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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Start your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations on a fresh and festive note with a vibrant green smoothie! This delightful drink isn’t just a fun way to embrace the holiday spirit — it’s also a delicious and nourishing way to fuel your body and start your day on the right foot.
With only four simple ingredients, this smoothie comes together in just five minutes, making it the perfect choice for a quick, easy, and wholesome breakfast or snack. Despite its simplicity, it’s packed with fresh flavours, natural goodness, and a boost of nutrients to keep you feeling energised throughout the day.
Whether you’re gearing up for a full day of St. Patrick’s Day festivities or simply looking for a refreshing and healthy treat, this smoothie is sure to satisfy. Its vibrant green colour makes it a fun addition to any celebration, while its light and invigorating taste will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on whatever the day has in store.
Ingredients
Instructions
Recipe credit: /joyfoodsunshine.com
Every year, Australians gather in unity to honor the fallen Anzac soldiers. This heartfelt tradition is observed at Anzac memorial services, where individuals take a moment to reflect on and remember the courageous Australian and New Zealander soldiers who fought in numerous wars and conflicts throughout history.
These services not only provide an opportunity to commemorate the lives of those who gave everything for their country but also serve as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom and peace. It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and respect as we recognise the selflessness of these heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of their nation and values.
For those wishing to honour and pay their respects, the following nearby services are scheduled:
Dawn Parade - Fall in at Mafeking Tree at 4.15am (in front of Ingham Police Station), march to cenotaph for service.
Forrest Beach – parade to commence at 7.00am from Corbett Park near Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club march to the memorial.
Halifax - parade to commence at 8.00am, march to Lions Clock and back to cenotaph.
Ingham – parade to commence at 9.30am, march from Rotary Park to cenotaph.
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Last week, the Queensland Small Business Commissioner Dominique Lamb was in Ingham and addressed several small businesses.
She indicated that she’d been out to visit a number of small local businesses that were reporting mounting pressures as a result of the floods, including lost income and damage to property. She was able to provide information about some of the resources and services offered by the department, including small business financial counsellors, wellness coaches, and disaster funding, including QRIDA loans.
Chair of Recovery Mary Brown was happy Queensland Small Business Commissioner Dominique Lamb was present, and said it’s important people in this community understand that they are not alone.
“We do have support agencies at other levels of government who have reached out and are working with us to try and find solutions to some of the challenges we're having now,” she said.
“There are no guarantees. We know that, but bringing in those support services into the community is a stepping stone to try and help.
“Each and every business will have different challenges and different impacts, whether they were insured, whether they weren't insured, whether they have a lot of financial commitments prior to this event, whether they're well-placed cash flow wise, every single business is so different.
“So, we're not going to be a solution for everyone, but I think we have a common interest to our community, in that we all have had some impact.”
For many business owners flood recovery will be a very challenging time mentally, and for those businesses it’s important that they know help is available in region.
Wellness Coach Charlotte Johansson from Rural Financial Counselling Service North Queensland is in the region at the Recovery Centre, and is about to start one-on-one appointments with clients.
“I help business owners look after their mental and emotional wellness and that can be from a personal perspective, but it can also be from a business perspective. So, we can talk business strategies, so we can look at basic foundations of your business that might work or might not work, or that might be stressful,” explained Charlotte.
“One of the things that we do in terms of assisting people with business, is ownership challenges that they might have. It could be things such as staffing issues, we can work with managing material, how to manage, and how to work with the dynamic in your business.
“We can also work with things such as your personal wellness, you might have family members working in your business, and it can be challenging. So we can work on that dynamic, and we can work on things that people are struggling with at the moment.”
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) is back to business after being severely impacted by last month's devastating flood. Volunteers and staff have worked tirelessly to ensure all services are up and running. Despite the flood wiping out the Centre building on Townsville Road, the Social Enterprise Maintenance shed and the loss of several vehicles, HCSC was able to bounce back ensuring minimal disruption to our programs and services.
All services are being delivered from the HUB and, thanks to the generous support from SES, the Social Enterprise boys have moved back into their shed after an enormous clean up.
At its core, HCSC offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to uplift and support the community. Among the key services are:
• Domestic and Family Violence
• Youth Service
• Community Support Service
• Community Grants Officer
• Community Recovery
• Housing & Homelessness Service
• Emergency Relief Program
• Home & Yard Maintenance Service
The Hinchinbrook Community Support centre offers opportunity for connections through a range of activities and volunteering. It’s a place where lifelong friendships are formed and where a sense of community thrives. They value the generosity of their volunteers, local businesses, and the community. For more information, please call 4776 1822 or visit their website www.hcsc.org.au. Keep up with activities and programs on their Facebook.
Contributed with thanks to Carmon Martin
A long-running NRL tipping competition in Ingham is celebrating its 25th year. Originally founded in 2000 by local businessmen George Croton and Grant Cartwright, the competition has evolved from a manual system reliant on paper entries and faxes to a modern, app-based format.
The competition, now known as IGC NRL Tipping, has continued to thrive under the stewardship of its current organiser, Geoff Gianotti, who took over four years ago. The transition to the NRL app has made the process more efficient. Despite the shift in format, the competition remains as strong as ever, including 59 participants this year.
Since it is the 25th anniversary, Geoff approached the North Queensland Cowboys, who have provided promotional packs containing merchandise such as footballs, caps, and jerseys. These items will be used as prizes.
One of the highlights of this milestone year is a special competition within the main event, titled ‘Simply the Best.’ This contest brings together 14 previous winners, in a unique challenge to determine the best of the best. The organiser hopes to secure a special prize from the Cowboys for this competition.
Another notable addition of this year's event is a charity raffle for a framed, signed ‘Maroon Commanders’ photograph featuring Queensland Origin legends, valued at $750. The raffle is open exclusively to competition participants, and all proceeds will be donated to a local charity, Meals on Wheels. The donation will be presented during the competition’s presentation night on September 13 at the Ingham RSL, where ticket sales will also take place.
Anyone can enter this competition and Geoff said someone that enters today can still win. This year, three young football enthusiasts have joined, with their grandfather proudly registering them.
The tipping competition, which costs $65 to join, is a non-profit initiative, with all funds going towards food, drinks, prizes, and a courtesy bus to ensure participants can enjoy the event safely. Each week, participants receive an email filled with witty commentary on team performances, adding an element of fun to the experience.
With strong community support and ongoing partnerships, the IGC NRL Tipping competition continues to bring locals together through their shared passion for rugby league, ensuring its legacy well beyond this milestone year.
Almost a decade has passed since Chris Holland and Craig Menegon took ownership of
Terry White Chemmart on July 1, 2015. In that time, the business has undergone significant changes, not only in its physical appearance but also in the services it provides to the community.
One of the biggest shifts in the pharmacy industry has been the expansion of services, particularly in vaccinations. Craig said almost all vaccinations can be done inside Terry White Chemist by the pharmacy team. He added that it has been a catalyst for further growth and increasing more services within the pharmacy.
Since taking over the pharmacy, the owners have also undertaken a rebranding. In September 2021, they transitioned to the current brand, which provided access to a wider range of products while also modernising the store’s appearance.
Both co-owners have long-standing ties to the pharmacy, having worked under the previous owner, which Craig said allowed himself and Chris to maintain the relationships they had built with customers,
Customer service remains at the heart of the business. Before Chris and Craig owned the chemist they worked under the slogan ‘Personal Service, Professional Care’, which is now echoed in Terry White Chemmart’s slogan ‘Dedicated to Care’.
The two of them learned that customers service is the most important part of the business, and they strive to maintain those strong relationships.
Craig said that moving to employee to ownership was a big change, they are still learning everyday, and its challenging but satisfying to be both a business owner and a pharmacist at the same time.
As flu season approaches, the pharmacy is preparing to meet the demand for vaccinations. The vaccines have arrived and they are ready to be distributed, by scanning the QR code on this page you can schedule your spot.
The business has also faced challenges, including operating through a power outage during a major flood event.
"We were fortunate that we didn’t have floodwater enter the store, but we had no power for a week," Craig recalled.
With nearly ten years in business, the pharmacy continues to evolve, ensuring it remains a trusted healthcare provider for the community. Craig said the best part of the job is having relationships with customers, and moving forward, he is looking forward to offering even more care to the people of the region.
My Katter’s Australian Party colleague Shane Knuth MP recently introduced a Crocodile Management Bill into Queensland Parliament, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. With the recent floods, crocs are turning up in places they weren’t before, making our waterways even more dangerous. For too long, we’ve been losing our pristine swimming holes and favourite recreational spots to these apex predators whose population goes completely uncontrolled.
Here in Hinchinbrook, we love fishing and the outdoors. It’s frustrating to be constantly told to be “croc wise” and to watch our behaviour. It feels like the government is more concerned with managing humans than managing crocs. That’s why I strongly support Shane Knuth’s bill. It puts the safety of humans first by calling for practical measures to reduce crocodile numbers in populated areas.
Crocodile control isn’t about wiping them out, it’s about restoring balance. The bill proposes targeted removals and common-sense management strategies that protect our right to safely enjoy our waterways. This includes the establishment of the Queensland Crocodile Authority, a local body based in Cairns, which would take full responsibility for crocodile management across the state.
I’d like to see the State Government get behind this bill and start listening to the communities that live with this problem every day. It’s easy when a majority of our politicians live in the south-east to ignore important issues like this in the North. It’s not an unreasonable request to just want the freedom to swim, fish, and relax without constantly looking over our shoulders.
Submissions on the bill are currently open until the 3rd of April 2025. For anyone wishing to make a submission, you can do so through the Queensland Parliament website. A public briefing will be held on the 2nd of April in Brisbane with a public hearing to follow on the 21st of May 2025.
Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook
Since the flooding event, the Herbert River Improvement Trust has been dealing with increasing expectations from landowners and community while facing difficulties in securing adequate funding to carry out essential works.
With limited annual budget allocations and a reliance on grant funding, the Trust is struggling to meet demand for riverbank stabilisation, flood mitigation, and infrastructure protection.
The Trust's primary funding comes from an annual budget of approximately $280,000, supplemented by grants. However, securing grant funding has become increasingly difficult, as competition with other organisations intensifies.
In an effort to stretch resources, the Herbert River Improvement Trust follows a cost-sharing model with landowners, typically requiring a 50-50 financial contribution. However, when projects are funded through government grants, often under disaster recovery programs, landowners are not required to contribute.
Since the flood, the Trust is seeing a surge in requests from landowners, but the reality is they cannot fix everything immediately, and some landowners are unaware of the 50/50 contribution needed.
The prioritisation of projects is based on multiple factors, including financial contributions from landowners. Those willing to invest in their own properties often receive higher priority in the Trust's work program. Essential infrastructure projects, such as those that benefit entire communities, also take priority.
Securing government grants is a complex process, involving negotiations with multiple levels of government. More recently, a state grant of $400,000 helped raise the levee in Halifax, preventing severe flooding in the area. While such funding is vital, it is not guaranteed, and the Trust must continually push for financial support.
Getting a grant can take a serious amount of time which can in turn make landowners frustrated, but despite this, the Herbert River Improvement Trust is positive that they will see government grant support to help in this region.
Beaumont Tiles and Bathroomware in Ingham has been a cornerstone of the local building and renovation and building repair industry, providing expert advice, quality products, and unwavering community support. Owned and operated by Helen and Eric Shoubridge, this family business is more than just a tile and bathroom ware supplier, it is a trusted resource for homeowners and builders alike.
The store serves both residential and commercial customers, providing tiles and flooring, walls, kitchens, and bathrooms and assisting in designing and creating beautiful bathrooms and laundries with fixtures and fittings.
Helen emphasises that tiles are more than just a functional product, they can also be a statement piece in home design.
“Tiles are not just a barrier product, they are pieces of art and it comes down to the skill and design,” she said.
A significant part of their work involves collaborating with homeowners, contractors, and insurance companies to ensure seamless renovations.
People go into Beaumont Tiles with plans, and they can recommend tiles to work within different price ranges, all whilst finding what the customer had envisioned.
Helen and Eric moved to the district in 2004 to become motel owners and operators, and the experience they have gained since living in the region has allowed them to prepare for future disasters.
They have faced significant flooding and cyclone events whilst living in Ingham, and they quickly learnt the importance of quality materials and expert advice. This understanding led them to join Beaumont Tiles, a company known for its extensive range and reliable supply chain.
“We’ve been through these challenges ourselves,” Helen explained.
“Every flood has taught us something valuable, and that knowledge allows us to guide our customers on how to make the best choices for their homes and businesses.”
The recent floods brought unexpected challenges, with the store’s warehouse experiencing flooding for the first time. Despite taking precautions by storing materials on pallets, some stock was damaged. However, due to Beaumont Tiles being Australia-wide with locations throughout the country, they were able to work successfully to fulfil orders.
Helen said that Beaumont Tiles was and continues to be incredibly supportive, assisting in the recovery process and ensuring that supply remains consistent despite logistical difficulties.
Community support remains at the heart of Helen and Eric’s business philosophy.
“One of the reasons we chose to stay in Ingham was the incredible community spirit,” Helen said.
“When we first moved here, people would come by and ask if we needed help after a flood.”
Helen continues to thank everyone for their support in the early years by actively volunteering with Life Long Supports and The Abergowrie Long Pocket QCWA.
While Beaumont Tiles does not handle installations directly, Eric and Helen provide customers with the names of local businesses and assist customers in navigating current building challenges in the area.
As design trends evolve, the store ensures that customers have access to the latest styles and materials.
“We are always removing a certain style and putting in a new one,” said Helen.
“It’s quite exciting to collaborate with people to make their flooring, bathrooms, kitchens and laundries satisfying.”
Helen and Eric’s commitment to the community, combined with their deep industry knowledge has made Beaumont Tiles in Ingham an invaluable resource for homeowners and businesses alike.
Forrest Beach is open again!
On Thursday 6th March, the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) stinger net was returned to the water, opening the beach to swimmers.
Member of the Forrest Beach SLSC and stinger net supervisor, Bill Johnson said the beach had been cleaned up since the flood. Bill acknowledged that the conditions were good, and quickly seized the opportunity to reinstall the net.
Bill advises to swim in the early morning or late afternoon for the best tide and water temperature.
Swimmers are advised to stay within the safety of the stinger net and between the red and yellow flags at all times. For added protection, wearing a lycra stinger suit is recommended.
“This weekend will see big tides at 6-7 o’clock in the morning, so this weekend will be absolutely beautiful for swimming,” said Bill.
The lifesavers patrol the beach, Saturdays - 1.00-5:00pm and Sundays & Public Holidays - 9:00am-5:00pm.
The stinger net has been out for at least a month, and now is a great time to get back in the water.
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An Australian-first initiative to improve fatigue management on farms has heard directly from busy primary producers about how they prioritise rest, safety and productivity.
CQUniversity researchers are compiling the practical advice for farmers, with farmers – with input from across dairy, cotton, eggs and grains sectors.
Now the project is creating useful guides to highlight causes, impacts and management strategies for fatigue on farms – and launching a new survey to grow understanding of farmers’ experiences.
Fatigue on-farm has been identified as an industry-wide priority for the Rural Safety & Health Alliance (RSHA), a collaborative partnership between AgriFutures Australia, Australian Eggs, Australian Wool Innovation, Australian Pork Ltd, Cotton Research and Development Corporation, Dairy Australia and Grains Research and Development Corporation.
In collaboration with the RSHA, the Farming and Fatigue: Growing Sensible Solutions project aims to help industry measure and manage fatigue on-farm.
Amy Cosby is part of the project team from CQUniversity’s Agri-tech Education and Extension team as well as a dairy farmer and busy mum.
She says the research is a first for the Australian agriculture sector, and importantly works with farmers to highlight effective habits for rest and wellbeing.
“What farmers have told us so far is that managing fatigue on farms is about more than hours in bed – it’s impacted by stress, and seasons, and weather, and of course the huge workloads involved with life on the land,” she said.
“But what we’ve also found, and what is certainly my personal experience, is that farmers also consider what they eat, how they exercise, how they schedule employee shifts, and even how they socialise, to try to get better rest, balance their life and avoid fatigue.
“We want producers to have a clear understanding of how their current working patterns can be tweaked to better manage the real risks of fatigue on farms,” Amy said.
Farmers can learn more about the Farming and Fatigue project and complete the anonymous survey online: https://bit.ly/FarmingFatigueSurvey
Biosecurity Queensland is advising of the preliminary identification of varroa mite (Varroa destructor) for the first time in Queensland.
Initial samples from a recreational apiary in the Lockyer Valley have returned a positive diagnostic result for Varroa destructor.
Further samples from recreational and commercial apiaries have been collected and are currently undergoing testing to confirm the presence of Varroa destructor and also check for other exotic pests and diseases.
Department of Primary Industries Deputy Director-General and Chief Biosecurity Officer Dr Rachel Chay said increased detections into Queensland’s border regions were expected in the coming months due to natural spread from New South Wales.
“Biosecurity Queensland has been preparing for this event and is working closely with the affected beekeepers to slow the spread of varroa mite and help guide management practices,” Dr Chay said.
“We’ve joined all other states and territories in shifting our focus from eradication to management to safeguard Queensland’s valuable honeybee industry and recreational beekeeping.
“Queensland's Varroa Mite Biosecurity Zone remains in place, which restricts the movement of bees, beehives and beekeeping equipment from states and territories with varroa mite.
“We remain committed to supporting the beekeeping industry by working alongside individual beekeepers, peak industry bodies and a dedicated biosecurity champion network.”
Queensland Beekeepers’ Association President Jacob Stevens said the first detection of Varroa destructor in Queensland had been expected “for some time now”.
“Thank you to the Queensland beekeepers who have reported varroa mite. Unfortunately, these reports come as no surprise,” Mr Stevens said.
All beekeepers are urged to remain vigilant and undertake monthly hive health checks to determine varroa mite presence.
All results should be reported to the Bee 123 online form, even if no mites are found.
Immediately report unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.
Varroa development officers (VDOs) are available to provide advice to all Queensland beekeepers in early detection and integrated pest management principles. VDOs can be contacted at varroa@daf.qld.gov.au.
All beekeepers should:
• monitor for mites monthly using the alcohol wash method
• report all hive checks using the quick and easy Bee 123 form, even if no mites are found
• immediately report any suspect mites, unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23
• stay up to date with the latest information by subscribing to the bee e-alert
• attend a training workshop to learn how to best manage varroa mite in your hives
• register as a biosecurity entity, whether you have one hive or 100
• use decontamination practices between apiaries and always come clean and leave clean
• keep up to date on movement restrictions for your intended destination before moving bees or equipment.
The Queensland Government is inspiring young minds with science programs to promote agricultural science as a rewarding, long-term career choice.
Thousands of students will explore the role of ‘insects in agriculture’ as they take part in a national school plant science competition.
Registrations are now open for the Department of Primary Industries’ 29th annual Hermitage Research Facility Schools Plant Science Competition.
This year, students will focus on the world of insects, gaining insights into biology, ecology and the environment while contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.
Interest is soaring so far this year with almost 3,000 students from 93 schools across the country already registered to take part.
Students can enter all three award categories: Plant Science Project Awards, Art in AgRiculTure Awards, or the Guardians of Earth Global BioQuest.
Registrations for school students to enter this year’s competition are open until 30 May 2025, with entries closing on Friday 27 June 2025. All entrants will be in the running for a selection of fantastic awards and prizes.
Winners will be announced on 21 August 2025 at the Hermitage Research Facility's annual Awards Day and Agricultural Science Expo in Warwick.
Client Services Officer, Kerrie Rubie said this year's competition will give students the opportunity to learn all about insects and the role they play in Australian agriculture and global food security.
“It is incredibly important that our younger generation are educated about the different types of insects, animals, and fungi, as well as the weeds and diseases that pose a threat to our environment and agricultural industries,” she said.
Students can get their creativity flowing in the Art in AgRiculTure Awards competition and get outdoors into nature with Guardians of Earth April Global BioQuest.
“Exciting competitions like this one are critical for sparking passion for our industry. I encourage students to get involved and have some fun while also learning about the importance of insects and their impact on agriculture and food security,” Ms Rubie said.
For more information and to enter, visit Hermitage Schools Plant Science Competition online or call 13 25 23.
Floodwaters may have receded, but for North Queensland’s sugarcane farmers, the road to recovery is only just beginning. Damaged crops, washed-out paddocks, and ongoing uncertainty over disaster funding have left many wondering how they’ll rebuild in time for next season.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens has called on the Queensland Government to urgently amend disaster recovery grants to cover the cost of replanting—something current funding does not allow.
“Getting crops back in the ground is just as critical as repairing fences or sheds,” Mr Menkens said. “Other states recognise this and allow replanting costs to be covered under disaster funding. Queensland needs to do the same.”
Many farmers across the Burdekin and Herbert River regions have been forced to start from scratch after floodwaters lingered, destroying young cane plants. Adding to the challenge, some growers may be locked out of assistance altogether due to outdated definitions of a ‘primary producer.’
Under current rules, those who supplement their income through harvesting contracts—an essential part of the industry—could be deemed ineligible for disaster grants. Mr Menkens argues this must change.
“These growers aren’t just running farms; they’re providing vital services that keep the industry moving. When you shut them out of support, you don’t just hurt individual farmers—you hurt the whole supply chain.”
The issue has sparked a strong response from Kennedy MP Bob Katter, who has demanded immediate action from the state government, calling the delay in securing Category D funding unacceptable.
“It’s been a month since record-breaking floods hit, and we’re still waiting for the state government to do its job,” Mr Katter said.
“In past disasters, this process was immediate—yet here we are, left high and dry while our farmers struggle to survive.”
A cartoon by renowned illustrator Harry Bruce has summed up Mr Katter’s frustration, capturing his determination to fight for the region.
“This is a fight we won’t walk away from,” Mr Katter said.
“If we don’t get what we need in North Queensland, then God help you, Mr ALP/LNP.”
Mr Katter also extended his thanks to AgForce North, CANEGROWERS, Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables, Nick Dametto MP, and Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo for their ongoing advocacy on behalf of farmers.
QCAR is also backing the push, joining forces with CANEGROWERS and AgForce Queensland to demand that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declare Category D funding.
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago stressed that financial relief wouldn’t just support farmers but entire regional economies.
“For every dollar the government spends on recovery assistance funding, it has a multiplier effect, lifting up everyone from the quarry operators to the mum and dad cafe owners,” Mr Lago said.
With pressure mounting from industry groups, politicians, and affected communities, the message is clear: Queensland farmers need real support, and they need it now.
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It was wonderful to see the many local business managers and owners who turned up at the meet and greet to see the Small Business Commissioner, Dominique Lamb that was held last Wednesday night at Lee’s Hotel. Unfortunately, due to the impending cyclone Alfred looming off the Brisbane coast, her trip was cut short. But the evening proved to be a valuable source of connection, as she heard stories and hardship from the attendees, while exchanging contact details and words of sympathy.
The Hinchinbrook Shire Council organised a wonderful night, where after the formal speeches and introductions, there was chatter and story swapping, while other leading organisations such as Rural Financial Counselling Services and the Department of Small and Family Business were introduced once again.
On the Chamber side of operations, 1-on-1 sessions with QRIDA representatives Sam Spina and Bill Fletcher are booked out at full capacity. More interest is being shown from businesses in the local community, and more sessions are currently being organised as a result.
Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce is also working closely with Officers from Rural Financial Counselling Services (RFCS) to organise 1-on-1 sessions, allowing business owners the chance to have their conversations in a private and discreet setting. RFCS work hand in hand with your already allocated financial advisors and accountants, while also offering the services of a Business Wellness Coach, who will assist where there is overwhelming stress and angst. More details of these sessions will come once preparations have been finalised. If you are interested in attending these sessions, please contact the Chamber to express your interest.
The Hinchinbrook community is now coming up to 6 weeks post flood, and it’s been fantastic to see, from Chamber’s side the determination and resilience radiating from the business community. Striving to not give up, and open those doors no matter what, to once again serve their community. Chamber commend you all! With each passing day, more and more shops are reopening; and with Easter fast approaching, getting the word out that Ingham is “open for business” has never been so important. Chamber has recently taken on a tourism based social media campaign stating these details, as they try to invite tourists back to our town.
Contributed with thanks to Chamber President Mary Brown
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