Winning the Hinchinbrook by-election was an honour that carries a great responsibility — one I will never take for granted. From day one, I have taken that responsibility seriously and committed myself to being a strong, local voice for our community.

Since being sworn in just before Christmas, it has been a very busy period. I have had a clear focus on the issues that affect daily life across our electorate.

The Bruce Highway is the backbone of our state, and key sections such as the Gairloch Crossing, Seymour River and the Northern Beaches intersection north of Townsville are relied upon by locals every single day. These roads are essential for getting people to work, kids to school and keeping communities connected. I’ve had ongoing discussions with councils, transport operators and local businesses about improving safety and resilience along these corridors.

Another key priority is Mount Spec Road, a vital lifeline for Paluma and Hidden Valley. Since the February 2025 rain event, residents and businesses have faced closures, detours and ongoing uncertainty, affecting families, local businesses, freight and emergency services. While the fix is complex and weather-challenged, I am committed to working with the community to deliver certainty, safety and get locals and visitors back supporting this beautiful part of our region.

I have already met with the Minister for Transport and his department to advocate for upgrades that deliver real improvements and value for money for Hinchinbrook.

We also cannot talk about Hinchinbrook without addressing Port Hinchinbrook. This long-running issue has created uncertainty for residents, businesses and the environment. Works are progressing, and I look forward to providing an update soon that delivers the clarity and confidence our community deserves.

I’ve also heard directly from farmers frustrated by the excessive drainage regulations of the former labor government that are worsening flooding impacts in our region. I’ve raised these concerns with Minister Dale Last and will continue pushing for practical, sensible solutions.

Finally, congratulations to Ingham businesses and residents on an outstanding campaign to bring Tones and I to town — a huge win for the region. Enjoy the fun on the 20th.

Hinchinbrook deserves a strong future, and I’ll keep working hard to deliver safer roads, stronger communities and a future that works for regional Queensland.

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Tourism operators across the Hinchinbrook Shire are set to benefit from a major funding injection aimed at strengthening disaster resilience, following the devastating North and Far North Queensland floods in early 2025.

As part of the jointly funded Building Resilient Tourism Infrastructure Fund: North Queensland Tropical Low (BRTINQ), $4 million has been allocated to support 25 tourism infrastructure projects across Townsville, Hinchinbrook, Burdekin, Traeger and Mundingburra, with local operators among the successful recipients.

Launched in June 2025 under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the fund is designed to help tourism businesses future-proof their operations against increasingly severe weather events. Projects range from the installation of solar systems and battery storage to improved drainage, flood mitigation measures and early warning systems.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the funding demonstrated a strong commitment to the long-term recovery of flood-affected regions.

“Through this program, both levels of government have partnered to help those that were hardest hit by last year’s flood event in North and Far North Queensland to thrive and prepare for the future,” Minister McBain said.

“These businesses not only play a crucial role regionally, driving economies and employing locals, but also provide access to some of Australia’s best tourism destinations for the world.”

Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said practical infrastructure upgrades were essential to protecting regional jobs and strengthening the tourism sector.

“Tourism operators need real, practical support to get through natural disasters and come back stronger - that’s how we build a resilient industry for the long term,” Minister Powell said.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo congratulated successful local applicants, welcoming the investment into the shire’s tourism future.

“Well done to the businesses who have been successful in the Building Resilient Tourism Infrastructure Fund,” Mayor Jayo said.

“These grants provide vital support for our local businesses, helping them stay competitive, reduce risk, and build long-term resilience.”

A full list of successful recipients is available through the Queensland Government’s Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation website.

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Here’s a fact that bends minds (and horizons): Lucinda’s bulk sugar jetty stretches 5.76 km into the Coral Sea, making it the longest service jetty in the Southern Hemisphere — and yes, it’s so long it visibly follows the curvature of the Earth. Straight up science flex.

Built to export North Queensland sugar to the world, the jetty features a covered conveyor system that carries raw sugar from shore to ship in about 22 minutes. It’s a working piece of industrial history, which means no public access — but don’t worry, the public fishing jetty next door delivers big views and family-friendly casting space.

At sunset, the jetty transforms into a steel ribbon of molten gold. Photographers swear by arriving 15 minutes either side of sundown for colours that cling. Engineering meets escapism here — proof that even infrastructure can glow up on holiday.

See it: hinchinbrookway.com.au

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Did you know that you could fly on major Australian domestic airlines from Ingham’s licensed aerodrome once upon a time? The airlines operating out of the aerodrome were TAA (Trans Australia Airlines) a major Australian domestic airline company, 1946 – 1992 and ANA (Australian National Airways), 1936 - 1957.

In the early 1920s the few small planes that flew into Ingham landed on the racecourse. As Council received more requests for permission to land it was clear that a proper airstrip was needed. Part of the town reserve was cleared but this ground proved swampy and the Controller of Aviation would not give approval for a suggested alternative site because it too was inappropriate.

Then, New England Airways offered to carry out a survey and draw up plans for a licensed aerodrome if Government money could be secured to bring the airstrip up to standard. The Government refused to assist and the strip continued to be used unlicensed. A regular passenger service conducted by The Queensland Air Navigation Limited was supposed to commence in early April 1930 but as the airstrip was still hazardous with cows grazing on the runway and unusable in the wet season the service did not commence.

In emergencies aircraft landed on the golf course and once one used the concrete Fairford Road for takeoff! What excitement that must have caused.

Finally, the Government authorized the Council to borrow money from the Insurance Commissioner to construct a licensed aerodrome. It opened with great ceremony and joy flights on 30 July 1939. It cost £2800 to construct. In a report of the day “Mr. M. I. Grabowskl, manager of Airlines of Australia, said that the aerodrome was one of the finest in the Commonwealth.” Perhaps he should have said state but even that would have been an exaggeration!

However, already in 1940 the airstrip was not fit for use and The Civil Aviation authority required the Council to make repairs so that a license could be issued to reopen. However, with lack of funds over the World War 2 period the airstrip deteriorated badly yet again and became unsuitable for use. Anyway, the types of larger planes coming in use post-war made that airstrip unsuitable.

The construction of a new airstrip with small terminal would enable commercial and transport planes to land. The construction limped along for years due to protracted wet seasons until finally on 24 July1955 the airport opened at a cost of £26000. Plane services began the same week with ANA  southbound aircraft landing on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday mornings with northbound aircraft landing on the same afternoons. TAA offered a similar service with southbound aircraft landing on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and northbound aircraft landing on Tuesday and Friday afternoons. The first planes were DC3s while later Fokker F27s were used. The route was Brisbane-Maryborough-Bundaberg-Gladstone-Rockhampton-Proserpine-Mackay-Townsville-Ingham-Innisfail-Cairns. Again, effusive praise was given for the airport with it being described as “one of the best country landing places in the State.”

The service continued for several decades. One of the last notable landings of larger planes were VIP aircraft, that landed in Ingham on 2 July 1979 bringing Premier Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen and Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser for the opening of the Lucinda sugar terminal. Though still a busy airstrip, it is unsuitable for the landing of the huge commercial passenger aircraft in use today.

Contributed with thanks to Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui.

ONE YEAR ON

From late January through to February 2025, authorities issued frequent warnings to residents across the Hinchinbrook Shire, providing updates through the official Hinchinbrook Disaster Information Dashboard as weather conditions intensified.

On 30 January, the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group (HLDMG) convened to assess the developing system and resolved to commence preliminary preparations in anticipation of potential flooding.

“Whilst there still remains some uncertainty as to the movements of the present low, what is certain is that the Hinchinbrook district can expect a fair bit of rain one way or the other, both in the lower and upper catchment areas,” HLDMG Chair and Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said at the time.

“Given the amount of rain that we have experienced over the past few days, our drainage systems are at capacity, so it is reasonable to expect that some flooding will occur throughout the district, or in parts of our district at least.”

HLDMG advised residents there was a 25 to 35 per cent chance of a tropical cyclone developing in the Coral Sea or Gulf of Carpentaria, while also warning that tides were forecast to reach the highest astronomical levels along much of the Queensland coastline. As a precaution, sandbags were made available in Halifax, Cordelia, Taylors Beach and Ingham, with residents urged to monitor official updates closely.

On Saturday, 1 February, Hinchinbrook Disaster Information confirmed heavy to locally intense rainfall was expected to continue, with warnings issued for potentially dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding and damaging winds across the region. Power outages were also reported in Halifax and Taylors Beach, with Ergon Energy crews dispatched to affected areas.

Later that afternoon, a fifth major flood warning was issued for the Herbert River, advising residents in Halifax, Gairloch, Ingham, Abergowrie and Glenegle of escalating flood conditions. At the time, major flooding was occurring along the river to Nash’s Crossing, with forecasts indicating river levels would exceed 14 metres at downstream gauges overnight.

A severe weather warning remained in place across the Herbert and Lower Burdekin regions, as well as parts of the North Tropical Coast, Tablelands, Northern Goldfields and Upper Flinders districts.

On 7 February, Queensland Police Service, supported by Defence Australia, delivered essential supplies to isolated residents in Ingham via Chinook helicopters. Queensland Ambulance Service crews also confirmed they were well positioned to support flood-affected communities.

Additional major flood warnings were issued throughout early February as river levels fluctuated. On 11 February, Ergon Energy crews replaced a damaged transformer pole on Abergowrie Road, restoring power to more than 300 residents across surrounding localities. Further works continued as water levels receded across other affected catchments.

Emergency alerts were issued on 12 February for areas between Lannercost, Lucinda, Taylors Beach and Ingham as floodwaters rose again, with residents urged to remain vigilant and prepared.

In the days that followed, Transport and Main Roads Queensland confirmed the staged reopening of flood-affected roadways, including Ollera Creek Bridge on 12 February, Gairloch and the Seymour River route on 14 February, and Anabranch Bridge on 15 February.

In the aftermath of the disaster and throughout the year that followed, extensive recovery programs and financial assistance were made available to homeowners, small businesses, primary producers and community organisations. Hinchinbrook Shire Council worked closely with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority and State Government agencies to support recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Residents were encouraged to access Community Recovery Hubs across the shire or contact the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349 for assistance with grants and support services.

“We know it’s been tough for everyone, but we’re tougher than what the weather has thrown at us,” Mayor Jayo said.

One year on, the 2025 floods remain etched in the history of the Hinchinbrook Shire as a once-in-a-generation event that tested the region in unprecedented ways. Yet from the devastation emerged a community defined not by what was lost, but by its resilience, standing as living proof that while the weather pushed the region to its limits, it never broke it. The strength, compassion and determination of its residents continue to inspire, leaving a legacy of endurance that will shape the shire for generations to come.

If you or someone you know has been affected by this event and may be feeling distressed, support is available. Readers are encouraged to contact Lifeline’s Community Recovery Lifeline Hotline on 1800 116 671 to speak confidentially with a trained disaster counsellor, available 24 hours a day.

This year, Canegrowers celebrates an extraordinary milestone - 100 years of giving Queensland sugarcane growers a strong, united voice.

To mark this historic occasion, Canegrowers Herbert River will host a Centenary Gala Dinner on Saturday the 9th of May 2026. The event will bring together members, past and present directors and chairpersons, their families, industry colleagues and friends. The wider community is also invited to be part of the celebration.

With the theme Honouring our Past, Embracing our Future - 100 years stronger together, the evening will recognise the people, stories and achievements that have shaped the local sugar industry for a century.

“For 100 years, Canegrowers has been giving Queensland sugarcane growers a strong, united voice,” Canegrowers Herbert River Chairman Steven Marbelli said. “We are looking forward to recognising and celebrating the enduring impact of the local sugar industry with our community.”

Formed in 1926, with regional branches established across Queensland in 1927, Canegrowers was built on unity, hard work and the determination of cane-farming families. The Herbert River district has played an important role in that journey, with generations of local growers helping shape both the regional industry and the wider Australian sugar sector.

Over time, the industry has changed dramatically. Machinery, farming practices and technology have transformed the way cane is grown and harvested. Markets have expanded well beyond local mills to customers around the world. Yet the values of Canegrowers remain the same, advocacy, fairness and a commitment to a sustainable future for growers and their communities.

Centenary celebrations will continue throughout 2026, providing opportunities to reflect on the challenges faced and the successes achieved. They will also welcome new generations of growers into the fold, continuing the legacy built by those who came before them.

The sugar industry has long been a cornerstone of Ingham and the surrounding district. It supports local businesses, creates employment and contributes to the fabric of our towns and schools. This centenary is a celebration for everyone, not just growers, and a reminder of the strong ties between the industry and the community.

After 100 years, the message remains clear. Unity has been the foundation of Canegrowers’ success, and it will continue to guide the organisation into the future.

Save the date for Saturday 9 May 2026, and keep an eye out for the announcement of future event details!

The countdown is on to the Next Gen 2026 Cane Forum, with the event now just weeks away in the Burdekin and Herbert regions on 3–4 March.

Co-organisers Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) and Aglantis are urging attendees to register, with limited spots remaining — including only five seats left on the dedicated bus from Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek.

“The clock is ticking for next-gen farmers, new-to-industry farmers and anyone else interested in the advances in technology, innovation and systems in the sugarcane sector,” Aglantis event spokesperson Luke Malan said.

As Managing Director of Aglantis and co-organiser of the event, Mr Malan said he was excited to help revive a platform dedicated to promoting the future of farming, with a strong focus on practical application.

"This is about giving our nation’s growers real-world examples; helping them to see and pave the way to what the future of sugarcane farming could look like," Mr Malan said.

The forum has attracted significant backing from industry-leading sponsors, reinforcing a shared commitment to the long-term sustainability and profitability of Queensland’s sugar industry.

Mr Malan said the strong industry support had enabled a high-calibre program featuring practical, on-farm demonstrations of automated irrigation and precision agriculture tools.

“Our incredibly supportive sponsors allow the showcasing of advanced agricultural technology, directly supporting the next generation of sugarcane farmers,” he said.

Among the key highlights for 2026 will be smart and automated irrigation systems, offering growers the chance to see efficiency-driven technology operating in real time. Precision agriculture and GPS technology will also take centre stage, with a focus on how these innovations translate into real-world profitability.

Carbon and reef compliance — an increasingly important consideration for emerging industry leaders navigating a changing regulatory landscape — will form a critical part of the discussion.

“Over the past year we’ve seen something powerful happen when farmers are simply given the space to come together. Conversations around dinner tables turn into real practice changes on farm, ideas shared on bus trips sparked new trials and connections made between growers can lead to lifetime friendships,” Mr Malan said.

He said the momentum behind the forum would not have been possible without the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and its investment through the RP84 Peer to Peer Farming Groups program.

“Their support backed ‘farmers backing farmers’ — creating opportunities to explore new technology, challenge thinking, and building confidence to adopt practical improvements. We are incredibly grateful to DPI for recognising the value of grower-led learning and for investing in stronger, more connected farming communities across Queensland.”

QCAR Chair Russell Hall said the forum was specifically designed to deliver hands-on, boots-on-the-ground value.

“While we’ll have industry veterans in attendance sharing their wealth of experience, the program focuses on the high-level innovation and practical technology required for modern farming,” Mr Hall said.

QCAR’s Senior Technical Agriculture Officer and event co-organiser Lawrence Di Bella said the event was about bringing the industry together and putting the tools of tomorrow into growers’ hands.

“We could not be more proud or more excited to be bringing this event back to the industry,” Mr Di Bella said.

“By combining high-level innovation with practical field trips, we are making sure our next generation of leaders can see how new technology translates to profitability and sustainability."

The program includes immersive on-farm demonstrations, site visits to progressive farms, and direct insights into how ag-tech tools can improve yield while managing environmental footprints. Attendees will also have opportunities to connect with industry leaders and peers from the Burdekin, Herbert, Proserpine and Mackay regions, as well as experts who can help navigate the complexities of modern farming.

Event schedules and ticket details are available via the Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables and Aglantis Facebook pages or by calling (07) 3496 9555. Tickets are also available at https://nextgen2026.eventbrite.com.au.

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The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) will conduct a planned burn on Hinchinbrook Island National Park between 18 and 25 February, subject to suitable weather and operational conditions. This activity forms part of QPWS’s annual conservation and hazard-reduction program, designed to manage fire risk while supporting the long-term health of natural ecosystems.

The burn will be carried out using aerial ignition in selected areas of the island, including sections near the Thorsborne Trail. The trail remains closed until 28 February due to the seasonal wet-season closure, which aligns with safety requirements during fire management operations. Members of the public are asked to observe all closures, signage, and ranger instructions throughout the burn period.

Smoke from the operation may be visible from nearby communities such as Lucinda and Cardwell, as well as from the Bruce Highway. Reduced visibility may occur at times, and motorists are advised to drive to conditions and remain alert. Residents with asthma or other respiratory conditions are encouraged to take appropriate precautions, including keeping medications accessible, closing windows and doors, and following advice provided by their general practitioner.

Planned burning plays a critical role in reducing the risk of severe bushfires during periods of high fire danger. It also supports ecological outcomes by encouraging native plant regeneration, maintaining habitat diversity, and creating a mosaic of burnt and unburnt areas that benefit wildlife.

Public safety remains the highest priority for QPWS throughout all fire management activities, with burns conducted only when conditions allow for safe and effective outcomes for both the community and the environment.

Photo source: Facebook

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Victoria’s View

HIYA HINCHINBROOK!

I am back after a holiday packed with family and friends, it was definitely a wild change of pace from what I had grown used to here in the north. From flying to Sydney and then travelling to Brisbane and back up the infamous Bruce Highway home, it was an adventure at all turns.

We reached my great-grandmother's birthday party despite the best efforts of the Sydney traffic, where we celebrated her surrounded by generations of family. She even had letters from family back in Ireland and Scotland, and one from the King of England proudly on display.

It was lovely to catch up with uncles, aunts and the myriad of cousins I had not seen in ages, some not for years. But my time in Sydney was short lived.

Off to Brisbane I went and lurked about some of my favourite old haunts. I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the Cultural Centre at Southbank to see the new art and museum exhibits - there was one on the creatures of North Queensland, I had to laugh when I saw all the ‘exotic’ taxidermy animals I had come to see in my day-to-day – the marvelling tourists and the loud, fast pace of the city really made me wish for the quiet of the cane fields.

It gave me perspective and an appreciation that only travel can.

From Brisbane I was off again, campervan and little plan but to drive and see where I ended up. I wound my way north, stopping in Yeppoon and Mackay to see more family and friends. I even popped in to surprise my colleagues in Airlie Beach at our sister publication, Whitsunday Life. I rested by tropical beaches and camped at beautiful creeks when I finally reached Cairns.

I had my full helping of cities, so I didn't stay long. I am much more a fan of all the lovely country towns I passed through, making ones to return to when I have more time to explore, as my holiday was capped.

Now back in Hinchinbrook, I feel refreshed. Ready to get back into it for you all and bring you the best paper I can.

Fun fact: Since writing about it for our magazine Tripping, I have always wanted to visit the Babinda Boulders. I can now say it lives up to its magical hype.

One year after devastating floods reshaped the Hinchinbrook Shire, the community stands resilient — rebuilding what was lost while protecting what lies ahead. From hardship came unity, strength, and a determination that continues to define the region today.

RESILIENCE, RECOVERY, REBUILD

A Community that Endures

One year on from one of the most devastating natural disasters to impact the Hinchinbrook Shire, the community continues to preserve, support one another, and rebuild what was lost, while working to safeguard the region’s future.

In January and February of 2025, severe and persistent rainfall saturated much of North Queensland, triggering extreme flooding across the state. Subsequent reports released by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) confirmed February 2025 was among the wettest on record for many parts of the region, with areas including the Hinchinbrook Shire recording rainfall totals well above long-term historical averages.

The Herbert River surged far beyond typical flood levels, contributing to widespread inundation of homes, businesses and critical infrastructure. According to BOM and river gauge data, the Herbert River reached a peak of approximately 14.93 metres at the Ingham Pump Station on 3 February, with discharge estimated at around 495,000 megalitres per day. While the peak narrowly fell short of the 15.20 metres recorded during the historic 1967 floods, the 2025 event remains one of the most significant in more than a century of monitoring. The Ingham Pump Station has rarely exceeded the major flood threshold of 12 metres.

In response to the river exceeding major flood levels, several recovery and mitigation initiatives were advanced. In 2025, a proposal was submitted on behalf of the Herbert River Improvement Trust seeking $700,000 in funding to repair flood-damaged riverbanks at Halifax Washaway, with the aim of protecting key infrastructure including the road connecting Ingham and Halifax. Additionally, a $3.2 million initiative funded through the Queensland Reef Water Quality Program has since been actioned across local catchments to improve water quality, flood resilience and long-term environmental outcomes within the river system.

Flooding caused significant disruption across the transport network, with multiple roads cut throughout the region. Key routes, including sections of the Bruce Highway and the Ollera Creek Bridge between Ingham and Townsville, were closed for extended periods, isolating communities and restricting access to essential services.

Tragically, the Queensland Police Service confirmed two lives were lost in floodwaters in the Ingham area during the event. Authorities issued multiple emergency warnings as conditions deteriorated and floodwaters rose across the lower Herbert catchment.

Severe weather also resulted in widespread power outages, leaving many residents without electricity for days. Despite significant logistical challenges, Ergon Energy crews worked continuously to restore supply, reconnecting more than 33,000 homes and businesses across Queensland within the first two weeks of February. Crews navigated flooding, landslides, damaged infrastructure and inaccessible terrain to complete restorations.

“In one of the most logistically complex restorations we’ve come across, we did it by chopper and fixed wing, by barge, by ATV, by railbus, and on foot, until it was possible to get in tracked machinery, trucks and utes,” an Ergon Energy spokesperson said.

“While Ingham was completely isolated, our local legends kept their community safe and paved the way for restoration, despite some of them being directly affected by flooding and all of them without network power. Crews from Atherton, Cairns, Cannonvale, Charters Towers, Home Hill, Ingham, Innisfail, Mackay, Mount Isa, Mossman, Pinnacle and Townsville joined their Ingham colleagues slogging it out in sometimes atrocious conditions.”

State Emergency Service (SES) were vital in flood recovery and local emergency operations with teams leading several rescue and evacuation efforts across the Hinchinbrook Shire in collaboration with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services.

Residents rose to the challenge to support one another during a period of immense unpredictability including local business owner, Tony Lafano who selflessly packed equipment like generators and gas bottles in his tinny to deliver to those in need.

“It’s all [the flooding] has caught a few people by surprise,” he said.

Kimberley Veltmeyer’s family were isolated to their Macknade property during the event, however, she recounted that through the unwavering support and resilience of the tight-knit community, they were able to endure despite the disaster.

“With no power, intermittent internet and phones that only work every two days, and clean water that's only just come back on, this disaster, this hasn’t broken us. It's only made stronger,” said Kimberley.

Whether you’re visiting, settling in, or already proud to call Hinchinbrook home, there’s something special about the way our community welcomes people in. With the release of our new Welcome to Hinchinbrook guide today and with many visitors arriving in the region, now is the perfect time to reflect on what makes our shire such a great place to live and visit.

People come to Hinchinbrook for many reasons. Some return to their roots, while others discover our laid‑back lifestyle for the first time. For locals, it’s a reminder of what we sometimes take for granted — a place where kids grow up surrounded by nature, neighbours look out for one another, and saying hello to a stranger is still the norm.

Next week, we’ll be welcoming a large number of visitors for the Tones and I concert on 20 February.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is pleased to provide a public space for this event, which is being managed by the artist and her team. It’s an exciting opportunity to showcase our region and a chance for our community to extend the friendly hospitality we’re known for.

We encourage residents to take pride in being great hosts — whether that’s offering directions, supporting local businesses, being patient on our roads, or simply sharing a smile. For many visitors, this will be their first experience of Hinchinbrook, and the way they’re welcomed can leave a lasting impression.

Council continues to provide a wide range of services that support both residents and visitors, including waste and recycling, parks and open spaces, infrastructure, planning and community programs. Our role is to help ensure Hinchinbrook remains safe, accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

We’re fortunate to live in a region rich in natural beauty and iconic landmarks. From the Victoria Sugar Mill and the 5.8‑kilometre Lucinda Sugar Wharf to Wallaman Falls, the TYTO Wetlands and the world‑class fishing of the Hinchinbrook Channel, there’s plenty to share with those discovering our backyard for the first time.

Hinchinbrook is also a community that stands together, particularly during challenging times. Being prepared for natural events is part of living in North Queensland, and looking out for one another is part of who we are.

Whether people are visiting for a concert, a holiday, or considering making Hinchinbrook their home, let’s make them feel welcome. Together, we can show why our community is such a special place.

Welcome to Hinchinbrook — and thank you for helping us share it.

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We’re excited to share a few updates from the team at Tumbleweed Therapies.
Firstly, we’ve expanded our assessment and diagnostic services with the addition of a new telehealth assessment platform — supporting more accessible and timely appointments across North Queensland. Kayla, our provisional psychologist, is now available to deliver comprehensive ADHD assessments via secure telehealth platforms, helping clients explore how symptoms are impacting daily life.
Our assessments don’t just focus on diagnosis. They provide a detailed profile of cognitive strengths and challenges, with tailored recommendations, strategies, and supports to suit your lifestyle and needs. We also work closely with GPs and psychiatrists to support collaborative care and continuity.
Secondly, our purpose-built therapy rooms in Ingham are now fully operational — with spaces available for use by other allied health professionals. Rooms are soundproof, air-conditioned, comfortable, and multi-format, with independent access, kitchenette and bathroom facilities, internet, and one unfurnished space also available.
If you're a practitioner looking for a space to see clients, or you're interested in making a referral, we’d love to hear from you.
We’re also currently recruiting for a part-time/casual client-facing role — working alongside our team to help deliver therapy goals, communicate with families, and support positive treatment outcomes.
For referrals or assessment enquiries, contact: intake@tumbleweedtherapies.com
For room hire or job enquiries, email: admin@tumbleweedtherapies.com
Visit: www.tumbleweedtherapies.com.au
Phone: 07 4463 8679

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State Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa has met with key regional water and agricultural organisations to better understand ongoing flooding and drainage challenges affecting the Hinchinbrook community.

Over the past week, Mr Chiesa met with representatives from the Lower Herbert Water Board, Herbert River Improvement Trust, Hinchinbrook Drainage Advisory Group and Canegrowers Herbert River. The meetings focused on concerns that flooding events are becoming more frequent and severe, with water levels rising more quickly and remaining high for longer periods following heavy rainfall.

Stakeholders outlined long standing issues with the condition of drains and waterways across the region. It was noted that many drainage systems are no longer maintained or cleaned to the standard they once were, with regulatory changes introduced decades ago identified as a contributing factor. These drains play a critical role in managing water movement through the Hinchinbrook region.

Mr Chiesa said the meetings were about listening to local knowledge and gaining a clearer understanding of the challenges being experienced on the ground. He acknowledged that ineffective drainage can have wide ranging impacts, including damage to farms, homes and roads, as well as delays to recovery after flood events.

Flooding and drainage management is a significant issue for Hinchinbrook, a region that depends heavily on agriculture and is regularly exposed to intense wet season rainfall. Improving the function of drainage and river systems is seen as essential to protecting livelihoods, infrastructure and community safety.

Mr Chiesa said addressing these issues would require long term planning and sustained effort rather than quick fixes, and that ongoing consultation with local groups and residents would be vital.

Community members affected by flooding or drainage issues are encouraged to contact Mr Chiesa’s office at Hinchinbrook@parliament.qld.gov.au to share their experiences.

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Photo source: Facebook

Hi Readers,

Let’s get ready to rock n roll. Big names, big excitement!

There’s a real buzz building across Hinchinbrook — and for good reason. It’s not every day that towns like ours get to welcome two major Australian music icons, right here on our doorstep.

Diesel and Tones and I performing live in Hinchinbrook is something worth celebrating. These are artists who have filled arenas, topped charts, and represented Australian music on the world stage — and now they’re coming to us.

What makes this so special isn’t just the calibre of the entertainers, but what it means for our community. Events like this put Hinchinbrook firmly on the map. They bring people together, boost local businesses, and remind us that you don’t need to live in a capital city to experience world‑class entertainment.

Diesel’s powerhouse vocals and decades‑long career have earned him a place as one of Australia’s most respected performers, while Tones and I’s rise from busking to international stardom is nothing short of extraordinary. To have both artists performing right here in town is a huge win for locals of all ages.

There’s a definite excitement in the air — from families planning a night out to long‑time music lovers who never imagined they’d see these names on a Hinchinbrook event poster. It’s moments like this that create lasting memories and strengthen our sense of community pride.

Hinchinbrook has always known how to show up and show support, and there’s no doubt we’ll do just that. These performances aren’t just concerts — they’re a celebration of how far our shire has come and what we’re capable of hosting.

Diesel — Saturday night, 21 February – Shire Hall via hinchinbrooktickets.com.au
Tones and I — 20 February – Ingham Showgrounds

So, get ready, Hinchinbrook. The lights are coming on, the music is about to start, and our town is ready to shine.

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Five students have been honoured as finalists in the 2025 Premier’s QCE Student Award.

A special congratulations to Ingham students Grace Thomson and Couper Giuliano from Gilroy Santa Maria College who each received a Subject Achievement Commendation, placing them among the highest achieving students in Queensland across multiple general subjects.

The Premier’s Queensland Certificate of Education Student Award recognises Queensland’s top-students across the state. The awards accommodate the different and varied study patterns of senior students. They account for students diverse learning options and acknowledge that senior schooling is not a one-size-fits-all. Prize winners have gone on to find great success in their careers and lives becoming journalists, doctors, activists, lawyers and academics.

The Subject Achievement Commendation is awarded to students who achieve the highest result in at least one general or extension subject.

A further congratulations to Sari Lawback, Mia Parsons and Searith Bajwa from Ryan Catholic College in Townsville who were also awarded a Subject Achievement Commendation.

A special congratulations was sent all recipients from state premier and Ingham local David Crisafulli.

It is fantastic to see the great talent on display in the Hinchinbrook region. It is incredibly important to nurture and support academic achievement as the hard work does not go unnoticed.

2025 was a fantastic year of Hinchinbrook students. They have made the region incredibly proud!!

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