The Tyto Conference Centre was filled with joy, pride, and absolute cuteness overload on Saturday May 17, as Hinchinbrook celebrated its annual Baby Welcome Ceremony. Held in the beautiful wetlands, the event marked a record turnout, with 50 newborns officially welcomed into the community.

Mayor of Hinchinbrook, Ramon Jayo, expressed his delight at the overwhelming participation, saying, "It's amazing to see, we normally have in 30-40 but today we have 50 babies to welcome. We are very pleased with the turnout, yes, very happy." Adding a personal touch to the event, Mayor Jayo proudly welcomed his own grandchild, making the occasion even more special.

50 New Babies Welcomed To The Community

Deputy Mayor Mary Brown also shared her thoughts on the heartwarming gathering: "It was just beautiful to see that every year we have more babies welcomed in the beautiful ceremony, and it's as Ramon said in his speech, to see not just the parents but the grandparents as well is phenomenal.

"That multi-generational support is just wonderful. It was such a special event, to celebrate the new young residents of our community."

Families received gift bags, personalised certificates, and commemorative saplings, symbolising the growth and future of the community. Activities like face painting and crafts kept the little ones entertained, while parents and grandparents mingled. One lucky family was randomly chosen to cut the official welcome cake, marking a sweet end to a memorable celebration.

With proud and smiling parents, grandparents, and families gathered together, the event was a touching reminder of the strong community spirit that defines Hinchinbrook. As the young residents grow, they are sure to be surrounded by love and support.

Hinchinbrook’s waterways are home to some of the tastiest and most prized mudcrabs in Australia. These iconic crustaceans thrive in the mangrove-lined creeks and estuaries around Lucinda, Halifax and Forrest Beach.

Locals and visitors alike enjoy setting pots during the warmer months, when mudcrabs are most active. Known for their sweet, tender meat and impressive claws, Hinchinbrook mudcrabs are a favourite delicacy on local dinner tables.

Sustainable crabbing practices are in place to maintain healthy stocks—remember to check size and gender regulations before keeping your catch! Whether you're a seasoned crabber or just keen to try, chasing muddies in Hinchinbrook is a classic North Queensland experience!

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Good news for the Dungeness and Lucinda community with the completion of Stage 1 renovations at the Channel Inn, marked by the much-anticipated re-opening of the Channel Inn Shop. A sister business to the locally owned Lucinda Store, run by the Fortini family, the shop’s return is a modest yet meaningful boost for locals, day-trippers, and visitors passing through on their way to the boat ramp.

The shop is now more spacious and better stocked, offering a range of goods designed to meet the needs of both the local community and those heading out on the water. You'll find boating essentials such as life jackets, flares, anchors, winch handles, ratchet straps, bait, crab pots and fishing tackle, alongside everyday conveniences like grocery essentials, cold drinks, barista-made coffee, and grab-and-go food including hotbox items, fresh sandwiches, ready-made antipasto platters and deli goods.

To make meal planning easier for those staying in the area, enjoy a handy range of house-made frozen pizzas, ravioli, frozen seafood, and locally sourced meat from Chiesa Butchers. There’s also a large walk-in bottleshop fridge to quench that traveller’s thirst!

The Channel Inn Shop also provides 24-hour access to fuel bowsers and bags of ice. With regular store trading hours of 6am to 6pm, they offer early access for early risers and boaties getting a head start on the day.

The Fortini family’s continued investment in Lucinda and Dungeness reflects their deep, local ties and quiet commitment to keeping the essentials close to home. This re-opening is just the beginning of a bigger plan for the Channel Inn, and locals are already excited for what’s still to come but for now, it’s great to see the lights back on at the Channel Inn Shop.

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Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire! Wow what a week and what a packed weekend, no rest for the journalists when the region is absolutely thriving.

I met so many amazing achievers this week across sports, trades, and television, and learned so much about the pioneering history of the Cardwell region. The Today Show visited Lucinda, and 50 new babies were welcomed, Parkrun had a morning of absolute highs, the Markets at the Mosaic where back, and Australia didn't make it to the grand final in Eurovision. It's just astounding how so much can happen in such a short time.

I want to circle back to Australia and Eurovision. In my family it's our tradition to wake up at the wee hours of 5am and tune in to watch Europe sing the house down. Australia often gets invited to participate and compete against other European countries, and we have come close to winning quite a few times. However, our artist this year, Go-Jo and his very funny song 'Milkshake Man' didn't make it past the first round. Next year I hope we score better as it would be amazing to see Australia host such a prestigious and vibrant musical contest.

Victoria

Fun Fact: The Eurovision Song Contest 2020 was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The first (and only) time in 64 years that Eurovision was cancelled.

Lucinda recently found itself in the national spotlight as the Today Show rolled into town as part of their regional roadshow. Host Tim Davies and his crew brought a vibrant energy to the community, showcasing the unique charm and warmth that Lucinda and the surrounding areas have to offer.

For Tim Davies, it was a welcome return to a place he holds dear. "It's my second time here, and it's been so good to come back and experience the lifestyle here," he said. "It's been great being in the region and being able to move around these parts."

The segment wasn't just about the breathtaking views or the pleasant weather, though Tim made sure to remind viewers that while the southern states shiver through colder days, the locals here are comfortably in board shorts. "We're really lucky because it's getting really cold down south, and it's really nice to be working here, where it's nice and warm. That's something that we want to try and encourage people to see—that while they're all waking up this morning, we're in board shorts and living our best lives out here."

Tim didn’t just stay behind the camera, he embraced the local lifestyle wholeheartedly.

He tried his hand at cast net fishing, retrieved mud crab pots, and even sampled unique local treats like green ant ice cream. The experience was made even more special by the chance to cook with Ingham's beloved nonnas and meet some of the best players from the Herbert River Crushers and throughout it all, he kept Queenslanders updated on the latest weather developments.

The Today Show’s visit to Lucinda didn’t just highlight the natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle, it reinforced the sense of community pride. Events like these remind us that regional areas like Lucinda have something special to offer, not just to locals, but to visitors from all over.

As Tim and the crew wrapped up their visit, it was clear that Lucinda’s charm had made a lasting impression. And while the rest of the country might be bundling up, Lucinda continues to live its best life—warm, welcoming, and wonderfully unique.

The 83rd anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea was marked with a grand and heartfelt ceremony at the Battle of the Coral Sea Park on Sunday, May 5th. A remarkable turnout of around 200 attendees filled the park, making it the largest anniversary event that the organisers had seen in many years.

The day was especially significant for the family of Eddie Albert Senior, a revered local hero. In a touching tribute, a special commemorative plaque was unveiled in his honour, recognising his extraordinary contributions and the combined 100+ years of military service from his children and grandchildren. Adding to this legacy, one of his great-grandchildren is preparing to join the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), carrying the family’s tradition of service into the next generation.

The ceremony was led with dignity and respect, presided over by two attending officers. The Official Address was delivered by Terry James, Member for Mulgrave, alongside Commander Andrew Thorpe of HMAS Cairns, RAN. The master of ceremonies, Chaplain Elisabeth Bolton, RAN, guided the proceedings with poise and reverence.

The atmosphere was enriched by the stirring sounds of a band that featured bass drums and bagpipes, adding a solemn and ceremonial tone to the event. Attendees participated in a commemorative prayer and wreath-laying ceremony, followed by the recitation of the Ode to Remembrance. In a powerful display of unity, both the American and Australian national anthems were sung, reflecting the enduring alliance that the Battle of the Coral Sea symbolises.

The event not only honoured the memory of those who fought but also celebrated the continued dedication to service shown by Eddie Albert Senior’s family and the wider community. As the plaque was unveiled, it was a poignant reminder that the sacrifices made during the Battle of the Coral Sea continue to resonate, inspiring new generations to honour and remember.

This year’s anniversary was not just a day of reflection but also one of community pride and resilience. It was clear that the spirit of remembrance remained strong, echoing through the music, speeches, and the heartfelt presence of those who gathered to pay tribute.

The countdown is on! The highly anticipated Link2Country Expo, presented by CANEGROWERS, is just around the corner, making its debut on May 23rd and 24th at the Ingham Showgrounds. This action-packed, two-day event is set to bring the agricultural sector to life, connecting local communities to hands-on experiences, career opportunities, and much more.

With just a week to go, excitement is building as preparations for the event come to a close. The expo will feature trade stalls hosted by industry experts, educational programs, career information sessions, and plenty of live entertainment, including music, fundraising initiatives, and networking events.

One of the event’s highlights is a comedic performance by The CrackUp Sisters, who will be travelling all the way from Winton to bring their stories from the outback to life. The action-packed agenda promises something for everyone, whether you're looking to learn more about agriculture, explore career pathways, or simply enjoy the entertainment.

Over 500 students are expected to attend the event, eager to explore agricultural career opportunities. Leading professionals in the industry will be on hand to offer guidance and resources to inspire the next generation of agricultural workers.

"This expo is a fantastic opportunity for our region to connect with the agriculture industry and discover the wide range of careers available," said a spokesperson from Link2Country. "We’re excited to celebrate the amazing industries that call FNQ home and provide valuable connections for both students and professionals."

Tickets are now available online at Link2Country Tickets. Your purchase not only supports local career initiatives but also directly benefits agricultural networks in the region.

Link2Country would like to thank their sponsors; Canegrowers Herbert River, Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Windlab, Wilmar Sugar and Renewables, Lowes, BP, Elders Insurance, Safety and Learning Techniques, Carey Group, ASM Earthmoving Company PTY. LTD., MobbsMarr Legal, GNC Harvesting PTY. LTD., and Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce Industry & Tourism Inc.

We can’t wait to see you at the Link2Country Expo, where we’ll celebrate our vibrant agricultural community and hopefully kickstart many exciting careers in the Ag industry.

Tickets are available online, visit www.link2country.com.au.

In today’s digital age, children are spending more time indoors than ever before. However, there are countless benefits to getting children outdoors and engaging them in nature-based activities, especially in the Hinchinbrook region, where the environment is brimming with opportunities for exploration. Playing outside in nature is crucial for a child’s physical, mental, and emotional development.

Nature-based play promotes physical health by encouraging exercise, which is vital for muscle development, coordination, and overall fitness. It also supports cognitive development, as children learn to problem-solve, use their imagination, and experience the world through their senses. Emotional well-being also improves when children are outdoors, with research showing that time in nature reduces stress and anxiety while boosting mood and concentration.

In addition, outdoor play fosters a connection with the environment, encouraging children to develop an appreciation for nature. In regions like Hinchinbrook, which is rich in biodiversity and natural beauty, these experiences can cultivate a sense of responsibility for the planet’s future.

Here are five top nature-based activities to enjoy with children in the Hinchinbrook region:

Explore the Tyto Wetlands

Take a walk through the Tyto Wetlands, where children can discover a variety of wildlife, including bird species, frogs, and reptiles. It’s a fantastic opportunity to teach them about ecosystems and the importance of conservation.

Beachcombing at Lucinda Beach

The stunning beaches of Lucinda are perfect for a day of exploration. Children can search for seashells, build sandcastles, or spot marine life in the shallows. It’s a fun way to learn about the coastal environment.

Hinchinbrook Island Day Trip

For an adventurous outing, take a boat trip to Hinchinbrook Island. With its tropical rainforest, stunning beaches, and abundant wildlife, it’s a perfect place for children to experience nature up close.

Nature Craft with Leaves and Flowers

Collect leaves, flowers, and twigs from your backyard or a nearby park and get creative. Children can make nature-inspired art, helping them learn about local flora while developing fine motor skills.

Bushwalking at Cardwell Range

Take a family bushwalk through the Cardwell Range, where children can enjoy the beauty of the rainforest and learn about the area’s unique plant and animal life. It’s an excellent way to combine physical activity with environmental education.

Encouraging children to spend time outdoors in the Hinchinbrook region not only benefits their health and well-being but also fosters a deep connection with the natural world that can last a lifetime.

Queensland’s State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers have had a demanding start to 2025, stepping up time and time again in the face of severe weather and community need. From devastating floods in the state’s north to the widespread impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred and record-breaking inundation across Central and South Western Queensland, these dedicated individuals have been on the ground helping wherever they are needed most.

The SES has remained a crucial part of the state’s emergency response efforts, not only during disasters but in countless other roles that support and protect Queenslanders. SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong acknowledged the dedication shown by volunteers during what has already been a challenging year.

“We have had a very busy and challenging start to the year and our volunteers all around the state have all pitched in to assist the communities in need,” said Chief Officer Armstrong.

“They’ve also been involved in search and rescues, training programs, agency requests and so much more - no matter the job, our volunteers are always so willing to give their time and expertise to help.”

The events of early 2025 have been a stark reminder of the value of the SES. In late January and early February, parts of North Queensland received more than 1.2 metres of rain in a short period, prompting widespread flooding. Over 500 SES volunteers were deployed during this time, responding to nearly 3,000 calls for assistance. They carried out rescues, offered logistical support, and helped communities begin to recover.

Now, as the weather begins to ease, there’s a moment to pause and recognise the extraordinary work these volunteers continue to do. Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW Day), set for the 21st of May, will offer Queenslanders the chance to say thank you. Falling during National Volunteer Week, which runs from the 19th to the 25th of May, WOW Day is a national initiative that celebrates SES volunteers and the crucial role they play in times of crisis.

Getting involved is simple. You can add a splash of orange to your outfit, attend a local event or celebration, or post a photo of yourself in orange to social media using the hashtags #thankyouSES and #WOWDAY. It’s a small but powerful way to show appreciation.

“This is a chance for you to thank the people who go above and beyond for their community,” said Chief Officer Armstrong.

“They go out of their way to help, so it’s important we acknowledge that dedication and show our appreciation for all their hard work.”

Originally named HMS Apollo, she was a Type Modified Leander, of the Light Cruiser Class. The Apollo was built at the Devonport Dockyard, United Kingdom, having first been laid down on August 15, 1933. She was launched on October 9, 1934 and completed for service in January 1936. After joining the RAN on September 28, 1938 she was renamed HMAS Hobart by Mrs SM Bruce, wife of the Australian High Commissioner.

During the Battle of the Coral Sea, the HMAS Hobart gunners shot down two Japanese aircraft. She came through the battle unscathed, but her Captain received a shrapnel wound to his arm.

On July 23, 1943 while accompanying HMAS Australia to the Admiralty Islands, the Hobart was torpedoed in the After Stearing Section on the port quarter. Thirteen crewmen were killed and seven injured. The Hobart limped to Espiritu Santo for de-ammunitioning and escorted to Cockatoo Dock, Sydney by HMAS Arunta and HMAS Warramunga, arriving on August 26, 1943. After refitting HMAS Hobart left Sydney in April 1945 and joined the cover force for the Tarakan, Brunei, Wewak and Balikpapan landings. She was one part of the Allied Occupation Fleet which sailed into Japanese waters and anchored in Tokyo Bay for the surrender ceremony in September 1945.

In 1962 the HMAS Hobart, the last Australian Cruiser afloat, was sold to the Mitsui Company of Japan for 170,000 pounds ($300,000) and on March 3, 1962 she departed Port Jackson. The final irony is that the HMAS Hobart, Lady of the Sea, damaged by a Japanese torpedo in World War 2, spent her final moments in peacetime Japanese waters before being broken up for scrap metal.

Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch. From the Cardwell 1993 booklet 'Coral Sea Battle Memorial: 1942 the experiences and memories of World War II, through the eyes of the local residents.

There's a mighty river in the north of this land we call Down Under.
And each year its gentle snaking flow can be raged into a thunder.
In the year of 2025 when it burst beyond controlling,
the Herbert rushed through Ingham town, the floods came up, the floods went down -
but the people kept on rolling.

As it swept the roads and houses, picking up tv sets and sofas,
and the lizards drifted through the streets - this was not a time for loafers.
While the SES - all volunteers - were the heroes out patrolling,
the currents sucked up utes and cars, and ripped through coffee shops and bars -
but the people kept on rolling.

Then a gateway bridge was washed away - which had cut the town's supply line.
And the Ergon station was a swamp - as more water filled the skyline.
There were townsfolk out in tinnies - helping their neighbours and consoling.
For days on end they had no power, or water in this endless shower -
still the people kept on rolling.

Some have lost their living and their homes, and their hearts are surely aching -
but the gutsy Herbert River mob are a long way yet from breaking.
And the valiant mayor and councillors - they have won their points for polling.
Each gave their all and had no rest, all members strived to do their best -
and the people kept on rolling.

It has smashed the records on the charts from the flood in ‘67 -
and has rivalled history's biggest flood - back in 1927.
When the sewage spread these streets were not fit for bathing or for strolling.
The homes they built on stilts up high, that never flood, did not stay dry -
but the people kept on rolling.

See, this town was built on floodplain paths of the Herbert when it’s raging.
And for five-score years and fifty now this town's culture has been aging.
All the sporting teams will soon go back to their soccer, league or bowling.
‘Cos choppers circled down and stopped, with parcels, fuel and food they dropped -
and the people kept on rolling.

As the bridges flood and roads are creeks and the central street’s a river -
there are ballsy Herbert River folk who will stand up and deliver.
They'll be out in force to give their all - while the trolls will keep on trolling.
When turkeys, chooks and bullock beef are sucked towards the coral reef -
Ingham people keep on rolling.

So this mighty flood of ‘25 may have left the town depleted,
but the honest Herbert River folk will be strengthened - not defeated.
And the cows will calf, and cane will grow, as the horses keep on foaling.
And when old man Herbert roars again, we know he will, but can't say when -
see the people keep on rolling.

By Jonny Paul, of Abergowrie.

Authors note: This bush poem is for the people of North Queensland, wider Australia (for their support), and Hinchinbrook Mayor Ramon Jayo, who, despite becoming a grandfather during this disaster, and seeing his own farms go under, has never left his post - being an almighty voice for his community.

We live in a fishing and boating paradise here in the Hinchinbrook region—but the tides govern everything we do on the water.

Beyond just clearing the sandbar at the Dungeness exit and the belt of sandbars two-thirds of the way out along the Sugar Jetty, there are numerous other tidal hazards that boaters must be aware of.

One key example is the narrow gap between Agnes Island and the eastern side of Hinchinbrook Island. Even at high tide, this passage is not navigable. As seen in the photo, this yachie ended up high and dry, with likely damage to the vessel. Fortunately, the Lucinda Coast Guard was able to assist and tow the yacht off the coral during the next big high tide.

Always study your tide charts carefully and ensure there’s sufficient water beneath you before navigating our waterways. With a little planning, you’ll enjoy everything our beautiful waters have to offer, safely.

Contributed with thanks by Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard.

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Something as simple as a haircut can save lives. Elina, a Year 11 student at Gilroy Santa Maria College, is taking real action to help those affected by leukaemia. This September, she will be cutting her hair to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation through the World’s Greatest Shave.

Since her first major haircut in Grade 6, Elina has understood how change can carry meaning. Over the years, she learned more about the impact of leukaemia and how the foundation supports patients and families. When the opportunity came to join the World’s Greatest Shave, she knew it was her chance to contribute.

"The thought of being able to become a part of this and contribute, however little, stayed in my mind," she shared.

To promote the cause and raise more funds, Elina will also be performing live! She will be singing and playing her guitar at Link2Country on May 24th and at Markets at the Mosaic on August 16th, with all proceeds earned from her performances going directly to her Greatest Shave fundraiser.

Support Elina as she uses her voice, her talent and her courage to help others. Scan the QR code to donate or come see her perform in person, every donation makes a difference in getting treatments to those who desperately need it.

https://www.worldsgreatestshave.com/fundraisers/elinarosealappattdaijo/2025

Cardwell's community spirit shines as the Cardwell RSL recently received a generous $1000 donation, raised during Anzac Day celebrations this year by The Marine Hotel. This impressive sum, gathered through meat tray raffles and sausage sizzles, reflects the community’s unwavering support for local veterans.

Special thanks go to Callan from the Cardwell Butchery for donating a mega meat tray, as well as The Salad Bowl and Port Hinchinbrook Marine for supporting the Friday night raffles. These fundraising efforts are part of the RSL’s ongoing social support, which annually totals around $20,000 to support veterans, local schools, and community groups.

The RSL remains committed to providing a welcoming space for veterans to share a meal, a drink, and the companionship to lend an ear with understanding and acceptance. Reach out, or pop-in for a drink on Sundays!

As we near the end of the financial year many of us will be waiting intently to see what funding will be allocated for Hinchinbrook in the 2025–26 Queensland State Budget. Last month, I wrote to Treasurer, David  Janetzki with a list of key priorities for our electorate. I’ve kept this budget submission focused on projects that are fully costed and are only waiting for funding to advance. These are costed projects that have gone through the necessary planning, approvals, and community consultation. This year I am calling for funding for marine infrastructure, roads, and flood resilience projects to improve the liability of our region.

The $12 million Dungeness Breakwater and Dredging Project is ready to be funded. With all the environmental approvals now locked in, it’s time for the Government to commit funding for construction. This project would restore safe marine access by dredging the mouth of Enterprise Channel and building a rock wall to retain the dredge spoil and restore the historical spit. We’re also asking for funds for the relocation of the Cassady Beach boat ramp at Forrest Beach to the mouth of the creek, as well as continuing the fight for a long-term dredging solution at Port Hinchinbrook. Encouragingly, with Economic Development Queensland now involved, we’ve seen positive momentum at Port Hinchinbrook and have promising meetings scheduled to occur over the coming parliamentary sitting weeks.

Road infrastructure is important in Hinchinbrook, that’s why this year’s submission calls for $20 million to upgrade Woolcock street through Townsville’s northern suburbs and funding for essential trunk infrastructure that would help unlock over 3,000 new home blocks in the suburb of Mount Low. I’ve also advocated for upgrades to the Ingham electrical substation to make it flood-resilient.

None of these requests are excessive but were forgotten under the previous Labor Government. I, along with our local Mayors will be eagerly awaiting to see if these important projects can advance under a Crisafulli Government.

Contributed with thanks to Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto.

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