With Hinchinbrook’s waterways drawing locals and visitors alike, Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) is reminding boaters that a safe trip starts well before leaving the ramp. Careful planning, the right equipment and good communication can make all the difference on the water.

MRQ advises boaters to begin by planning their trip in detail. This includes choosing suitable anchorage locations, estimating travel times and ensuring there is enough fuel and water on board, plus a reserve. Checking tide predictions and the latest weather forecasts is also critical, particularly in areas affected by strong currents, changing conditions or coastal bars.

Before launching, skippers are urged to thoroughly check their vessel. This means inspecting the bilge, engine and batteries, checking for petrol or gas odours, and fixing any faults before departure. All required safety equipment should be on board, in good condition and within date, along with a first aid kit, tools and basic repair spares. Boat trailers should also be checked to ensure the vessel is secure and roadworthy.

At the ramp, MRQ recommends using the rigging lane to prepare the boat, including ensuring bungs are firmly in place and loose items are secured. Passengers should be briefed on safety requirements and shown where equipment is stored. Courtesy and patience at busy boat ramps also help keep everyone safe.

Life jackets remain a key focus. Children under 12 must wear a life jacket in open boats under 4.8 metres while underway, and all passengers should don life jackets before crossing designated coastal bars. Skippers are also encouraged to monitor weather updates throughout the trip and display correct navigation lights when required.

MRQ strongly advises boaters to log on and off with their local volunteer marine rescue group, and to update them if plans or locations change. This simple step can save valuable time in an emergency.

On return, skippers should log off, secure their boat in the rigging lane, isolate batteries and remove bungs to drain water.

Marine Rescue Queensland says preparation, communication and respect for conditions are the foundations of safe boating, helping ensure every trip on Hinchinbrook waters ends as planned — safely back on shore.

CAPTION: MRQ’s full list of safety information can be found online at https://www.mrq.qld.gov.au/safety-information. Photo source: MRQ

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I was very pleased with the responses received to my article earlier this month concerning Council’s capital works programme, as it shows there is a growing interest in Council activities and programmes proposed for our community.

As I indicated, a wealth of information regarding Council activity is available to the public monthly via the General Meeting agenda, and I urge you to read the same.

We are endeavouring to get more detail out there with a view to enhancing community knowledge and participation, and to ensure transparency of operations remains paramount.

After a dreadfully lengthy period of negotiations with insurers, the contract for project management of the JL Kelly Theatre and Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre works has now been awarded.

The next step is to release the tender for the repair works to the market, which will occur shortly.

I am not in a position to say how long the repairs will take, as that will depend upon the availability of tradies and other skilled staff, materials, and the supply of furnishings and equipment.

We should be in a position to give you a better idea once the tender has been awarded.

Repair works at the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre are still ongoing, with the rear section of the Centre remaining closed to the public. Visitor access is currently limited to the front reception area only.

Council’s $3.23 million Works for Queensland 2024–2027 Program includes 13 projects scheduled for delivery in 2026–2027, with commencement dependent on the availability of both human and material resources.

A variation to the program was recently approved by the Queensland Government, and the projects are as follows:

• Taylors Beach Seawalk (Detailed Planning and Design)
• Half Basketball Court at Garbutt Park
• JL Kelly Theatre Foyer Refurbishment
• Palm Creek Pump Track
• Borello Park Playground Revamp (Design)
• Riverview Park Enhancement
• Taylors Beach Playground Shade Covering (Completed)
• Extension of Reticulated Sewerage at Sir Arthur Fadden Parade
• Extension of Reticulated Sewerage along Townsville Road (Toobanna)
• Vince Corbett Park Infrastructure Upgrade
• Half Basketball Court, Trebonne
• Ingham Showground car park
• Enhanced Parking at Merv Whacker Park

These projects are funded by the Queensland Government in partnership with Council.

Here’s a simple explanation of the sewer pipe project along Townsville Road.

Council’s job is to build the main sewer pipes and a pump station (commonly known as trunk infrastructure) for future housing developments to connect to.

This work is only about putting in that main backbone for the future. It is not about running sewerage into existing neighbourhoods or building internal sewerage for proposed developments.

The works on Townsville Road and Sir Arthur Fadden Parade are simply setting up the trunk infrastructure we will need down the track.

This project forms part of Council and the Queensland Government’s Residential Activation Fund, supporting future flood‑resilient housing opportunities and recognising the benefits of more resilient land for long‑term planning.

This is a positive project for the Shire. It helps us get ready for future homes, supports housing demand, and strengthens essential services.

Most importantly:

• No work is happening on private properties.
• No one with an existing home has to connect to sewerage.
• The pipes and pump stations being installed are only for future developments, when and if they happen.

In short:

• Supports future growth
• Strengthens services
• Does not affect existing homes
• No one is being forced to connect

As you are aware, delays in skilled and professional labour are currently being experienced right across the board, and Council is not immune to such problems. I will keep you updated on delivery as and when details steadily emerge.

A number of issues pertaining to the Bruce Highway corridor were also raised, and such matters will be referred to the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads for its attention.

There seems to be a little confusion regarding actual responsibility for various assets, particularly those owned, managed, or shared between State and Local Governments, so I will endeavour to clarify such roles in a future article.

A number of new matters were raised which are not presently on Council’s radar. Investigations will be undertaken for future planning purposes, and I stress — for planning purposes.

Whilst Council welcomes your views and ideas, we must all bear in mind that due to finite resources, not everything can be achieved, nor can everything be done at once.

Everything costs money, and that money, in the main comes from you, our ratepayers. It is an extremely important function of Council to balance the expectations of the community with the reality of community affordability, and that’s why realistic service levels are so crucial.

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Congratulations to the 2026 Student Leaders for Ingham State High School, a group of dedicated and inspiring students selected for their commitment, integrity, and enthusiasm for serving our school community.

Throughout the year our Student Leaders will represent the student body, support school initiatives, assist with events, and serve as role models for their peers. Their leadership will play an important role in building school spirit, encouraging inclusivity, and fostering a positive environment for all.

School Captains Nalini Schofield & Ava Ackery

Vice Captains Nickolas Stokes & Talia Towner

First Nations Leader Clayton Smith

Student Executive Emma Cervellin; Keldon Fletcher; Nathan Lenzo; Lucas Marmara; Georgia Minato; Samantha Musumeci

Sport Captains Carter Bates & Olivia Bishop

House Captains

Hinchinbrook Noah Kopeshke & Amelia Vella

Fantome Olivia Bishop & Ciannah Shannon

Palm Carter Bates & Dimitty Harragon

Orpheus Carla Buonaccorso & Liam Holland

JUNIOR SECONDARY LEADERS:

Junior Secondary Captains Kalynda Lepinath & Declan Oats

First Nations Leader       Stevie –Jay Jordan

Student Executive Laura Cervellin; Adele Cordner; Eliza Finlayson; Amy Stokes

House Captains:

Hinchinbrook Chloe Kopeshke

Fantome Owen Borello

Palm Elisha Luke

Orpheus Josephine Holzberger

Contributed with thanks to Ingham State High School.

Principal Rod Flood together with 2026 School Captains Ava Ackery and Nalini Schofield

Photos supplied

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Life after school has commenced for Gilroy Santa Maria College’s Class of 2025, with a variety of pathways being undertaken.

The initial weeks after graduation were met with much excitement thanks to the release of academic results, University offers and employment opportunities.

In 2025 GSMC had 100% of Year 12 students obtain their Queensland Certificate of Education, with 93% of that class awarded one or more Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications.

From the Class of 2025, 40% of the ATAR eligible students scored 90+, with two graduating students receiving Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority Subject Achievement Commendations for achieving 100% in General English.

Some GSMC school leavers have grabbed the tool belt and commenced apprenticeships, some have stepped straight into full time employment, and others have just packed their bags for the first year of University.

Locally, seven 2025 Year 12 students have commenced employment across Ingham, made possible thanks to the GSMC Work Placement Program which students are able to undertake from Year 10.

There are also four former GSMC School-Based Apprenticeship/Traineeship students transitioning into full time employment this year with businesses such as: Devietti Motors, Scott Gibson Building, Logilytics and SpinFX Electrical.

While these alumni have left the school yard behind, the next group of GSMC students have been warmly welcomed in Year 7.

Students from across the district have graduated from numerous primary schools to now call themselves part of the GSMC family.  

While their journey in the college colours is just beginning, if they share the same success as our recent graduates, there will be plenty to celebrate for the Class of 2031.

The owner of Bookkeeping Solutions by Jane, Jane Carne will be bringing expert business advice to her workshop, Future Ready Hinchinbrook Workshop on February 22^nd at the NQ Collector’s Function Room in Ingham, running from 8am to 12pm. With a wealth of wisdom, experience and knowledge, the morning event is set to be a valuable discussion of finding motivation and success in small business.

“It’s a chance to give community an opportunity to sit down and look at their business. They can ask themselves – what is working? What isn’t working”, said Jane.

“It encourages people to step out of the day-to-day stuff and look at what they want to achieve in the next six to twelve months. They will have the opportunity to interact with like-minded people in the field. If someone’s having a problem, they can discuss it with other business owners who may be facing similar issues. It’s a supportive practical get-together.”

After six months of event hosting and organisation, this is the last Jane will be doing in collaboration with the council, however she is thankful for her experience.

“It’s been a really wonderful experience. It’s been so good to see how the community has come back after what was quite a devastating event. But now it’s time. We’ve got ourselves back on our feet. Life is getting back to normal and it’s time to look to the future.”

These events have been jointly funded by Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements to support Queensland communities in their recovery from the North and Far North Tropical Low commencing the 29^th January 2025 event.

With state-of-the-art equipment, outstanding service and a hands-on approach to every project, LiquaForce continue to prove they are shaping the future of fertilising across North Queensland. Servicing the region from Mackay to Mossman, the locally based, family-owned business has built a reputation grounded in reliability, innovation and genuine care for the communities it supports.

For years, LiquaForce has worked alongside local growers, understanding that success in agriculture is not just about products, but about people. Their commitment extends beyond paddocks and production figures, with a strong focus on supporting farming families, regional employment and the long-term sustainability of the agricultural industry. This close connection to the community has helped establish deep trust and lasting partnerships throughout the sugarcane and horticulture sectors.

LiquaForce has consistently delivered results by providing tailored liquid fertilising solutions designed to meet the specific needs of North Queensland soils and conditions. Their proven ability to service the agricultural and liquid fertilising requirements of the region has positioned them as a dependable partner during both challenging and prosperous seasons.

Following the acquisition by listed company RLF AgTech Limited in 2024, LiquaForce now offers an expanded range of advanced products and the capacity to support a broader variety of crop types. This growth strengthens their ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions while maintaining the local knowledge and community focus that define the business.

LiquaForce fertilisers deliver measurable benefits, including increased yields, improved sugar production, reduced labour demands and optimised nutrient efficiency. By minimising leaching and downtime, they help growers maximise outputs while protecting their land for future generations, reinforcing LiquaForce’s ongoing commitment to both productivity and community resilience.

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The New Year is certainly off and racing. The kids are back at school, and we slip back to normality after another festive season flashes by.

For property owners, you may have recently received your rates notice for the period from 1 January 2026 to 30 June 2026.

We are all feeling the costofliving pressures, and Council is mindful of this.

We are careful about how rates are applied, trying to minimise rate increases while providing the services that our community needs, and considering what the community wants.

The services that we need to supply to the community are crucial, with some of the basics being roads, rubbish, water, and sewerage.

It is unavoidable that the costs of delivering these basic services increase each year.

The services that the community wants are something different.

If the community wants extra services in any area, this comes at an extra cost.

Whilst community wants are important, we have to be mindful and balance this with what ratepayers are able to afford.

This year, the State ValuerGeneral will be conducting updated valuations.

I would say that valuations will increase since the last valuation conducted in 2023.

As you may be aware, a portion of rates payable is based on the valuation.

What is important, however, is the rate in the dollar, or the multiplier, which has to be carefully considered before being applied.

If you are not aware, you can arrange a rate payment plan with Council. Payments can be made at any time.

Any payments made in advance throughout the year will sit as a credit against the property until the next rates notice is issued.

In addition, if you are finding it difficult to make payment, you can discuss other repayment options with the Rates Department — they will be happy to assist.

For more information, you can also visit:
https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/rates-and-charges/rates-payments-plans/

And finally, what a great weekend of entertainment coming up, with Tones and I playing at the Showgrounds on Friday, and Diesel playing at the Shire Hall on Saturday.

Let’s show them how we rock ’n’ roll Ingham — The Hinchinbrook Way!

Until next time, take care and be kind.

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The Government is delivering easier access to health services with experienced paramedics set to be able to work in remote hospitals and health services from April – an Australian-first initiative.  

The new Remote Hospitals Paramedic role will take effect from 1 April 2026 in Queensland’s most remote towns, strengthening frontline care and supporting local health services to respond to workforce shortages in rural and remote communities.

When Remote Hospitals Paramedics are not responding to emergencies in the community, they will be able to work collaboratively alongside doctors, nurses and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers to deliver more care closer to home.  

Under the new model, these paramedics will deliver both primary and emergency care in Queensland Health’s remote health services including hospitals, general practices, residential aged care facilities, and primary health care clinics.  

The first Queensland Health Remote Hospitals Paramedics are expected to commence mid-year.

The nation-leading initiative responds directly to findings from the Government’s Workforce Gap Analysis, which highlighted the depth of the health workforce crisis.

The Analysis revealed that 72 per cent of workforce growth over the past 10 years occurred primarily in metropolitan areas, while rural and remote Queensland was left facing mounting shortages. Although the Analysis found no workforce gaps for Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics in South Queensland, it showed challenges persisted in attracting and retaining paramedics in rural and remote communities under conventional workforce models.    

The Remote Hospitals Paramedics role is part of the Government’s broader work to strengthen the health workforce, including:

• The rollout of Hospital Based Ambulances across rural Queensland where local health staff and volunteers are now being provided a proper ambulance, life-saving equipment, and training, instead of relying on non-ambulance vehicles to respond to emergencies
• Axing the GP payroll tax within the first month of government
• Introducing a $24 million GP Trainee Incentive to support the next generation of doctors and strengthen the GP pipeline
• Rolling out a $6.8 million Single Employer Model pilot to improve GP distribution in rural and remote areas
• Expanding regional GP access to specialist advice through a $6.4 million investment, reducing the need for patients to travel for care.
• Changing regulations to allow Queensland GPs to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD, improving access to important treatment and reducing long travel times for rural patients.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the Crisafulli Government was delivering easier access to health services for all Queenslanders.

“These targeted reforms are about fixing a system left under strain after a decade of neglect under Labor, and restoring easier access to health services for rural, regional and remote Queenslanders,’ Minister Nicholls said.

“Traditional workforce models alone are not meeting the needs of our most remote communities, which is why we are backing new and flexible ways of delivering care.

“The nation-leading Paramedic, Remote Hospitals model will give remote hospitals and health services greater flexibility to respond to local health needs and workforce challenges, and ultimately, improve access to care.

“Paramedics are highly trained clinicians with strong skills in assessment and acute care, and those skills are incredibly valuable in remote hospitals and clinics where clinicians must manage a wide range of health presentations.”  

Nine Queensland Health HHSs have facilities in areas classified as remote and very remote (Modified Monash Model) and will be able to employ paramedics within their facilities under the Directive.  

These include:

• Cairns and Hinterland HHS
• Central Queensland HHS
• Central West HHS
• Darling Downs HHS
• Mackay HHS
• North West HHS
• South West HHS
• Torres and Cape HHS
• Townsville HHS

‘The Government is delivering easier access to health services with experienced paramedics set to be able to work in remote hospitals and health services from April’

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Winning the Hinchinbrook by-election was an honour that carries a great responsibility — one I will never take for granted. From day one, I have taken that responsibility seriously and committed myself to being a strong, local voice for our community.

Since being sworn in just before Christmas, it has been a very busy period. I have had a clear focus on the issues that affect daily life across our electorate.

The Bruce Highway is the backbone of our state, and key sections such as the Gairloch Crossing, Seymour River and the Northern Beaches intersection north of Townsville are relied upon by locals every single day. These roads are essential for getting people to work, kids to school and keeping communities connected. I’ve had ongoing discussions with councils, transport operators and local businesses about improving safety and resilience along these corridors.

Another key priority is Mount Spec Road, a vital lifeline for Paluma and Hidden Valley. Since the February 2025 rain event, residents and businesses have faced closures, detours and ongoing uncertainty, affecting families, local businesses, freight and emergency services. While the fix is complex and weather-challenged, I am committed to working with the community to deliver certainty, safety and get locals and visitors back supporting this beautiful part of our region.

I have already met with the Minister for Transport and his department to advocate for upgrades that deliver real improvements and value for money for Hinchinbrook.

We also cannot talk about Hinchinbrook without addressing Port Hinchinbrook. This long-running issue has created uncertainty for residents, businesses and the environment. Works are progressing, and I look forward to providing an update soon that delivers the clarity and confidence our community deserves.

I’ve also heard directly from farmers frustrated by the excessive drainage regulations of the former labor government that are worsening flooding impacts in our region. I’ve raised these concerns with Minister Dale Last and will continue pushing for practical, sensible solutions.

Finally, congratulations to Ingham businesses and residents on an outstanding campaign to bring Tones and I to town — a huge win for the region. Enjoy the fun on the 20th.

Hinchinbrook deserves a strong future, and I’ll keep working hard to deliver safer roads, stronger communities and a future that works for regional Queensland.

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Tourism operators across the Hinchinbrook Shire are set to benefit from a major funding injection aimed at strengthening disaster resilience, following the devastating North and Far North Queensland floods in early 2025.

As part of the jointly funded Building Resilient Tourism Infrastructure Fund: North Queensland Tropical Low (BRTINQ), $4 million has been allocated to support 25 tourism infrastructure projects across Townsville, Hinchinbrook, Burdekin, Traeger and Mundingburra, with local operators among the successful recipients.

Launched in June 2025 under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the fund is designed to help tourism businesses future-proof their operations against increasingly severe weather events. Projects range from the installation of solar systems and battery storage to improved drainage, flood mitigation measures and early warning systems.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the funding demonstrated a strong commitment to the long-term recovery of flood-affected regions.

“Through this program, both levels of government have partnered to help those that were hardest hit by last year’s flood event in North and Far North Queensland to thrive and prepare for the future,” Minister McBain said.

“These businesses not only play a crucial role regionally, driving economies and employing locals, but also provide access to some of Australia’s best tourism destinations for the world.”

Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said practical infrastructure upgrades were essential to protecting regional jobs and strengthening the tourism sector.

“Tourism operators need real, practical support to get through natural disasters and come back stronger - that’s how we build a resilient industry for the long term,” Minister Powell said.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo congratulated successful local applicants, welcoming the investment into the shire’s tourism future.

“Well done to the businesses who have been successful in the Building Resilient Tourism Infrastructure Fund,” Mayor Jayo said.

“These grants provide vital support for our local businesses, helping them stay competitive, reduce risk, and build long-term resilience.”

A full list of successful recipients is available through the Queensland Government’s Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation website.

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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 here — proof that even infrastructure can glow up on holiday.

See it: hinchinbrookway.com.au

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Did you know that you could fly on major Australian domestic airlines from Ingham’s licensed aerodrome once upon a time? The airlines operating out of the aerodrome were TAA (Trans Australia Airlines) a major Australian domestic airline company, 1946 – 1992 and ANA (Australian National Airways), 1936 - 1957.

In the early 1920s the few small planes that flew into Ingham landed on the racecourse. As Council received more requests for permission to land it was clear that a proper airstrip was needed. Part of the town reserve was cleared but this ground proved swampy and the Controller of Aviation would not give approval for a suggested alternative site because it too was inappropriate.

Then, New England Airways offered to carry out a survey and draw up plans for a licensed aerodrome if Government money could be secured to bring the airstrip up to standard. The Government refused to assist and the strip continued to be used unlicensed. A regular passenger service conducted by The Queensland Air Navigation Limited was supposed to commence in early April 1930 but as the airstrip was still hazardous with cows grazing on the runway and unusable in the wet season the service did not commence.

In emergencies aircraft landed on the golf course and once one used the concrete Fairford Road for takeoff! What excitement that must have caused.

Finally, the Government authorized the Council to borrow money from the Insurance Commissioner to construct a licensed aerodrome. It opened with great ceremony and joy flights on 30 July 1939. It cost £2800 to construct. In a report of the day “Mr. M. I. Grabowskl, manager of Airlines of Australia, said that the aerodrome was one of the finest in the Commonwealth.” Perhaps he should have said state but even that would have been an exaggeration!

However, already in 1940 the airstrip was not fit for use and The Civil Aviation authority required the Council to make repairs so that a license could be issued to reopen. However, with lack of funds over the World War 2 period the airstrip deteriorated badly yet again and became unsuitable for use. Anyway, the types of larger planes coming in use post-war made that airstrip unsuitable.

The construction of a new airstrip with small terminal would enable commercial and transport planes to land. The construction limped along for years due to protracted wet seasons until finally on 24 July1955 the airport opened at a cost of £26000. Plane services began the same week with ANA  southbound aircraft landing on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday mornings with northbound aircraft landing on the same afternoons. TAA offered a similar service with southbound aircraft landing on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and northbound aircraft landing on Tuesday and Friday afternoons. The first planes were DC3s while later Fokker F27s were used. The route was Brisbane-Maryborough-Bundaberg-Gladstone-Rockhampton-Proserpine-Mackay-Townsville-Ingham-Innisfail-Cairns. Again, effusive praise was given for the airport with it being described as “one of the best country landing places in the State.”

The service continued for several decades. One of the last notable landings of larger planes were VIP aircraft, that landed in Ingham on 2 July 1979 bringing Premier Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen and Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser for the opening of the Lucinda sugar terminal. Though still a busy airstrip, it is unsuitable for the landing of the huge commercial passenger aircraft in use today.

Contributed with thanks to Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui.

ONE YEAR ON

From late January through to February 2025, authorities issued frequent warnings to residents across the Hinchinbrook Shire, providing updates through the official Hinchinbrook Disaster Information Dashboard as weather conditions intensified.

On 30 January, the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group (HLDMG) convened to assess the developing system and resolved to commence preliminary preparations in anticipation of potential flooding.

“Whilst there still remains some uncertainty as to the movements of the present low, what is certain is that the Hinchinbrook district can expect a fair bit of rain one way or the other, both in the lower and upper catchment areas,” HLDMG Chair and Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said at the time.

“Given the amount of rain that we have experienced over the past few days, our drainage systems are at capacity, so it is reasonable to expect that some flooding will occur throughout the district, or in parts of our district at least.”

HLDMG advised residents there was a 25 to 35 per cent chance of a tropical cyclone developing in the Coral Sea or Gulf of Carpentaria, while also warning that tides were forecast to reach the highest astronomical levels along much of the Queensland coastline. As a precaution, sandbags were made available in Halifax, Cordelia, Taylors Beach and Ingham, with residents urged to monitor official updates closely.

On Saturday, 1 February, Hinchinbrook Disaster Information confirmed heavy to locally intense rainfall was expected to continue, with warnings issued for potentially dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding and damaging winds across the region. Power outages were also reported in Halifax and Taylors Beach, with Ergon Energy crews dispatched to affected areas.

Later that afternoon, a fifth major flood warning was issued for the Herbert River, advising residents in Halifax, Gairloch, Ingham, Abergowrie and Glenegle of escalating flood conditions. At the time, major flooding was occurring along the river to Nash’s Crossing, with forecasts indicating river levels would exceed 14 metres at downstream gauges overnight.

A severe weather warning remained in place across the Herbert and Lower Burdekin regions, as well as parts of the North Tropical Coast, Tablelands, Northern Goldfields and Upper Flinders districts.

On 7 February, Queensland Police Service, supported by Defence Australia, delivered essential supplies to isolated residents in Ingham via Chinook helicopters. Queensland Ambulance Service crews also confirmed they were well positioned to support flood-affected communities.

Additional major flood warnings were issued throughout early February as river levels fluctuated. On 11 February, Ergon Energy crews replaced a damaged transformer pole on Abergowrie Road, restoring power to more than 300 residents across surrounding localities. Further works continued as water levels receded across other affected catchments.

Emergency alerts were issued on 12 February for areas between Lannercost, Lucinda, Taylors Beach and Ingham as floodwaters rose again, with residents urged to remain vigilant and prepared.

In the days that followed, Transport and Main Roads Queensland confirmed the staged reopening of flood-affected roadways, including Ollera Creek Bridge on 12 February, Gairloch and the Seymour River route on 14 February, and Anabranch Bridge on 15 February.

In the aftermath of the disaster and throughout the year that followed, extensive recovery programs and financial assistance were made available to homeowners, small businesses, primary producers and community organisations. Hinchinbrook Shire Council worked closely with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority and State Government agencies to support recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Residents were encouraged to access Community Recovery Hubs across the shire or contact the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 for assistance with grants and support services.

“We know it’s been tough for everyone, but we’re tougher than what the weather has thrown at us,” Mayor Jayo said.

One year on, the 2025 floods remain etched in the history of the Hinchinbrook Shire as a once-in-a-generation event that tested the region in unprecedented ways. Yet from the devastation emerged a community defined not by what was lost, but by its resilience, standing as living proof that while the weather pushed the region to its limits, it never broke it. The strength, compassion and determination of its residents continue to inspire, leaving a legacy of endurance that will shape the shire for generations to come.

If you or someone you know has been affected by this event and may be feeling distressed, support is available. Readers are encouraged to contact Lifeline’s Community Recovery Lifeline Hotline on 1800 116 671 to speak confidentially with a trained disaster counsellor, available 24 hours a day.

This year, Canegrowers celebrates an extraordinary milestone - 100 years of giving Queensland sugarcane growers a strong, united voice.

To mark this historic occasion, Canegrowers Herbert River will host a Centenary Gala Dinner on Saturday the 9th of May 2026. The event will bring together members, past and present directors and chairpersons, their families, industry colleagues and friends. The wider community is also invited to be part of the celebration.

With the theme Honouring our Past, Embracing our Future - 100 years stronger together, the evening will recognise the people, stories and achievements that have shaped the local sugar industry for a century.

“For 100 years, Canegrowers has been giving Queensland sugarcane growers a strong, united voice,” Canegrowers Herbert River Chairman Steven Marbelli said. “We are looking forward to recognising and celebrating the enduring impact of the local sugar industry with our community.”

Formed in 1926, with regional branches established across Queensland in 1927, Canegrowers was built on unity, hard work and the determination of cane-farming families. The Herbert River district has played an important role in that journey, with generations of local growers helping shape both the regional industry and the wider Australian sugar sector.

Over time, the industry has changed dramatically. Machinery, farming practices and technology have transformed the way cane is grown and harvested. Markets have expanded well beyond local mills to customers around the world. Yet the values of Canegrowers remain the same, advocacy, fairness and a commitment to a sustainable future for growers and their communities.

Centenary celebrations will continue throughout 2026, providing opportunities to reflect on the challenges faced and the successes achieved. They will also welcome new generations of growers into the fold, continuing the legacy built by those who came before them.

The sugar industry has long been a cornerstone of Ingham and the surrounding district. It supports local businesses, creates employment and contributes to the fabric of our towns and schools. This centenary is a celebration for everyone, not just growers, and a reminder of the strong ties between the industry and the community.

After 100 years, the message remains clear. Unity has been the foundation of Canegrowers’ success, and it will continue to guide the organisation into the future.

Save the date for Saturday 9 May 2026, and keep an eye out for the announcement of future event details!

The countdown is on to the Next Gen 2026 Cane Forum, with the event now just weeks away in the Burdekin and Herbert regions on 3–4 March.

Co-organisers Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) and Aglantis are urging attendees to register, with limited spots remaining — including only five seats left on the dedicated bus from Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek.

“The clock is ticking for next-gen farmers, new-to-industry farmers and anyone else interested in the advances in technology, innovation and systems in the sugarcane sector,” Aglantis event spokesperson Luke Malan said.

As Managing Director of Aglantis and co-organiser of the event, Mr Malan said he was excited to help revive a platform dedicated to promoting the future of farming, with a strong focus on practical application.

"This is about giving our nation’s growers real-world examples; helping them to see and pave the way to what the future of sugarcane farming could look like," Mr Malan said.

The forum has attracted significant backing from industry-leading sponsors, reinforcing a shared commitment to the long-term sustainability and profitability of Queensland’s sugar industry.

Mr Malan said the strong industry support had enabled a high-calibre program featuring practical, on-farm demonstrations of automated irrigation and precision agriculture tools.

“Our incredibly supportive sponsors allow the showcasing of advanced agricultural technology, directly supporting the next generation of sugarcane farmers,” he said.

Among the key highlights for 2026 will be smart and automated irrigation systems, offering growers the chance to see efficiency-driven technology operating in real time. Precision agriculture and GPS technology will also take centre stage, with a focus on how these innovations translate into real-world profitability.

Carbon and reef compliance — an increasingly important consideration for emerging industry leaders navigating a changing regulatory landscape — will form a critical part of the discussion.

“Over the past year we’ve seen something powerful happen when farmers are simply given the space to come together. Conversations around dinner tables turn into real practice changes on farm, ideas shared on bus trips sparked new trials and connections made between growers can lead to lifetime friendships,” Mr Malan said.

He said the momentum behind the forum would not have been possible without the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and its investment through the RP84 Peer to Peer Farming Groups program.

“Their support backed ‘farmers backing farmers’ — creating opportunities to explore new technology, challenge thinking, and building confidence to adopt practical improvements. We are incredibly grateful to DPI for recognising the value of grower-led learning and for investing in stronger, more connected farming communities across Queensland.”

QCAR Chair Russell Hall said the forum was specifically designed to deliver hands-on, boots-on-the-ground value.

“While we’ll have industry veterans in attendance sharing their wealth of experience, the program focuses on the high-level innovation and practical technology required for modern farming,” Mr Hall said.

QCAR’s Senior Technical Agriculture Officer and event co-organiser Lawrence Di Bella said the event was about bringing the industry together and putting the tools of tomorrow into growers’ hands.

“We could not be more proud or more excited to be bringing this event back to the industry,” Mr Di Bella said.

“By combining high-level innovation with practical field trips, we are making sure our next generation of leaders can see how new technology translates to profitability and sustainability."

The program includes immersive on-farm demonstrations, site visits to progressive farms, and direct insights into how ag-tech tools can improve yield while managing environmental footprints. Attendees will also have opportunities to connect with industry leaders and peers from the Burdekin, Herbert, Proserpine and Mackay regions, as well as experts who can help navigate the complexities of modern farming.

Event schedules and ticket details are available via the Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables and Aglantis Facebook pages or by calling (07) 3496 9555. Tickets are also available at https://nextgen2026.eventbrite.com.au.

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