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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St. Patrick’s Day at Gilroy Santa Maria College was a vibrant and joyous occasion, bringing students and teachers together in a celebration of community spirit. The event, led by Erin Cerutti and the Year 12 students as part of a pastoral initiative, provided a wonderful opportunity for the school to embrace the festive atmosphere while strengthening connections among students across all year levels.
Acting Principal Melissa Carr reflected on the day’s success, highlighting the enthusiasm and participation of both students and staff.
“It was beautiful to see everyone put in the effort,” Carr said. “The way the students embraced the celebration, the smiling faces, the laughter—it was fantastic. At second lunch, we even had cupcakes available at the Tuck Shop, which was a special treat. It was a great way to encourage interaction between students and teachers.”
A key highlight of the celebration was the Best Dressed Competition, with each homeroom selecting a winner before the overall Best Dressed Student was crowned. Congratulations to Mariah, who took home the top prize for her outstanding display of St. Patrick’s Day spirit!
Beyond the festivities, the event also played a significant role in fostering inter-year connections, an important focus for the Year 12 students this year. By engaging in shared experiences like this, students across different grade levels had the chance to bond and build a stronger sense of school spirit and camaraderie.
St. Patrick’s Day at Gilroy Santa Maria College was a testament to the school’s commitment to community, inclusivity, and student engagement. Events like these continue to strengthen the College’s culture, ensuring a warm and welcoming environment for all.
Connecting the Dots through Culture is making significant strides in embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives into everyday practice within education and support services.
Established in 2019, the company is dedicated to training educators and professionals to create culturally inclusive environments where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and children feel valued, respected, and seen.
Co-founders Jackie Bennett and Cecelia See Kee bring decades of experience in community work and education. Their shared vision arose from a recognised need for sustainable, long-term programs that go beyond the short-term cycles of government funding.
“Our biggest mission is working within the Early Childhood sector—because that’s where real change begins,” says the team.
Connecting the Dots through Culture delivers a range of training programs, including the powerful ‘Hidden Histories’ workshop, which explores Australia’s true history from pre-colonisation to the present day. The program invites participants to reflect on where their own family histories intersect with this timeline, creating space for personal connection and understanding.
The organisation’s professional development packages also include mentoring and hands-on workshops, typically delivered in small groups to foster meaningful discussion and engagement.
A standout feature of their work is the immersive study tours to Cherbourg and Thursday Island. These experiences allow educators to learn firsthand about the rich diversity within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities offering a deeper insight into the diversity of the two cultures.
In addition to training, Connecting the Dots through Culture now offers a growing range of educational resources—books, puzzles, and culturally responsive teaching tools—available at their newly expanded shopfront on Palm Terrace in Ingham.
With a growing national reach, Connecting the Dots through Culture continues to foster cultural understanding within education and community services.
Sunday, 30th March will see the culmination of the four-day Feast of the Senses Festival with the signature event, Australian Bananas River Feast, the biggest of all the events during the festival. Gates open at 9.00am on Sunday morning, and entry is free.
“We are thrilled that the Australian Bananas River Feast is almost here,” said committee President Rosi Jensen. “Our volunteer committee has worked incredibly hard to bring this event to the community, and it would not happen without the financial support of Australian Bananas and numerous other supporters, including the Cassowary Coast Council,” she said.
“We’re still looking for volunteers to assist the committee with set-up from 5am. Early birds can just turn up on the day to volunteer and will earn a free breakfast voucher. Just sign in at the volunteer tent first and remember to wear your closed-in shoes for safety.”
There will be an amazing array of food on offer, local produce, cooking demonstrations & tastings on the Brothers’ Leagues Club Canecutter Court stage and musical entertainment on the riverbank featuring local performers. There’s a great line-up of entertainment commencing at 9.30am.
The event will showcase arts, crafts, artisanal foods, and delicious treats, creating a vibrant tropical atmosphere. The highlight is the Rare & Tropical Fruit display by the Cassowary Coast Rare Fruits Association, sponsored by Paronella Park. Visitors can sample the fruits before bidding at the end-of-day auction. The marquee, sponsored by Murray Brothers, will host the display.
For families, the Feast of Fun Kid Zone at the skatepark end of the riverbank, sponsored by Soils First, offers inflatable rides, art and craft activities, and more. Rides are $5 each or $20 for an all-day wristband.
This amazing ‘top 10’ Queensland event is right on your doorstep, so don’t miss it!
For more information go to www.feastofthesenses.com.au/events/
Women of all ages face a wide range of health challenges, from pelvic pain and prolapse to menopause symptoms and urinary incontinence. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in helping women manage and overcome these issues through education, exercise, and specialised manual techniques.
At Performance Physio Group in Ingham, Sonya Bell has dedicated her career to supporting women in their health journeys.
“We can help women with a wide variety of problems, from young women to our older population anything from pelvic pain, prolapse, menopause symptoms, urinary incontinence,” said Sonya.
“As a physiotherapist specialising in women's health, we use tailored exercises, manual therapy and education to empower women to regain control over their bodies and improve their quality of life.
“Whether it's preparing for childbirth, recovering from surgery, or managing chronic pain, we offer personalized care to help women achieve their optimal health at every stage of life.”
For treatment, the most common way to see results is to do exercises, and the importance of committing to physiotherapy exercises cannot be overstated.
"If you don’t follow through, you can’t expect change," Sonya says.
Sonya shared a story of a mother who struggled with returning to running after having her second child. But after six weeks of targeted exercises to strengthen muscles, she was back to doing her 5K Parkrun with no issues.
Strength and flexibility are key elements to overall health, and Sonya said one without the other does not work; your body needs both.
“Flexibility without control and strength is going to cause pain,” said Sonya.
“Hypermobile people have got joints destroyed, left, right and centre. Being flexible is good you also need strength to control that movement.
“On the other end, if you’re very stiff, that is also going to wear down joints quickly.”
Beyond exercise, diet also plays a significant role in women’s health.
"Constipation is a huge issue that affects the lower area.
“If there is extra bulky mass in the abdominal area that can push your bladder forward, and that can mean controlling the bladder is harder, so diets are usually around hydration to keep everything at a good flow,” said Sonya.
Sonya’s expertise extends beyond women’s health, as she also treats musculoskeletal, sports injuries and headaches, low back pain, and neck pains.
Since joining her team in 2020, Sonya has found great satisfaction in her work.
"I like seeing results. When people come back to me, and they say, ‘I feel so much better’, it’s great, but I love it when people say, ‘I did my exercises, and I feel so much better’,” said Sonya.
“I like seeing the physical change. Being able to assess something and say this is the measurement, we do something about it, and then when you can see that it's different and a significant change has happened.
“I get warm fuzzies all over.”
Ingham residents are some of the most resilient and strong willed people I know. We support each other, step up when needed, and look out for our community. While we may get a bit wet at times, our beautiful home remains paradise in so many ways.
Council has been actively working in the recovery space, identifying issues and implementing actions. I am Chair of the Environment Recovery Sub Group, one of four key groups—Infrastructure, Human and Social, Economic and Environment. These groups include representatives from relevant organisations, including Government, working together to support our community.
Following an event like this, biosecurity becomes a major concern. With numerous washouts across the region, large amounts of fill will be required. It's crucial to ensure machinery is properly cleaned between sites to prevent the spread of seeds and contaminants within the fill itself.
Many gardens have been lost, and residents may seek replacement plants from areas like Townsville or Cairns. However, these regions have known infestations of Yellow Crazy Ants, which local councils are actively managing. These invasive pests can spread through soil, building materials, and other transported items. Additionally, the Herbert River can carry weed species like Siam weed and there’s a risk of Gamba grass seed coming from infestations in the Tablelands Regional Council area.
Knowledge and early detection remain our best tools. Council’s Biosecurity Officers are available to assist with identification and control measures.
For those in the cattle industry, a reminder that the Grazing Connect workshop—originally postponed in February—will now be held on Friday 4 April and Saturday 5 April 2025 at the Longpocket CWA Hall. If you're interested in attending, please RSVP to either myself or Lawrence DiBella with any dietary requirements by Friday 28 March 2025.
With heavy rains and flooding over the Bruce Highway last week, truckies were stuck in Ingham unable to travel north and south. Truckies in Cardwell were also stuck unable to travel south on their routes.
A frustrating delay for truckies, but Cardwell Swimming Pool opened their gates for truckies and stranded travellers, enabling them to use the full facilities free of charge.
Truck drivers enjoyed the showers and access to the pool…..
June Cotter Manager of Cardwell Swimming Pool said she was inspired to open the pool to stranded travellers and truck drivers because her nephew is a truckie, and she would like someone to look after him if he was stuck.
“There was nothing for them here in town so I said, just come and use the showers for free,” said June.
This isn’t the first time June has opened the pool and showers for travellers and truck drivers.
During the last flood in February she opened it once again.
“Last time it was so hot, and they're all out there sitting in the sun, and I had toilets and showers, so I just put it out there. Why don’t you just come and have a shower?”
“We fed them for three days at nighttime and breakfast until they left,” said June.
“The community bought stuff in and helped me and my staff and family. They bought soft drinks, so they didn't have to pay for them.”
June’s generosity and the support of the Cardwell community provided much-needed relief for stranded truck drivers and travellers. By opening the pool’s facilities, she not only offered comfort but also demonstrated the kindness and resilience that small towns are known for.
The March monthly Chamber Meeting was held last Monday and very well attended despite the return of another rain event. The meeting was very well attended with new Members welcomed and some new faces around the table.
Chamber would like to acknowledge and thank Alan and Sharon Quagliotto, previous owners of the Royal Hotel, for their years of support of chamber and for hosting the monthly meetings for so many years and always being accommodating and welcoming. We wish them well in retirement and hope they have an opportunity to relax and enjoy this next phase of their life. We also thank the new hotel owners for continuing to support chamber in hosting their monthly meetings at this venue.
The meeting opened with President Mary Brown acknowledging the challenging times that the business (and broader) community has experienced during this recent flood event and commending the strength and determination that has been demonstrated by so many to reopen their businesses and return as quickly as possible to some kind of normal.
An update was provided in relation to the work that has been done by Chamber to continue to support its members and as many local business owners as possible during and after this event. Working with the relevant government agencies, Dept Small and Family Business, Rural financial Counsellors, Wellness Coach, Insurance Council of Australia and QRIDA. Chamber has to date, facilitated three lots of “One-on-One” sessions for local business owners with QRIDA representatives and are very pleased with the uptake to date.
An update was provided in relation to the local spend from flood donations through GIVIT and how this is supporting the economic recovery processes locally, as well as benefiting those who have been significantly impacted through the flood event. Chamber’s Administration Assistant, Christina, provided valuable information in relation to business openings and contact for GIVIT team, immediately after they were engaged. This information assisted in ensuring as many local businesses could be included in the GIVIT local supplier database.
Chamber continues to survey local business owners to gain an understanding of the Flood event Impact, having commenced immediately after the event and follow up survey at 6 weeks post event. The information received from these surveys is consolidated to provide trends, which enables Chamber to provide input to the economic recovery sub group and advocate for support for the business community.
The Lions Club of Ingham has been actively assisting community members affected by the recent flood event.
President Col Dallavanzi, along with Lions members Rita Lynch, Ed Morris, and Angie Morris, visited the community support centre to present Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre staff with sheet sets for individuals to use that are in need of extra help during these challenging times.
Additionally, the Lions team attended the Meals on Wheels premises to officially hand over the newly constructed Freezer room.
This facility was made possible through a 50-50 donation from the Australian Lions Foundation and the Ingham Lions Club, aimed at supporting the new Meals on Wheels staff and community.
President of Meals on Wheels, Rita Phillips, joined Col Dallavanzi and members of the Lions Club for the handover ceremony.
While the Lions Club has completed the initial response phase of assistance related to the flood event, they are now transitioning into the recovery phase.
The Lions Club will be reaching out to community members who have not yet received assistance or who require additional support to apply for a grant. More information regarding the grant will be made available soon.
In the meantime, community members in need of assistance to purchase goods or for other support are encouraged to contact 0427 737 675 or email lionsclubofingham@gmail.com, or reach out to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre.
Contributed with thanks to Patrick Lynch
The wet season rain has once again cut the Bruce Highway at the Seymour and Gairloch crossings, leaving locals stranded, businesses struggling, and supply chains in disarray. This isn’t a one-off event, as many of you would know, it’s a recurring disaster that demands immediate action.
For too long, successive State and Federal Governments have failed to prioritise flood-resilient infrastructure for North Queensland. The Gairloch project, which includes the notorious Seymour crossing, has been stuck in bureaucratic limbo for over a decade, despite having $48 million in funding. Yet, construction hasn’t even started.
So far in 2025, the Bruce Highway has been closed at Seymour for 16 days, and we’re not even at the end of March. Imagine if a major highway in Brisbane or Sydney was shut down for over two weeks. It wouldn’t be tolerated, and neither should this.
Every time our highway is cut, food, fuel, and essential supplies can’t get into the northern areas, and local produce can’t get out. Freight companies are forced onto the costly inland route, driving up prices for businesses and consumers alike. Meanwhile, the tourism industry also suffers as visitors reroute their trips to avoid flood-affected areas.
To add insult to injury, the State and Federal Governments have committed $9 billion to the Bruce Highway, yet not a single cent is dedicated to flood immunity projects. Instead, the money is going towards safety upgrades that do nothing to keep the road open when it matters most.
That’s why I’ve written an open letter to every MP from Hinchinbrook to the tip of Cape York, urging them to stand together and demand:
a) The immediate fast-tracking of the Gairloch (and Seymour) project to ensure no more time is wasted
b) A fair share of the $9 billion Bruce Highway package for flood immunity projects.
Improving food immunity for this section of the Bruce Highway should be everyone’s concern, I look forward to one day seeing construction start on the Gairloch and Seymour sections of the highway.
Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook
In the wake of the Federal Government’s Category D disaster declaration, QCAR remains on the ground, ensuring flood-affected growers receive the support they desperately need.
Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella has been meeting with industry and financial leaders, including senior NAB staff, to outline the long-term challenges rural businesses now face. While the $75,000 grants have provided a crucial lifeline, red tape is still preventing many from accessing essential funding.
QCAR is actively campaigning for changes to eligibility criteria, pushing for support to extend beyond primary income requirements so that growers supplementing their earnings—like Ingham’s Luke Roveda—aren’t unfairly excluded. Additionally, the fight continues to ensure replanting assistance includes ratoon crops, which make up the bulk of the region’s sugarcane.
Beyond financial aid, QCAR is advocating for urgent repairs to damaged creek banks and drainage systems, assistance for the harvesting and local business sectors, and the restoration of the rail network ahead of crushing season. Mental health remains a top priority, with QCAR calling for increased services to help struggling farmers.
“We’ve secured a win with the Category D funding, but there’s more to be done,” QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan said.
“We won’t stop fighting to make sure our growers and their communities get the help they deserve.”
For assistance, contact Lawrence Di Bella and the Herbert River team at 0448 084 252 or email ldibella@qcar.com.au.
With the Oriental fruit fly last detected on mainland Australia near Cairns in 1995, the risk of another incursion remains a serious threat to North Queensland’s fruit industry. The pest, which thrives in climates similar to our own, could devastate key crops such as bananas and mangoes—staples of both local farms and the broader Australian horticultural sector. With Hinchinbrook and surrounding regions heavily reliant on these industries, another outbreak could have dire economic and environmental consequences.
A joint PNG-Australia expedition visited remote Treaty Villages in PNG’s Western Province last week to discuss and help manage one of the world’s worst horticultural pests. With just 6km separating the two countries, the project seeks to reduce the impact of fruit fly in PNG while also preventing a potentially catastrophic outbreak in North Queensland.
The last time the pest was detected on the Australian mainland, not far from Hinchinbrook, the eradication effort cost at least $33 million, with a further $100 million lost in trade and associated expenses. A future outbreak could have severe consequences for Queensland growers, making prevention a top priority.
Deputy Secretary of Biosecurity Justine Saunders said the project was critical for both countries.
“We already have Queensland fruit fly, but Oriental fruit fly would be much worse in terms of impact to production and trade, as recognised by its listing on Australia’s National Priority Plant Pest List," Ms Saunders said.
“This trip established foundational relationships with the village communities, which the team hopes to strengthen further on a return trip in May 2025. The next phase is to trial control strategies in the hope of reducing the number of fruit flies in the Treaty Villages to assist our neighbours with food security.
“The program has employed and trained more than 30 South Fly rangers since 2022 to trap the insects, collect samples and manage data. It builds on more than two decades of collaboration in plant health initiatives between DAFF and NAQIA. The results of this work could have benefits to share across PNG and with our neighbours in the Pacific.”
The Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) attacks more than 400 different plants, including key crops in North Queensland such as mangoes, pawpaws, bananas, and guavas.
The villages of Berr, Buzi, Jarai, and Mari, where the trial is proposed, rely heavily on the food they grow. Damage to crops has serious health and social implications for villagers. At the same time, stopping the pest at its source is vital to preventing another outbreak in Australia.
The delegation consisted of three officers from PNG’s National Agriculture and Quarantine Inspection Authority (NAQIA), three from DAFF, a PhD student, delivery partner INLOC, and the South Fly rangers.
INLOC and the South Fly rangers coordinated the trip’s logistics, which involved liaising with Treaty Village leaders and community members, long boat rides, camping, and unpredictable tides.
With so much at stake, the work being done in PNG is not just about protecting their crops—it’s also a frontline defence for North Queensland’s fruit growers.
The Seniors Morning Coffee Club is back and excited to welcome all local seniors for a morning of good company, laughter, and plenty of fun! If you're looking for a great way to catch up with friends, meet new people, and enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere, this is the perfect place to be.
Held every second Friday from 9:30am to 11:30am at the Noorla Bowls Club, the event offers a relaxed and friendly setting where seniors can enjoy a freshly brewed coffee, a delicious morning tea, and a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained. Whether you love playing games, testing your knowledge with trivia, or sitting back and chatting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For just $3, you can be part of this wonderful social gathering that brings the community together. The Seniors Morning Coffee Club isn’t just about coffee, it’s about sharing stories, making connections, and creating lasting friendships. Come along and experience a cheerful and lively morning filled with great conversations and plenty of smiles!
All attendees must RSVP for catering purposes and you can do this by calling Desley at the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre Inc. on 4776 1822.
Please note, a small retraction from last week's information printed in this paper: the team have very limited transport to pick up attendees and can do so in town only as they sadly lost their bus in the floods.
WHAT: Seniors Morning Coffee Club
WHERE: Noorla Bowls Club
WHEN: Friday 28th March 9.30am – 11.30am
In 2024, The Australian and HarperCollins Australia launched the Australian Fiction Prize, a prestigious new literary award aimed at celebrating exceptional Australian storytelling. Open to all Australian writers, this annual prize offers a remarkable opportunity for aspiring authors to showcase their talent.
The winner will receive $20,000 in prize money, $15,000 in advance, and the chance to be published by HarperCollins Australia. The inaugural winner, Katherine Johnson, took home the prize with her novel A Wild Heart, marking a successful start for this new award.
There were over 500 entries last year, and this year there’s hope that a local Whitsunday author may take home the prize. This is your opportunity to participate and get your work in front of HarperCollins' talented publishers.
Entries are now open for 2025, the prize promises to continue its mission of uncovering Australia's next great writer. It’s time to get those pens scribbling or those keyboards clacking and submit your manuscript today!
For those interested in entering, there’s an FAQ available at www.harpercollins.com.au/theaustralianfictionprize. This prize builds on the legacy of the iconic Vogel’s Award, celebrating Australia’s literary talent and nurturing the nation’s storytelling future and you could be next!
A familiar face made a reappearance over the weekend, when it's 4-metre long reptilian body was spotted cruising the waterways outside the Lucinda Cove Resort.
Owner of the resort, Paul McLennan, said this snap-happy neighbour lives out the front of his home and has visited the resort twice now.
Despite the croc appearing to be of no immediate danger to the public, Paul assured locals he will be keeping an eye on it.
“If he’s doing it frequently we might have to get him moved on,” he explained.
Paul also said the croc has been in the area for quite a while but usually resides 100 metres up the river.
Crocodiles can be found in freshwater and saltwater locations along the coast and inland including, rivers and creeks, swamps, lagoons, waterholes, beaches, oceans and offshore of islands too.
It’s important to stay Crocwise in Croc Country, but especially after floods as they can migrate to locations, they never had access to before.
If you see a crocodile in report it to the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation by using the QWildlife app, by accessing the sighting report online or by calling 1300 130 372.
Being Crocwise starts with three simple steps:
• Keep out of the water
• Stay more than 5 metres away from the water’s edge
• Keep a sturdy object between yourself and the water
Starting a business is an exciting venture, but it comes with its challenges. Whether you’re launching a café, a clothes store or a trade service, careful planning and preparation are essential for long-term success. Here are some key steps to consider when starting a business.
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