Jan Anderson presenting Noelene Bryn with her 40 year service award  - Photo Supplied  

‍

By Sian Bantock

‍

The Tully Red Cross branch held an awards ceremony on Monday 17th to recognise the long-serving contributions of some of its members.  

Member of the Gordon Vale Red Cross Branch Jan Anderson, who has dedicated 60 years of service to the organisation, presented the awards to Giovani Milone and Mara Basik for 20 years, Sue Pollard for 30 years and Nolene Bryn for 40 years service.  

‍

The Red Cross is founded on the principles of  humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence and voluntary service and its core mission centres on hands-on assistance, fundraising and community connection.

Noelene Bryn, who joined in 1984, is the longest serving member of the Tully Branch. Over the decades, the group has visited hospitals and care homes, offered support to residents affected by accidents, fire, floods and cyclones; and contributed to local fundraising efforts.  

‍

‍

“It was nice to recognised but we don’t go out looking for these things,” Noelene said.  

Reflecting on her time within the branch, she highlights the camaraderie that came with their monthly meetings.

‍

“I used to look forward to them. It was a highlight of my month having the meetings, they were engaging and we had a fellowship,” said Noelene.  

“I’ve held every role in the branch, from disaster officer, to treasurer to secretary. It’s very rewarding - I loved it back then and I still do.”

‍

The Tully branch currently has around 15 members. One of Noelene proudest achievements has been helping to recruit 8 new members in the past three months.  

Sue Pollard who received her 30-year award, credits Noelene for inviting her join.  

‍

“I just like to help and that’s what Red Cross is about. There’s a lot of people in need out there. It’s good to help people,” Sue said.

The Tully branch welcomes new members and holds its monthly meetings on the third Monday at 10am at the Red Cross hall in Tully.

The Balgal Beach boat ramp will undergo repairs and strengthening works following damage caused by flooding in 2025, with construction expected to continue through to October. Photo supplied

‍

Repairs to the Balgal Beach boat ramp are set to begin this month, with works aimed at restoring full access and making the popular facility more resilient to future flooding.

‍

The Queensland Government-funded project follows damage sustained during flooding in 2025, which resulted in the boat ramp being partially closed.

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the works would address the damage while strengthening the facility for North Queensland conditions.

“The Balgal Beach boat ramp is an important piece of local infrastructure, and I know the partial closure has been frustrating for locals who regularly use it,” Mr Chiesa said.

‍

“These works are about getting the ramp fully reopened, but importantly, we’re not simply replacing what was damaged.

“We’re strengthening the ramp and its foundations to make it more resilient to the conditions we experience here in North Queensland.

‍

“Balgal Beach has a strong boating and fishing community, and reliable access to the water is important for locals, visitors and recreational fishers.”

The project will include replacing damaged precast concrete planks, reconstructing the lower section of the ramp and strengthening its foundations.

‍

An integrated rock bag and grout mattress shoulder will also be installed to improve the structure’s durability and provide greater protection against scour during future high-flow events.

‍

Construction is scheduled to take place from mid-August through to October 2026, weather and site conditions permitting.

The boat ramp will temporarily close during construction to allow the works to be completed safely and efficiently.

‍

Maritime Safety Queensland, which is delivering the project, has advised boaties that alternative waterway access will be available at the Toomulla boat ramp, approximately 16 kilometres from Balgal Beach.

‍

Mr Chiesa thanked residents for their patience while access to the facility has been restricted.

‍

“I thank the community for its patience while the ramp has been partially closed, and I’m pleased we can now get on with the job of repairing it properly,” he said.

‍

“This is a practical investment in a facility that matters to the Balgal Beach community, and I look forward to seeing locals back using the entire ramp later this year,” Mr Chiesa said.

‍

Garradunga Progress Association volunteers were all smiles at Saturday’s Bunnings sausage sizzle! Photo supplied

‍

Sausages were sizzling in Innisfail on Saturday as locals threw their support behind efforts to save the historic Garradunga Hall.

Eleven volunteers from the Garradunga Progress Association fired up the barbecue at Bunnings Innisfail on 22nd August, raising more than $650 through a sausage sizzle and 100 Board ticket sales.

‍

‍

The funds will help the association meet upcoming costs while it continues its campaign to restore the much-loved 96-year-old hall, which requires more than $70,000 in repairs following a recent building inspection.

‍

‍

But the day delivered more than dollars, with local businesses offering discounts, customers making donations and several generous shoppers even “paying it forward” by purchasing a snack for the next person.

Volunteers also enjoyed hearing memories of celebrations and events held at the hall over the decades, while sharing plans for its future.

‍

‍

The association’s membership has more than doubled in the past three months as support for the restoration campaign continues to grow.

‍

‍

The group hopes to return the “Hall Among the Canefields” to its former glory, once again providing a welcoming space for everything from classes and community gatherings to weddings, wakes and disaster recovery.

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

HONEYCOMBES CELEBRATES FOUR FINALISTS IN PRESTIGIOUS JOHN DEERE TECHNICIAN AWARDS

Honeycombes Sales and Service is proud to announce that four of their Ayr based team members have been named finalists in the 2026 John Deere Technician Awards, recognising excellence across the agricultural service and partsindustries throughout Australia and New Zealand.

‍

The Honeycombes finalists include Adam Patane, recognised for Apprentice Service Technician of the Year, Mark Cullen in the running for Service Technician of the Year, and Demi Russell and Bradley Sibson as finalists for Parts Technician of the Year.

‍

The awards highlight the people behind the scenes who help keep the wheels of agriculture turning – the technicians and parts specialists who help farmers, contractors and businesses stay operational when every hour counts.

‍

“To have four Honeycombes team members recognised as finalists in the John Deere Technician Awards is an outstanding achievement and one we are incredibly proud of. Adam, Mark, Demi and Bradley are a great example of what can beachieved when we invest in local people - creating opportunities to build rewarding careers close to home, while developing the skills and expertise that give back to our communities and support the agricultural businesses that keep regional North Queensland moving.” said Mark Barrett, CEO.  

‍

We congratulate Adam Patane, Mark Cullen, Demi Russell and Bradley Sibson on being recognised among the industry’s best. We’re proud of your achievements and wish you every success at the Awards ceremony.

‍

‍

PEOPLE LIKE THIS ARE BUILT HERE — YOU COULD BE NEXT.

World-class careers don’t have to start in the big cities. At Honeycombes, we’re developing the next generation of industry leaders right here in regional Queensland

‍

‍

THEY STARTED WITH AN OPPORTUNITY. SO CAN YOU.

• Learn from some of the best in the industry

• Develop skills recognised at the highest level  

• Work with world-leading machinery and technology

• Build your career right here in regional Queensland

‍

ADAM PATANE

APPRENTICE SERVICE TECH REGIONAL FINALIST

For Apprentice Service Technician finalist Adam Patane, a career in agricultural machinery was a natural fit. Growing up on a third-generation family farm, Adam saw first-hand the impact machinery downtime can have on farming operations and developed a passion for keeping equipment moving.

Since joining Honeycombes as an apprentice in 2023, Adam has embraced every opportunity to learn, building his skills across diagnostics, hydraulics and diesel systems while earning a reputation for his positive attitude, attention to detail and strong work ethic.

“For me, it’s not just about fixing machines — it’s about making sure customers feel supported and confident,” Adam said.

‍

DEMI RUSSELL

PARTS TECHNICIAN REGIONAL FINALIST

Demi Russell’s passion for the industry was shaped early by her mother, who spent more than 35 years in parts and taught her the value of hard work and strong relationships.

“After school, I would often help her, which instilled in me the importance of a strong work ethic and building genuine customer relationships,” Demi said.

Now raising her family of four, Demi brings that same care and commitment to supporting customers and the agricultural community every day.

“I take pride in knowing that what I do helps keep machines in the paddock, supporting local businesses, strengthening the local economy, and contributing to a sustainable future for my family and community,” she said.

‍

MARK CULLEN

SERVICE TECHNICIAN REGIONAL FINALIST

Over the past six years, Mark Cullen has become a trusted name among Honeycombes customers, recognised for his technical expertise, reliability and ability to find solutions when they matter most.

“I’ve always enjoyed figuring out how things work and getting them back up and running,” Mark said.

That passion began early while helping his father with truck servicing and repairs, sparking a lifelong interest in machinery and supporting the people who rely on it every day.

Whether in the workshop or out in the field, Mark is known for his calm approach, problem-solving skills and commitment to helping customers keep their operations moving.

‍

BRADLEY SIBSON

PARTS TECHNICIAN REGIONAL FINALIST

For Parts Technician finalist, Bradley Sibson, helping customers minimise downtime is personal.

Having grown up on a cane and cattle property, Bradley understands the pressure farmers and contractors face when equipment isn’t operating as it should. That understanding drives the way he approaches his work each day.

“I understand how critical it is to keep machines running… I take pride in being someone customers can rely on,” Bradley said.

Customers consistently praise Bradley for his communication, responsiveness and determination to find solutions. Whether sourcing hard-to-find parts or exploring alternative options, he is known for going above and beyond.

‍

‍

Hinchinbrook residents experiencing domestic and family violence can now access dedicated crisis assistance at any hour of the day or night through a new North Queensland support service.

‍

The new 1800NQSAFE phoneline provides 24/7 assistance to victim-survivors across the Hinchinbrook, Burdekin, Townsville and Palm Island local government areas, connecting callers with support tailored to their circumstances.

The service is part of the new North Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Networked Hub, established through a $21 million Queensland Government commitment over two years.

‍

For residents across Ingham and the wider Hinchinbrook Shire, the hub is designed to provide a more direct pathway between those seeking help and services including police, hospitals, housing providers and specialised domestic and family violence organisations.

‍

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Amanda Camm said the launch meant people across the region could access local support whenever they needed it.

‍

“We said we’d deliver this service in North Queensland and from today victims from Ingham to Ayr will be able to pick up the phone and receive the local help they deserve,” Minister Camm said.

‍

“Staff at UnitingCare, which is operating the 24/7 phoneline, know firsthand the complexity of domestic and family violence and understand that everyone who has the courage to make a phone call to seek help deserves to have that call answered.”

The service is operated by UnitingCare, with trained staff available around the clock to listen, discuss options, assist with safety planning and connect callers with appropriate services.

‍

UnitingCare General Manager, Targeted Support, Family and Disability Services, Joanne Trentin said access to support outside standard business hours was vital.

‍

“Domestic and family violence can escalate at any hour, and when someone is ready to reach out for help, it's critical that support is there,” Ms Trentin said.

“Having support available 24 hours a day, seven days a week means people can reach someone when they need to; someone who can listen, help them understand their options, support safety planning and connect them with the services they need.

‍

“1800NQSAFE is about making that pathway to support simpler and more immediate, so people experiencing domestic and family violence don't have to navigate those moments alone.”

‍

The initiative forms part of broader domestic and family violence reforms being rolled out across Queensland, including Police Protection Directions and GPS monitoring which courts can impose on high-risk perpetrators.

‍

Hinchinbrook residents seeking assistance can contact 1800NQSAFE 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

‍

2026 School Captain Ava Ackery meeting with ISHS’s specialist teachers. Photo supplied

‍

At Ingham State High School, we have a strong focus on three key pillars - Expert Teachers, Supported Learners, and High Standards.

Ingham State High School Principal, Mr Rod Flood states, “it is our staff that make the difference. We have many long-term staff that have a deep commitment to our school and an unwavering belief in the potential of our students. The connection that our students have to their teachers lasts beyond the school fence.”

‍

All Year 5 students across the district are invited to attend a High School Experience Day at Ingham State High School this Thursday 27th August. The day provides students with their first opportunity to experience aspects of high school life in a welcoming and engaging environment. Students will participate in a range of activities designed to introduce them to the opportunities and experiences available at secondary school, while helping to build confidence and familiarity ahead of their future transition.

‍

As part of their ongoing preparation for high school, Year 6 students from across the district will join us again in Term 4 for a further Transition Day on Friday, 23rd October.  

Parents and caregivers are welcome to contact Ingham State High School at any time to discuss any aspect of our school. Enrolment enquiries are always welcome, with enrolment interviews for 2027 to be conducted shortly.  

‍

Come and join us at Ingham State High School – where friendships, opportunities and bright futures begin!

‍

Contributed with thanks by Ingham State High School  

‍

‘St Peter’s Catholic School is a place where every child is known, valued and supported to reach their full potential.’ Photos supplied

‍

Contributed with thanks by St Peter’s Catholic School

‍

As a proud Catholic educational community, St Peter’s Catholic School is a place where every child is known, valued and supported to reach their full potential. Grounded in faith, love and respect, we provide a nurturing environment where students develop academically, socially and spiritually.

Our commitment to inclusive education ensures that individual learning needs are recognised and supported, allowing every student to thrive. We foster a strong sense of belonging where children feel safe, connected and confident, knowing they are an important part of our school family.

‍

‍

In our small school environment, every student has opportunities to participate, lead and succeed. A wide range of extracurricular activities encourages students to explore their talents and interests, ensuring all students are engaged in the life of the school.

‍

Through strong partnerships with families and the wider community, combined with high expectations for learning and wellbeing, St Peter’s celebrates the success of every student.

‍

Enrolments for 2027 are now open. We warmly invite families to discover the difference of a caring, inclusive and faith-filled school community.

‍

Business Support Officer Tayah Doolan and Area Manger Michael Thomson with the SatCom at Mount Fox RFB. Photo supplied

‍

Contributed with thanks by Wayde Chiesa MP, Member for Hinchinbrook

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa is pleased to share that Mount Fox Rural Fire Brigade is among the first brigades in Queensland to receive new satellite communications technology, helping local volunteers stay connected in remote and isolated areas.  

The new equipment will be installed in frontline Rural Fire Service Queensland vehicles, helping volunteers maintain communications in areas where traditional mobile coverage can be limited or unavailable.  

Mr Chiesa said the satellite communications rollout would strengthen local emergency response capability across the region.  

“Our volunteer firefighters are often responding in rural and remote areas where communication can be challenging, particularly during fast-moving emergencies,” Mr Chiesa said.  

“By equipping Mount Fox Rural Fire Brigade with satellite communications, the Crisafulli Government is helping volunteers stay connected in the field and better coordinate their response when it matters most.”  

The rollout forms part of the State Government's $5 million election commitment to equip more than 400 Rural Fire Service Queensland brigades across the State with satellite communications capability.  

RFSQ Deputy Chief Officer Clint Tunnie said the new technology would help keep crews safe and connected while responding to emergencies.  

“Satellite technology gives us the opportunity to keep our teams safe, because any communication we can maintain while firefighting helps us know where our crews are and what they’re doing,” Deputy Chief Officer Tunnie said.  

“It gives our crews the ability to stay connected and call for help when it’s needed, particularly in areas where other communications may not be available.  

“This technology simply wasn’t available to us in the past.”  

RFSQ Chief Officer Kaylene Jones said the rollout would further strengthen frontline operations as the service continues to enhance its fleet capabilities.  

“Satellite connectivity provides an extra layer of safety for our frontline crews, particularly during bushfires and other emergencies where traditional communication networks may be unavailable,” Chief Officer Jones said.  

“Maintaining reliable communications helps our firefighters make informed decisions, improves situational awareness and supports safer operations in the field.  

“As we prepare for another higher-risk bushfire period, investments like this continue to strengthen the capability of our volunteer brigades across Queensland.”

‍

WORKING TOGETHER TO PROTECT THE LOWER HERBERT

‍

The Lower Herbert Water Management Authority (LHWMA) plays an important role in protecting our region, supporting local agriculture and ensuring our communities remain resilient in the face of changing environmental conditions.

‍

Established under the Water Act 2000, the Authority is responsible for providing drainage services throughout the Lower Herbert River catchment.  

Its work includes operating and maintaining essential infrastructure such as levees, bunds, floodgates and pumps.  

‍

These assets help manage water flow, reduce flood impacts and prevent saltwater intrusion, providing critical support to our agricultural industry and local landholders.

The authority also contributes significantly to environmental conservation efforts. Through the management of wetlands, including areas such as Mandam, LHWMA helps preserve local biodiversity while maintaining the balance between productive land use and environmental sustainability.

‍

As Council's representative, I have the opportunity to work closely with fellow board members, stakeholders and the community to ensure local priorities are considered in decision-making.  

Effective water management requires collaboration, and strong partnerships between government, industry and residents are essential to achieving positive outcomes for the region.

‍

I would also like to acknowledge Hinchinbrook Shire Council and Mayor Ramon Jayo, who is currently on annual leave, for their support in ensuring Council maintains a strong voice on the authority. Through ongoing engagement with farmers, landholders and community members, we can continue to identify opportunities to improve drainage networks and strengthen our region's resilience.

‍

The Lower Herbert Water Management Authority remains committed to safeguarding our water resources, supporting agricultural productivity and protecting the natural assets that make the Lower Herbert such a unique and valuable part of our community.

‍

Sails over the pool at the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

‍

More than 18 months after floodwaters damaged the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre, works are finally set to begin, with the facility expected to undergo a major refurbishment throughout September.

‍

Hinchinbrook Shire Council has confirmed a contract has now been awarded for the insurance-funded works, which are expected to commence in early September and be completed by late September 2026, subject to material availability.

‍

The centre was among the local community facilities impacted by the February 2025 flood event. Since then, Council has worked with insurers to assess the damage and determine what was required to restore the affected areas.

Insurance funding was received in March this year, allowing Council to progress planning, procurement and contractor engagement before awarding the remediation contract.

‍

The works will focus on returning the flood-affected areas to their pre-flood condition. This includes refurbishment of the entry, kiosk, office, meeting room, pump room and storage room, along with professional cleaning of the amenities.

The centre’s retractable sails and water park sails will also be replaced as part of the project.

‍

The Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre will remain closed while the remediation work is underway. Council says any temporary changes to facility access or operating arrangements will be communicated to the community as required.

‍

The September works are part of the broader recovery of community infrastructure following the February 2025 floods, with the long-awaited repairs set to restore an important recreational facility for the Hinchinbrook community.

‍

In 2025, the R U OK? Conversation Convoy set up in front of the Maraka stage in Ingham and had a free BBQ. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

‍

We all have times when life feels a little heavier than usual.

‍

Financial pressure, relationship difficulties, family responsibilities, loneliness, work stress, grief, housing uncertainty or simply trying to keep up with the demands of everyday life can gradually take a toll on our wellbeing.

And often, the signs that someone is struggling aren't obvious.

‍

They may still turn up to work, take the kids to school, laugh with friends and get through everything that needs to be done. From the outside, things might look fine. But underneath, they may be feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, anxious or unsure about where to turn.

Mental wellbeing isn't only about responding when someone reaches crisis point. It's also about recognising when things don't feel quite right, having conversations early and knowing that it's okay to reach out for support.

‍

Sometimes that starts with a simple question: "How are you really going?"

With R U OK? Day coming up on Thursday, 10th September, it's a timely reminder that we all have a role to play in looking out for the people around us. We don't need to be counsellors or have all the answers to make a difference. Taking the time to listen, without judgement or immediately trying to fix the problem, can be incredibly valuable.

‍

‍

It's equally important to check in with ourselves.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, withdrawing from people or activities you usually enjoy, struggling to cope with everyday demands, or simply feeling like you're carrying too much on your own, you don't have to wait until things become unbearable before asking for support.

‍

There IS support close to home. At Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC), we recognise that wellbeing is influenced by many different parts of life. Sometimes the issue that brings someone through our doors isn't the only thing they need support with.

‍

HCSC provides a range of community-based support services for people at different ages and stages of life. Our team can provide a safe and supportive space to talk, help people explore what may be contributing to the challenges they're experiencing, and connect them with appropriate supports and services.

Our youth programs also provide children and young people with opportunities to build confidence, resilience, coping skills, healthy relationships and a sense of belonging. Supporting emotional wellbeing early gives young people tools they can carry with them as they grow.

‍

Our broader community programs provide opportunities for connection and participation,  

recognising that feeling connected to other people and to our community can play an important role in maintaining wellbeing.

‍

Sometimes support might begin with counselling. Sometimes it might be joining a group, accessing practical assistance or being connected with another service. And sometimes, the first step is simply having a conversation with someone who will listen.

‍

As we approach R U OK? Day, we encourage everyone in our community to look beyond the automatic "I'm fine".

Check in with a friend. Call someone you haven't heard from for a while. Make time for a conversation with your child or teenager. And don't forget to ask yourself the same question.

‍

Are you really OK?

‍

If the answer is no - or even "I'm not sure" - reaching out can be a good place to start.

‍

Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre is here to listen, support and help connect members of our community with the assistance they need. Because sometimes one conversation really can make a difference.

‍

Rex Testoni looking over a historic map if Ingham and the surrounding areas at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

‍

By Victoria Velton

‍

President of the Ingham Family History Association Rex Testoni was at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library this week for National Family History Day, helping locals navigate records and discover the resources available to uncover their ancestor’s stories.  

Rex’s own family has a long, rich story that stretches from a small village in northern Italy to the present day in Ingham.

Rex’s grandfather arrived in Australia alone in 1928, leaving his wife and three boys behind in Italy.

“He worked until 1932 to gain enough money to bring the wife and boys out,” Rex explained.

‍

The family arrived in 1932, settling around the Foresthome area and living in various barracks before establishing themselves in Ingham.  

Rex’s grandfather worked in market gardening, opening a garden on Forgan Street and supplying food shops locally and in Townsville.

‍

Rex’s uncle became a photographer in Ingham, opening a studio and photographing weddings and other district events. He played a significant role in bringing together Rex’s parents in 1948.  

‍

His mother was making her debut in Proserpine and did not have a partner to accompany her, so her brother suggested a young man he knew - Rex’s father.

The pair married in 1948 and returned to Ingham, where Rex’s father established an electronics, radio and television business in 1953.  

‍

In 1963, Rex’s father built the family home on Townsville Road, before opening a caravan park around 1965, where they remained until 1971.

His interest in gemstones then led to a change of vocation in 1972, when the owner of Bennett’s Jewellers invited Rex’s father to display his collection of stones in a gallery at the rear of the shop.

‍

Rex himself was born in Ingham and worked locally until his mid-20s, when repeated periods of unemployment prompted a major change.

“After getting put out of work four times, I got tired of that,” he said.

‍

"I found it difficult getting a job because I wasn't bilingual. I didn't speak Italian.

‍

"More than half the population would have been Italian - you could walk down the street, and it was just like being in Italy."

Rex joined the Air Force and spent roughly 30 years away in service before returning to Ingham in 2009 to be closer to his ageing parents. He has remained in town ever since.

‍

‍

Rex is particularly interested in his Italian ancestry, although researching those Italian records comes with its own challenges.

Before the unification of Italy, the area was made up of hundreds of separately ruled principalities, meaning researchers looking further back than the mid-1800s often have to turn away from modern national records and towards individual churches.

‍

On one research trip, Rex spoke with a priest who allowed him access to the historic registers stored at the church. The priest opened a large cupboard containing stacks of books recording births, deaths and marriages.

‍

“We pulled out the year, checked through it, and I found six Testonis in there,” Rex said.

‍

None, however, turned out to be his father. That discovery was only the beginning of another genealogical puzzle.

Rex found that his father’s birth had been registered a year before his parents’ marriage appeared in the records and rather than abandoning the search, he started looking for evidence that could explain the discrepancy.

‍

One of the most valuable pieces of evidence came not from an official document, but from a bridesmaid at his grandparents’ wedding.

‍

“She said she (Rex's grandmother) definitely didn’t have any kids and definitely wasn’t pregnant,” Rex said.

‍

‍

The answer eventually emerged: there were two different marriage dates. The church register recorded the actual wedding, while the civil registration took place around 18 months later.

Rex’s grandparents had married, then moved to another locality to establish their own farm. The civil marriage registration wasn’t completed until later, creating the apparent contradiction in the records

‍

“Be wary of dates.” Rex said.  

“You can get caught. You need to confirm where they came from and how they come together,” he said.

‍

Rex has traced his paternal line back to about 1800, but believes there is much more to uncover. His grandfather was the eldest of around 10 children, while earlier generations also had large families.

‍

“There’s a lot of extended family,” Rex said.

During a trip through Italy, he was even introduced to members of the wider Testoni family while they toured around the village.

“I’m on a (Testoni family) WhatsApp group in the village, and there’s a whole bunch of people there I’ve never met.”

‍

For Rex, those connections are one of the great rewards of the research.

During the National Family History Day display at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, the Ingham Family History Association brought out maps dating back to the 1930s and 1940s, cemetery registers, school records, historical publications and information about local businesses and families. The association is also helping people navigate the growing number of online resources.

‍

“When we started off, there were zero registers available online,” Rex said of Italian records. “In the last probably 15 years, it’s gone from about 30 to 50 registers to 274 now.”

‍

‍

For anyone beginning their own family history journey, Rex recommends starting with what is already known, beginning with conversations with parents, grandparents and cousins.

‍

That’s where his own journey started.  

But while family history can reveal wonderful stories and long-lost connections, Rex cautions that it can sometimes uncover things relatives would rather leave in the past.

‍

For those who missed National Family History Day, the records are held at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library. The Ingham Family History Association also meets once a month at the library.

‍

For Rex, the search continues. Even after tracing one branch back more than 200 years, there are still names, stories and connections waiting to be found.

Photo source: Shutterstock

‍

Hinchinbrook’s footy fans are being encouraged to kit up in their favourite team colours next month and help children and families facing cancer as part of the Fight Cancer Foundation’s Footy Colours Day.

‍

A national fundraising initiative running throughout September, Footy Colours Day stands as an opportunity for thousands of Australians to come together to show their support for kids with cancer and getting involved couldn’t be easier.  

Schools, workplaces, sporting clubs, families and groups can choose a date, register for free via www.footycoloursday.com.au and create their own footy-themed fundraiser! It could be a morning tea, BBQ, pizza night, sausage sizzle or a few footy games; the only requirement is wearing your colours with pride and raising funds for the cause.

‍

In 2025, 1,362 Footy Colours Day events helped raise almost $548,000 to support children and families affected by cancer, with all funds raised used to support vital cancer research and help keep parents, siblings and children together during an incredibly difficult time through providing accommodation for families who must travel for treatment.  

‍

So, whether you're backing the Cowboys, Broncos, Storm or something entirely different, get your team together and show your colours for kids with cancer!

‍

Distributor Wanted

‍

Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast Life is looking for a friendly, reliable and energetic distributor to deliver newspapers across the region each Tuesday.

Distribution areas include Cardwell, Mission Beach and Tully, with the run potentially extending further afield as required.

‍

Distribution vehicle supplied.

Approximately 4–6 hours per week.

‍

Contact the central office on 0429 035 046 to enquire.

‍

Cattle in Hinchinbrook.

‍

Hinchinbrook beef producers could benefit from new cattle breeding technology after the Queensland Government announced a $2 million investment in agricultural biotechnology company Nbryo.

‍

The investment is the first made through the $30 million Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund, established to support technology aimed at improving productivity, profitability and sustainability across Queensland’s primary industries.

‍

The Queensland-based company is developing advanced cattle breeding technology capable of reducing seven years of selective breeding into seven days. The investment, managed by Queensland Investment Corporation, will help Nbryoexpand its technology and improve producer access to superior livestock genetics, with the potential to reduce production costs and improve productivity for beef and dairy producers.

‍

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the investment would help Queensland producers make use of emerging technology.

‍

“Queensland is home to almost half Australia’s beef herd, and this investment will help accelerate technologies that improve access to superior genetics, reduce costs and support a more productive and profitable beef and dairy sector,” Minister Perrett said.

‍

"As a beef producer myself, I know how important it is to maximise productivity and make every dollar count. Nbryo is developing technology that has the potential to make advanced breeding tools more accessible and affordable for producers, helping them improve herd performance and profitability.

‍

"The Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund is about backing Queensland innovators with great ideas and helping them turn those ideas into practical solutions that deliver real benefits for producers."

‍

Nbryo Chief Executive Officer Paul Niven said the investment would support the company’s next phase of growth.

‍

"Queensland has an incredible opportunity to lead the world in agricultural technology innovation. We're proud to showcase the work being undertaken at Nbryo and the role advanced reproductive technologies can play in helping make better herds faster," Mr Niven said.

‍

The Government has set a target of growing Queensland’s primary production industry to $30 billion by 2030, with the fund intended to help move agricultural innovations from development into practical on-farm applications.

‍