Hinchinbrook.
 
Our community has long expressed its dissatisfaction with the news mediums currently available, particularly given the fact that most news is now delivered in digital format and a significant portion of our elderly community is not social media savvy.

But it hasn’t only been the death in ability to get news out but the news itself. Whilst the daily regional and world events may have been available, what has been sorely missed is the ‘going ons’ within our community proper.

Sporting fixtures occurring - who has been scoring runs in cricket or tries in the footy - the social outings enjoyed by our seniors, who is having the babies, who is getting married, and regrettably, the funeral notices that keep many informed on the passing of acquaintances.
 
We were missing significant local content regarding Council works and services, how the cane season was travelling, community events occurring and so much more of the daily happenings in our district.
 
We are extremely grateful to Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper for the ability to publish all that we want to see in a paper. A truly community paper that will be free to the community thanks to the on-boarding of business and industry within our community which will fund the operations through advertisement and sponsorship.

Yes, you read right, the paper will be free, but we need the support of each and every one of you to ensure the success and sustainability of Hinchinbrook Life and the easiest way for you to show your support is by supporting the businesses that support Hinchinbrook Life.

In essence, shop locally and support your local businesses which in-turn supports your community.

For our sporting and community clubs and organisations, utilize the paper to get your news out. Provide your results to the paper for publication. Contact will be made with you in due course to establish an easy acceptable process for you to submit and your co-operation will be appreciated.
 
Our history clearly shows that we lose services when there is no support for the service. We don’t know what we miss until it is gone so let’s all get in and support our community paper.

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The quality of life for aged, frail and palliative patients living locally in Ingham is looking much improved thanks to a local couple’s incredible bequest and a kind-hearted committee that has implemented a new free transfer bus.  

The Ingham Palliative Carers Committee has been operating since 2009 doing great work in the community. When inaugural president Leslie Lowth OAM was informed that Brian and Theresa Hurley intended to leave money in their will to support the committee, she was overjoyed.

The Hurley’s left the committee an incredible $203,000 with the intention that this considerable amount of money would be used to help those in need.  

After careful consideration, the Palliative Carers Committee decided they would purchase a vehicle, which they would call the ‘The Hurley Bus’.

‘The Hurley Bus’ will be free and will offer transport to frail, aged and palliative people, giving them mobility and some lifestyle improvement at an otherwise challenging time in their lives.

President of Ingham Palliative Carers Committee Judy Cardillo said they will offer a broad range of services, while hoping to make peoples’ days better.

“We will be driving them to appointments, outings, family visits, shopping and anything else they want. It's entirely up to them,” said Judy.

“The service is for their comfort and to make their lives a little bit better if we can.”

For the bus to work functionally, the committee need volunteers: drivers and assistants.

Judy said they have many people interested in volunteering, but she wants more – 30 to 40 would be ideal.

To drive the bus, you must have a car license and a First Aid Certificate. The committee will organise for you to acquire your First Aid Certificate, and there will be an induction session for knowledge of the bus modifications.

“The crux of it all is the volunteers are there for the day and give their time and care with joy,” she said.

Judy and the rest of the committee acknowledge that ‘The Hurley Bus’ project was helped considerably by some key people.

They would like to say a huge thank you to Neil Brown from Significant Signs, who is wrapping the bus free of charge, Ann Vardanega - for helping with media and giving good advice, Pat Lynch – bus expert, Tracey and Chris Castles – financial advice, and Tony Iafano who will provide bus maintenance.

‘The Hurley Bus’ is currently in Townsville being outfitted for its special use. Ingham Palliative Carers Committee expect it to be ready in early December.

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Ingham Palliative Carers Committee have purchased this bus to be used as ‘The Hurley Bus’. Image supplied

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With a friendly face and caring nature, it’s no wonder that local real estate veteran, Mary Venables, has been guiding people into homes across the region for many years.

Understanding that finding your dream is one of the most important decisions of your life, Mary loves being part of such a meaningful moment and brings both experience and professional expertise to her role.

“Knowing that you've sold something to people that is really meaningful to them is an important thing,” said Mary.

“It's a real buzz, because they are just so happy.”

Mary and her late husband Tom were not always in real estate, in fact they started out in a completely different industry.

Tom was a farmer for many years but following a conversation with former Innisfail Mayor Roy Dickson, he was encouraged to apply for a real estate license and was met with such success, he never looked back.

Meanwhile, Mary chose to stay at home and raise the children while they were young, but as soon as they were at school, she relished the opportunity to join her husband in the real estate game. The couple soon became an impressive team and for many years, were among the leaders in local real estate.

“I get a real kick out of finding the right place for someone,” said Mary.

“People come and they're looking for a particular thing, and it is really good when I can show them a property and they just fall in love with it.”

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Mary Venables, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Lions Club of Ingham is bringing back the much-loved Sportsperson of the Year Awards, an event steeped in local sporting history. First held in 1977, the inaugural ceremony welcomed Australian and Queensland Rugby League captain Greg Vievers as the guest speaker, where Sam Scuderi claimed the title, with George Day as runner-up.  

In 1982, the growing number of junior nominations led to the awards being divided into Senior and Junior categories. By 1986, the depth of talent in the Herbert River District inspired the Lions Club to introduce two additional categories: the Encouragement Award for both Seniors and Juniors.  

In 1990, the Lions Club partnered with the Herbert River Express to launch the Sportstars of the Month competition. This initiative, running alongside the annual awards, recognised standout athletes in both Junior and Senior divisions. The awards were a celebrated tradition until 2019, when the COVID-19 pandemic brought them to a halt.  

Now, the Lions Club of Ingham has proudly decided to reinstate the event. With an overwhelming number of nominations received, the competition has returned with enthusiasm. This year, 13 Junior and 12 Senior athletes are nominated for the titles of Junior and Senior Sportstar of the Year.  

The awards night is scheduled for Tuesday, 26 November, at the Ingham RSL. In addition to the main categories, the evening will feature two special awards: Team of the Year and the Recognition of Service Award. The latter, a new addition, is dedicated to the late PDG Lion Des Rooker, whose contributions were instrumental in organising the awards before the pandemic.  

The Lions Club of Ingham extends their best wishes to all nominees, encouraging them to take pride in their achievements and the positive impact they’ve made in their respective sports.

WHAT: Sportsperson of the Year Awards
WHERE: RSL Ingham
WHEN: Tuesday 26th November (tonight)

Contributed with thanks to Sharon Fighera.

1977 Sportsman of the Year Awards. Sam Scuderi (Sportsman of the Year), Greg Veivers (Aust and Qld Rugby League Captain and Guest Speaker), Ingham Lions President Bruno Cantoni, George Day (Runner Up Sportsman of the Year), Lion John Menico (Member and Chairman)

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has announced a review of its Cane Analysis Program (CAP), following months of advocacy from Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR). The decision marks the latest development in an ongoing debate over fibre testing practices at the Victoria and Macknade mills, which had already drawn sharp reactions from grower groups.
The issue first came to light in 2023, when an independent sugarcane auditor allegedly raised concerns during a Herbert River mill tour. The auditor pointed to a clause in Wilmar’s 2017 CAP, which stipulated that fibre sampling was limited to cane from Herbert River District Cane Growers Organisation (HRDCGO) members unless a grower’s bargaining agent represented more than 11% of the district’s Cane Delivery Tonnes.
QCAR Herbert River district committee chairman Matthew Pappin called the clause “anti-competitive” and said it unfairly excluded growers outside the HRDCGO.
In amping up the pressure on Wilmar, QCAR in recent days hosted a community meeting at the Station Hotel in Ingham, attended by Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto, Hinchinbrook Shire Council mayor Raymon Jayo, deputy mayor Mary Brown, fellow councillors, and local professionals.
Mr Pappin said he was thrilled to announce that Wilmar, in the hours following the meeting, agreed to review its CAP not only in Herbert, but also for the Burdekin and Plane Creek regions.
“This is about correcting the sins of the past,” Mr. Pappin said.
“We are fighting to ensure fair treatment for all growers, uphold good governance, and guarantee every farmer has the right to make a fair living from their crop.”
In a letter to grower collectives on Friday, Wilmar wrote grower representatives and individual growers not in a collective would get to “put forward changes for consideration during the review”.
“The CAP was last updated in 2017 and consequently contains references and requirements that are no longer relevant … we will be in touch again in coming weeks to tell you more about the timing of the review and how you can be involved,” the letter stated.
It was understood the CAP was due for review in 2022.
While QCAR celebrated the announcement as a victory, Canegrowers Herbert River offered a different perspective, defending the integrity of Wilmar’s fibre testing process.
Canegrowers Herbert River Chairman Chris Bosworth said the process was outlined transparently in the Cane Supply Agreements, which Canegrowers negotiates to protect its members.
“QCAR’s rushed agreement with Wilmar shows a lack of due diligence,” Mr. Bosworth said. “Despite boasting about how quickly they secured their deal, they failed to fully scrutinise the Cane Analysis Program and fibre testing aspects.”
Mr. Bosworth maintained there was no evidence of discrepancies in fibre testing and noted that any legitimate concerns should be addressed through appropriate channels, including legal advice.
“Canegrowers brings decades of bargaining power and experience to the table, securing critical protections for members. Our commitment remains steadfast: to ensure no Canegrowers member is disadvantaged,” he said.
A Wilmar Sugar and Renewables spokesman acknowledged QCAR’s concerns and said the company would continue to engage with grower representative bodies on issues raised.

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QCAR hosted a community meeting at the Station Hotel in Ingham. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Anthony Celotto and Carol Macqueen
Matt Pappin, Robert Carey, and David Celotto
Ian Kemp and Councillor Andrew Carr
Michael Penna and John Board
Anna Di Bella and Councillor Mary Brown
Matt Pappin, Robert Carey, and Ian Kemp

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
Victoria
122,172
2,231,106
Macknade
62,175
1,125,280
Total
184,347
3,356,386
Crop forecast
3.9M
This week
Season to date
District CCS
12.25
12.54
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q253
31.7
11.55
SRA26
1.8
11.83
Q208
20.8
12.97
SRA14
1.5
11.53
Q200
15.1
13.15
Q242
1.5
10.39
Q232
10.5
12.06
SRA5
1.4
11.85
Q240
5.0
12.43
Q250
1.3
12.93
Comments:
More than 184,300 tonnes of cane were crushed for the week, bringing the season-to-date total to about 3.36M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 12.25, which is below the season-to-date average of 12.54 units.
Rainfall is forecast for later in the week. Please stay in contact with the operations centre if there are any issues with cane supply.
Please continue to use your train brain and always take care around our cane rail network. Our cane trains operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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Chris Winship
Cane Supply Manager
Herbert Region

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Marking National Agriculture Day last week (November 15), Queensland’s Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett reiterated the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to supercharging the state’s agricultural industry.
With a bold target to boost farm gate output to $30 billion by 2030, the LNP say that Queensland is poised to become a national leader in food and fibre production.
The Crisafulli Government has also said it will strengthen Queensland’s biosecurity frontline, with a $50 million boost including 100 additional biosecurity cops on the beat to build defences against pest and diseases.
Minister Perrett said the State Government would deliver a fresh start to Queensland’s primary industries sector.  
“Our farmers and regional communities are the backbone of Queensland’s economy,” Minister Perrett said.
“From our sugar cane fields to the timber industry, and from biosecurity to AgTech, we’re delivering a comprehensive plan for the future of Queensland agriculture.
“This strategy is designed to support every sector of our diverse industry, bringing long-term prosperity to our rural and regional communities.”

Ag workers were also encouraged to “play it safe” for National Agriculture Day and review their safety practices, with agriculture being one of Australia’s most dangerous
industries.

Australian Institute of Health and Safety (AIHS) CEO Julia Whitford said the agricultural
industry was unique in the number of safety challenges workers must manage, which can
impact physical and mental health.

Safe Work Australia statistics show the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector is ranked
number two on the list of industries with the greatest number of worker fatalities in 2024,
with 30 deaths so far this year.

“Over the past five years we’ve seen an average of 38 deaths a year in agriculture, forestry
and fishing, and any death is one too many,” Ms Whitford said.

“Ag workers face a range of hazards that they must mitigate every day. Among the risks is
the operation of heavy equipment, being struck by an animal, handling chemicals,
exposure to weather and dust, slips, trips and falls, and vehicle accidents, including
those involving tractors and quad bikes.”

Data reveals fatal quad bike accidents and rollovers are on the rise, with 18 deaths
recorded so far in 2024, up 38 per cent on last year and 63 per cent on 2022.

“To help bring those numbers down, we encourage ag workers to do a registered quad
bike training course, install a crush protection device, ride on familiar tracks, and avoid
riding in bad weather, on rough terrain, and on steep slopes wherever possible,” Ms Whitford said.

As well as physical risks, there are considerable psychological safety challenges due to
high stress seasonal pressures like intense periods of planting, harvesting, shearing,
lambing, felling, fishing, or calving.

“Agriculture is key to Australia’s economy, but unfortunately the long hours ag workers
put in often go unrecognised, and they have little to no control over variables like the
weather, disease, or market conditions, making for an unpredictable and stressful work
environment,” Ms Whitford said.

“We urge our hard-working ag workers to review and update their safety procedures to best protect their physical and psychological health.”

Resources can be found on the AIHS website.

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Queensland Cane, Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) is an almost century-old farmer advocacy group that continues to go from strength to strength with new members signing up each week.
Herbert District Manager and Senior Agricultural Officer Lawrence Di Bella credited its growth to the organisation’s unique approach.
“QCAR is very different to most industry groups because it is driven by it grass roots members,” Mr Di Bella said.
“We regularly meet with members who tell us their priorities and what the industry needs and then we act on it.
“Our bottoms-up advocacy approach allows us to focus on shaping policy and stay actively involved at local, state, and national government levels.”
Mr Di Bella said QCAR also offered expert representation when dealing with sugar millers in relation to Cane Supply Agreements and Cane Audit Programs.
“For growers, we’re happy to represent all their farming lands, but if they want to give us a go with just one or two farms, that’s fine too,” he said.
“Under the Australian Sugar Industry Act, growers have the freedom of choice to be represented by more than one collective bargaining agent.
“QCAR is here to represent and meet growers’ needs.”  
Mr Di Bella added QCAR supplied business services to its members and had partners with the Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA) and AgForce to drive strategic and positive change across the sugarcane industry.
He said there was strength in numbers with AgForce having more than 6000 members who collectively managed about 55 million hectares, equivalent to about a third of Queensland’s land area under sugar cane, cattle, grain, sheep, wool or goat production.
QCAR chairman Christian Lago said joining forces with ACFA and AgForce secured a stronger future for sugar as well as other industries across Australia.
“This marks a pivotal moment for our industry, and by combining our strengths, we can better serve our members and drive positive change,” Mr Lago said.
Mr Di Bella said the united force of QCAR, ACFA and AgForce reflected QCAR’s mission to encompass Queensland’s agricultural landscapes and gave it greater power to tackle issues and seize opportunities as industries.
He said the broader strategic vision aligned with the evolving dynamics of agricultural industries which included a global push for sustainable farming and development.  
Mr Di Bella stated that QCAR emphasised renewable energy’s contribution to building a greener, more resilient future and helped its members and their communities play an active role.
Mr Di Bella, a senior agronomist, has more than 30 years’ experience in the agriculture sector and at QCAR he oversees technical operations across the Herbert River as well as the Burdekin and Central districts which extends south to Sarina.
His responsibilities include chemical policy management, biosecurity, agricultural data systems and technologies, and the management of weeds, feral animals, pests and disease.

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QCAR Herbert District Manager and Senior Agricultural Technical Officer Lawrence Di Bella with QCAR Herbert Administration Manager Anna Di Bella. Photo: Daniel Heggie

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Since 1925 Canegrowers Herbert River has long been the cornerstone of support for sugarcane farmers in the Herbert River district. Their unwavering commitment to advocating for and assisting their members has made them an essential partner in navigating the challenges of modern farming. Offering a range of services, from advocacy and policy influence to essential services such as payroll, Canegrowers Herbert River ensures that local growers have the resources they need to thrive.
One of the most significant contributions Canegrowers Herbert River provides is its robust advocacy for growers' interests. Sugarcane farming faces numerous pressures—fluctuating market prices, environmental regulations, and the ever-changing climate. Canegrowers Herbert River plays an active role in representing its members at local, state, and federal levels. Through strong advocacy, they ensure that growers' voices are heard on critical issues.
Their work with various government bodies helps shape policies that protect the interests of cane farmers, ensuring the sustainability of the industry in the Herbert River region. This kind of representation is invaluable to growers who might not have the time or resources to engage in these important discussions directly.
The organisation is deeply engaged with local issues, working closely with farmers to understand their specific challenges and helping to find practical solutions. Whether it's dealing with infrastructure concerns, road safety or transport, Canegrowers Herbert River plays a vital role in addressing these issues and working toward positive outcomes. By collaborating with local councils, government bodies, and industry partners, they ensure that farmers’ concerns are heard and resolved in ways that benefit both growers and the wider community.
This season alone Canegrowers Herbert River has assisted members and the local sugar industry with transport issues including permitting and regulation, providing guidance with BMP, compliance audits, permit and notification requirements, drainage, CCS and cut to crush discrepancies, siding issues, cane supply agreement matters, mill negotiations and many more pertinent issues.

Contributed with thanks to Canegrowers Herbert River.

Leah Russo, Zenan Reinaudo, Paul Marbelli, Deputy Chair Steven Marbelli, Chairman Chris Bosworth, Manager Frank Scardamaglia, Sam Torrisi, Terry Motti
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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We are very pleased to be a foundation member of the new Hinchinbrook Life newspaper. It’s great to see a new venture in the Herbert region and we wish the business every success.
The launch of this local newspaper is a vote of confidence in the Herbert region’s economy and its people.
Our Grower Marketing team expanded its presence in the Herbert region earlier this year. Business Development Manager Angus McKerrow is now based in Ingham, working with Senior Grower Marketing Consultant Franco Zaini to provide personalised on-farm service to local growers.
October 31 marked the close of marketing nominations for the 2025 season.
With the dust now settled, we have registered a pleasing increase in the number of growers and GEI tonnes nominated through to Wilmar Grower Marketing in the Herbert region, and our other milling regions.
A common theme with growers who nominated us is the financial benefits Wilmar has delivered over the last few seasons.
Wilmar’s Production Risk Pool continues to outperform QSL’s Harvest Pool, and the Allocation Account is adding a significant premium to the forward price that growers lock in through the Target price mechanism.
We will continue to work hard to maximise that premium as, being a large grower ourselves, it has a direct impact on our financial return.
Other positive commentary from growers relates to the work done by our local Grower Marketing consultants. Most of the team have direct agricultural backgrounds, so have an affinity with the challenges growers face each day. Their willingness to go over and above on a personal level, and their passion to see our growers succeed financially, means very few growers choose to leave Wilmar marketing.
Another pleasing result was the interest shown in our new Managed Pool Plus. The launch of this product for the 2025 season was in direct response to feedback regarding sugar price volatility.
As you know, the last 24 months have seen some big swings in sugar prices. Many growers who like the control of forward pricing are fatigued by the market gyrations. By laying off some of that control into the Managed Pool Plus, they get the benefit of having longer-term price management without the worry of having to watch the market on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, the concept of having access to the pool manager on a quarterly basis through a webinar format, provides further education around price risk management.

Again, thank you to all growers who chose Wilmar to manage their GEI price exposure for the 2025 season. Our team will work hard to ensure your trust is repaid.

Senior Grower Marketing Consultant Franco Zaini and Business Development Manager Angus McKerrow.

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Over the course of last week, the 2024 Year 12 senior cohort at Gilroy Santa Maria College discovered new levels of excitement and anticipation as they prepared to farewell a significant chapter in their lives and enter the world as high school graduates. The 2024 Graduation Week was marked by a series of meaningful, memorable and celebratory events designed to both honor each of the students’ achievements and prepare them for the future ahead.

In the interest of sharing lessons and insights into life beyond school, a collection of inspirational speakers visited the senior students, and provided invaluable advice on a variety of important life skills. Industry experts discussed topics essential to the graduates’ next chapter including financial literacy, road safety, and real estate.

Local financial advisor, Jayden Swarbrick, spoke to the students about the importance of budgeting, saving, and investing, while also emphasising the need for financial independence as they transition into adulthood. RACQ Road Safety expert, Janelle Baker, delivered the RACQ Docudrama Program, focussing on road safety, a crucial issue for young drivers. Her message was clear: the choices made behind the wheel, and as passengers, have a lasting impact on lives, and students should always drive with caution and responsibility. Meanwhile, local real estate agent Nathan Henderson provided practical tips on navigating the housing market, from renting to buying a home, helping students understand the complexities of this major life decision.

A fun and lively highlight of the week was the send-off organised by the Year 11 students, themed "Senior Island." The event was a unique, tropical-inspired celebration, filled with laughter, friendly competition, and a variety of games designed to leave the Year 12 students with lasting memories of their time at Gilroy Santa Maria College.

Students participated in a series of challenges, including flipper races, yoga poses, dress ups and drink tasting! The Year 11 students went all out to decorate the Santa Maria Centre creating a fun atmosphere that reflected both the excitement and bittersweet nature of the occasion. The games were not only a light-hearted way to send off the graduating class but also a symbolic representation of the bonds and teamwork forged over their years at school.

On Thursday, the school community gathered for a special Graduation Mass at St. Patrick's Church, celebrated by Parish Priest, Father John.  It was a sacred moment to celebrate the spiritual journey of the Year 12 cohort. In a moving ceremony, parents and caregivers were invited to present crosses to their children, symbolising both their continued support and the passing on of faith as their children move into the next stage of life. The Mass was a poignant reminder of the love and guidance that has supported the graduates throughout their education.

On the evening of Friday 21 November, a magical Graduation Dinner was held in the beautifully transformed Santa Maria Centre. The hall was adorned with festoon lighting, creating a warm and celebratory atmosphere that perfectly complemented the occasion. 

In a unique touch, the students sat together at long tables in the middle of the hall, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie as they shared their final moments together as a cohort. The atmosphere was one of reflection, joy, and celebration, as students enjoyed a delicious meal and listened to speeches that celebrated their journey.

Principal Kevin Barnes took a moment during the dinner to address the graduates and offer words of encouragement.

“We are incredibly proud of everything you have accomplished,” Mr. Barnes said.

“This week has been a reflection of your growth, not only as students but as individuals ready to take on the world.

As you step out into the future, remember that your education is just the beginning.

The skills, values, and friendships you’ve gained here will continue to guide you.

I have no doubt that each of you will make a positive difference in whatever path you choose to follow.

We wish you all the best as you move forward – the world is yours to explore and shape.”

As the Year 12 students bid farewell to their school days, they carry with them the support, wisdom, and memories of their time at Gilroy Santa Maria College. Graduation Week was a fitting celebration of their journey thus far, and it provided them with the tools, knowledge, and encouragement to step confidently into the next chapter of their lives.

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