by Jonny Pearce, Abergowrie

‍

I get my beef from Bullock Creek.
They drop it to me every week.
It comes from cattle plumply fed
on Abergowrie's emerald bed.

By crashing waterfalls and streams,
where poets want to paint their dreams,
in Herbert River Valley's heart -
as God displays his misty art.

Just drive as far as you can go -
‘til mountains meet and life is slow.
Inside this station’s rustic gates -
the beef is reared to fill our plates.

Bulls spangle every shade of green
with black and white to dot the scene.
From dawning sparks to mellow fades -
this bovine munch on leafy blades.

The water here is mountain-pure -
no beast could want for any more.
They roam around and gently graze
in paradise throughout their days.

Then from this paddock to the plate,
at sixteen bucks per kilo weight,
it comes in fillet, mince and snags -
all vacuum-packed in plastic bags.

There's t-bones, rump and tender ribs.
You'd think that I was telling fibs -
but that's delivered to your door.
And once it's gone - you order more.

To feed an army at a feast -
I'd go for half a tender beast.
Just add some salt - no need for spice.
You couldn't find a better price.

So if you haven't phoned before,
and had this beef dropped to your door,
then call the number on the card,
and fry it up - or have it charred.

On Abergowrie's final flat,
where grass is thick and bulls are fat,
inside the range’s silver peak -
there's dinkum beef at Bullock Creek.

‍

Out-Of-This-World Activity Lineup

Strange sightings, cosmic conversations, and plenty of community fun as the Australian UFO Festival returns to Cardwell this August with an action-packed program that’s as educational as it is out-of-this-world.

Running from Friday, 8th August to Sunday, 10th August 2025, this annual event is one of the region’s quirkiest and most beloved gatherings. With something for believers, sceptics, families and fun-seekers alike, it’s no wonder people from across the country are circling this date on their calendars.

The weekend kicks off with free events on Friday, including a Planetarium experience and the storytelling evening Stories in the Stars, both held at the Cardwell Community and Sports Halls. These events set the tone for a weekend that blends scientific curiosity with wonder and entertainment.

At the centre of the festival is the C-Files Forum, a two-day speaker series delving into UFOs, personal encounters, and cosmic mysteries. Hear from researchers, contactees, authors, spiritual and scientific leaders as they delve into the ancient and modern mysteries surrounding the alien unknown

For those wanting to explore Cardwell’s UFO connections firsthand, C-Files Tours run throughout the weekend, guiding curious minds through the local sites and stories that put this seaside town on the paranormal map.

The festival also celebrates local talent and creativity, with events like the Hinchinbrook Regional Arts Mosaic Workshop and the Star People & Ancestral Connections Workshop delving into spiritual and cultural interpretations of the cosmos.

Families are especially well catered for. Saturday night’s Alien Invasion Fancy Dress Party on the foreshore promises fun for all ages, with costume competitions (judging at 6.30pm for kids and 7.30pm for adults), food vans, and live music by Six Rocco. If you’re planning to stay late, a courtesy bus will shuttle partygoers home from 5pm to midnight.

Sunday keeps the energy high with the Monster Market Day, Cosmic Kids activities, Crab Races, and a classic Aussie BBQ at the RSL. Even practical minds have something to explore, with a Moon Phases Workshop, a car boot sale and many galactic tour options rounding out the festival’s many offerings.

Whether you’re stargazing, shopping, learning, or just soaking in the quirky atmosphere, the Australian UFO Festival in Cardwell proves that community spirit and cosmic curiosity can be a perfect match.

For tickets and bookings, head to www.australianufofestival.com.au or check out the event’s social media pages.

With Savings To Match!

There’s something truly special about knowing your next holiday is already taken care of,  and now is the perfect time to book it.

NQ Travel & Cruise is proud to partner with Collette to bring you exclusive earlybird savings on over 170 premium guided tours worldwide. Whether you’re dreaming of meandering through Tuscany’s countryside, cruising the canals of Venice, or learning to cook like a local in the Italian Riviera, Collette’s “Italy’s Treasures” tour is just the beginning.

Book by 31 August 2025 and enjoy 15% off select departures, it's generous savings on truly unforgettable journeys. With handcrafted itineraries, experienced tour managers, and immersive local experiences, Collette tours offer the perfect balance of comfort, culture, and connection.

Let us take care of the details while you focus on what really matters: seeing the world, your way. Pop into our office at 73-81 Lannercost Street, give us a call on 07 4440 3310, or visit our website www.nqtravelandcruise.com.au to start planning your next great adventure.

Your dream holiday is calling, and with Collette, it’s closer (and more affordable) than ever.

Each silky spoonful of this speedy Chinese soup is laden with fresh corn and shallots.

Ingredients
4 corncobs, husks and silk removed
1.5L (6 cups) chicken stock
2 tsp finely grated fresh ginger
2 tbsp light soy sauce
2 tsp cornflour
60ml (1/4 cup) cold water
2 egg whites
1 x 227g ctn fresh crab meat, drained
4 green shallots, ends trimmed, thinly sliced diagonally
1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves

Step 1. Use a sharp knife to cut down the length of the corn, close to the core, to remove the kernels.
Step 2. Place the corn, stock and ginger in a large saucepan. Cover and bring to the boil over high heat.
Step 3. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes or until the corn softens slightly.
Step 4. Meanwhile, whisk together the soy sauce, cornflour and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl until smooth. Whisk together the egg whites and remaining water in a bowl.
Step 5. Add the cornflour mixture to the corn mixture and stir until well combined. Cook for 1 minute or until the soup thickens slightly. Gradually add the egg mixture in a thin, steady stream, stirring constantly until combined.
Step 6. Stir in the crab meat and shallot. Season with pepper. Ladle among serving bowls and sprinkle with the coriander. Chilli to Serve.

Everybody knows them for their smashing fish and chips and scrumptious burgers, but did you know Forrest Beach Takeaway serves up so much more? Just look at some of the incredible meals they cook fresh to order every weeknight!

Follow their Facebook page for daily specials and updates on what’s on the menu. With comforting home-style meals and generous portions, it’s the perfect excuse to take the night off cooking. Feed yourself or the whole family, the Forrest Beach Takeaway has you covered. Meals available from 5:30 pm and start from $20, call ahead to order on (07) 4777 8918.

MONDAY NIGHT MEAL SPECIALS
Roast Pork or Roast Lamb with Potato Bake and Vegetables
Crumbed Chicken with Creamy Garlic Tortellini
Rogan Josh Curry with Rice and Roti (Lamb or Chicken)

TUESDAY NIGHT MEAL SPECIALS
Corned Beef Silverside with Mash and Vegetables
Drunken Noodle Stir-fry (Chicken)
Curried Sausages with Mash and Vegetables

WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEAL SPECIALS
Creamy Garlic Prawns with Rice
Penang Chicken Curry with Coconut Rice
Shepherd’s Pie with Vegetables

THURSDAY NIGHT MEAL SPECIALS
Honey Chicken with Fried Rice
Chow Mein Noodle Stir-fry (Chicken or Vegetarian)
Lemongrass Beef Stir-fry with Coconut Rice

And of course, they have PIZZA FRIDAYS! One happy customer summed it up best: “Thank you for cooking such superb meals – each dish we’ve tried since moving here has been freshly made with beautiful ingredients, served piping hot. We are so lucky to have you in Forrest Beach. If you’re passing through, this venue is a must for any travelling campers.” Alex Mini

by Victoria Velton

At Palm Creek, it was a fresh start to the morning. Our 17 parkrunners enjoyed the cool change and the chill breeze that kept us all comfortable while we ran. There were five new faces, with a first-timer taking out the top spot this week. Two personal bests were recorded, one after the other, including my own! I nearly cracked the top ten but finished just outside in eleventh place. I know it’s not a race, but I’m so happy with my progress and truly grateful for the encouragement from all my fellow parkrunners and volunteers. You make getting out of bed on a Saturday morning absolutely worth it.

In Cardwell, a big well done to the 12 participants who took to the foreshore path that morning on a pleasantly cool day. The local Red Earth Running group claimed all three top spots, and three lovely newcomers strolled across the finish line to wrap up the morning on a cheerful note.

Remember, you can grab a coffee or post-parkrun brekkie with friends afterwards. Warm up at a local cafe and dig into a plate of energising eggs and bacon, perhaps!

Park Run Results: 2nd August 2025

Palm Creek #84 – 17 participants
Fastest time: 23:24 | Finisher time: 54:45
Volunteers: Erin Cerutti, Helen Digger, Bridgette Duffy, Matteo Mancuso, Donna Marbelli, Steven Veltmeyer

Cardwell #346 – 12 participants
Fastest time: 29:40 | Finishers' time: 52:42
Volunteers: Kellie Ball, Neil Bland, Terry Curtin, Deborah Eschebach, Jan Ferguson, Kerry Snell

Flags Raised In NAIDOC Tribute

On 22 July 2025, a flag-raising ceremony marked a meaningful NAIDOC Week in Hinchinbrook. Community members gathered at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall in Ingham, led by Deputy Mayor Mary Brown and Traditional Owners, together, they proudly raised the flags in recognition of the Warrgamay, Nywaigi and Bandjin peoples — Traditional Custodians of the Hinchinbrook region.  With around 70 people in attendance, the event offered a moment to reflect on this year’s NAIDOC theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy”.  As Deputy Mayor Brown said, “Today was an opportunity to honour the strength, resilience, and wisdom that have carried communities through generations of challenge and change.”

‍Legacy And Leadership Honoured This NAIDOC Week

“In Hinchinbrook, we are privileged to live in a region rich with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, language, and knowledge, with many local families contributing to our community across generations,” Cr Brown said.

Cr Brown emphasised the power of intergenerational connection, saying, “Their legacy is visible in stories passed down, art that speaks across generations, and the deep care for Country that continues to guide community life.”

Importantly, she added, “Let this flag-raising be more than a symbol. Let it be a commitment — to truth, to justice, and to a future built on shared strength, vision, and legacy.”

Council extended sincere thanks to everyone who attended and those who worked behind the scenes, recognising that “these efforts represent more than logistics; they are a collective act of respect and recognition.” She concluded that, "The theme reminds us that the next generation is already here — watching, learning, and leading."

Photo Credit: Victoria Velton.

To see all the photos taken at this event, go to Hinchinbrooklife.com and click the 'Social Pics' tab!

This past week brought some wonky weather for sure – and while the rain was enough to bring the mills to a halt, it didn’t stop locals from getting out and doing their part for the community. From coastline clean-ups to cycling for cures, and recognising those who’ve put in the work to grow and achieve great things, it’s been a week worth celebrating.

From those who came to the flag-raising ceremony and popped in for a yarn and cake afterwards, to Forrest Beach SLSC being recognised for their efforts during the floods, to the youngsters of the Ingham Community Theatre Group bravely stepping on stage for the first time, you should all be incredibly proud.

I must say, the bakeries have been working overtime this week, making event-themed cakes! So many lovely, well-decorated delights to celebrate all the achievements. The joy of cutting a cake and seeing a child absolutely cover their face in frosting as they devour sponge and sprinkles - at a speed that makes you think they’ve never eaten cake before - is just one of the little things in life one has to appreciate.

Victoria

Fun Fact: Fairy bread is the name given to the children’s treat of “hundreds and thousands” on buttered white bread. Fairy bread is commonly served at children’s parties in Australia and New Zealand. The Netherlands has a version called chocoladehagelslag, made exclusively with chocolate sprinkles.

Ensuring that all of Hinchinbrook has access to a doctor when they need it most is a priority of mine. Over two years, the former Cardwell Family Practice’s future has been in limbo with NQPHN, Cassowary Coast Regional Council, Federal Government and State Government working collaboratively to keep the doors open.

Finally, a long-term solution has been reached. I recently joined the Cardwell community to celebrate the transition of Cardwell Medical Practice back to a privately run service. The practice will now be supported by Ingham Family Medical Practice and staffed by a locally based team.

This achievement is the result of strong advocacy and collaboration among NQPHN, Townsville Hospital and Health Service, the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, the Hon. Bob Katter, and myself. These efforts began in 2023, following the announcement that the Cardwell Family Practice intended to close.

Now, with support from the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing’s Thin Markets initiative, Cardwell Medical Practice (formerly Cardwell Family Practice) officially transitioned to a private practice on 1 July 2025.

A sincere thank you goes to Dr. Brett Scott and his team for their dedication and efforts in making this transition possible, ensuring that local patients continue to have access to GP services in Cardwell.

This is a clear example of what can be achieved when all three levels of government work collaboratively for the benefit of the people they represent.

While this milestone is a celebration for Cardwell, the broader battle is not over. Patients across the electorate are still reporting wait times of over three weeks to see a GP. The current wave of winter illnesses is undoubtedly adding further pressure to the ongoing General Practitioner (GP) shortage being felt in Hinchinbrook and across the state.

GPs are facing challenges in recruiting doctors to regional areas, so we will continue working with the Federal Government, NQPHN, and other key stakeholders to focus on recruitment.

A wave of sadness swept through the Hinchinbrook community last week after locals discovered the Canecutter Statue on Lannercost Street had been vandalised for a second time since its 2018 unveiling.

The statue was the vision of Mario Torrisi, who championed the idea of creating a tribute to the region’s proud sugar cane heritage more than seven years ago. Brought to life by Ingham Potters Club artists Fay Morris and Bob Britton, the statue has become a powerful symbol of a bygone era and a beloved landmark within the community.

“Ingham’s Canecutter’s Monument represents the blood, sweat and tears of many Australians and new immigrants who gave back-breaking labour to the Herbert Valley district to ensure the cane industry flourished,” wrote Mario’s daughter, Yolanda Torrisi.

The first incident of vandalism occurred in December 2020, when the statue’s hat was severely cracked—locals believed the damage was caused by a hammer or metal bar.

On 22 July this year, the monument was again senselessly damaged, prompting Yolanda to voice her heartbreak: “Vandalism chips away at the sense of pride and ownership that people feel about where they live… It sends a message not of power, but of disregard.”

Hundreds of locals rallied online to express their outrage and sadness, calling the act deeply disrespectful—not only to the history of the Hinchinbrook Shire, but to Mario’s legacy, the artists, and the many people who helped bring the statue to life.

Ladies in Agriculture were invited to a relaxed catch-up session to sip, share and grow. Led by Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism president Mary Brown, the morning offered a calm space for open discussion about the recovery process for those in the local agricultural industry.

The session focused in particular on the challenges of securing grants and the importance of speaking up when funding applications are rejected. Mary noted that outcomes from recovery efforts are only now becoming clear, stating, "Now we're starting to see the data, I am concerned."

Attendees were encouraged to keep applying for grants and to share their recovery stories. Mary urged anyone who has been knocked back for funding to reach out to the Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism. The Chamber can assist in understanding why an application may have failed and help applicants get back on track.

Participants were also reminded to always check the current grant criteria and to revisit their applications. With recent changes to funding rules, many may now be eligible even if they were not in previous rounds.

Now is the time to act. Support is available, and ladies, your story matters.

Three people have been charged following an alleged armed robbery that occurred at a Bruce Highway rest stop in Cardwell on the evening of Friday the 26th of July.

Police allege that around 6.35pm, a 27-year-old woman from Ayr, a 26-year-old man from Rasmussen, and a 17-year-old boy—also from Rasmussen approached a white Hyundai Accent parked at the roadside stop.

The trio allegedly confronted the driver, an 18-year-old German tourist, demanding his keys, wallet and phone. It is further alleged that one of the offenders produced a firearm and ordered the young man out of the vehicle.

The victim complied with the demands and later reported the incident to police.

Thanks to a coordinated effort by the Queensland Police Service, including the Tactical Crime Squad, Dog Squad and Polair, the stolen vehicle was intercepted as it entered the Townsville area. All three suspects were arrested shortly after.

The 27-year-old Ayr woman and 26-year-old Rasmussen man have both been charged with two counts of armed robbery in company and were due to appear in the Townsville Magistrates Court on Monday, the 28th of July.

The 17-year-old boy faces the same charges and is expected to appear before the Townsville Children’s Court.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact Policelink via the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Queensland is experiencing a significant rise in flu cases, with more people currently being hospitalised with influenza than with COVID-19.

From the 7th to the 13th of July, over 250 people were hospitalised with flu, with an average of 169 public hospital beds occupied daily. This marks a sharp increase from the previous week’s average of 131 beds. In comparison, COVID-19 hospitalisations for the same period were just over 190, with 149 beds occupied on average.

Since the beginning of the year, nearly 3,600 people have been hospitalised with flu in Queensland. This figure is 16 per cent higher than the same time last year, and 90 per cent of those hospitalised were not vaccinated.

Last week alone, the state recorded 3,313 new flu cases—the highest weekly figure reported in 2025. A total of 36,131 cases have been reported this year to date.

Flu-related hospitalisations have impacted a wide range of age groups, with over 340 children under five and 1,679 people aged 65 years and over requiring hospital care. The number of flu-related deaths this year has reached 84.

While COVID-19 and RSV case numbers have remained steady, health authorities are encouraging Queenslanders to get vaccinated against all respiratory illnesses. Free flu vaccines remain available at GPs, pharmacies and community clinics.

Queenslanders are also urged to practise good hygiene and stay home when unwell to help stop the spread of illness.

For full data and vaccination details, visit the Queensland Health website.

A peloton of dedicated cyclists rode through the Hinchinbrook Shire last week as part of the mighty Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride; an initiative established to make a difference in the lives of children affected by cancer.

Held annually, the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride raises both valuable awareness and funds for the Children’s Cancer Institute to support comprehensive efforts focused on preventing and treating childhood cancer.

The Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride was founded in 1999 by Selwyn Hardwick after his sister tragically passed away from cancer, and one of his grandchildren was diagnosed with leukaemia. Whilst travelling on a road trip across Northern Queensland, Selwyn was struck with the idea to ride from Townsville to Cairns to raise money for the Children’s Cancer Institute, and a short while later, he invited his son to join in, and the initiative was established.

The ride has since welcomed hundreds of cyclists to follow the 374km route, raising tens of thousands of dollars to fund the life-changing work of the Children’s Cancer Institute.

On the evening of Thursday the 24th of July, 2025’s fleet of cyclists put their feet up in Ingham for the night before riding on to Innisfail, before finally arriving in Cairns on Saturday, the 26th of July where they crossed the finish line for another year.

Donations to the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride initiative are still open and can be made online via https://www.tcbr.org.au/sponsor and more information and updates can be found on the TCBR’s website and social media pages.

On Saturday, 19 July 2025, our proactive public spaces and Waste Education teams coordinated a Coastal Clean Up in Lucinda. They were joined by local residents and organisations to remove residual flood waste and rubbish in the mangrove areas along Dungeness Road, Lucinda Road and beaches out to the new spit.

A total of just over 1.1 tonnes of flood debris and other waste was collected by enthusiastic volunteers. Items removed included tyres, a canoe and part of a queen-sized bed ensemble. It was also great to have three of my fellow Councillors participate in the event.

Following the clean up, the Lucinda Progress Association generously provided a sausage sizzle and refreshments for volunteers. Thank you to Council, Herbert River Catchment and Landcare Group, Herbert River Improvement Trust, Girringun Aboriginal Corporation and Ingham Rod and Reel Club for their support.

I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to secure their loads, particularly when leaving our beautiful coastal areas towing a boat or trailer. Interestingly, one volunteer even found a $20 note beside the road.

In other positive news, the presence of Navua sedge rust is increasing in our shire. This biological control appears to be effective where it has taken hold, reducing seed production, weakening the plant and in some cases leading to plant death. Where rust is visible, it is recommended not to disturb the sedge to allow the rust to spread naturally. Rust spores are dispersed by wind, so we hope to see its continued spread across the region.

Where rust is not present, landholders are encouraged to control Navua sedge using a registered herbicide in accordance with label directions. For more information, please contact Council’s Biosecurity Team on 4776 4088.