As the cooler months settle in, rats and mice may start seeking warmth and shelter inside your home. While these warm-blooded pests can survive outdoors, they are opportunistic and will not hesitate to sneak inside when given the chance.

Once indoors, rodents can quickly become a serious problem. They often chew through books, papers, and insulation to build nests, and can also gnaw on electrical cables hidden behind walls and cabinets, creating fire hazards. In addition to property damage, rodents can pose significant health risks to you and your family through the spread of bacteria and disease.

That is where local expert Michael Slater, The Pest Control Guy, comes in. Michael offers professional, reliable rodent control services designed to protect your home from unwanted invaders. Michael understands that pest issues can arise at any time, which is why he offers flexible scheduling to help tackle the problem as soon as possible, with appointments available six days a week.

If you suspect rats or mice have made themselves at home, do not delay. Taking swift action is the best way to prevent further damage and health concerns.

Call Michael Slater today on 0409 065 069 or 0439 722 311, or email appc147@gmail.com and let The Pest Control Guy help keep your home rodent-free this winter.

For anyone heading to the Dungeness boat ramp, the Channel Inn Shop has quickly become the go-to destination for fishing and boating supplies, and for good reason.

Located just metres from the boat ramp, the shop caters directly to the needs of fishers, boaties, and holidaymakers preparing for a day on the water. It is well stocked with essentials such as life jackets, flares, winch handles, ropes, bait, crab pots and a solid selection of tackle. This makes it a highly convenient one-stop shop with a broad range of supplies.

Fuel and ice are ready to go 24/7, and with the shop opening at 6:00am, you can grab what you need for an early start. And it is not just about the fishing gear, as plenty of locals and visitors stop in simply for the great coffee and fresh food. One recent customer shared her experience:

“We decided on a spontaneous fishing trip over the weekend with nothing prepared — not even a coffee! We stopped into the Channel Inn Shop, and I was blown away. We picked up bacon and egg toasties, antipasto, snacks, and great coffee (with our special milk — a rare find). It saved our trip.”

In addition to grab-and-go options, the store offers BBQ meats, frozen seafood, house-made pizzas, deli items and a well-stocked walk-in bottleshop fridge. This is particularly handy for those staying in local accommodation, with everything you need for a comfortable stay available in one place.

The Channel Inn Shop combines practicality with convenience, offering quality marine supplies, great food and drinks, and all the travel essentials you could need. Whether you are topping up on tackle, refuelling, or grabbing a coffee before hitting the water, this is the only stop you need to make.

For anyone launching from Dungeness or staying nearby, the message is clear: visit the Channel Inn Shop and you will find it all!

Prep: 10min | Cook: 25min | Serves 4

Ingredients
600g cauliflower, cut into florets
2 zucchini, coarsely chopped
6 Medjool dates, pitted, quartered
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger
2 tsp finely grated fresh turmeric
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tsp ground cumin
205g (1 cup) raw buckwheat
1/4 cup fresh mint sprigs
Lemon wedges, to serve
130g (1/2 cup) natural yoghurt

Method
Preheat oven to 200°C/180°C fan forced. Line a baking dish with non-stick baking paper. Scatter the cauliflower, zucchini and dates in the prepared dish. Drizzle with the oil. Add the ginger, turmeric, garlic and cumin. Toss well to coat. Season. Roast for 25 minutes or until golden and tender.

Meanwhile, cook the buckwheat in a saucepan of boiling water following the packet directions. Then drain. Note: You can add 1 tsp of vegetable stock powder to the buckwheat when cooking to enrich the flavour.

Serve the roasted vegetables sprinkled with buckwheat, mint and lemon wedges, and topped with yoghurt.

Great dish to serve at functions, accompanied with light meats like fish. You can even melt cheese over the top if you're feeling a bit naughty!

Kindness and community spirit are alive and well at Terry & Mamiko’s Cafe in Cardwell. Their 11th community tip jar has raised $122.35 for the Cardwell SES, a volunteer group dedicated to supporting the region in times of need.

Though it is a small jar, it continues to fill with the generosity of customers. Every coin and note collected goes towards helping local organisations that make a real difference in the community. The SES volunteers certainly appreciate this latest show of support.

The giving does not stop there. The cafe’s 12th community tip jar is now raising funds to support the Velocity Raptors from Gilroy Santa Maria College, Ingham. This talented team will soon head to Germany to compete in the world championships. One of their members is Nate, son of popular local educator Miss Suzette from Cardwell Early Learning.

There is also a donation jar in store to support the Cardwell Country Club’s Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser, ahead of the Pink Party on Saturday 21st of June.

Next time you pop in, why not drop in some spare change? Every little bit goes towards an importand local cause!

The Ingham Show is back with a program packed full of entertainment, and once again the fan-favourite dog competitions are sure to draw big crowds.

If you have a pouncy pooch or a dashing dachshund, now is the time to get your fur-babies involved. On Friday, 27th June, the much-loved Wienerpalooza will take centre stage. The fun kicks off at 10:30am with the Sausage Dog Fancy Dress parade, followed by the famous Dachshund Derby big race at 11:00am.

There are two fun categories for these loveable long boys: Best Dressed and Fastest Dog of the Derby. Entry for sausage dogs is $10.

For those with high-energy pups, do not miss the Dog High Jump, taking place in the main arena on Thursday night, 26th June, from 6:30pm in the Centre Ring. Cattle dogs, Collies and other bouncy breeds always shine in this event. Entry is $15, so get your sky-flyers entries in!

To register for either event, message the Ingham Show Facebook page or text 0402 390 034. There are sashes, trophies and prize money up for grabs.

WHAT: Ingham Show Dog Competitions.
WHEN: Dog High Jump: Thursday, 26th June at 6:30pm & Wienerpalooza: Friday, 27th June from 10:30am.
WHERE: Ingham Showgrounds, Ingham.

Inka is a laid-back and easygoing lady who enjoys lounging around and observing the world around her. She thrives on playtime with her foster siblings and has a harmonious relationship with the variety of animals in her foster family's home.

Inka's friendly nature makes her a hit with kids, and she particularly loves splashing around in the water and trying out new games.

Being a young lady still, Inka is still working on her training but luckily, Inka comes equipt with the best set of listening ears, which makes her an A+ student. So, if you're looking for a playful companion who's ready to fill your days with laughter and love, then Inka is your girl! Let's start our forever adventure together.

Can't wait to meet you! To meet Inka, fill in an inquiry form at: www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

Included in the adoption fee is DESEXING, MICRO-CHIPPED, up-to-date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated & on PROHEART.

Adoption: $450
DOB: 3/07/2024 - age 10 months.
Sex: Female
Breed: Bullarab x
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft

Winter is the perfect season to get planting in the garden. If you live in a wet and dry tropical region such as our spot here in Hinchinbrook, North Queensland, there is plenty you can sow now to fill your kitchen with fresh produce during the cooler months.

Many of these crops are exactly what you want on hand for hearty winter meals. Think soups, roasts, tray bakes and big bowls of greens to nourish you through the cold season. Growing your own not only saves money, but it also brings great satisfaction to the table.

Now is the time to plant herbs such as dill, garlic, marjoram, mint, oregano, parsley, rocket, sage, Thai coriander and thyme. They will add wonderful flavour to your dishes and are easy to grow in pots or garden beds.

For fruit and vegetables, sow beans, bok choy, pak choy, broccoli, cabbage, capsicum, carrots, cauliflower, cucumbers, eggplant, kale, lettuce, peas, potatoes, pumpkins, radish, silverbeet, spinach, sweet corn and tomatoes.

Do not forget to plant some colour too. Marigolds, kangaroo paw and sunflowers will brighten the garden and attract helpful pollinators to keep everything thriving.

A well-planted garden now will keep your belly full and your kitchen warm all season long.

Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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As factories across our regions ramp up operations for the production season, the global sugar price remains under pressure.

Recent figures from Brazil, the world's largest sugar producer, show a strong fortnight of crushing activity in the second half of May, according to UNICA.  Brazil is now just 12% behind its 2024 crushing pace.  Its sugar mix reached nearly 52% for the period, bringing the season-to-date balance to an even 50/50 split between sugar and ethanol.  Brazil's CCS levels are finally improving after a slow start.

However, one key piece of the Brazil production puzzle remains uncertain: cane yield, or tonnes of cane per hectare.  This figure is gathered from various sources, but the industry standard often relies on CTC data.  The May report is due soon, and historically, May has marked the peak for yields.  Over the past 23 years, average crop yields haven't surpassed the May benchmark, so this next report will be one to watch.

Ethanol parity is another factor influencing the #11 sugar price.  There's talk the Brazilian government may raise its ethanol blending mandate from 27% to 30% a 10% increase that could support prices.  At the same time, however, Brazil's booming corn ethanol industry continues to add supply, which may offset some of the support for sugar prices.  Oil prices - which impact ethanol demand are on the rise, but they remain volatile due to global macroeconomic events.

In short, the price outlook remains uncertain.  Some market commentators suggest most of Brazil's 2025 export sugar has been hedged at stronger prices, while much of the remaining production, including grower sugar, is still to be priced.  For the first time, we're also hearing murmurs of demand softening, which is notable given sugar prices have fallen nearly 40% since their late 2023 highs.

With market pressure still weighing on prices, we're left hoping the old saying proves true - that low prices eventually cure low prices.

For those wanting to hear more about what is affecting the global sugar market, keep an eye out for our Global Traders Roadshow being held in July.  Wilmar's senior sugar traders Peter Bingham and Neil Foo will be presenting on the current state of play and what will be influencing prices this year.

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From the cane fields of Macknade to bookshelves across Australia, Angelina Mastrippolito’s debut memoir Le Seconde: Inheriting the Unspoken has made an inspiring impact. Her hometown launch, held at TYTO Conference Centre in Ingham, was a moving and memorable event, with more than seventy people gathering to celebrate her success.

Friends, family, childhood neighbours and past classmates filled the room to show their support, purchase a signed copy, and hear Angie speak about her journey. The warmth and love from the crowd was clear, as many connected personally to the story of growing up in what was fondly known as ‘Little Italy.’

Angie’s memoir explores life as a second-generation Italian woman, shaped by the complexities of migration, family loyalty and unspoken expectations. Her childhood in Far North Queensland’s cane fields was full of adventure, but also carried deep undercurrents. Her grandfather was an ardent fascist. Her father and grandfather wrestled with the shadows of an unspoken past. Her mother, caught between duty and defiance, quietly taught her young daughter a revolutionary song to irritate her father-in-law.

From these layered family experiences, Le Seconde paints a powerful portrait of identity, resilience and womanhood. Angie’s reflections, including vivid shared memories of tiptoeing through her mother’s kitchen, sparked both laughter and thoughtful discussion during the launch.

The event proved to be more than a book signing. It was a gathering of the Italian community, as many in the audience recognised their own stories in Angie’s words. A memoir of living between two worlds and unravelling family mysteries, Le Seconde clearly struck a heartfelt chord with everyone in attendance.

You've heard of true-blue Aussies who toil out in the heat.
They don't come any truer than Midway's Poet Pete.

Of all the dinkum farmers who breathe the Midway air -
hard yakka beef and cane men -
our Pete was called the Mayor.

Some years the bank was broken by cyclones, drought or rain.
Yet season after season - he'd up and go again.

Pete gifted me the magic - I use it all the time -
of painting Abergowrie by putting words in rhyme.

But waking up this morning - the earth began to shake.
My eyes were filled with water - I felt a gutting ache.

To think of Peter passing - I cannot contemplate.
I never thought I'd lose him, my rhyming bushy mate.

I can't believe it's happened. I can't believe he's gone.
It's hard to find a comfort in Peter passing on.

We've lost the Mayor of Midway, I've my old mate Pete -
I'm not so sure the frothies will ever be as sweet.

I'll see him at the river, and down at Midway Creek,
or way up in the mountains - at Abergowrie’s peak.

I'll see him in the canefields, or when my eyes are shut,
and where we crossed the Herbert - to fish at Brucey’s hut.

When mist descends on Gowrie, and morning light is pale,
I'll feel his spirit with me - where heaven spreads its vale.

We shared a love of Ireland - a place I'd never been.
But Peter’s tales inspired me to see that emerald green.

I'd give up all the poems - I'd give up all the rhymes,
to see him back at Midway - reliving happy times.

His sleep is now eternal, and just to Ingham's west,
by Midway’s rushing water - he'll take his final rest.

But loved ones never leave us - they never can depart
from what we hold inside us - the place we call the heart.

By Jonny Paul of Abergowrie.
Written 28/12/2024.

Author's Note: Peter Sheahan reached out to me when I moved to Abergowrie, took me under his wing - and gave me the gift of poetry.

Thanks for the laughs Pete, thanks for the beers, and thanks for the rhymes. You are dearly missed, though we’ll carry you with us always. Rest in peace my old mate. This poem is for you.

Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire! I was a very busy bee this past week, and I hope you all were too.

There were book signings, art exhibition opening nights (which I regret to have missed), and we all bid a fond farewell to one of our much-loved staff here at the Life Publishing Group as Ruby spreads her wings in the rewarding world of support work.

I nipped down to Airlie Beach to celebrate her new journey with my colleagues from the main office. We had some nibbles and drinks at Mulligan's, a delightful Irish sports bar, before sending her off the proper way with karaoke up on stage at Magnums, where we sang Don't Go Breaking My Heart by the wonderful Elton John.

With a future ahead of her as bright as those flashing club lights, I know Ruby will do well on the new path she has chosen. The only sad tidings come from Finn, the main office dog, who will sadly be losing a playmate as Ruby takes her fur-son Koa with her. All the best Ruby!

Victoria

Fun Fact: I first fell in love with Elton's music when he appeared on the Muppets Show and sang Crocodile Rock. He was colourful and dazzling in a mirrorball and rainbow feather suit and conducted singing crocodiles. He also sang a duet with Miss Piggy, and their performance, matching costumes and banter are core memories. Best VHS tape ever.

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The latest art exhibit at TYTO Art Gallery opened on Friday and is open until the end of July.

This ‘n’ That by Sue Hollamby brings Sue’s art style to life, she shares a charming collection of heartfelt works that showcase her genuine passion for art and creativity.

In the new exhibit expect a lively blend of colour, imagination, and character in this wonderfully eclectic collection.

The exhibit’s opening night was an extraordinary success, and attendees said it was wonderful to see art back in the gallery.

Sue Hollamby’s New Gallery Success

Sue Hollamby’s This ’n’ That collection was showcased last Friday and the opening night was a fantastic night.

Councillor Donna Marbelli said it was great to see the TYTO Art Gallery back open after the floods in February.

“I was truly excited to be back in the TYTO Art Gallery, following the challenges our community faced during the significant weather event in February, which brought widespread stress and disruption across our beautiful Hinchinbrook,” said Cr Marbelli.

“Council is proud to reopen this special space restored and refreshed and how fitting it is to do so with an exhibition by the well-established artist Sue Hollamby. In her collection This ’n’ That, Sue shares a delightful mix of inspired pieces that reflect her pure love for art and creativity.

“What a wonderful way to welcome everyone back into gallery.”

On the opening night canapes were provided and attendees were greeted with the unexpected as as Sue presented a playful, diverse collection of artworks that capture her distinctive creative journey and expressive flair.

Sue’s This ‘n’ That exhibit is on display now at TYTO Art Gallery, it will be on display until Thursday 24th July 2025.

Since the reopening the TYTO Art Gallery is set to get busy.

The TYTO Regional Art Gallery proudly hosts two prestigious national art competitions each year, the Annual Birdlife Art Awards and the Hinchinbrook Art Awards.

These cornerstone events not only showcase exceptional artistic talent from across the Hinchinbrook region but also the country. It plays a vital role in nurturing creativity within the local community. By encouraging the continued practice of high-quality art-making, the gallery helps to energise the local arts scene and contributes to a vibrant cultural landscape that both inspires and enriches Ingham and the wider Hinchinbrook region.

Located within the scenic TYTO precinct, the gallery forms part of a broader cultural and environmental hub that includes the Hinchinbrook Library and Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre.

These facilities are seamlessly connected by an elevated boardwalk, which offers sweeping views of the stunning TYTO Wetlands is a haven for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.

This unique integration of art, education, tourism, and the natural environment makes TYTO a true destination of creativity, discovery, and connection.

Busy Time Of Preparation For Businesses

This week is the final chance for the business community to complete their preparation for the end-of-financial-year planning. End of financial year is always a busy time for reflection on the year to date, reviewing how the business is tracking and working with your financial professionals to plan for how to best move the business forward.

In light of the very challenging start to this calendar year and backing up from two already difficult years in the agricultural sector, this planning process may be more crucial to many business owners this year than it historically has been for some time.

An important part of managing any size business operations is the constant review of all operations, from consumer demand and stock levels to economic trends, marketing strategies and budget considerations. Chamber encourages all businesses, regardless of their size, to put some time aside to prioritise this review process in their business at this time of year and to seek the guidance of their financial professionals to support owners to achieve the best business outcomes moving into the end of the financial year.

Last Saturday saw Chamber host the June Markets at the Mosaic in the Ingham CBD. This event was again exceptionally well attended, both by stallholders and the general public, both from locals and visitors. Surveys conducted on the day again record that more than 35% of visitors to the markets came from postcodes outside of 4850 and included state, national and international visitors.

With more stallholders than ever this month, the popularity of the markets continues to grow, with feedback reporting visitors are making a day trip or weekend visit to the shire to enjoy all that is on offer locally. Chamber continues to survey stallholders, visitors and the broader retail community to understand the impact of the markets, what is being done well and where there is room for improvement, as we constantly strive to deliver a product that will not only support businesses but will also bring visitation to the Shire.

The much-loved Vinnies charity shop in Ingham is excited to announce its full reopening from Monday, 16th June, with new trading hours of Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 3:30pm. After a period of closure due to the February floods, the store is ready to welcome back the Hinchinbrook community with great bargains, friendly faces, and the same dedicated community spirit that locals know and love.

Vinnies Ingham has been a cornerstone of the local area for years, offering affordable second-hand goods and much-needed support to those doing it tough. From quality clothing and kitchenware to books, furniture, and hidden treasures, the shop offers something for every shopper. More importantly, every sale helps to benefit people in need.

Please remember: donations are now accepted only during opening hours, from Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 3:30pm. This ensures that the hardworking volunteers can safely receive and sort items, keeping the shop organised and running smoothly.

Whether you are looking to donate, shop sustainably, or simply enjoy a chat with the lovely team, Vinnies is once again open and ready to serve. The volunteers are eager to welcome regulars and new visitors alike as they continue their mission of supporting the Ingham and Hinchinbrook community. Pop in, find a bargain, and make a difference. See you at Vinnies!

The temporary closure of Halifax Hotel marks the latest chapter in the community’s long recovery following February’s devastating events. Owners Joe Mikuletic and Luke Penning made the difficult decision to shut the doors after battling months of water ingress, structural damage, and electrical failures. With water having seeped in from the roof and compromised key infrastructure, the building was no longer safe nor financially viable to operate.

Many patrons were confused by the delayed closure, but the reality is simple: the bar alone couldn’t sustain operations. Without revenue from the hotel’s other facilities, costs quickly outpaced income. Like countless other local businesses, the owners are navigating a complex process involving insurance claims and construction assessments.

Despite the setback, this isn’t the end for Halifax Hotel. The team is actively planning repairs, aiming to reopen in the very near future. There’s even talk of improvements and upgrades to better serve the community.

"We're getting an opportunity to come back strong. To come back bigger and stronger and to open the doors again."
— Joe Mikuletic and Luke Penning

That message of resilience speaks volumes. Mikuletic and Penning aren’t just rebuilding a business—they’re preserving a local landmark and planning for its future. They’ve extended heartfelt thanks to the community for ongoing support and are determined to return better than before. Halifax Hotel may be closed for now, but its story is far from over.