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 Herbert River catchment is the largest in the Wet Tropics region and the longest coastal river in North Queensland. The Herbert River Improvement Trust (HRIT) area is on the lower catchment flood plain which experiences regular flooding events due to the significant local rainfall, as well as the impacts of rain in the Upper Herbert catchment which extends approximately 200km north of the Hinchinbrook Shire with an area of over 10,000 km2. The river’s substantial historic shifts and mobility across the lower floodplain present unique management challenges, with legacy wetlands, flood channels and tributaries, and groundwater flows creating a river system unlike any other connected to the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.
The HRIT was established in 1942 under the River Improvement Trust Act 1940 in response to recurring major flood events. As a statutory body, it operates with public funding to provide vital flood mitigation and river management services, often at no cost or significantly reduced rates. The Hinchinbrook Shire Council remains the primary fund provider, with funding indirectly levied across the community. The Queensland Flood Risk Management Framework recognises the crucial role of River Improvement Trusts in both flood risk management and disaster recovery efforts.
The primary role of the HRIT is to plan, design, finance, undertake and maintain improvement works to benefit the community within its ‘river improvement area’ – the Hinchinbrook Local Government Area. Today, HRITs role has expanded beyond flood response to include preventive and restorative actions, aligning with the State’s emerging focus on climate resilience and coastal hazard adaptation, in coordination with local government and the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG).
HRIT’s mission is clear; to improve water flow in rivers and tributaries within the Hinchinbrook Shire, correct erosion, and provide effective flood mitigation. Since its inception, the Trust has undertaken river improvement works at over 500 sites, including major flood mitigation projects such as the Ripple and Catherina Creeks’ flood gates, the Foresthome flood channel, and the Halifax Town Levee. Additional projects have focused on streambank repair, stabilisation, and revegetation, from major river systems like the Herbert and Stone Rivers to smaller creeks throughout the region.
The recent flooding event in the Hinchinbrook District has once again highlighted the importance of HRIT’s work. The Trust is currently inspecting and assessing widespread damage to rivers and streams, with plans to secure grant funding from relevant State Government departments, potentially under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
If you have any concerns or questions, please contact the HRIT Secretary via email admin@hrit.com.au. A list of HRIT members and their contact details is available on the Hinchinbrook Shire Council website.
Recovery will take time, but as a community, we will rebuild. Please take care of yourselves listen to each other and do not suffer in silence.
Wednesday 5 March
Morning Melodies: Billy and Barry in Concert
Wednesday 10:30am
Thomas Armstrong-Robley starring in: Two of the greatest piano men of all time, Billy Joel and Barry Manilow come together in a unique and spectacular celebration of their beloved music & lyrics.
JL Kelly Theatre
Saturday 8 March
Ingham Conroy Hall Markets
Saturday 7:30am
Come one, come all to one of Hinchinbrook’s longest running market events, Conroy Hall Markets! Browse a selection of stalls retailing plants, antiques, clothes, handmade delights, and more!
Conroy Hall
Saturday 15 March
International Soprano Sensation Mirusia in Celebration
Saturday 5pm
International Soprano Sensation MIRUSIA in 40th Birthday Celebration Concert by Andre Rieu's Star Soprano!
JL Kelly Theatre
Sunday 16 March
Ingham Raintree Community Markets
Sunday 7am
A morning of Sunday market fun awaits at Ingham’s Rotary Park with the Ingham Raintree Community Markets!
Rotary Park, Ingham
Saturday 22 March
Ingham Up Town Markets
Saturday 8am
Enjoy a morning browsing the talents of the Hinchinbrook community at the Ingham Up Town Markets from 8am to midday!
Lannercost Street
Saturday 22 March
Baby Welcoming Ceremony
Saturday 9am
Each new baby that has arrived in the community over the past twelve months will receive a Welcoming Certificate, Sapling and a Gift Bag. Parents can plant their sapling to commemorate their new baby and watch as they both grow, providing for the future prosperity of the Hinchinbrook Shire. Enjoy a fun filled morning of yummy food, sensory play, arts and crafts for the whole family.
Hinchinbrook Shire Library
Tuesday 25 March
‘In Good Audience’
Tuesday 6:30pm
The Ingham Theatre Group is excited to present ‘In Good Audience’ at the JL Kelly Theatre in March 2024.
JL Kelly Theatre
Wednesday 26 March
‘In Good Audience’
Wednesday 6:30pm
The Ingham Theatre Group is excited to present ‘In Good Audience’ at the JL Kelly Theatre in March 2024.
JL Kelly Theatre
While many natural tourist spots are closed due to inaccessibility caused by recently flooding, Hinchinbrook Island remains open.
Hinchinbrook Island is a breathtaking haven of unspoiled natural beauty, it offers an unparalleled escape into the wild, boasting rugged mountains, lush rainforests, beautiful waterfalls and secluded beaches.
Thorsborne Trail
The Thorsborne Trail is Hinchinbrook Islands main attraction, the 32-kilometre long hike takes adventurers anywhere between three to five days to complete. During the hot summer months 1 January – 28 February the trail is closed. The Thorsborne Trail attracts avid hikers from across the country. On the trail adventures catch glimpse of mangroves, forests, beaches, waterfalls and mountains. The 32-kilometre long trail is not for the average walker either, it is difficult trail and is categorised as a Class 5 hiking experience.
Currently only 40 people are able to walk the Thorsborne Trail at the same time, but upgrades to come will allow 60 people to do the walk. With the limited number allowed to access the trail at one time, it makes it an extremely popular and sought after attraction. But if you don’t fancy a three-to-five-day hike, day trips are also available.
Zoe Falls
Day trips are available to Hinchinbrook Island too, and Zoe Falls is the most recognisable places on Hinchinbrook Island. Spend time at the waterfall and jump into the refreshing waters, or venture a bit further to catch one of the best views on the island. Sit back in one of the rock pools and look out at the view before you.
Mulligan falls
Mulligan Falls is also a popular destination on the island for day trippers, the picturesque waterfall has a deep swimming hole, perfect for a quick dip. However although the pool is safe to swim in, anything further is restricted.
Zoefalls - Nearby Zoe Falls is this breathtaking view
thorsbornetrail - The Thorsborne Trail is a 32 kilometre long hike that takes you across beaches, forests and waterfalls
Mick’s Bread Kitchen has been feeding the Hinchinbrook community with amazing pastries, coffee, and pies for over 30 years, but how do they make their delicious pies?
Co-owner, Simone Stanta, has some top tips.
1. Pastry—It is important to perfect your pastry for the perfect pie. At Mick’s Bread Kitchen, they use high-quality flour to ensure a strong base. They also use a different pastry on top. For the top of the pie, they use puff pastry with lots of layers to ensure a crispy top.
2. Ingredients—Mick’s Bread Kitchen uses top-quality ingredients. Their beef is lean, and their gravy and stock are well-seasoned. It’s important to keep the filling thick and flavourful so the pie stays together.
3. Filling—Be creative with your filling. Simone said the basics of a good pie are the pastry and good-quality ingredients, but inside the pie, it's up to one's preference. It could be chilli, mushrooms, bacon, cheese, or anything you enjoy.
Did You Know?
Mick’s Bread Kitchen’s Chilli Pie contains home-grown Carolina Reaper chillies. The pies are not for the faint-hearted. Do you dare to try one?
Following the first graduation of the year, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) has welcomed 55 new officers into communities and Ingham will receive two new officers.
Officer in Charge of Ingham Police Station Senior Sergeant Geoff Bormann said the officers will start this week.
“The first officers will be posted in Ingham for their initial 12 month service, they will undergo their continued training here for 12 months after they're sworn in from academy,” he said.
“Those officers will allow us to continue at 24/7 coverage.
“They are coming in as part of the regular QPS training program where officers are sent out to stations as part of their first year, they'll learn about responding to traffic incidents, property offenses, domestic violence, everything that police doing a general duty as well.”
Commissioner of Police, Steve Gollschewski APM, congratulated the newest officers and acknowledged the significance of their deployment.
“Supporting North Queensland means investing and empowering our newest officers to start their policing careers in the communities they know best,” Commissioner Gollschewski said.
“Many of these new officers will serve in their hometowns, bringing local knowledge, strong community ties, and an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in North Queensland.”
The officers will gain real-world experience and first-hand insights into the critical role police play in times of crisis.
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre had to find a new spot for their Seniors Morning Coffee Club, but that did not affect spirits at all.
The Seniors Morning Coffee Club was held at Noorla Bowls Club and despite the change in location, spirits remained high as attendees enjoyed a lively morning of Trivia and Bingo.
Guest speakers from Ergon provided valuable insights to the seniors on understanding electricity bills and managing energy costs. Their presentation was well received, and the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre appreciate their ongoing support for our senior community.
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre gave their staff member Shannen a special mention, thanking her for collaborating with Ergon’s Energy Literacy Program.
If you or someone you know needs help understanding electricity bills or learning how to be more energy-efficient, Shannen is available for assistance—call 07 4776 1822.
Seniors may also be eligible for Ergon’s Hardship Grant, which provides up to $700 towards electricity bills and can be accessed every two years. Those experiencing financial difficulties are encouraged to apply.
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre also gave their thanks to Ingham Palliative Care for providing transport for seniors who needed it.
The next Seniors Morning Coffee Club will be held on March 14 and St Patricks Day will be celebrated, wear your best green colours! To register contact The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre on 07 4776 1822.
WHAT: Seniors Morning Coffee Club
WHEN: March 14, St Patrick's Day
In the aftermath of the recent flooding in the Hinchinbrook Shire, Hinchinbrook Chamber has been working closely with many government agencies over the past few weeks, in an effort to bring as much support as possible for business owners who have been impacted by this event.
Having already hosted two well attended community information session with Sam Spina, Regional Area Manager FNQ QRIDA, Chamber is now taking individual bookings for business owners who would like to meet and discuss their application with a QRIDA representative. These appointments are available on Tuesday 4th March, 2025 from 1.00pm to 4.30pm, please contact Chamber for further information as bookings are already filling quickly.
Tuesday will also see the Small Business Commissioner, Domique Lamb visit the Shire, to meet with the business community and gain a better understanding of the impact this event has had on their operations now and sustainability into the future. There will be an opportunity for local business owners and managers to meet with Commissioner Domique Lamb at Lee’s Hotel, commencing at 5.00pm on Tuesday 4th March, 2025.
Additional officers from the Department of Small and Family Business will also be in town from Tuesday to Thursday and will be available to speak to any business owners or managers to understand how they can further support the needs of the business community, to assist with recovery and return to full operations.
For those in the business community who seeking some assistance, by way of financial assistance or mental health support, these officers have been on the ground and are visiting the region on a regular basis and are available for individual appointments as required.
Hinchinbrook Chamber has worked tirelessly during and since the flooding began in an effort to inform, update, support and advocate on behalf of the business community of the Shire and will continue this much needed service until it is no longer required. For any business owner who is requiring assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out via our phone, email or social media contacts.
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In addition to my daily electorate duties, I also serve on the Queensland Parliament’s Education, Arts and Communities Committee. Last week, our committee travelled to Cooktown and Hope Vale for public hearings on the Family Responsibilities Commission.
Our committee is also carrying out a very important inquiry into elder abuse in Queensland. Elder abuse is an issue that too often goes unnoticed, yet it has devastating impacts on some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Defined as a single or repeated act, or failure to act, that causes harm or distress within a relationship of trust, elder abuse can take many forms. It includes physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, and financial abuse, as well as neglect.
The inquiry aims to uncover the true extent of elder abuse in Queensland, including the risk factors that make some older individuals more vulnerable, and the barriers preventing them from accessing help. We are also examining the effectiveness of current laws, policies, and support services, and looking at ways to improve how we respond to this issue.
The Hinchinbrook electorate has the highest aging population per capita compared to anywhere else in Queensland making this topic one that I feel very strongly about. Every Queenslander deserves to age with dignity and respect.
If you or someone you know has concerns about elder abuse, I encourage you to engage with the inquiry and share your experiences. For more information, please feel free to contact the committee secretariat directly by phone (07) 3553 6623, or email eacc@parliament.qld.gov.au. Alternatively, you can visit the Queensland Parliament website.
Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook
Hello everyone
This week I have seen the generosity from not only people here in Hinchinbrook but from all over Queensland.
I had the pleasure of attending the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL – Ingham on Friday to see Clubs Queensland donating $75k to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre. Clubs from all over Queensland came together to make this donation, and I couldn’t think of a better place for this thoughtful donation to go to.
It seems kindness is everywhere I go lately and community members love sharing their stories with me, which are always an honour to hear.
This past week I was approached by an Apex village resident, so she could say thank you to two ladies that had helped her during the flood.
I was also approached to run a story about a local retail store worker who donated money that was donated to him, paying one kind deed forward to help another.
As you continue reading the paper you will see more kind donations and uplifting stories of hope as we navigate our way out of the last few challenging months.
I would love to hear more about these stories, if you would like to say a thank you to anybody in the paper, please write to me at daniel@lifepublishinggroup.com
This paper is comprised of local stories - if you read through you will notice that almost every article is from this region and usually involves a local person.
So, if you are reading this note and have a story to share, but think perhaps your story may not be exciting enough - then don't! We would love to hear from you!
This paper is built on local stories and no story is too big, or too small to share.
Daniel
Local resident, Moiya Finocchiaro contacted the paper to let us know about two individuals in the community that she feels deserve to be acknowledged for their selfless actions during the floods.
When floodwaters rose around a community of elderly residents in Ingham, two women stepped forward to offer much-needed assistance, providing support that has left a lasting impact on those they helped.
Moiya Finocchiaro, a 79-year-old resident at the Apex Units recalls how Lea Vincenzi and Carina Chesson went out of their way to ensure the safety and well-being of her and her neighbours, many of whom were left isolated and without power during the crisis.
Moiya said that Lea drove through flood waters and announced “Excuse me, is there anything I can do to assist you?”
Moiya said that Carina allowed residents to charge their phones and even watch the news on a tablet.
“It was just something from the outside world, and we could see what other people were suffering too,” explained Moiya.
“We then realised that we were quite happy here - we all assisted each other as much as we could."
Almost four weeks later and Moiya says the residents of the Apex Units are still talking about the selfless acts of the two women helpers.
“I would like to thank them. This is the future of Ingham. Ingham will never die while we have these type of women to carry on and that's the truth of it," expressed Moiya.
“They had their own problems, but they took their time out to come to 22 people that they didn't know.”
This Tuesday, JK’s Deli showed appreciation to the hardworking tradies who kept the Hinchinbrook community running smoothly during to the recent flooding. Plumbers, electricians, builders, concreters, and other tradespeople were treated to a free coffee as a small token of gratitude for their tireless work and dedication.
In addition to the free coffee, tradies were invited to bring in one of their work shirts, which JK’s proudly wore on Tuesday and Wednesday to help promote local businesses. This unique gesture was a way for JK’s to give back and show support for the local trades people who are always there when needed.
The cafe also got some generous donations from people in the community, including Jesse Spina from Spin FX Electrical who donated $100 to help feed the tradies.
The day was a success, with plenty of local tradies stopping by JK’s Deli to enjoy their free coffee and grab a meal. It was a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation for the people who play such a vital role in the community.
With the huge success of tradies day, the cafe also introduced a farmers day where local farmers could get a free coffee.
The cafe expressed the importance of farmers in North Queensland.
“This industry is the backbone of North Queensland, many coming over on boats at very young ages for a better life in Australia," said their post on Facebook.
After a difficult period of floods for Ingham, it's lovely to see businesses coming together to spread joy throughout the community.
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A powerful image from the recent floodwaters in the region captures an act of compassion. Shane, a local resident, was photographed by Frances from Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre as he bravely rescued a stranded macropod from the deluge and raging waters.
The photo, which highlights the connection between Shane and the grateful animal, speaks volumes about the resilience and kindness of looking out for one another, even animals, during times of crisis. The tender eye contact between the rescuer and his furry, big-footed friend is a deeply moving reminder of the empathy that unites everyone when disaster strikes.
In a time when many were battling the effects of the severe flooding, Shane’s selfless act stands out as a beacon of hope. Thank you to the volunteers like Shane, along with emergency service personnel who continue to work tirelessly to assist those in need, both human and animal alike in the aftermath of the floods.
This moment of kindness was captured and shared as part of the ‘2025 Queensland Gives Photo Challenge’, dedicated by Frances to the Wilderness Society, and serves as a reminder that Queenslanders will always help one another, no matter the challenge. Much gratitude to all those making a difference in the wake of the floods.
Wendy White
We were very lucky actually. The street that we lived in, we were the only house where the water didn't come inside. We lost power for eight days, but we had no phone because we haven’t got landline out where we are, and like everyone else, we just had to get along the best we could.
Michele Black
I lost everything I was renting, and had to hop into the house next door, which was high set, and I lost everything, the whole kit and caboodle. It was at Dickson street off Davidson Street and I'm in a friend's place now, but I’ve got other places to go.
Greg Provians
We had 70 centimetres underneath the house, but we have a house that's built for flooding, so it was more of an inconvenience than anything else. We didn't have too much damage, but we did have to move everything to high ground beforehand, like everybody in Ingham does.
Zara Cundell
It affected us a lot. We lost everything. The house is completely destroyed. It's located off Davidson Street, behind the tennis courts but we've been really blessed, we have a great support network, all our friends and family banded together, and they've helped us immensely. So we've been very lucky in that sense.
Frank Boom
We were at Taylors Beach. We got cut off, but we never had to worry about anything else. We never got any water through the house. At the beach you don’t get the water, just cut off. Put it this way, if you like to get out amongst the people, it’s good, but the only place you can go is down the beach to have a look around, which you can do every day.
Karen Ross
It terrified us, but we didn't lose anything of value. We came out of it quite well compared to just about everyone else. We are south of Ingham and we were isolated for about three days, couldn't get out. But again, we were lucky, we had neighbours.
Bradley Kondisenko
I was alright. I live down at Lucinda Beach so it was fine. We got cut off for week and a half and had no supplies. But other than that, we got very lucky being that we live down at the beach front. It was just a nice, pretty much week-long holiday without power connection.
Julie McVilly
We were really lucky actually, we had a generator and we were cut off from town at Forrest Beach. It was pretty chaotic but, with bedding, sheets and towels under the back door. But other than that, yeah, really, really lucky. We look around here and go, Wow.
The mayor for Hinchinbrook Shire, Ramon Jayo has addressed growing concerns regarding access to the Warrens Hill refuse facility, explaining that a combination of environmental and logistical challenges is currently limiting its availability.
The first point the Mayor addressed was that the council is tackling significant environmental issues at the site, particularly with leachate management and balancing waste deposits with water levels. The recent rainfall, totaling over 2000mm in just a few days, has further complicated matters.
In addition to these environmental concerns, the council is prioritising the urgent removal of flood-affected waste from the community. A large-scale effort is underway, with over twenty trucks and an equal number of excavators and loaders working tirelessly to clear the debris.
The high volume of truck movements means that access for smaller vehicles is currently limited. The Mayor explained that in order to clear waste efficiently, the trucks must not be delayed by conventional vehicles, which would slow down the overall process.
The Mayor urged residents to keep in mind that the bulk of the rubbish in flood-affected areas has yet to be cleared. While some may still have small amounts of debris, the council's priority is to clear larger quantities from those who are still awaiting service.
Mayor Raymon Jayo also reassured the public that a second round of pick-ups for flood-affected goods will take place if necessary.
The Mayor asked for patience and understanding, emphasising the need to consider the wider community and the challenges faced by all.
As recovery works are continuing, I would just like to assure residents that assistance is still available and is only a phone call away.
Flood damaged goods kerbside collection is continuing and it is pleasing to see that our roads and streets have in the main been cleared of most damaged material. Thank you to MAMs and all contractors and personnel involved in achieving such a good result in a very quick time frame. Flood damaged goods kerbside collection is continuing in the wider areas at the moment and if you have any concerns, or think you may have been missed, please contact Council as soon as possible. Regular wheelie bin collection services are now functioning as per normal. If you have lost any wheelie bins, please call Council to arrange a replacement straightaway.
The Community Recovery Hub is continuing to operate out of the TAFE building to assist you with personal and financial matters and the wonderful people from the Department of Communities are continuing to run pop up centres in the smaller communities as needed. The pop ups will shortly be discontinued, but the main hub in Ingham will continue to provide all assistance required. Information on opening hours and locations may be obtained by visiting Council’s website January 2025 Flood Event Information page https://rb.gy/vc0xo6. Thanks to the wonderful SES personnel, a further Community Outreach activity was carried out through our worst flood affected areas late last week.
In total, 755 residences were surveyed, with 375 residents completing the survey with the SES volunteers and 374 residents not home. However, Community Recovery Information Sheets and support service numbers were left with in mailboxes for the resident’s attention for when they return home. If you were not home at this time and if you require further information or assistance, you may ring Council on 4776 4600 or even contact the SES direct on 132 500.
Funding to assist sporting and community organisations in continuing clean-up operations has also been made available above the Grant funding recently advised and Council has written directly to all organisations registered with Council requesting details of possible assistance required. Please let Council know prior to 28 February 2025 so that relevant arrangements can be made.
Reports received indicate that all electricity, Telstra and NBN facilities have been restored and working as normal. If that is not the case and you continue to experience difficulty, then we need to know so that we can look into the issue with the relevant providers and get the problem fixed for you.
The Rural Fire Service and SES remain willing and able to assist in house clean ups if required. You can arrange an appointment by contacting SES direct on 132 500.
I reiterate that assistance in various forms to help you recover from this event remains available and that many amazing people from many different State and Federal Agencies are still about and ready to activate if required. This assistance, in most cases, is only a phone call away.
Contributed with thanks to Mayor Ramon Jayo.
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