As of today, the Hinchinbrook Region has a new free weekly community newspaper, and it is largely thanks to all the people on the front page of this first edition.

Free weekly newspapers are supported by the local business community and each business you read about in this publication is a local champion, they are the reason this newspaper has been made possible.

The Founding Advertising Partners, a group of local business owners who have all contributed to starting this newspaper. Photo credit: Rachael Smith.

Guided By Council, Brought To You By The Business Community

A positive and proactive Council is at the heart of every dynamic community and that has certainly been true for the Hinchinbrook Shire Regional Council which has been the driving force behind re-instating a dedicated local newspaper for the region.

Earlier this year, Mayor Ramon Jayo was visiting his friend and former Burdekin Mayor, Lyn McLaughlin, when he picked up a copy of Burdekin Life Newspaper.

“I grabbed a copy and brought it up here,” Mayor Jayo recalls, commenting that he loved the look of the paper and wished his community had something similar.

“A few days later, I was at the Volunteers Recognition Ceremony,” he added.

“Mrs Elena Mason came up to me and explained she’d just been on holiday to the Whitsundays and brought back a copy of the Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper – I noticed it was the same – that’s when I decided to get in touch.”

Burdekin Life Newspaper and Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper are part of a small, independent and family-owned business called Life Publishing Group which was established in the Whitsundays almost 15 years ago.

During this time, they have been producing two glossy magazines – a lifestyle publication named Core Life and a travel magazine entitled Tripping - both still exist today.

Four years ago, however, when the company heard that the printed version of 14 regional newspapers were being closed overnight and moved online, they decided to take action.

“We were determined to bring the community back their free voice in print,” said co-owner Rebecca Douthwaite.

“Every community deserves to have access to free local news – whether it’s the sporting results, real estate information, events and entertainment, and of course things like the funeral notices.

“Living in a regional area means many people are not online as much as they are in the cities, this makes the regional newspapers more important than they have ever been.”

In May this year, Mayor Jayo called Life Publishing Group’s Editor in Chief, Rachael Smith, and asked if the company would be interested in starting a newspaper in the region.

“When I received the call, I was very excited,” said Ms Smith.

“He called while Bec and I were at the Queensland Country Press Awards conference and later that night we won Best Free Newspaper in Queensland for Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper.

“I think this was a good omen!”

By August this year, Rebecca and Rachael attended a Council meeting at the local Council Chambers and they were excited to see the warmth and welcoming response to the newspaper, both at the meeting and when they spoke to local business owners.

“When we launched Burdekin Life Newspaper the year before it was because we were also invited by the local community,” shared Rachael.

“It is a wonderful feeling to be invited and gives a bigger meaning to what we are trying to achieve.

“Right from the beginning we wanted to give regional communities back their free voice in print – we want to help people feel connected, we want to help preserve history as it’s happening and every single person in our team deeply cares about the community.

“We would like to thank all of our Founding Advertising Partners for being part of the group of local businesses which have enabled a dedicated local newspaper to return, without them, this would not have been possible.”

“I would also like to thank Mayor Jayo and Deputy Mayor Mary Brown who have both been instrumental in bringing this publication to life.”

Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper comes out every Tuesday and is free for the community with 3000 copies published every week.

The newspaper is available at 15 dedicated distribution stands and over 50 other pick-up points from Ingham and surrounding townships through to Cardwell and Rollingstone.

The entire publication is also available for free online every week.

Councillors Andrew Carr and Pat Lynch, Deputy Mayor Mary Brown, Mayor Ramon Jayo, Councillors Donna Marbelli, Kate Milton and Mark Spina. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Hi Everyone

Welcome to the first edition of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, it is an absolute honour to bring a newspaper back to the Hinchinbrook community.

My name is Daniel and I will be the go-to guy for everything involving Hinchinbrook. In March of this year, I moved from Adelaide to the Whitsundays, where I have been a Cadet Journalist for Whitsunday Life Newspaper, up until now.

When our Editor-In-Chief, Rachael Smith, asked me if I would like to be part of the launch team for Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, I said yes almost immediately.

I was eager to take on the responsibility and to meet the Hinchinbrook community, which I was told was lovely.

And, now that I’ve spent a week in the community, I couldn’t agree more!

From my short time in the region already everyone has been incredibly accepting, encouraging, welcoming and warm - thank you all so much for this.

Whilst I am the man here in region, I cannot do anything I do without the amazing team that we have, from Rachael to our Sales Manager Trish (who many of you have already met) to our fantastic Production Manager, Crissy.

I would also like to acknowledge my fellow journalist, Chelsea Ravizza, who is from the Burdekin and will be working with me to write a lot of this newspaper. We also have our Mackay Editor, Amanda Wright, who will be overseeing our in-depth weekly rural section.

In addition, we also have a wonderful team in our central office - Ruby who works as social media manager and production, Ruth our Whitsunday journalist and our three amazing graphic designers Taylor, Lara and Marc.

Lastly, I would like to thank our owners Bec and Paul for providing me with this amazing opportunity.

I cannot wait to learn more about the region and would love your help. If you have a story idea please reach out, and please enjoy this first edition of Hinchinbrook Life.

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Coming into the Christmas season, it’s important to think about those that are less fortunate than us, and once again, the incredible team at Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre are helping people who need it most.

For as long as the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre can remember they have donated gifts to vulnerable families over the Christmas period.

This initiative is supported by the Hinchinbrook Shire Council via The Mayor’s Appeal.

Members of the public, schools, churches, other not for profit organisations, big corporations, and local businesses are all encouraged get behind it.

Chief Executive Officer of the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre says she loves that the community continue to support the appeal.

“It's amazing we have such a generous community here, with both their time and their money,” said Linda.

“Around this time of year we have people ringing up asking how they can help, walking in the door with donations to contribute – it’s wonderful to see so many people care!

“Often there will be grandparents bringing their grandchildren and encouraging generosity through the generations.”

Every year the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre organise presents for around 100 people, ranging from families to single people and couples. All of whom are experiencing financial hardship.

Last year 20 large boxes of gifts were given away to the community, allowing all to enjoy a festive period.

With the huge ongoing support from the local community, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre would like to say thank you to everyone for their donations.

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Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre have already started wrapping in preparation. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Originally from New South Wales, Harley Magennis has become a bit of an Ingham celebrity, regularly stopping for chats with the many friendly faces he sees around town.

But did you know that Harley is one of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper’s new distributors?

We caught up with Harley as he was preparing for his new role, and he said he is excited to get started.

Harley loves talking to everybody in town, stopping for friendly conversations, and it is credentials like these that made him a perfect candidate for the newspaper delivery job.

As a local, Harley said he is looking forward to reading Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper and that he is eager to read a newspaper that contains news from the Hinchinbrook region.

Having extremely good social skills is something that Harley already has, but distributing this paper will allow him to further those skills.

When Harley isn’t distributing papers, you can find him playing darts at the local club house or you can find him on the jetty in Lucinda doing his favourite activity, fishing.

Harley is extremely excited for his new job, if you see him around town be sure to say hello to him and pick up a copy of the brand-new Hinchinbrook Life newspaper while you are at it.

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Harley Magennis is keen for his new role as a Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper Distributor. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Hinchinbrook Shire residents will be thrilled to see a dedicated printed local newspaper circulating our district once again. I’m sure many would agree, we have missed reading a region-specific paper that is focused solely on the Herbert District.

Local papers do more than just report the news – they help bind a community together. For a region like ours, it’s crucial to have a platform where we can share our victories, address the challenges, and keep informed about the things important to us.

The Hinchinbrook Life sets out to provide our community with a direct line to stay connected and engaged with what’s happening across every corner of Hinchinbrook.

As a weekly contributor, I will be using the Hinchinbrook Life to share updates on the work we are doing in Parliament, to highlight key local issues, and keep you informed on progress regarding policy and projects important to our community.

Having a dedicated, local publication will mean communications from our office, that are pivotal to the Hinchinbrook Shire part of the electorate can be more focused and specific.

This edition of Hinchinbrook Life coincides with the first parliamentary sitting week of the 58th Parliament of Queensland, the first since the October election, which I will be attending.

The week will begin with formalities and the swearing-in ceremony. After the initial two days of formalities, proceedings will commence as per usual. I’m already looking forward to the first round of Question Time and the introduction of bills.

As your re-elected Member for Hinchinbrook, I would like to reaffirm my commitment to every one of you. I’m committed to using my time in the office and parliament to advocate for legislative and policy changes that directly affect the way we live, work and play here in North Queensland. I will continue to fight for the infrastructure necessary to support the liveability and growth of our region.
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Nick Dametto MP
Member for Hinchinbrook

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Aerial control of the feral pig population within the Hinchinbrook Shire will commence in December, with the support of the Council, Department of Environment, Science and Innovation, and the Department of Resources.

An increasing area of concern, the feral pigs have directly caused damage to local ecosystems and agricultural land. The aerial shoot will target areas under the management of participating landholders and organisations, spanning from Forrest Beach in the north to Crystal Creek in the south.

The operation is scheduled to take place on Monday, 2 December, and Tuesday, 3 December, between 5am and 7pm each day, weather permitting.

For public safety, certain areas will be temporarily closed during the shoot, and access to the National Parks Estate, Bronte Road, and the Halifax Bay Wetlands will be restricted during the operation hours. However, access to huts on Bronte Road will remain available outside of the planned control times.

The aim of the aerial shoot is to manage the feral pig population in a controlled manner, reducing their numbers and minimising the damage caused to the local environment.

For more information or to clarify any concerns regarding the program, members of the public are encouraged to contact the Council’s Biosecurity Team at 4776 4800.

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Dear Sponsors, Community Members, and the Maraka Committee,

On behalf of the Maraka Committee, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and dedication to the success of the 2024 Maraka Festival.

A special thank you to our esteemed judges: Emma Oliveri from Ergon Energy, Chris McHugh from Mission Beach Ex-Serviceman, and Ellie Knight from 3 RAR. Your commitment to traveling to Ingham and dedicating your time for the Maraka Queen and Princess quests is immensely appreciated.

Congratulations to our Maraka Queen, Montana Bain, and to our runner-up, Johanna Buckle, along with Rachel Hallam, who was awarded Miss Personality. A heartfelt congratulations also to Hazel Cary, crowned Maraka Princess 2024, and Millie Bartolini, our runner-up.

We also want to acknowledge all our wonderful contestants: Briella McLaughlin, Sophie Henderson, Mariah Foster, Yasi Briody, Mikayla Marmara, Jessie Bell, Millie Bartolini, Aurora Blewitt, Tilly Pappin, Maliah Bailey, and Hazel Cary.

Your participation enriches our community spirit.

We are deeply grateful to our Diamond Sponsors: Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Windlab Pty Ltd, Wilmar Sugar, and Triple M. Your generous support has been crucial to our festival's success.

Our Platinum Sponsors, NQIB, Royal Hotel, Townsville Lime & Gypsum, and Carey Group, as well as our Gold and Silver Sponsors also deserve our sincere thanks for their ongoing commitment.

I would like to acknowledge the hard work of our service clubs—Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook Inc, Lions Club of Ingham, Lions Club of Lower Herbert, and Apex Australia—as well as our dedicated Maraka Committee volunteers. Your countless hours of effort do not go unnoticed and are essential in making the festival a reality.

To the Hinchinbrook Community, thank you for your incredible support. Together, we celebrate the spirit of Maraka!

We would also appreciate your feed back please see the attached Q Code.

Contributed with thanks to President Patrick Lynch

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Residents of the Hinchinbrook region are invited to attend a community event aimed at raising awareness about proposed industrial developments in the Mount Fox area. Organised by Rainforest Reserves Australia, the event will feature the premiere of a new short film highlighting the potential impact of these projects on the Mount Fox Wet Tropics region.

The free event will take place on Wednesday, 4 December, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall from 6pm to 8pm. Attendees will have the chance to learn of the implications of large-scale industrial energy complexes planned for the area, including a Battery Energy Storage system and surrounding wind turbines up to 300 meters high.

“The implications of this project extend beyond Mount Fox, linking to several industrial wind and solar developments,” added Rainforest Reserves Australia’s Carolyn Emms.

“The Michael Creek Valley Action Group is currently challenging the Hinchinbrook Council's approval, which has sparked considerable concern within the community, especially given the numerous objections that have been raised.”

The Michael Creek Valley Action Group has been vocal in its efforts, emphasising the importance of community involvement in protecting the region’s unique ecosystems.

“The beauty and uniqueness of the Mount Fox area is in danger with this proposed development,” explained Michael Creek Valley Action Group Chairperson, Kim Armstrong.

“We are aware we are not the only community being subjected to inappropriate land use, and habitat destruction associated with renewable energy developments, and we need to make the public aware of the real costs and devastation they are causing.”

The film premiere serves as a platform to amplify these concerns and encourage residents to take action.

“We’re excited to support the Michael Creek Valley Action Group Mount Fox, in their efforts to preserve the Mount Fox region,” said Carolyn.

What: Save Mount Fox from Industrialisation Movie Premier.
When: Wednesday, 4 December, 6pm to 8pm.
Where: Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, 25 Lannercost Street.
More Information: Email info@rainforestreserves.org.au.

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The future of Mount Fox is currently under great discussion among the wider community, with locals invited to attend a short film screening on Wednesday 4 December.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Mary Venables, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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