Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.
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There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.
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Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.
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The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."
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The Hinchinbrook Way invites you on a journey guided by local storytellers, weaving rich tales that celebrate culture, heritage, and adventure.
This unique pathway draws from over 60,000 years of living history, where Indigenous and immigrant voices come together. Their stories, steeped in tradition, are lovingly passed from generation to generation, shaping the vibrant spirit of our region.
Even the logo tells a story. It reflects the Rainbow Serpent, follows the winding Herbert River, traces the flow of Wallaman Falls, echoes the lines of cultivated fields, and playfully nods to Italian heritage with strands of colourful spaghetti.
More than just a journey, The Hinchinbrook Way is a celebration of lifestyle—relaxed, authentic, and set against the backdrop of some of the most stunning landscapes in North Queensland.
Ingham State High School students were recently invited to participate in the 2025 edition of the Illuminate program. The program developed by the Townsville City Galleries and Visual Art Teacher, Rose Rush, was aimed at enriching arts practice for Senior Art students in the Townsville Region.
This was the fifth year in which Ingham High students have attended the program and once again it proved to be a very rewarding opportunity to build skills and knowledge from key artists, Tamika Grant-Iramu and Lisa Ashcroft. Each student created two resolved artworks from the Whimsical Sculpture and the Organic Patterns & Forms workshops and especially enjoyed working amongst their like-minded creative peers.
A highlight for the attending students was also being able to experience Behind the Lines - The Year in Political Cartoons 2024 exhibition, which is currently exhibiting at Pinnacles Gallery.
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While it might seem like a big job, refreshing your walls can be achieved in 4 basic steps and it’s an easy way to refresh or completely change the look and feel of a room. Pick a room for each weekend, put on your favourite music and get painting!
Before any paint tin gets opened, investing in the right tools for the job will not only stand you in good stead for your current paint job but any future projects. Here is a list of equipment you will need before getting started: Bucket & sponge, Sugar Soap, All Purpose Filler, Masking tape, Paintbrush, Cloth, Drop sheet, Sandpaper & block, Stirrer, Roller & tray, Extension pole, Interior (available in Matt, Low Sheen, Semi-gloss, Gloss), and all can be found at 100 Herbert Steet's Mitre10!
1. Prep - Prepping your walls properly will make the painting process a much easier one with a great result. Cover or remove furniture and lay down a drop sheet. To prepare the walls: wash down with Sugar Soap, fill any cracks with All Purpose Filler (allowing 30 minutes for dry time), sand back and dust off. Spot prime any patches with Multi Prep. You will then need to mask the trims for cutting in. This means putting masking tape along the edge of the wall, skirting boards or cornices so that the neighbouring wall, floor or ceiling does not get any unwanted paint on it.
2. Cut In - Cutting in means painting the corners or around fiddly bits like vents and light fittings with a paintbrush. Basically, spots that you wouldn’t be able to reach with a paint roller. Before dipping in your paintbrush to paint, mix the paint with a stirrer in a circular lifting motion.
3. Paint - Now it’s time for the fun part, load the roller with an even amount of paint. Start at the left edge of the wall and roll in an overlapping ‘W’ shape from top to bottom, this ensures even distribution of the paint.
4. Lay Off - Once you have applied 3-4 rollers full of paint, and before the paint has dried, it is time to lay off. This means rolling the roller (when it is ready for more paint, not loaded with paint) with no pressure in a straight line (vertically) starting at the top to ensure even coverage. Continue this process until you have completed the entire wall or section of wall.
There you have it! It's as simple as those four steps and the more you paint, the faster and more efficient you'll become. If you have questions about any part of the process or need advice for your next project come and chat in store at 100 Herbert Steet, Ingahm, Mitre10.
For more than 32 years – including the two decades I have lived in Kennedy – our proud communities here in Hinchinbrook have been represented by the same voice in Canberra.
But I ask you: has our region been taken seriously when big decisions are made? Has Hinchinbrook benefited from the transformational infrastructure we’ve been trying for years to receive? Has enough been done to give our kids and grandkids a reason to stay here?
Maybe it’s time for a fresh approach, and I’m ready to deliver it.
I’m Annette Swaine, your LNP candidate for Kennedy, and I’m proud to call North Queensland home. I’ve lived, worked and raised my family right here in the Kennedy electorate for the past two decades. I know this region. I’ve walked its streets, fished its waters, and stood side by side with its people through good times and bad.
I grew up in the Torres Strait Islands in the commercial fishing industry, learning early the value of hard work and community. I served as a Queensland Police Sergeant in Innisfail, Mount Isa and Cardwell, specialising in the Child Protection and Investigation Unit. After leaving the police, I ran a small fishing charter and tourism business out of Cardwell.
Everything I’ve done in life has been shaped by service and community.
That’s why I’m putting my hand up – because more can be done to bring about positive change for the people of Kennedy.
Under a Dutton Liberal National Government, we will always fight for farmers, small businesses, and tradies. We will introduce a $12,000 incentive for small and medium businesses to take on new apprentices and trainees in critical skill areas. That means more local jobs and a stronger workforce for the future.
We’ll deliver immediate tax relief and cut fuel taxes. We’ll also reintroduce the $30,000 Instant Asset Write-Off, giving our cane farmers, graziers and other businesses a tax cut when they buy new equipment.
Unlike Labor, we will never tax unrealised capital gains – a policy that would force some small business owners and farmers to sell their assets just to pay the tax. I stand for lower, simpler, and fairer taxes, and responsible budget management.
Under a Dutton Liberal National government, we will establish a dedicated $20 billion Regional Australia Future Fund from mining revenue to pump money directly into the regions and ensure the Australian way of life is continued in our communities.
Kennedy needs a representative who not only understands local issues but someone who sits with a party of government and is in the room when decisions are made.
I’m not here just to make up the numbers and I’m not here to discredit the work of our current MP – I’m here to offer the chance to forge a new path. Because after 32 years, we need a different approach, and I have the local knowledge, experience, and determination to be that difference.
Last week, the R U OK? Conversation Convoy made its way through Hinchinbrook Shire on its way up the coast. The convoy gave people an opportunity to talk in a comfortable setting outside of their usual circle, opening up new ways to connect, and provided someone to listen and to understand what they’ve been through. Parked in Ingham's central Rotary Park, they had a great turn out - with many townspeople seizing the opportunity to stop by, grab a free hot drink, a snag, and have a chat or a game of chess with one of the members of the Convoy team out under the bright yellow umbrellas or in the comfort of the caravan.
Deputy Mayor Mary Brown attended the Convoy and was blown away by its presentation, saying, "I think it's fantastic, with a very relaxed and welcoming environment, and that’s what it’s all about, isn’t it? There’s no judgement."
Ms. Brown also stated that, "Everything in town looks clean and lovely now, you wouldn’t know we had a flood. But emotionally, there’s still a lot of instability around."
Lachlan Searle, the Community Director for the Conversation Convoy, said that the journey is truly "all about meeting people in their hometowns, in their communities, and encouraging them to look out for friends and family and have a conversation if they see signs that someone might be struggling."
He recognised their trials and hoped the convoy would help ease worries, saying, "There's a lot of pressure at the moment with the cost of living, as the floods up here in North Queensland have made a very difficult start to the year. So we're here to remind people that you can look out for your friends, your family, your colleagues, and you can ask them, 'Are You Ok?' on any day of the year."
Specifically, he noted that "The Conversation Convoy is deliberately stopping at places like Ingham, Cardwell, Tully, Lucinda, so we can check in and see communities who have been hit really hard by those February floods. Those who are still waiting on things to settle down, waiting for insurance companies to get back to them. Making sure communities understand that they can check in with each other by simply sitting down, finding the time to ask, Are you ok?"
Billy Cheeseman, a member of the R U OK? Conversation Convoy wrapped it all up nicely, saying, "We come into towns to remind people that all it takes is a conversation to change your life. We make it simple by following just a few small steps to encourage both action and check-ins." Which is so important, keep checking in with each other and remember with enough community support, we can help everyone feel OK.
They say politics hardens you – and in some ways, that's true. But for me, it's never been about the politics. It's about the people. What keeps me going is what's always kept me going – a deep, stubborn love for North Queensland and a refusal to accept second best for the communities that call it home.
Take Hinchinbrook, for example. Whether it's fighting for phone coverage, medical services, roads or flood recovery, we deserve what Brisbane gets and what all Australians deserve – the basics done right, and the backing of government that actually cares.
Late last year, we saw the completion of the Telstra tower at Forrest Beach – something locals had been fighting for – for many years. It was a hard slog, but we got there together. That tower might look like steel and wires to some, but to the people of Forrest Beach, it's safety, connection, and inclusion in the modern world. Thanks must go to Nick Dametto and the community, who fought every step of the way and made it happen.
In Cardwell, we went toe-to-toe with health ministers to ensure the local GP didn't close its doors. When others gave up, we kept going. And thanks to the tireless efforts of people like Julie McKay and Carmen Edmondson – two of the most unrelenting tigers I've ever met – we kept vital healthcare in the region.
When the rains hit in February this year, we stood shoulder-to-shoulder with farmers, small business owners, and the community. After relentless pressure, we secured expanded Category D disaster grants – up to $75,000 – a critical lifeline. But our fight isn't over. Businesses that suffered devastating losses but weren't directly inundated, are still being left out. That's not good enough, and I'll keep pressing until that's fixed.
I've also fought hard to ensure our infrastructure is up to scratch. The Ollera Creek Bridge rebuild didn't just happen – it came after we got the PM and Premier to visit the site and get the works done. And just over two months ago, I secured the final 11kms of bitumen for the Kennedy Development Road inland from Hughenden. It might seem far away to some, but it's a game-changer for the North – offering a vital inland escape route when floods cut us off along the coast.
I know what it takes to get things done. I've got wisdom, mongrel, and patriot to keep fighting – because the North deserves nothing less.
Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism has been progressively increasing the support it offers its members and local business, over the past nine months, following the engagement of a part time marketing and administrative support officer. Having the skills and resources to provide this support, has enabled Chamber to deliver numerous targeted campaigns that has enabled local businesses to participate and grow their marketing reach. Whilst Chamber has very limited financial resources to dedicate to marketing, they use a strategic approach of combining print, radio and online platforms to achieve their promotional objectives.
During 2024, Chamber worked closely Life Publishing Group to assist in providing networks and supporting the return a local newspaper to the region. Following the launch of the hugely successful Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, Chamber has continued to provide a weekly update on the current issues that are impacting the business community.
In the online arena, Chamber has been strategic in targeting the audience, relative to the campaigns developed. These have included a very strong “Shop Local - The Hinchinbrook Way – Buy Local: Shop Local: Support Local” campaign which was launched in August 2024 and has been building momentum since that time. The November to Christmas period saw the very successful “Shop & Win – The Hinchinbrook Way” promotion rolled out, which saw many local businesses participate and gain an increased exposure during this period.
Moving into the New Year saw Chamber embark on a promotion of local employment opportunities and then support a recovery campaign, showcasing local businesses and tourism operators, as they were able to resume trading. Chamber has also focussed on a tourist visitation promotion leading into school holidays and the Easter period, reminding tourists the Shire is “open for business”. Many local businesses have capitalised on these campaigns showcasing the shire and services provided, to embrace the opportunity to raise their individual business profile.
Cr Marbelli and I had the privilege of attending the Herbert River Museum and Gallery Annual General Meeting last Friday. It was great to see the good turnout of members and the number of volunteers prepared to join the committee of this amazing group that present, maintain and showcase a wealth of memorabilia portraying our district’s rich history and heritage since establishment in the 1800's. The museum, situated in Macrossan Street Halifax, would not be what it is without these dedicated volunteers who all work countless hours to ensure a memorable visitor experience for all. This year has been all the more intense for the volunteers who have had to deal with flooding of the premises and extensive clean up operations due to mould affecting much of the display. But the committee has persevered and the museum is back in operation in time for our winter visitors. Returning members of the executive committee are President Coral Gard, Secretary & Grants Officer Janet Astorquia and Treasurer Therese Mitchell. Thank you for all that you do on behalf of our community.
With Easter fast approaching, Council staff and contractors have been focussing on restoring access to our well known camping hotspots including Wallaman Falls and Jourama. Wallaman Falls in particular has proved quite a challenge with around thirty landslip affected areas assessed and short term hazard mitigation measures to support ongoing access and safety work undertaken. With emergent works now undertaken, Council is working in coordination with state agencies to meet the requirements of the disaster relief funding arrangements and Wet Tropics Management Authority guidelines to ensure permanent remediation works are undertaken as soon as possible.
The Mount Fox range has also proven very challenging due to the tremendous rain experienced over the past three months. Significant work has been performed to ensure temporary safety measures to allow access for our residents at the top of the range. Risk assessments and engineering evaluations are ongoing with the design phase for permanent slope stabilisation now initiated. I would like to remind all that the road remains under load restriction, due to continuing wet subgrade and road surrounds, and that extreme care continues to be needed whilst travelling on the road, particularly at night.
Happy Easter everyone, travel safely and have an enjoyable break with family and friends.
A heartwarming new initiative in North Queensland has already begun changing lives, giving young people in Townsville and the Hinchinbrook Shire the support they need to build bright futures. Set to Succeed, a Townsville-based not-for-profit, has launched a life-changing pilot program that not only helps young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people kick-start their careers in automotive, construction, and energy - but also ensures they have a safe and supportive place to call home.
The program has been made possible through partnerships with Mike Carney Toyota, AMA Group, and the Rotary Club of Thuringowa Central and aims to remove the housing barriers that often deter young people from staying within the Hinchinbrook region to peruse employment opportunities. Two houses have been provided to offer safe and supportive accommodation for five young people, along with a live-in support coordinator who will provide mentorship, life skills, and daily assistance.
Local businesses and community organisations have rallied behind the project in recognition of the urgent need for housing solutions to complement the region’s growing job market.
“Housing, Life Skills, Financial Literacy and Wellbeing are key challenges facing young people who want to continue their employment and training in Townsville (and Hinchinbrook),” shared Chris Carney of Mike Carney Group.
Antonio Winterstein founded Set to Succeed to further support the professional development and training of North Queensland’s future leaders, and he hopes the program will continue to flourish in the coming years.
“I founded Set to Succeed alongside others that have a drive to change the future of young people in North Queensland,” shared Antonio.
“We are so grateful to our industry and community supporters who understand our vision and want to be part of the solution.”
The pilot program will serve as a stepping stone for a larger, purpose-built facility in the future. With strong community and industry backing, Set to Succeed is paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for young people in North Queensland.
To learn more or support the initiative, visit www.settosucceed.com.au.
Although your bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in your home, the space still deserves as much love as any other! Whether you’re a novice decorator looking for quick fixes or a DIY enthusiast ready to tackle a project, there are plenty of ways to refresh your space without breaking the bank.
Simple Updates for Instant Impact
• Swap Out Accessories: One of the easiest ways to give your bathroom a fresh feel is by changing out the little details. Pop in a new candle, handwash dispenser, toothbrush holder or decorative tray for your toiletries to instantly elevate the space.
• Update Hardware: If your vanity is looking a little tired, bust out the screwdriver and quickly replace a couple of drawer handles and cabinet knobs with modern or stylish alternatives.
• Introduce Greenery: A small indoor plant, such as a fern or peace lily, can breathe life into your bathroom and improve air quality.
• Fresh Linens and a Shower Curtain: A new bathmat, plush towels, or a bold-patterned shower curtain can go a long way in adding colour and personality to the space.
**For the DIY Go-Getters
• Repaint or Refresh Your Walls: A fresh coat of paint in a soft neutral or a bold accent colour can transform the mood of your bathroom. For a stylish upgrade, consider adding peel-and-stick wallpaper for a statement wall.
• Upgrade Your Mirror: Instead of a plain mirror, opt for a framed one or add a DIY frame to your existing mirror for a high-end look on a budget.
• Install Open Shelving: Floating shelves can add both storage and style. Use them to display candles, neatly folded towels, or small decorative pieces.
• Replace Your Vanity or Sink: If you’re ready for a more hands-on project, swapping out an outdated vanity for a more modern version can dramatically change the feel of your bathroom.
Whether you’re making small changes or taking on a full-scale DIY project, these ideas will help you create a bathroom that feels fresh, stylish, and welcoming without the need for a full renovation!
With the Easter school holidays underway, Far North Queensland Police Services are ramping up their efforts on both land and sea to ensure locals and visitors stay safe throughout the busy holiday period.
From now until the 21st of April, drivers and boaters alike can expect to see a higher police presence as part of high-visibility operations across the region.
Cairns Water Police Officer in Charge, Sergeant Andrew Ibell, reminded locals to be prepared before hitting the water.
“It’s important to keep an eye on the weather conditions, and make sure you pack safety equipment including lifejackets and an EPRIB and always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return,” Sergeant Ibell said.
“Alerting family or friends or reporting your trip to the local Volunteer Marine Rescue group or Coast Guard could help save your life in the event of an emergency.”
His warning follows a recent rescue off the coast of Hope Vale, where three men were left stranded overnight on Boulder Reef after the propeller on their tinny fell into the water. The men were eventually located on a sand cay at around 2am by the Rescue 510 helicopter and taken to Cooktown for treatment.
“Fortunately, no one was seriously injured in this incident, but it highlights the importance of having safety equipment when venturing out to the reef,” Sergeant Ibell said.
The Queensland Police Service continues to stress the vast majority of serious crashes are avoidable and by being mindful of the Fatal Five, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death.
For more tips on staying safe this school holiday season, visit: www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads.
Mental health is a crucial component to a healthy, happy and productive life. For better or for worse we can never escape our own minds and as most readers probably know, the little voice in our heads is constantly speaking to us and sometimes the voice does not say nice things. For this reason it is important to talk about the inner workings of our minds as the little voice is not always right. So it is essential to normalise conversations surrounding mental well- being, share personal experiences when comfortable and acknowledge emotions openly.
Authentic and genuine conversation nurture connections, reduce isolations and build strong and supportive community relationships. Therefore it is helpful to share our thoughts and feelings with someone, a family member, friend or mental health professional as they can provide valuable insights, insights which may be difficult to see when we are limited to the vantage point that is the inside of our heads.
A stigma surrounds the topic of mental health, especially in regional areas such as Hinchinbrook, and dispelling this stigma begins with open, honest and frank conversations. Although there has been improvement in recent years, conversations surrounding mental health still carry with them a shadow of shame and misunderstanding.
Another key element is education. Inform yourself and help inform others of mental health conditions, treatments and resources. Arming ourselves with knowledge helps us dispel the myths and encourages informed and supportive conversations.
Lastly, engage in active listening. When people share their struggles, give them your attention and spare them your judgment. Often people simply need to be heard and validated. With the power of open dialogue regarding mental health we can foster empathy, reduce shame and create happier and healthier communities.
Tips on Breaking the Stigma: How to Talk About Mental Health Openly:
Start the Conversation Early
Don’t wait for a crisis. Begin talking about mental health in everyday conversations, just like you would any other health issue. Normalise the topic by casually bringing it up in social settings.
Be Honest and Vulnerable
Share your own experiences, struggles, or mental health journeys, if comfortable. When people see others being open, they feel encouraged to do the same and are less likely to feel ashamed or isolated.
Use Positive Language
Avoid using judgmental or stigmatising terms like "crazy" or "weak." Instead, use respectful language that focuses on mental health as an important part of overall well-being. For example, "I’ve been struggling with anxiety, and I’m seeking support."
Listen Without Judgment
When someone opens up about their mental health, be an active listener. Avoid offering solutions unless asked. Instead, offer empathy and let them know you’re there to support them, not to judge.
Encourage Professional Help
Talking openly about the importance of therapy, counselling, or other mental health services helps reduce the stigma around seeking professional support. Normalise the idea that seeing a therapist is as common and important as seeing a doctor for physical health concerns.
Educate Yourself and Others
Learn about mental health conditions and share what you’ve learned with others. Understanding the facts can help dispel myths and misconceptions, which are often the root cause of stigma.
Respect Privacy and Boundaries
Recognise that everyone has different comfort levels when it comes to sharing their mental health experiences. Respect boundaries and don’t pressure someone to talk if they’re not ready.
Use Your Platform for Advocacy
If you’re in a position to do so (whether through social media, your job, or community involvement), advocate for mental health awareness and resources. Sharing articles, personal stories, or positive messages about mental health can help normalise the conversation.
Encourage Open Dialogue in the Workplace or School
Advocate for mental health resources at work or school and create an open, non-judgmental environment where discussing mental health is welcomed. Encourage regular check-ins and support for mental well-being.
Show Empathy, Not Sympathy
Mental health struggles are not a pity party. Instead of offering sympathy, show empathy by acknowledging the person’s feelings and validating their experiences. Say things like, "I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but I’m here for you."
Growing your own herbs at home is an easy and rewarding way to elevate your meals while also enhancing your living space. Whether you have a garden, a windowsill, or even a small balcony, there’s always room to grow fresh herbs.
Top Tips:
Choose the Right Herbs for a tropical climate
The warm, humid environment means herbs that thrive in heat and moisture will do best. Some great options for our region include basil, mint, oregano, lemongrass, and coriander. Herbs like rosemary and thyme, which prefer drier conditions, may not thrive as well in the humid climate but can still grow with extra care in drier, well-drained soils.
Sunlight Considerations
While most herbs need plenty of sunlight, North QLD's intense sun can sometimes be too harsh, especially during summer months. You may need to provide some afternoon shade for your herbs to prevent them from getting scorched.
Watering
Due to the region's humidity and rain, overwatering can be a risk. Make sure your pots or garden beds have excellent drainage to avoid waterlogging. Be cautious about watering too frequently during the wet season, as the natural rainfall might provide sufficient moisture.
Protect from Pests
Tropical climates can attract various pests, so keep an eye on your herbs and use organic deterrents or barriers to protect them.
On Sunday 6 April 2025, I had the pleasure of attending the Ingham Region Catholic Parish celebrations of the Jubilee for the World of Volunteers, an occasion to honour and show our appreciation to all the valued volunteers working in our district.
It was an opportunity to express our community’s gratitude and appreciation to the many people who stepped forward and volunteered to assist during the recent flood event, and an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the incredible selflessness and dedication of so many in our community that help throughout the year in our district in so many different vocations.
We must rightly recognise and formally thank the army of dedicated people who devote significant time and effort to assisting our community such as the State Emergency Service volunteers, the Salvation Army, Red Cross and Rural Fire Services.
We also have our volunteer community organisations such as Lions International and Rotary. We have organisations such as Meals on Wheels that could not function without their valued delivery drivers, and sporting fixtures for the juniors of our community would not exist but for the generosity of many who give their time so selflessly every week to make sure that grounds are prepared and matches organised.
Council's very own TYTO operations would not be supported to the current level of activity but for the tremendous volunteer support it receives, and these examples are but just a few of the areas that immediately come to mind where volunteers are assisting and making a substantial difference in all walks of life in our community.
I would also like to acknowledge the many members of our community who simply hooked in and helped where they thought help was needed as our recent flood crisis unfolded.
Whether it was manning a boat and helping with evacuations, providing shelter, cooking, sharing or distributing food and supplies, helping to clean up or moving equipment or furnishings, or simply offering emotional support, efforts no matter how small or trivial that you think they were, was nothing short of heroic to others impacted by the event, to some who lost a lot or everything.
These ordinary everyday citizens from all walks of life, including many from our various sporting clubs as well, showed the true sense of community, the caring neighbourly principle and the power of community — how together, we can face challenges and overcome adversity.
You put aside your own needs, your own safety, and your own comfort to help those in need in a manner that clearly evidenced that spirit and compassion for others still exists in our community.
Volunteers like you remind us that in times of crisis, there is always hope, because of people like you who dedicate their time and energy to making our community a better place.
On behalf of Council and our Hinchinbrook community, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our volunteers and we want you to know that your efforts on our behalf are truly appreciated and make a distinct difference in our community.
Thank you everyone.
The Dalrymple Gap walking track follows the route of a road built in the 1860s, that in turn roughly followed the route taken by Aboriginal people across the Cardwell Range.
Teamsters used his trail to take supplies from Cardwell to Valley of Lagoons and other inland stations. Later this trail was used as a stock route; and cattle fattened on the Mount Fox tablelands were taken to the coast.
Near the top of Dalrymple Gap, on the coastal side, is an historic brick-lined bridge.
The bricks were brought from Scotland and the bridge has an interesting stone-pitched face.
The Dalrymple Gap walking track allows visitors to experience some of the beauty and diversity of Girringun National Park.
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