Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.
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There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.
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Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.
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The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."
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The Recovery Hub is closing on Saturday 15 March, this is because the Emergency Hardship Assistance and Essential Services Hardship Assistance grants will be closing at 11.59pm on Friday 14 March 2025.
Chair of Recovery Mary Brown said, although it is closing, it does not mean demand is not still there. While the immediate emergency response is winding down, the need for assistance remains, prompting discussions on how to ensure continued access to vital services.
As part of the Disaster Management Group there are two phases, response and recovery.
The recovery phase includes four specialised subgroups: Human and Social, Infrastructure, Environment, and Economic. Each subgroup is chaired by a council member and includes relevant stakeholders.
The recovery process began with an initial meeting on February 14, shortly after the disaster, to assess the impact on the community. These findings were then relayed to the Master Recovery Group and they are responsible for developing a comprehensive Recovery Action Plan, setting short, medium, and long-term goals.
A proposed ‘Recovery Hub’ has been named as all short, medium and a long-term goals.
The proposed hub would act as a permanent point of contact for both the community and visiting agencies, allowing for better coordination of resources. The aim is not to replace existing services but to provide a centralised location where government agencies, financial counsellors, and wellness coaches can operate when they visit the area. This approach ensures continued connectivity between those in need and the organisations that can assist them.
A key issue identified is the lack of a dedicated meeting space for agencies providing assistance. Many organisations visit the area to offer support but operate without a clear, accessible location. As a result, people in need may struggle to find them. The proposed hub aims to bring these services under one roof, ensuring that the community knows exactly where to go for help.
While an official name is still being determined to avoid confusion with the existing community recovery hub at TAFE, the initiative aims to provide a much needed centralised location for information, resources, and support services.
On Tuesday, dependent upon what happens with Ex-Cyclone Alfred, I will be attending the Local Government Association of Queensland Civic Leaders Summit in Brisbane. The Summit is an informative platform that brings together all the Mayors in Queensland, politicians and specialist advisers enabling insight into emerging issues, innovative solutions to issues and exchange of ideas through networking with colleagues and government.
Matters that will be discussed include the agenda for making insurance more affordable and a funding increase for Local Governments through the Australian Federal Government Assistance Grants.
Tragic stories emanating from the recent floods endured in our district are confirming the fact that more and more people are forgoing insurance on their properties, due to significant cost increases over recent years and also as a means of cutting costs for household budgets with the current cost of living crisis. Issues to be examined include greater transparency in how prices, particularly for flood insurance, are set by insurers and accounting for resilience and natural hazard mitigation processes.
In relation to the Federal Assistance Grants, did you know that local government only receives around three cents in every dollar of taxation revenue, compared to around eighty cents for the federal government and around seventeen cents for the state. The percentage payable to local government has not increased in the past twenty years despite local government, as the government closest to the people, enduring more and more responsibility for delivery of essential services to their communities through continuous state and federal cost shifting practices.
In a report released only last year by the Local Government Association of Queensland, it was identified that in 2002, the financial impact of services shifted onto ratepayers by upper levels of government over a period of twelve months was estimated to be $47 million. Two decades on, this has increased by a whopping 378 percent to around $360 million over one year. Communities cannot afford for this cost shift to continue. Cuts and cost shifts to local Council’s are cuts to the community.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of southeast Queensland whom have been impacted by Ex-Cyclone Alfred. We are fully aware of what you are going through and sympathise with your current situation. We hope that you remain as safe as possible and wish you a speedy recovery.
Edith
I think maybe something similar to the Strand in Townsville would be more suitable for the young ones. I know there are a lot of sports or whatever they can get into, and even on weekends, they can go down the beach. Maybe something similar to the Strand in Townsville would be better, with slippery slides and water things the kids can play in. But I haven’t the faintest idea how to get this.
Lynette Croton
I'd like to see a playground for the kids in the park there, with a water feature. I was only talking about that the other day. It'd be nice to have something in the park where the kids could just run through beside their swings.
Jenny Christiansen
Probably more things to do for the young people and keep them in town,
more employment and then some sort of entertainment, just something to keep kids in town, would be good. I’m not sure how that could happen, but maybe it could be government funding.
Shaun Jones
I’m pretty new here, but as is the case anywhere, I’d like to see more things for young people. But I find it pretty good at the moment, it’s casual, family feel, and pretty laid back. The rain sucked but it’s a good little place, good position, nice and warm, and plenty of work.
Joe Pennisi
I think David Crisafulli is probably doing the right thing, but maybe getting people to lift all the air conditioning and stuff like that would be good. I think we're never going to get away from floods. So let's just make it easier for people to clean up and get started again.
Brian Newman
Obviously, there's quite a lot for aged care. I think we're going pretty well as far as I’m concerned. There's definitely a need for things for young people; sporting facilities are finding it hard to find committee members. But I think the Council and lots of groups have been trying to get more things for the local area, but it all costs money.
Gina Parr
I love Ingham. The people are great, there’s lots of help, and it's not busy. I don't have any complaints about Ingham whatsoever. Absolutely not. My grandson goes to the local school, which is absolutely amazing, but I have no complaints other than being flooded the other day, where we're not supposed to have been flooded. Otherwise, I've got no complaints, absolutely none.
Allan Colquhoun
A place for the old folks to get together, they do get together here, but a lot of them haven't got the money to buy a cup of coffee, see where that house is, there, that's ideally placed. Somebody owns it, but if a charity got together and they own that, the old folks could get downstairs and sort of have a yak.
Tiles are more than just a practical flooring or wall covering, they are an artistic element that can elevate the aesthetics of your home. Whether you are designing a kitchen splashback, a bathroom feature wall, or a stylish outdoor patio, selecting the right tile can make all the difference. With endless designs, materials, and finishes available, it’s important to consider both function and style to create a space that reflects your personality and enhances your living environment.
The first step in selecting tiles is identifying the style you want to achieve. Are you drawn to modern minimalism, rustic charm, or vibrant Mediterranean patterns? Each tile type carries a unique character that can transform a space. The material of the tile plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. Ceramic tiles are a popular and versatile choice, offering durability and a wide range of colours and designs. They work well in kitchens and bathrooms due to their water resistance and ease of maintenance. Porcelain tiles are more robust and denser than ceramic, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and outdoor spaces. They come in matte, polished, and textured finishes to suit different design needs. Natural stone tiles, such as marble, granite, slate, and travertine, offer a luxurious and organic look. While they require more maintenance, their unique textures and variations add a timeless elegance to any space. Glass tiles are often used for mosaics and feature walls, creating a luminous effect by reflecting light and making spaces appear larger and more vibrant.
Colour and pattern play a significant role in setting the mood of a space. Lighter tiles, such as whites and pastels, create a sense of openness and airiness, making small rooms feel more spacious. Bold colours, intricate patterns, or geometric designs can add character and make a statement. Wood-look or stone-look tiles provide the warmth of natural materials with the benefits of durability and easy maintenance. The size and layout of tiles also impact the overall effect. Large-format tiles give a modern and seamless look, reducing grout lines and creating a sense of continuity. Subway tiles, when laid in different patterns, add a dynamic and stylish effect to walls, while mosaic tiles offer intricate details and are perfect for splashbacks or feature walls.
Tiles have the power to redefine a space, whether through colour, texture, or pattern. A well-chosen tile design can enhance visual appeal by serving as a focal point, drawing attention to a particular area such as a kitchen splashback or an entryway floor. High-quality tiles add sophistication and durability, increasing the value of a home and making it more attractive to potential buyers. Their water-resistant and easy-to-clean surfaces improve functionality, especially in high-moisture zones like bathrooms and kitchens. The right choice of tiles can also create a distinct mood and atmosphere, with dark, moody tones evoking a sense of luxury, while bright, patterned tiles inject energy and creativity into a space.
There is a large array of tiles available and with investing time in selecting the right tile for your home can lead to a stunning and long-lasting transformation. Whether your goal is a sleek modern look or a cozy rustic feel, the right tiles will bring your vision to life.
Only 350 kilometres of road connects Townsville to Cairns, this is Tropical North Queensland. Here 115km north of Townsville on a road sandwiched between World Heritage listed National Parks, towering cane, rainforest waterfalls and magnificent beaches you will find Ingham.
William Bairstow Ingham bought a sugar plantation in 1874 on the Herbert River and by petition the following year the township was named in his honor. The first Italians arrived in Ingham in 1891, followed by a steady wave between 1900 and 1920.
These hardworking pioneers were the backbone of Ingham’s sugarcane industry, cutting cane by hand and driving its success. Their dedication not only sustained the industry but also shaped the town’s identity. Today, with more than half of Ingham’s population of Italian descent, it’s no surprise the town is often affectionately called ‘Little Italy.’
Hello Hinchinbrook!
As someone new to the region, I’ve been taking in the sights, meeting people, and getting a feel for what makes this place tick. This past week, I asked locals what they’d love to see more of in the community—check out Word on the Street on page 8 for their thoughts.
One thing that came up often was the need for more activities for young people. I can see why! Over the weekend, I went for a swim in the sea (which felt like stepping into a bath), hit the gym, and then… well, I wasn’t sure what else to do. I know the region has incredible waterfalls and hikes, but with some roads still closed, I had to put those adventures on hold.
So, I’d love to hear from you! What are your favourite things to do and see in Hinchinbrook and the Herbert? Whether it’s a hidden gem, a must-try local experience, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, let me know—I’m keen to explore.
And with the federal election on the horizon, now is also the perfect time for our community to make its voice heard. What matters most to you?
Looking forward to your suggestions!
— Daniel
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As one of your local Councillors, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated staff who assisted the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG). To the Hinchinbrook Shire Council work force on the ground, together with our local contractors who responded very quickly and rose to the challenges that were in front of them. A special congratulations to Mayor Ramon Jayo, Deputy Mayor Mary Brown, CEO Mary-Anne, and our senior leadership team, including Michelle Webster, Chris Johnstone, and Disaster Management Officer Michelle Watts. I also extend my appreciation to the SES and all emergency services, along with the volunteers who supported the LDMG during this challenging time.
I understand that many in our community are feeling the weight of recent events as we now transition into the recovery phase. Mayor Ramon has addressed this in a recent article; however, I want to emphasise that if anyone feels overlooked or unheard, please do not hesitate to reach out. We have numerous services available, including the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre and the Community Hub at the TAFE Centre, which are ready to assist you.
Council has faced significant waste management challenges following the disaster. Thankfully, with the foresight of our Infrastructure and Utility Services team under Chris Johnstone’s management, we have arranged for a shredder to help reduce this waste efficiently. This will extend the life of Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre considerably, saving our rate payers in the future. The shredding operation is a collaborative initiative, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), ensuring a more sustainable future for the region.
Rest assured, the Councillors are tirelessly advocating on your behalf both during recovery efforts and with government departments and community groups. While the journey to recovery will take time, I firmly believe in the resilience and compassion of our community. We are known for our ability to lend a helping hand and support one another through difficult times. Together, we will rebuild and emerge stronger.
Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to our community.
A beautiful garden doesn’t just enhance your home’s curb appeal, it creates a relaxing outdoor retreat. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a cosy courtyard, a few simple changes can make a world of difference.
Plan with Purpose
Before planting, consider how you want to use your space. Do you envision a peaceful reading nook, or a vibrant flower-filled haven. Deciding your goals helps guide your plant choices and layout.
Choose the Right Plants
Select plants suited to hot, humid climate and the soil type that they will thrive in. Native plants are a great low-maintenance option, requiring less water and care while supporting local wildlife. Mixing perennials with seasonal blooms keeps your garden looking fresh year-round.
Incorporate Hardscaping
Pathways, decking, and garden beds framed with stone or timber add structure and elegance. Even a simple gravel path or a feature wall can bring definition to your space.
Add a Personal Touch
Decorative elements like fairy lights, garden sculptures, or a cozy bench enhance the atmosphere. Vertical gardens or hanging planters are perfect for smaller areas, adding greenery without taking up floor space.
Maintain with Ease
Regular weeding, mulching, and watering are key to a healthy garden. Investing in an irrigation system or drought-tolerant plants can reduce upkeep while keeping your space lush.
With thoughtful planning and a few creative touches, your garden can become a stunning extension of your home.
CANEGROWERS has written to the Federal Government, urging Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to raise the disaster recovery grant threshold to at least $75,000 for primary producers impacted by the recent flooding in north Queensland.
It has been more than two weeks since the government announced recovery assistance packages of up to $25,000 for affected growers.
While growers are grateful for the swift response and the inclusion of replant costs in recovery grants, reports from the ground make it clear that $25,000 is simply not enough to support the worst-affected farming businesses, CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.
"Growers appreciate the rapid response from both state and federal governments in announcing assistance following these devastating floods. However, as primary producers assess the damage, it’s evident that $25,000 barely scratches the surface for some of the hardest-hit farming businesses,” Mr Galligan said.
"The reality is the cost of recovery has risen dramatically. Prices for goods and services have soared over recent years, and primary producers are facing these higher costs as they work to rebuild their businesses. The level of support must reflect today’s economic conditions.
"We have written to the Prime Minister, urging the Federal Government to act as, we understand the Queensland Government has requested."
Beyond immediate relief, CANEGROWERS is calling for the following actions to help modernise disaster funding:
Updating the definition of a primary producer to reflect modern farm ownership, including those with off-farm income.
Ensuring grants are sufficient by indexing them to match rising recovery costs.
Improving workforce support to help businesses retain staff during recovery periods.
Establishing a dedicated pool of rural recovery officers embedded within industry groups to expedite recovery efforts.
"These aren’t just feel-good reforms – they are essential for keeping farms, communities, and industries viable after disasters," Mr Galligan said.
“CANEGROWERS, along with our partners at Queensland Farmers’ Federation and other commodity groups, will keep working with the state and federal governments to modernise how we approach disaster recovery.
“But in the meantime, it’s vital the grant threshold is increased. Farmers need this support now so they can get back to growing Australia’s food and fibre."
A new generation of tradespeople is stepping up in North Queensland, with 37 apprentices launching their careers with Wilmar Sugar and Renewables. Among them, nine fresh recruits have joined the ranks at the Herbert mills, ready to learn their craft in one of the region’s most vital industries. Seventeen of the new recruits are based in the Burdekin region, where Wilmar owns four sugar factories. Five are based at Proserpine Mill and six at Plane Creek Mill in Sarina.
From electrical and fitting and turning to boilermaking and diesel fitting, these apprentices are diving into hands-on training that will shape their futures. They’re part of a long-standing tradition at Wilmar, which has built a reputation for developing highly skilled tradespeople across its four sugar milling regions.
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables Training Superintendent Daniel Shipard said he was pleased to welcome such a high-calibre group of first-year apprentices into the business.
“Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has a long history of developing great tradespeople in our sugar milling regions.
“We’re one of North Queensland’s largest apprenticeship providers, with about 150 apprentices employed across our operations at any one time. Our program is also one of the most successful Australia, with a completion rate of 98 per cent.”
Mr Shipard said this year’s intake included five young women, one of whom had transitioned from a school-based apprenticeship with the company.
“We’ve also signed up five seasonal employees who were keen to get into our apprenticeship program and learn a trade,” he said.
Brooke Smith from the Burdekin was Wilmar’s first school-based apprentice and is now enrolled as an apprentice boilermaker at Pioneer Mill. She said she was excited to be working full time and developing her trade skills.
“Getting into Wilmar’s apprenticeship program means I’m finally going to get more experience and get more involved in what goes in the workshops. It also means I can really be part of the Wilmar business, instead of just being there one day a week,” she said.
First-year electrical apprentice Cody Masters said an apprenticeship with Wilmar meant being able to learn on the job while living in his home town of Ingham.
“It means I get to go home to mum and dad’s cane farm and still get to give back to the community,” he said.
Mr Shipard said the first-year apprentices kicked off their trade training with a two-week Safe Start program in December before beginning work at their respective sites.
“Our Safe Start program equips our apprentices to hit the ground running,” Mr Shipard said.
“It’s a comprehensive introduction that gives them important safety and technical skills, as well as the confidence to thrive in their new roles.”
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Choosing the right estate agent may seem like a minor decision, but it is one of the most important factors when selling or buying a property. The right agent can make all the difference in finding your dream home or securing the best deal for your sale.
Here are five key tips to help you
find the perfect estate agent:
Do Your Research
Before selecting an agent, take the time to research their experience, track record, and reputation. Lookat online reviews, past sales, and client testimonials to get a sense of their performance.
Prioritise Local Knowledge
An agent with extensive knowledge of the local market is invaluable. Ask potential agents how long they have worked in the area and test their understanding of property trends, pricing, and neighbourhood insights. A well-informed agent brings energy and expertise that can significantly impact your sale or purchase.
Observe Them in Action
Attend open houses hosted by the agents you are considering. Pay attention to how they interact with buyers, present properties, and handle enquiries. A strong agent should be confident, approachable, and skilled at generating interest.
Ask the Right Questions
The more information you gather, the better prepared you will be for the sales process. Ask agents to walk you through case studies of previous sales, explaining how they achieved results. Find out why they use specific strategies and what approach they would recommend for your property.
Set Expectations and Check In Regularly
A great agent should have a clear strategy for selling your home. Establish expectations early and stay in touch throughout the process to ensure they are following through on their plan and adjusting strategies when needed. Lastly, it is essential that you feel
comfortable with your agent.
Trust and communication are key to a smooth property transaction, so choose someone who makes you feel confident in the process.
The world of health is constantly evolving, with advice on what’s good or bad for you changing all the time.
While it’s no secret that spending days on the sofa indulging in junk food won’t lead to a healthy lifestyle, some habits that seem unhealthy might actually have surprising benefits.
Here are five so-called ‘bad’ habits that could be good for you!
1: Having a glass of wine with dinner
Moderate alcohol consumption (up to two drinks daily for men, one for women) isn’t linked to obesity, but binge and heavy drinking increase weight gain risk. Enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, just don’t overdo it.
2: Indulging in your favorite comfort foods
Indulging in comfort food occasionally is fine. Choose healthier versions like whole grain pizza or clean-ingredient mashed potatoes. If you indulge, balance it with a nutritious next meal.
3: Taking a break from your exercise routine
Skipping a workout isn’t a bad thing. Rest is essential for muscle recovery and growth. Overtraining can cause fatigue, injuries, and decreased performance. Experts recommend at least one rest day per week, whether through relaxation or light activities like yoga or stretching.
4: Nibbling on chocolate
Indulging your sweet tooth occasionally is fine. Dark chocolate, especially with 70% cacao or more, offers health benefits like reducing inflammation, improving brain function, and lowering blood pressure.
5: Stress
Stress isn't always bad. Moderate stress can improve performance, especially under pressure. Too little stress leads to low motivation, while too much can freeze you up. The key is finding a balance where stress helps you perform without overwhelming you.
So there you have it! Enjoying a square of chocolate, skipping a workout, or experiencing a bit of stress won’t harm your health as long as it's in moderation.
A cake made with avocado might sound unusual, but this Chocolate Avocado Cake is a game-changer. Made with almond flour and avocado, it adds moisture and healthy fats to the batter without affecting the taste. The result is a rich, fudgy cake that’s so delicious, it’s sure to leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
3 ½ cups almond flour packed
⅔ cup coconut sugar
½ cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
4 eggs
1 ripe avocado mashed
1 cup maple syrup
¼ cup almond milk
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Icing:
½ avocado mashed
½ cup butter
5 oz. dark chocolate chopped
1 teaspoon coconut oil
2 ½ cups powdered sugar
US Customary - Metric
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line three 6-inch cake pans with parchment paper (or use two 8-inch pans, if preferred) and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
Scoop the avocado into a small bowl and mash it thoroughly with a fork, mashing for at least 30 seconds to remove any lumps. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs together, then add the syrup, milk, and vanilla. Finally, add the mashed avocado.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a spatula. It's okay if some avocado lumps remain, but be careful not to overmix the batter.
Once fully combined, evenly distribute the batter into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Run a knife along the edges, then carefully invert the cakes onto a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.
For the Icing:
Mash the avocado in a large bowl. Thinly slice the butter and add it to the bowl with the avocado.
Melt the chocolate and coconut oil together (either on the stove or in the microwave) until smooth. Pour the melted mixture over the butter and avocado, then let it sit for 3-5 minutes to soften the butter. Use a spatula to mix until smooth—don’t worry if the butter isn’t completely melted yet.
Add the powdered sugar and use a hand mixer to blend everything together until smooth. The icing should be thick but still spreadable.
To Assemble:
No need to trim the cake tops. Simply place a dollop of icing on each layer and spread it gently. Repeat the process, stacking the layers as you go.
Finish by topping the cake with extra chopped chocolate. Enjoy!
Recipe sourced from The Almond Eater: thealmondeater.com
The recent severe floods in Ingham have left many gardens struggling to recover. Beyond their environmental benefits, gardens play a crucial role in mental well-being, offering a sense of renewal after disaster.
Drawing from past flood recovery efforts, this 10-step guide outlines essential practices to help flood-affected gardens regain their strength.
10 Steps to Garden Recovery
Avoid Walking on Wet Soil –
Foot traffic compacts soil, making recovery harder. Wait until it dries before working in the garden.
Rinse Plants Thoroughly –
Fine silt clogs leaves, hindering photosynthesis. A gentle wash improves plant survival.
Watch for Wilting –
Waterlogged roots lack oxygen. If plants continue wilting after the soil dries, prune lightly.
Restore Soil Microbes –
Beneficial microbes help plants recover and prevent harmful fungi from taking hold. Apply microbial treatments.
Use Organic Fungicides –
Treat stressed plants before adding microbes to prevent fungal infections.
Protect Trees –
Flood-damaged trees may show distress months later. Apply fungicide now and follow up with microbial treatments.
Reduce Soil Compaction –
Improve soil structure by adding organic matter like mulch and compost.
Manage Silt Deposits –
Silt contains nutrients but compacts soil. Mix it with mulch and microbes to restore balance.
Check for Contamination –
Floodwaters can carry sewage, heavy metals, and chemicals. Test soil if contamination is suspected.
Delay Fertilising –
Stressed plants struggle to absorb nutrients. Wait a month before fertilising and use compost instead of synthetic products.
With patience and proper care, gardens can flourish once again—bringing not just greenery, but a renewed sense of hope.
The recent Cardwell Party brought the community together for a much-needed break after a challenging few weeks. The event, aimed at providing a relaxed atmosphere for locals, was well-received and fulfilled its purpose of offering a time for people to unwind.
A key highlight of the event was the support from the Tully and Innisfail Lions Clubs, who manned the BBQ, allowing the Cardwell Lions Club to take a step back and enjoy the festivities. The delicious salads, prepared by Barbara and Rob Lang, were also a hit with attendees.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated group of volunteers contributed to the success of the event, handling everything from decorating and letterbox drops to selling raffle tickets. The businesses that donated raffle prizes played a crucial role, with the proceeds from the raffle helping to fund the event’s entertainment.
Music was provided by Snowy and Craig, creating the perfect atmosphere for the event. Children were also kept entertained, thanks to the efforts of the Cardwell Chamber of Commerce and Tully Support Centre Inc. The Cardwell Country Club generously opened its doors, providing the ideal venue for the community to come together.
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