It’s About Protecting What Matters

National Biosecurity Week, held from 25 to 31 August 2025, seeks to dispel the misconception that biosecurity is simply about border controls and hazmat suits. The campaign highlights the critical role that farmers and rural communities play in protecting Australian agriculture from pests, weeds and diseases.

Australia’s farm sector is valued at $82 billion in gross production annually, with around 70 per cent of output exported to overseas markets. The system that protects this production is under constant pressure. The Food and Agriculture Organization estimates that 40 per cent of global crop production is lost every year to pests. In Australia, 168 exotic invasive species and 42 exotic plant pests and diseases remain significant threats, while experts have warned of a 42 per cent chance of a serious exotic disease incursion within the next five years.

The consequences for producers are clear. An outbreak can bring heavy production losses, disrupt trade, impose quarantine costs and damage long-standing market relationships. Recent incursions such as varroa mite and ongoing threats from red imported fire ants show how quickly pests can spread and how difficult eradication programs can be once established.

National Biosecurity Week places emphasis on simple, practical measures that can make a major difference on farms. Farmers and workers are encouraged to:

• Clean clothing, footwear and equipment before entering or leaving properties to prevent the transfer of soil and seeds.
• Report unusual pests, diseases or weeds immediately via the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline (1800 084 881) or the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline (1800 675 888).
• Source planting material, livestock and inputs from regulated and trusted suppliers, avoiding unregulated imports and online purchases.

These everyday actions form the first line of defence in keeping harmful organisms off properties and out of the wider industry. They are supported by national initiatives such as the Biosecurity Training Hub, which provides free online resources, and the Youth Biosecurity Hub, designed to build awareness among the next generation of landholders.

National Biosecurity Week is coordinated through partnerships between governments, industry bodies and communities. Its message is clear: biosecurity is not an abstract concept managed at the border, but a responsibility shared across farms, regions and industries. By remaining alert and consistent in on-farm practices, producers can help secure the long-term productivity of Australian agriculture.

Biosecurity at a Glance

$82 billion – Value of Australia’s annual agricultural production

70% – Proportion of production exported

40% – Global crop losses each year due to pests (FAO)

168 – Exotic invasive species threatening Australia

42% – Estimated chance of a serious exotic disease incursion within five years

Hotlines:
• Exotic Plant Pest – 1800 084 881
• Emergency Animal Disease – 1800 675 888

By Owen Menkens, CANEGROWERS Chairman

As we approach the midpoint of the 2025 crush, it’s clear this season is shaping up very differently to the one we endured last year.

In 2024, widespread delays, mill breakdowns, and wet weather left many growers stuck in the paddock and well behind schedule. This year, thankfully, we’re in a better place.

Dry conditions have helped keep the wheels turning. Some districts are even ahead of schedule, a rare but welcome sight. Mills are running more reliably in many areas, thanks to stronger off-season planning and maintenance.

It’s not perfect, and we’ve still seen disruptions, but cane is being harvested and crushed more efficiently than this time last year.

While this is relieving for a grower’s state of mind, we continue to navigate ongoing challenges, the global sugar price has dropped substantially from last year and input costs continue to pressure margins. Fuel, fertiliser, labour all remain elevated compared to last season and water availability remains critical.

Still, one thing hasn’t changed: the resilience of our growers. Time and time again, they rise to the challenge. It’s not just about farming cane — it’s about keeping the heartbeat of regional Queensland strong. Growers support local jobs, schools, businesses, and services. Their success underpins entire communities.

In my conversations across the state, the sentiment is cautiously optimistic. There’s relief that the season is progressing better than last year, and a quiet determination to keep pushing forward. Growers are realists, they know how quickly things can turn, whether it’s from global markets, extreme weather, or shifting policy. But they also know how to adapt and keep going.

Compared to last year, there’s a stronger sense of stability in the air. That’s thanks to the people on the ground, the growers, families, and workers who make this industry what it is.

Let’s stay on track and finish the season strong.

There’s a quiet rhythm to river travel — like stepping into the soft, measured pulse of history. Long before the establishment of high-speed rail networks and highways, Europe’s rivers carried travellers, merchants, artists and aristocrats from one cultural capital to the next.

Today, Travelmarvel echoes that tradition aboard a fleet of modern river ships, blending contemporary elegance with thoughtful discovery. As you step aboard, you become immersed in a modern Grand Tour, inspired by the aristocratic journeys of the 17th and 18th centuries. From the storybook streets of Regensburg to the café-lined boulevards of Budapest, this is slow travel reimagined.

Onboard, you’ll rediscover the joy of the journey itself. Elegant ships glide past vineyard-covered hills and baroque palaces, docking in the heart of cities like Vienna, Strasbourg and Porto. With fewer than 200 guests, guided excursions, fine dining, and the expert services of your Travelmarvel Cruise Director, each day feels personal and unique.

Whether sipping wine in the True North Lounge or watching the sun set from the rooftop terrace, each moment invites you to pause, reflect and connect. A Travelmarvel river cruise is more than a holiday — it’s a seamless blend of history, comfort and discovery that leaves a lasting impression.

The Travelmarvel Fly Free Europe 2026 Sale is now on. Book the popular European Gems river cruise by 10 September and you'll fly to Europe for free*.

For more information, talk to a Travelmarvel Specialist at NQ Travel and Cruise.

POP OUT BOX: European Gems River Cruise
15 Days Budapest to Amsterdam
Book by 10 September 2025 and FLY FREE*
From $6,795 per person, twin share*

Conditions apply and subject to availability. Offer valid until 10 September 2025, unless sold out prior. SEE: travelmarvel.com.au or contact NQ Travel and Cruise for full terms and conditions.

Recently, Fiori With Love in Ingham was filled with laughter, hugs, and a few happy tears as we had the joy of hosting a very special surprise birthday celebration. The occasion was a 70th birthday for a beloved local lady, and the look on her face the moment she walked into our side room and realised the party was for her was truly priceless.

Our intimate side room, which comfortably hosted 28 guests, was the perfect setting for this memorable event. It allowed the birthday lady and her family and friends to enjoy the celebration in a space that felt completely their own. Guests savoured a beautifully presented high tea, while a stunning birthday cake, crafted with love, was shared alongside a selection of other sweets, adding an extra touch of warmth and personal connection to the day.

Throughout the celebration, the room echoed with laughter, heartfelt conversations, and moments of genuine emotion as friends and family embraced, reminisced, and celebrated together. It was a day that highlighted the joy of gathering, the beauty of thoughtful surprises, and the power of sharing special moments with loved ones.

At Fiori With Love, we take great pride in creating the perfect environment for these intimate celebrations. Our side room is designed to cater for occasions just like this. It's a space where guests can feel comfortable, connected, and completely immersed in the celebration.

Hosting this birthday was an absolute delight for our team. Sharing in such a heartfelt milestone with a wonderful lady and her nearest and dearest reminded us why we love what we do: creating spaces where memories are made, laughter flows freely, and every guest feels cherished.

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The Majestic Café has long been a local favourite, a bustling hub where friendly faces and warm hospitality are as much a part of the menu as the coffee and cakes. Family-run and community-focused, the café prides itself on being a welcoming spot for everyone, whether you are dropping in for your morning coffee, meeting friends for lunch, or looking for professional catering for a special occasion.

In recent months, the team has placed greater focus on catering and event services, from conferences and meetings to birthday parties and weddings. This shift has helped the café continue moving forward after the devastating 2025 floods, which left lasting memories and challenges. Yet despite the hardships, the Majestic Café has not lost sight of what makes it special: delicious food and genuine service.

The café champions its staff, creating a positive workplace where team members thrive. Many of the ladies on the team say they love working at the café so much that they often linger after hours, enjoying a chat once the doors are closed and the open sign is flipped. Their latest addition, Max, a Year 12 student from Ingham State High School completing his work experience, has been warmly welcomed. Customers have quickly noticed his enthusiasm and excellent service, further adding to the café’s charm.

Inside is a place where you can settle in with a paper, sip away at some coffee or share a slice of scrumptious cake with a loved one. With the lunch menu being equally enticing, offering ever-changing specials that keep regulars coming back for more. From hearty bolognese to classic milkshakes, there is something to suit every taste.

For many in the community, the Majestic Café is more than a place to eat and drink. It is a meeting point, a comfort, and a symbol of resilience through the years. Whether it's daily dining or large-scale catering, the café continues to serve with warmth, flavour, and a commitment to community connection.

Friday nights just got a whole lot tastier at Forrest Beach Takeaway, where pizza lovers can indulge in a mouth-watering selection of flavours starting from just $21.50. Whether you’re in the mood for classic favourites or something a little more adventurous, there’s something for everyone.

Choose from crowd-pleasers like Supreme, Meatlovers, Hawaiian, Pepperoni, Godfather, or the Tropically-inspired BBQ Chicken. For those seeking something a little different, try the Bianco, Huntsman with its creamy garlic base, Antipasto, or Spanish Prawn pizzas, all priced from $21.50 to $25.50. Seafood lovers won’t be disappointed either, with the seafood pizza offering a delicious ocean-fresh option.

For families or friends looking to customise their pizza, gluten-free bases are available on request, and you can even add anchovies for just $2 extra. Pizzas are served from 5:30pm, making Friday nights the perfect opportunity to unwind, catch up with friends, and enjoy a relaxed, delicious meal in the comfort of home.

Forrest Beach Takeaway’s Friday Night Pizza has quickly become a local favourite, combining quality ingredients with generous toppings and unbeatable flavours. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting the area, treat yourself this Friday to a pizza that hits all the right notes and starts the weekend off on a tasty high.

The Herbert River RSL is making weekday lunches something to look forward to, with a line-up of hearty specials that deliver on both taste and value. Running from Tuesday to Friday, between 11:30am and 1:45pm, diners can enjoy a delicious meal for just $17, with terms and conditions applying.

Each day brings a different favourite to the table. Tuesdays are all about the crowd-pleasing “Tradie Tuesday” special, where you can sink your teeth into a loaded burger served with a pot of beer or a soft drink. Midweek diners can enjoy a classic rump steak on Wednesday, a 200g cut cooked to perfection and served with salad and chips.

Thursday keeps things traditional with a chicken parmigiana, the golden crumbed favourite topped with rich Napoli sauce and cheese. To finish the week, Fridays feature the ever-popular fish and chips, with your choice of battered, crumbed or grilled fish, served alongside a pot of beer or a soft drink.

Serving up more than just a good meal, it is an opportunity to enjoy great company in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Whether you are a local regular or just dropping in, the Herbert River RSL lunch specials are a reason to gather, have a great feed and enjoy your lunch break for just $17!

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Here at Halifax Meats, we are a family-owned and operated butcher shop located in the heart of Halifax, a small historic town nestled between the beaches east of Ingham. Since first opening in 2009, our focus has always been on providing not just quality meats, but a true paddock-to-plate experience for our customers. Over the years, locals and visitors alike have come to know us as much more than a butcher; we are part of the community.

We offer a wide variety of quality meats and smallgoods, all handcrafted and made right here in-store. Our beautiful grass-fed Tableland beef is a standout, renowned for its authentic taste, tenderness and flavour. For those looking to impress, our tomahawk steaks are a show-stopper, packed with bold flavour and perfect for the barbecue. Customers also love our convenient oven-ready parcels, prepared with only the finest cuts of meat, making dinner time easy without sacrificing taste or quality.

Our smallgoods range has something for every occasion. From our delicious traditional wood-smoked leg ham and Bushman’s ham, through to kabanas, beersticks, chorizos and salamis, everything is made with care and attention to detail. With many more options available in store, there’s always something new to try. Each product reflects the pride we take in crafting food that people love to share with family and friends.

At Halifax Meats, we also pride ourselves on sourcing and supplying the best possible local products. We believe in supporting local farmers and producers, ensuring our customers enjoy the freshest and highest quality items available.

To make life easier, we provide a wide range of services, including online ordering, home deliveries, free slicing, and expert advice on both products and cooking methods. We even offer shipping to Palm Island residents, ensuring no one misses out on our great range.

You will find us on Halifax's main street, easily recognised by our colourful mural that has become a landmark in itself. Step inside, meet the team, and experience the friendly service and quality that Halifax Meats has built its reputation on.

Located at 25 Macrossan Street, Halifax. Call (07) 4777 7711, or visit halifaxmeats.com.au

Walter W. Mason’s Book Launch in Ingham

Ingham welcomed local author Walter W. Mason for the launch of his two highly anticipated books, Little Girl Beautiful and The Blue Bus, and the event was nothing short of a triumph. The community gathered in high spirits, catching up with Mason, sharing stories, and celebrating a lifetime of connection to the region. By the end of the launch, every copy of The Blue Bus had sold out, and Mason was down to his last box of Little Girl Beautiful. Those who missed out eagerly placed orders online, ensuring his work would continue reaching readers far beyond the district.

Mason, who has spent almost all his life in Ingham, is known for weaving the North Queensland landscape and its people into his stories. Little Girl Beautiful is a gripping novel set in the district, with the Wallaman Falls area imaginatively modified to suit the narrative. The story follows Sebastian Castorana’s desperate search for his missing daughter, exploring family secrets, cultural tensions, and suspense against the lush backdrop of Queensland. The novel marks a departure from Mason’s earlier humorous tales, tackling darker, more intense themes with authenticity and depth.

The Blue Bus, Mason’s memoir, is an intimate account of his fifty-year marriage to his wife, Leigh, and their journey through love, loss, and the devastating onset of dementia. The book captures both the joy of their early romance and the heartbreak of caregiving, offering a raw, heartfelt testament to devotion, resilience, and enduring love. As guests at the launch shared conversations with Mason, many were moved by his candour, humour, and the courage with which he recounts personal tragedy.

The atmosphere of the launch, held at JK's Delicatessant and Cafe, was warm and convivial, with Mason chatting with everyone who stopped by, old friends catching up, and coming together to celebrate local talent. Heartfelt exchanges filled the space, reflecting both the personal and universal themes of Mason’s work. His stories, whether fictional or memoir, resonate deeply with anyone familiar with the landscapes and people of North Queensland.

Available on Amazon and Booktopia, Mason’s books stand as a powerful reflection of a life lived deeply, enriched by love, tragedy, and the beauty of the local environment. The launch was more than its books; it was a celebration of storytelling, community, and the enduring impact of one man’s remarkable life.

After months of hard work and determination, I Love Boutique has officially reopened its doors, bringing a fresh burst of fashion, colour, and style back to the community. For Amber Pollock, the moment feels nothing short of amazing. “It’s definitely been a long slog to get here, but now that we’re finally open, it’s just wonderful,” she said with a smile.

The boutique offers an exciting mix of women’s fashion, shoes, and accessories, along with a touch of kidswear and swimwear. Shoppers will also find unique extras such as hand lotions and candles, many of which are locally made. Amber went on to explain that stocking local products is a way to support homegrown talent while giving customers something special.

True to its name, I Love Boutique is filled with colour and vibrancy, reflecting Amber's passion for fun and lively fashion. “I love colour, so there’s always plenty of it in store,” she said. The boutique’s new look is designed to encourage locals to shop small, shop local, and keep their community thriving.

The reopening also marks the end of a challenging chapter. Following the floods, the business was forced to operate from a temporary location. During that time, the support of other local businesses and the wider community proved invaluable. “We are so incredibly thankful to the girls at MENZ and Damo’s Workwear for letting me invade their space since the floods,” Amber said. “Our boutique wouldn’t have survived without the generosity of the community, and we are truly grateful.”

Now, with a brand-new space and renewed energy, I Love Boutique is ready to welcome customers old and new, offering a shopping experience that celebrates fashion, colour, and community spirit.

No, It's Rally Racers!

By Victoria Velton

Chris and Tracey Castles have taken to the skies on a 26-day, 10,500-kilometre journey as part of the Royal Flying Doctor Service Outback Air Race 2025. Flying under the banner of Team 15 – Rookies, the pair are navigating their fire engine red A32 Vixxen through some of Australia’s most remote regions in a rally that is less about speed and more about navigation, timing, and precision. Their mission is twofold: to embrace the adventure of a lifetime and to raise $75,000 for the RFDS, whose services have long been a lifeline across regional Australia. Continued on page 3

Team Rookies Take To The Skies

Chris and Tracey Castles are no strangers to adventure, but their latest endeavour has lifted their ambitions sky-high. On Wednesday, 20 August, the Ingham couple embarked on the Royal Flying Doctor Service Outback Air Race 2025, joining 45 other aircraft and around 100 participants in the charity challenge.

The event is less of a speed race and more of a rally. Pilots navigate between remote points, testing accuracy, timing, and teamwork. While both were engineers in the RAAF, Chris will act as the lead pilot for the rally, while Tracey is the load master and provides moral support.

“The race is really all about raising money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service,” Chris explained. “They do a lot of good work around the country, and we’ve been beneficiaries of that on occasion as well. So, it’s really about giving back while also getting to see Australia from a unique perspective.”

The Castles’ fundraising story has been remarkable. “Our first target was $20,000, then we raised it to $25,000, then $50,000, and now $75,000,” Tracey said with a smile. To date, they are just shy of $60,000, thanks to the generosity of family, friends, and community supporters.

The couple are also offering raffle tickets for a $20,000 bespoke travel experience, with the draw scheduled for 8 September via: https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=5dezp&sref=xb79cnc9

Though they would love to win the rally, Chris and Tracey’s ultimate goal is to support the service that delivers critical medical care to rural and outback Australians. “It’s a win-win,” Tracey said. “The love of flying and the chance to help the Flying Doctor Service.”

Follow their progress on Facebook at 'Rookies RFDS Outback Air Race 2025' or donate to keep Team Rookies soaring towards their target via the QR code!

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https://royal-flying-doctor-service-western-operations.grassrootz.com/outbackairrace25/team-15-rookies/donate

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Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!

Daffodil Day was last week, and it's a day I look forward to every year since I can remember. I have always loved daffodils, being my mother's and grandmother's favourite flower. They also remind me of my historic family roots in Ireland, where many varieties of daffodils line the streets and pop out of every nook and cranny, making the towns and countryside a sea of creamy white, yellow and orange delight.

Growing up in Brisbane, on Daffodil Day, every town square, school and business that could get their hands on daffodils were hawking them for a noble cause - raising funds for the Cancer Council.

This year in Hinchinbrook, it saddened me to hear that not many knew about the day or its importance. Huge shout-out to the teams of both Petal and Beanz in Tully and the folk at Rachel Cauchi Optometrists in Ingham. Thank you for your efforts in raising awareness for the Cancer Council cause, I bought two bunches of daffodils, one for my mother and one to share with my neighbours as the flowers bring such joy to an empty window sill. If you would still like to donate to Cancer Council, you can do so here: donate.cancerqld.org.au/donate.

Victoria

Fun fact: The legend of Narcissus in Greek mythology tells the story of a beautiful youth who fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water. Narcissus is also the genus of plants that includes daffodils and their smaller counterpart, jonquils.

Recently, Ingham State High School shared another heartwarming update on the journey of one of their senior students, Max!

Currently nearing the end of Year 12, Max has established his very own business titled, “Max is Mobile” to further prepare for his post-schooling endeavours, and much to his delight, the community could not have been more supportive.

Touched by his ambition, the amazing team at Majestic Café have excitingly signed Max on for work experience each and every Wednesday right up until the end of Term 3 and cannot wait for Max to join the crew from 10am to 1pm each week.

Ingham State High School shared the news in a post online which has since attracted just shy of 500 interactions from members of the community adding comments commending Majestic Café on their support of local students and congratulating Max on his new business venture.

Marina and the staff of Majestic Café are not the first local business to support Max on his endeavours as just last June, Max joined Mandy Griffiths’ Mandy’s Beauty in The Bush to deliver beautiful flower bouquets across the Hinchinbrook Shire.

“With every bloom you’ve carried, you’ve brightened someone’s day. Thank you for the sunshine you’ve so effortlessly shared,” wrote Mandy.

“Well done, Max, because of you. You’ve made the world bloom a little brighter one petal at a time.”

Farewell To A Legend

On Friday, 22 August 2025, Ingham witnessed a powerful and heartfelt farewell for “Slammin’ Sam” Backo. One of this region's and Halifax's own, the rugby league legend was one of the most deeply grounded greats. At St Patrick’s Church, mourners clad in Sam’s favourite colour of maroon, an emblem of both Queensland pride and Backo’s own legacy. The pews were packed, and many spilled onto the streets as family and fans alike paid their respects to the legend.

Sam Backo’s life was a story of strength in both sport and spirit. Born on Warrgamay country on 1 January 1961, he rose to prominence through gritty displays for the Raiders, Brisbane Broncos, Queensland, and Australia. But it was off the field where his legacy truly flourished. As a cultural advocate and former chairman of the North Queensland Land Council, he channelled a generational commitment rooted in his mother, Dr Evelyn Scott’s lifelong activism, into real outcomes for First Nations people.

The funeral’s eulogy, delivered by his daughter Elaine, captured the ritual’s emotional core: “we say goodbye to a husband, father, brother… and welcome his spirit home back to the land that gave him strength,” she said. Sam was laid to rest beside the plaque honouring his mother in Halifax Cemetery.

This service was more than a farewell. It was a celebration of a man who lived with fierce conviction both on the rugby field and in his community. His legacy will remain as solid and profound as the maroon tide that gathered to honour him.

Mount Fox Road, a vital transport corridor serving residents, farmers, renewable industries and school communities, is set for a major remediation works.

The road sustained extensive damage during the February 2025 rain event, with over 35 landslip sites identified and critical drainage infrastructure compromised.

Mayor Ramon Jayo told a crowd of up to 80 people at the August Industry Breakfast held by Hinchinbrook Shire Council in conjunction with the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism that at the height of the damage, there was significant pressure to close the road completely.

“However, thanks to the dedication of local contractors and emergency crews, Council was able to maintain limited access, keeping the road open under restricted conditions,” Mayor Jayo said.

“Council has completed preliminary geotechnical assessments, with detailed design works well underway. We are preparing to go out to tender for major remediation works. This is not a short-term fix. This remediation work is undertaking full permanent repair of the sites impacted by the flooding events.”

Council started sealed pavement reconstruction on 13 August 2025, including pothole patching and surface reinstatement.

This phase is expected to take around 10 weeks, weather permitting, and Council is progressing with the planning and delivery of further works, including landslip repairs and more than $3 million in upgrades of the Mount Fox range for drainage improvements and minor road widening.

These upgrades are jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), administered through the Queensland Reconstruction Authority.

Council acknowledges the inconvenience and thanks the community for its patience. The priority remains delivering a safe and durable outcome. For updates, residents are encouraged to visit the Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard or contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 4776 4600.