The government has delivered a new world-class hiking experience on Hinchinbrook Island. Thorsborne Trail is now complete and open for bookings, with the 32-kilometre walk set to begin in May 2026 once the wet season has concluded. Thorsborne Trail is the third ecotourism project completed in the last six months as part of Destination 2045, the State’s 20-year tourism plan. The government is delivering a fresh start for Queensland’s environment after a decade of limited ecotourism development. Offering an immersive walking experience in one of Australia’s most revered natural environments, Thorsborne Trail provides four-day, three-night hikes through the spectacular landscape of Hinchinbrook Island. The trail is a flagship initiative under Destination 2045, demonstrating the government’s commitment to unlocking ecotourism, creating jobs, and providing new opportunities for operators. This rapid delivery of completed projects follows a period of limited ecotourism approvals, with only three projects approved in the past decade. Since taking office, the government has unveiled Thorsborne Trail alongside Ngaro Track and Twin Bridges, with many more projects planned. Guided walks led by world-class tourism operator World Expeditions will begin after the wet season, while unguided hiking permits will be free for the 2026 hiking season. Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the government was delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy. “We promised 45 ecotourism experiences when we launched Destination 2045 – to have already delivered three in time for Christmas shows spectacular progress for Queensland’s tourism industry,” Minister Powell said. “By championing projects like this, we can showcase Queensland’s incredible natural landscapes, delivering more experiences in our globally-acclaimed environment that inspire future conservationists to protect it. “Step aside New Zealand, move over Tasmania – Queensland is setting a new bar for ecotourism.” Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said this was a momentous occasion for his community. “Locals know this place is spectacular, but now our piece of paradise has earned its place on the world stage,” Mr Chiesa said. “This is the sort of experience that people will fly around the globe to discover, and as they do, they’ll bring massive economic gain to our local businesses. “That means a boost to our restaurants, hotels and other experiences, and real growth for our community.” To find free unguided hiking permits, visit https://parks.qld.gov.au/parks/hinchinbrook-thorsborne
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Celebrating Confidence, Community and Christmas in Hinchinbrook One of the greatest privileges of this role is witnessing first-hand the confidence our local businesses continue to place in our community. This past week, I had the honour of officially opening a new chapter for one of our district’s proud family-run enterprises – Cantatore Pharmacy. Brendan, Atlanta, and their team have shown tremendous faith in Hinchinbrook by expanding operations, investing in new facilities, and strengthening the local services we rely on, especially as we live in one of Queensland’s oldest demographics. Their commitment reflects what we all know to be true — Hinchinbrook is a place where businesses can prosper, families can grow, and community spirit thrives. It’s equally exciting to see construction underway on Moduline’s new 5,000 m² automated factory and showroom on Herbert Street — a milestone that promises cutting-edge innovation, local jobs, and a vibrant boost to our town centre. These decisions are never made lightly. Local businesses fight hard every day — through challenges, competition, and uncertainty — yet they continue to back our district. They choose Hinchinbrook. They choose our people. And in doing so, they help build the strong, vibrant community we are so proud of. As we head into the festive season, I’m reminded of how deeply our local businesses invest in us — not just through bricks and mortar, but through the countless ways they give back. They sponsor sporting clubs, donate to community groups, support events, and contribute to the liveability and wellbeing of residents across the Shire. Every dollar spent locally strengthens that cycle of support. That’s why I encourage everyone to make the most of Christmas Late Night Shopping on Thursday 18 December 2025. It’s a great opportunity to pick up gifts, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and show appreciation to the hardworking business owners who continue to put their faith in Hinchinbrook. Shopping local isn’t just a transaction; it’s an investment in our future. When our businesses succeed, our entire community succeeds. Thank you to everyone for your ongoing contribution to our district, and to all local businesses for your unwavering commitment to Hinchinbrook. Your confidence in our community speaks volumes, and we are proud to stand with you this Christmas season and beyond.
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Hello Hinchinbrook, I wanted to share another update from the Hinchinbrook Drainage Advisory Group. Since my last councillor column, there’s been some progress. One of the key concerns — though certainly not the only one — has been blockages in mangrove drains and the challenges in maintaining these vital and fragile areas so they function as healthy waterways. The Lower Herbert Water Management Authority (LHWMA) has successfully obtained the necessary documentation to carry out maintenance clearing on the access track to the Mandam Waterway. Once this is complete, LHWMA will be able to conduct routine instream maintenance more efficiently and safely. Following Mandam, other trial sites — Rifle Range Creek, Swampy Creek, and the outflow of Alligator Ponds — are also planned for rehabilitation as soon as the required documentation is received, hopefully early next year. The group has conducted several onsite visits to these areas, which have helped government departments gain a clearer understanding of the mangrove maintenance work needed in the Lower Herbert Catchment. While these trial sites represent only a small portion of our catchment, the aim is to establish a clear, repeatable process that works for landholders, ratepayers, HRIT, and LHWMA. Ultimately, the goal is legislative change to make these activities “Acceptable Development,” enabling much shorter timeframes for planning and undertaking the work. It’s always great to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and see what’s happening across our Shire — thank you for the opportunity to share this update. As the year draws to a close and we look forward to a well-earned break with family and friends, please stay safe and take time to enjoy everything our Shire has to offer. Finally, I’d like to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas in Hinchinbrook.
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Why Soil Health Matters As rural communities wrapped up another year of planting, harvesting and hard work on the land, World Soil Day on 5 December offered an important reminder of the quiet powerhouse beneath our feet — the soil that sustains farms, families and entire regions. Often taken for granted, soil underpins Australia’s agricultural output, contributing around $90 billion to the national economy each year. It’s also one of the most complex living ecosystems on Earth, home to more than a quarter of the planet’s biodiversity. From tiny microbes to earthworms and insects, healthy soil supports life well beyond what we see on the surface. Globally, an estimated 95 per cent of food production relies directly or indirectly on soil. For rural communities, that makes healthy soil fundamental not just to local farm productivity, but to long-term food security, economic strength and the resilience of regional landscapes. World Soil Day — a United Nations initiative held annually on 5 December — aims to raise awareness of soil as a vital natural resource. This year’s theme, Healthy Soil for Healthy Cities, highlights the growing connection between rural food production and urban communities that rely on it. Here in Australia, efforts to protect and improve soil health continue through the National Soil Strategy and National Soil Action Plan — the country’s first long-term national policy dedicated to soil. Backed by more than $90 million in federal investment, these initiatives support soil monitoring, research, information sharing and on-ground programs across farming regions. Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy Group Deputy Secretary Matt Lowe said soil remains central to Australia’s prosperity and resilience. “Soil is an integral part of the Australian landscape,” he said. “It supports us all, no matter where we live, and provides essential ecosystem and production services that contributes to Australia’s economic, environmental and social wellbeing. “Soil also has cultural significance, and its health impacts biodiversity, water and air quality, human health and plays a vital role in building resilience to natural disasters and adapting to and mitigating climate change.” As the wet season approaches and preparations begin for the year ahead, World Soil Day serves as a timely reminder: strong, healthy soil is the foundation on which rural Australia grows — and protecting it benefits communities far and wide.
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Ingham, Noorla and Macknade gathered to mark the end of another strong year of men’s interclub competitions for 2025. The season wrapped up with plenty of camaraderie and a healthy dose of rivalry, as each club recognised the achievements that defined their year.
Congratulations to the following winners:
Terry White Trophy – Noorla
Moduline Trophy – Macknade
Royal Hotel Trophy – Macknade
A warm thank you goes to the trophy sponsors whose support helps keep this long-running tradition thriving.
Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) candidate for Hinchinbrook, Mark Molachino has confirmed his main priority once elected will be to ensure the shire does not lose its voice in statewide decision making.
Born, raised, educated and employed in Ingham, Mr Molachino has worked in the shire’s sugar industry from the farms to the processing mills for years, and has served in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) for two and a half decades, with two deployments. Currently a small business owner himself, Mr Molachino and his six employees deliver professional vocational training to mining companies, and paired with his previous role as a RAAF Operations Officer, Mr Molachino’s professional resume of leadership and coordination speaks volumes.
A committed family man, Mr Molachino and his wife, Lexy, enjoy spending their time with their three daughter, Scarlett, Zara, and Victoria, and their beloved mini dachshund, Walter. Whether out boating, fishing, water-skiing, or riding dirt bikes across the region’s tracks, the Molachino family enjoy the very lifestyle they hope to protect.
Since graduating from Gilroy Santa Maria College, Mr Molachino has gone on to study numerous Diplomas in Vocational Education, Project Management, and has acquired eight years of experience in local government, leading him to truly understand how intricately each level of government interact and operate.
Mr Molachino has been living and raising his family in the region for several decades, and with that in mind, he plans to prioritise the safety of both his family, and the shire if elected in this month’s by-election. The presentation of Castle Law in parliament stands as one of Mr Molachino’s main priorities to grant homeowners greater protections when defending themselves, their families, and their property against intruders, to ensure they are not unfairly penalised for taking reasonable action to stay safe.
Paired with his push for the implementation of Castle Law, Mr Molachino will continue the work of the KAP to place North Shore roadways back on the state’s agenda, a move he sees as a real investment along with floodproofing the Ingham Power Substation, the Gairloch and Seymour Highway and the greater shire.
With deep roots in the region, and a clear plan for meaningful, practical change to safeguard the future of the shire, Mr Molachino and Katter’s Australian Party are committed amplifying the Hinchinbrook Shire’s voice, to deliver the safety, infrastructure and representation the community deserves, furthermore ensuring the community’s needs are not only heard in parliament, but acted on.
LNP candidate for Hinchinbrook, Wayde Chiesa, says he is determined to deliver strong representation and practical outcomes for the region, drawing on his lifelong connection to the district and decades of experience across local industries and community organisations.
“I’m proud to be Ingham-born and bred, growing up on our family farm and spending weekends at Forrest Beach and playing footy,” Mr Chiesa said.
After finishing school, he moved to Townsville to study at university but says “Ingham has always been home.”
Across his career, Mr Chiesa has worked in a wide range of fields, from small and family businesses to senior roles in regional development. His experience includes serving as CEO of Regional Development Australia Townsville and Northwest Queensland, and as Director of Regional Development and Investment at Townsville Enterprise. He has also run his own business and spent 17 years as part of the Triple M Cowboys Call Team, calling Cowboys games and staying connected with communities right across North Queensland.
With Hinchinbrook heading into a by-election, Mr Chiesa views this moment as pivotal for securing a stronger voice at the state level.
“This by-election is a once-in-a generation opportunity to elect someone who can sit alongside David Crisafulli, around the table where decisions are made. For too long Hinchinbrook has been on the sidelines from Government but I want to change that,” he said.
Mr Chiesa’s key priority is tackling youth crime, advocating for a tougher, more consistent approach to community safety.
“I’m fighting for a sensible plan to deal with youth crime,” he said.
“The LNP’s Adult Crime, Adult Time laws are starting to hold youth criminals accountable but there’s a long way to go to fix a decade of Labor’s weak laws.”
He said the region needs “more police with better early intervention and rehabilitation that works – as well as CCTV in known trouble spots,” adding, “I’ll also fight for tougher bail laws for youth criminals, which I believe our State needs.”
Traffic congestion across Townsville’s Northern Beaches and improved local infrastructure also feature strongly in his platform.
Mr Chiesa has long championed key North Queensland industries including agriculture, manufacturing and tourism. If elected, he intends to focus on fixing Port Hinchinbrook, improving marine facilities, building flood resilience, and securing better roads for the district.
Community involvement has been a constant in his life, from volunteering with the Forrest Beach and Arcadian Surf Life Saving Clubs to serving as Treasurer of the Rotary Club of Townsville and helping organise the Townsville Triathlon Festival, however above all else, family remains his greatest motivation.
“My two kids, Lucy and Tommy, love spending time with their Nanna and Nonno here in Ingham,” he said, noting that those simple moments on the family farm remind him why Hinchinbrook deserves strong, local representation.
By Rachael Smith
Following a whirlwind campaign and a significant leap of faith, former Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto has won his bid to become the next Mayor of Townsville.
Dametto stepped down from his role as local MP just over a month ago, stating that he wanted to give Townsville the Mayor it deserved.
On Saturday night, Dametto claimed victory and is now Mayor-elect, ahead of the formal declaration expected in the coming days.
After serving as Member for Hinchinbrook for the past eight years and Deputy Leader of Katter’s Australian Party since 2021, Nick Dametto made the bold decision last month to run for Townsville’s Mayoralty.
Acknowledging the move as a ‘step down’ and a ‘wage cut’, Dametto said the decision was driven by a bigger purpose — giving the people of Townsville the leader they deserve.
“I want Townsville to be proud of the leader they’ve elected,” Dametto stated on Monday morning.
“I want to give them someone who can act as an ambassador for the region, I want to help deliver pride and prosperity for all.”
Dametto thanked residents of the Hinchinbrook Shire for their support over the past eight years.
“Thank you for backing me for all those years – we wanted to leave Hinchinbrook in a better place than when we started, and I believe we did that.”
Committed to a grassroots campaign, Dametto said he spent considerable time engaging directly with the community throughout the election period.
“It was almost like a silent auction” he shared, referring to the postal-vote system used over the weekend.
Rather than being at polling booths, Dametto spent Saturday speaking with residents at a local tavern before heading to the vote-counting centre at 6pm.
He watched the tallying with scrutineers and said that “from the out-set there was strong support”, and by 9pm he believed it was a “done deal”.
Dametto praised his Campaign Manager, Catherine Holden, who he described as “an absolute God-send”, and acknowledged Matthew Pew for organising a dedicated team to deliver pamphlets.
“I would also like to thank everyone who supported me in any way – from displaying a bumper sticker to putting up a core flute – every gesture was a huge help.”
The Electoral Commission of Queensland is expected to officially declare the Mayoralship in the coming days. Once Dametto receives the paperwork, he will be sworn in.
When asked what his first few weeks as Mayor will look like, Dametto said he plans a ‘back to basics blitz’.
“A big thing for me is the proper maintenance of the city – I want to give the people a city they can be proud of,” he shared.
“If they put out a bin on Wednesday night, they deserve to have it picked up on Thursday morning.”
Dametto added that he will be engaging with all Councillors and the CEO, noting he looks forward to bringing the Council together to work as a united team.
Following the announcement, Premier David Crisafulli expressed his support.
“The people of Townsville have strongly backed Nick Dametto for Mayor,” he said.
“This result will give this proud city the local leadership it needs and deserves.
“Congratulations Nick - our Government looks forward to working with you to deliver better outcomes for a great city.”
As Dametto steps into his new role, Hinchinbrook now awaits a by-election to determine who will become the next local MP.
The election is scheduled for Saturday 29 November.
Candidates who have announced their intention to run include: Mark Molachino for Katter’s Australian Party, Wayde Chiesa for the Liberal National Party of Queensland, Maurie Soars for the Australian Labor Party, Amanda Nickson for Family First, Aiden Creagh for the Greens, Luke Sleep for One Nation, and Independent Steven Clare.
“With the upcoming by-election,” said Dametto, “I hope that the winners are the people of Hinchinbrook”.
Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!
It feels like Christmas has finally crept into the region. My family puts up the tree as soon as Halloween is over, although it looks like plenty of others are now getting into the Christmas spirit as well. Lights are already appearing on houses and hedges, and posters, pickets, and even the occasional roadside VMS are popping up to tempt passersby with the promise of carolling and markets full of cheer.
The 47th Hinchinbrook Art Awards were also held last weekend. I even had a go and submitted two pieces, and I hope even more people enter next year. I would love to see the gallery filled from floor to ceiling, Salon Style. I also helped out at McHappy Day in Ingham with my newspaper co-star Sherie and the whole team at Maccas. It was a colourful and fun day, and I hope we raised plenty to support families in need.
It's the Schools feature this week in the paper, and I want to congratulate all the graduates and every student who has put in the hard yards to make it to the end of the year. Enjoy your Schoolies or your upcoming gap years, remember to stay safe, and have fun before getting stuck in at university or wherever life takes you.
Victoria
Fun Fact: On my gap year, I worked as a receptionist in an Irish hotel for a time. I also reconnected with old Irish family roots and visited the farm where my great-grandmother grew up.
Hinchinbrook’s own Forrest Beach Country Women’s Association (CWA) were warmly thanked for their craftiness and kindness after last week’s Beach Armistice Day Remembrance Ceremony.
Held on Monday, the 11th of November, the Remembrance Day event provided the community with the opportunity to come together to reflect and honour the courage, sacrifice and spirit of those who served in defence of our nation. Residents and community groups gathered throughout the shire to observe a minute’s silence at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, along with millions of other communities at services held around the world.
Annually, the ladies of Forrest Beach CWA volunteer their time to crochet poppies to freely share with ceremony attendees as a true act of kindness and respect.
Officially adopted in 1919, red poppies serve as a symbol to represent remembrance for those who have lost their lives or suffered in times of war or conflict and are often worn on Remembrance Day as a way to honour the sacrifice of service members and veterans. In day-to-day life, some chose to wear a red poppy as a way of keeping the memory of those we have lost alive, continuing to respect the little flower as a global emblem of remembrance.
The ladies’ selfless gesture never fails to warm the hearts of the community, with locals often describing Forrest Beach CWA volunteers as dedicated, passionate, and beautifully kind women continuing to spread goodwill within the shire.
A photographic artist and academic who proudly calls Ingham home has taken out the Open Award at the 47th Hinchinbrook Art Awards at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery last Friday night.
Ann Vardanega claimed the Open Award with her “Spirit of the Land” from a field of 113 entries, showcasing the incredible depth of creativity and talent within our region and beyond.
This annual event continues to provide a respected platform for artists of all levels to share their work in a professional gallery setting, reinforcing its place as one of North Queensland’s most valued cultural traditions. Nearly 180 guests gathered to celebrate the arts and recognise the outstanding achievements on display.
Cr Donna Marbelli said the Hinchinbrook Art Awards showcase the incredible talent within our community and beyond.
“Each piece tells a story, and together they create a rich tapestry of creativity that we are proud to celebrate,” Cr Marbelli said.
“We extend our sincere thanks to the sponsors and local businesses whose support makes these Awards possible. Their contributions help foster creativity and ensure the continued success of this important cultural event.”
The category winners:
The exhibition will remain open to the public until Friday 19 December 2025, from 10:00am to 4:00pm daily at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery. Visitors are encouraged to explore the collection and cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award, which will be announced in early January 2026.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that the Taylors Beach boat ramp will be temporarily closed to all users from Monday, 17 November to Monday, 1 December 2025.
This closure is required to support the biennial dredging of the Victoria Creek Navigation Channel, which will take place over a four-week period from Monday, 17 November to Wednesday, 17 December 2025, weather permitting.
Unlike previous methods involving excavation and sand transfer, this year’s works will use a dredger to remove material and pump it through a pipeline to a designated discharge area, as required by permit conditions. Unfortunately, the pipeline must cross the boat ramp.
Key dates and impacts:
Council urges all users to follow signage and directions provided by the contractor for safety.
Alternative boat ramps are available at Dungeness and Forrest Beach during the closure.
Council appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation while these important works are carried out. An update will be provided once the boat ramp is ready to reopen.
For further information, please contact Council on 4776 4600.
On the 12th of November, a member of the public reported a crocodile sighting within the stinger net enclosure at Forrest Beach. The sighting occurred outside of weekend patrol hours.
Upon receiving the report, we were notified immediately and our net supervisor promptly responded removing the net from the water to eliminate the risk to the public. After a safe period of monitoring, the net was reinstalled.
Surf Life Saving Queensland Lifesaving Services Coordinator for the North Barrier Branch and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, were all notified.
As we know, North Queensland is crocodile country, and sightings can occur in both open and enclosed swimming areas any where along the north coast. We remind everyone to exercise caution, remain vigilant and follow all safety signage and lifesavers instructions when visiting the beach.
Your safety remains our top priority, and we thank the community for their continued awareness and cooperation.
(By the Forrest Beach SLSC)
Learn how to be crocwise and how to report sightings here https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/plants-animals/animals/living-with/crocodiles/becrocwise
Communities across the Hinchinbrook region paused on 11 November to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia’s men and women in uniform. Cardwell and Ingham each held moving ceremonies that demonstrated the enduring respect locals hold for those who served, those who still serve, and those who never returned home.
In Cardwell, more than 80 attendees gathered at the Cenotaph for a solemn and well-supported ceremony. The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch once again showcased the strength of its volunteers and performers, with Piper Judith Tannoch—resplendent in full Scottish regalia—leading the commemoration with stirring bagpipes. She was joined by vocalist Colleen Tennent and bugler Adrian Frost, whose contributions set a dignified tone for the morning. The presence of former QATB officers underscored the depth of community connection.
In Ingham, residents gathered to reflect when, in 1918, the guns finally fell silent on the Western Front. Rodger Bow’s tribute reminded those assembled of the courage and sacrifice that shaped the freedoms enjoyed today. Wreaths were laid by community members and Australian diggers, flags were lowered, and the sound of the bugle echoed across the memorial space. It was a simple yet powerful ceremony, strengthened by the collective act of remembrance.
At 11:00am, the crowds observed a minute’s silence, standing together in quiet reflection. Lest We Forget.
What began as a mountain to climb at the start of this campaign has blossomed and grown with each passing week. Now, as we near the finish line, six weeks of fun, laughter, community, culture, and artistry are drawing to a close.
This past weekend we celebrated the NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier and the Hinchinbrook Cup Raceday, which once again proved to be a standout event on our festival calendar. Trackside Tables sold out quicker than you can say “ready, set, go!” and the crowd braved the heat, turning up in numbers that exceeded even our biggest Race Meets of recent times.
From the energy at the track to JD Smith performing Unchained Melodies for an appreciative audience at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, the weekend delivered something special for everyone.
As we move further into November and closer to Christmas, we begin to see our community Christmas festivities taking shape. This year brings a brand new event thanks to the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, together with various Halifax Community Groups. Almost Christmas! A Community Celebration will bring the communities of Halifax and surrounding areas together as they ring in the festive season.
This celebration will be held on November 22nd at the Halifax Community Hall in Argaet Street, across from the Halifax Cemetery, from 8:00am to 1:00pm. The morning will include Market Stalls, Christmas Raffles, Food and Drinks, Entertainment, Christmas Photos, Kids Activities, and a range of Cultural Experiences. One of the most intriguing additions is the Human Library Performances. It is shaping up to be a family-friendly morning full of festive fun.
For more information, visit Hinchinbrook Festival of Events on socials or go to the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism website at www.hinchinbrookchamber.com.au/hinchinbrook-festival-of-events
WHAT: Almost Christmas! A Community Celebration
WHEN: Saturday 22 November 2025 8:00am to 1:00pm
WHERE: Halifax Community Hall, Argaet Street, Halifax
Queensland Greens candidate for Hinchinbrook, Aiden Creagh, believes the people of North Queensland deserve to be delt a better hand, and hopes to implement commendable changes once elected to make life fairer for everyday locals.
Hailing from Ingham, Mr Creagh has witnessed the struggles of the community firsthand for almost three decades, noting the ignorance of larger corporations as a key catalyst in his decision to run in this year’s by-election.
“I’ve had a gut full of watching politicians line their own pockets with corporate donations and lobbyists' donations and then turn around and work for them and not us, so now I’m running for the one party in the Hinchinbrook by-election that does not take political donations and works for the people,” said Mr Creagh.
“People used to be able to buy a home on one income, now we’re struggling to rent one on two, it’s cooked! Everything’s been privatised, housing, power, even water. Tax the corporations what they owe us! I pay tax, so should they.”
At just 27, Mr Creagh often finds himself frustrated with how difficult it can be for ordinary people to “get ahead” in the current economic climate, chalking it down to the current government’s neglect of locals and the land. Mr Creagh believes it’s time for the big corporations, especially fossil fuel giants, to face the music and pay their fair share to fund what truly matters.
“The gas and coal companies are making billions while families can’t afford groceries or rent. If we tax those profits properly, we can fund affordable housing, flood prevention, free education, and Medicare, including dental. It’s common sense: make the polluters pay for the solutions.”
Over the course of his time spent living and working in North Queensland, Mr Creagh has endured and experienced the hardships the people of the Hinchinbrook Shire know all too well including floods, droughts, and housing pressures, recognising local communities are more than ready for suitable solutions which yield results rather than divisional scare campaigns.
“There’s a lot of misinformation out there about the Greens, and I get it, the big parties and their donors want to keep people scared of change so they can keep lining their pockets, but when you actually look at what we stand for, fair rents, clean energy, better healthcare, free education, it’s exactly what most people want,” he said.
“The North is a special place, from the reef to the rainforest, and it’s our responsibility to protect it. We can have good jobs, thriving communities, and a healthy environment. It just takes some political courage to get there.”
Aiden Creagh and the Queensland Greens are pushing for fair rental caps, tenants’ rights, clean, renewable energy, and a tax on large gas and coal profits to fund a fair, sustainable future.
Luke Sleep will stand as One Nation’s candidate for Hinchinbrook and if elected, he’s confirmed he’ll prioritise affordable housing opportunities, reducing escalating crime rates, as well as upgrading local roads and infrastructures.
“Housing affordability is an important issue for me, for Hinchinbrook and for the entire state of Queensland. The major parties have been hopeless on this issue, favouring mass immigration that only limits housing availability for Australians while also driving up rents. One Nation’s the only party with a strong plan to slash immigration and improve housing availability and affordability,” Mr Sleep said.
“I’m also keen to get funding to better flood-proof our local roads and fix up the notorious Bruce Highway. Hinchinbrook gets a lot of rainfall, and this means some of our roads get flooded on a regular basis. With a bit of work and support, we can upgrade these roads and keep Hinchinbrook moving.”
Hailing from Townsville, Mr Sleep has been working as a heavy machinery operator in the mining industry over the past five years, and he plans to ensure the industry has the right settings to continue to yield valuable contributions statewide.
“It’s the largest industry in Queensland, valued at more than $60 billion and supporting more than half a million jobs,” he said.
“It’s absolutely critical we do what we can to enable this industry to thrive while ensuring Queenslanders get fair value in exchange for the exploitation of their resources. We need to strike the right balance with royalties, so we don’t drive miners offshore or interstate.”
A North Queensland local himself, Mr Sleep deeply understands how the community’s concerns on the area’s escalating crime rate have increased, and he plans to support real legislative change within the justice system once elected.
“Policies that make my community safer will also be a priority for me. The Crisafulli Government made a lot of promises to reduce the escalating crime in regional Queensland, but we’re not seeing any difference here in Hinchinbrook,” said Mr Sleep.
I’m backing One Nation’s policy for tougher penalties, a community panel to review court decisions that subsequently result in an offender committing crimes while on bail and integrating proven intervention and redirection programs for at-risk young people in the justice system.”
Luke Sleep and the One Nation party have confirmed they are committed to delivering stronger, safer and more sustainable outcomes for the people of the Hinchinbrook Shire, ensuring local voices and local needs remain at the forefront of all decision making across the state.
Labor candidate for Hinchinbrook, Maurie Soars, has called the northern beaches of Townsville home for more than three decades, having made the move from Brisbane 35 years ago, a decision he describes as “one of the best” of his life.
Beginning at Saunders Beach before settling in Bushland Beach, Mr Soars is proud to be “the only candidate in this race who lives in the electorate of Hinchinbrook.”
Over the years, he and his family have shared their home with many pets, and now have just “one old cat, who rules the house.”
A motor mechanic by trade, Mr Soars later transitioned into sales and management, where he found his stride turning around underperforming businesses.
His reputation, however, is most firmly rooted in public life. Best known as a long-serving Townsville City Councillor, he spent more than a decade “delivering for North Queensland and trying to make this region a better place.”
If elected, Mr Soars said his first priority will be simple: to ensure “the people of Hinchinbrook get their fair share.” He lists accessible healthcare, affordable housing, resilient infrastructure, and attracting and retaining professionals as key needs, warning that “three years of doing nothing under an LNP Government will only send us backwards, and that’s a risk we can’t afford.”
Within his first year, Mr Soars plans to champion the Dungeness Dredging and Rock Wall Project, as well as complete the long-awaited fix for Port Hinchinbrook that began under Labor. He also wants to see “clear timelines and dollar figures for proposed Bruce Highway upgrades,” pressing for greater investment into northern beaches road networks and repairs to Mount Spec Road.
When asked what the region is currently lacking, Mr Soars is direct: business diversification. While acknowledging the strength of Hinchinbrook’s agricultural foundations, he believes the region has far more potential.
“I know we have a strong agriculture sector, but there is more we could be doing to add depth other areas such as tourism and accommodation variants to support,” he said.
“If elected, I will be pushing the Crisafulli Government to ensure Hinchinbrook gets its fair share.”
Beyond politics, Mr Soars has spent decades helping shape the local sporting scene, from founding yacht races and AFL Masters teams, to supporting clubs through growth, recovery, and community events. Deeply involved across Townsville and Hinchinbrook sport, he has held numerous leadership roles and received national recognition, including induction into both the Queensland and National AFL Masters Halls of Fame.
A dedicated resident who lives, works, and holidays in the region, Mr Soars says his commitment is simple: to deliver for the community he proudly calls home.
Family First has endorsed Dr Amanda Nickson as its candidate for Hinchinbrook, supporting her push to relive the pressures imposed upon local families across North Queensland.
A lover of the sunshine state, Dr Nickson has lived, worked and raised her three children just south of the shire for the last three decades, noting holidays to the region’s several national parks, waterfalls, and time spent on Hinchinbrook Island as treasured family time well spent.
Dr Nickson’s Christian beliefs are at the core of each decision she makes, and throughout her career in social work, she found fulfilment in her commitment to expressing her faith through helping and serving people in times of need. Spanning across roles in both government and non-government organisations, Dr Nickson keeps herself busy, immersing herself in academia at James Cook University, and in her role in a private practice. Currently, Dr Nickson has been wearing another hat, one in her own small business where she provides training, professional and pastoral supervision, social work services, and organisational consultancy.
If elected, Dr Nickson said she’ll prioritise alleviating the pressures upon families with deflating electricity prices at the top of her list after fighting to stop all taxpayer subsidies to intermittent power projects like wind farms and solar farms. Dr Nickson has also confirmed she’ll work to abolish the Crisafulli Government’s education policy encouraging educators to ask children for their preferred pronouns as part of early learning inclusion practices. In another effort to take pressures off families, particularly young couples, Dr Nickson has listed she’ll prioritise lowering the cost of land to make buying a home more accessible for first time homeowners.
Additionally, Family First will seek to remove restrictions on parliamentary debate regarding late term abortions to ensure clear legal and clinical requirements for providing medical care to all infants born alive.
Hailing from Townsville, Dr Nickson also experienced the devastating floods which rocked the shire earlier this year, leading her to highlight flood proofing the Bruce Highway as a major project she hopes to drive forward within her first year if elected. Similarly, Dr Nickson has confirmed reliable, weather-proof transportation and access to the area as a basic priority for residents of the Hinchinbrook Shire, furthermore, strengthening her prioritisation of flood proofing the infamous Bruce Highway.
A leader, a mother, a wife, a social worker, a pastor, an author and a speaker, Dr Amanda Nickson and the Family First Party represent strong family values, promoting the notion that “raising your family shouldn’t be this hard”.
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