Queensland is experiencing a significant rise in flu cases, with more people currently being hospitalised with influenza than with COVID-19.

From the 7th to the 13th of July, over 250 people were hospitalised with flu, with an average of 169 public hospital beds occupied daily. This marks a sharp increase from the previous week’s average of 131 beds. In comparison, COVID-19 hospitalisations for the same period were just over 190, with 149 beds occupied on average.

Since the beginning of the year, nearly 3,600 people have been hospitalised with flu in Queensland. This figure is 16 per cent higher than the same time last year, and 90 per cent of those hospitalised were not vaccinated.

Last week alone, the state recorded 3,313 new flu cases—the highest weekly figure reported in 2025. A total of 36,131 cases have been reported this year to date.

Flu-related hospitalisations have impacted a wide range of age groups, with over 340 children under five and 1,679 people aged 65 years and over requiring hospital care. The number of flu-related deaths this year has reached 84.

While COVID-19 and RSV case numbers have remained steady, health authorities are encouraging Queenslanders to get vaccinated against all respiratory illnesses. Free flu vaccines remain available at GPs, pharmacies and community clinics.

Queenslanders are also urged to practise good hygiene and stay home when unwell to help stop the spread of illness.

For full data and vaccination details, visit the Queensland Health website.

A peloton of dedicated cyclists rode through the Hinchinbrook Shire last week as part of the mighty Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride; an initiative established to make a difference in the lives of children affected by cancer.

Held annually, the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride raises both valuable awareness and funds for the Children’s Cancer Institute to support comprehensive efforts focused on preventing and treating childhood cancer.

The Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride was founded in 1999 by Selwyn Hardwick after his sister tragically passed away from cancer, and one of his grandchildren was diagnosed with leukaemia. Whilst travelling on a road trip across Northern Queensland, Selwyn was struck with the idea to ride from Townsville to Cairns to raise money for the Children’s Cancer Institute, and a short while later, he invited his son to join in, and the initiative was established.

The ride has since welcomed hundreds of cyclists to follow the 374km route, raising tens of thousands of dollars to fund the life-changing work of the Children’s Cancer Institute.

On the evening of Thursday the 24th of July, 2025’s fleet of cyclists put their feet up in Ingham for the night before riding on to Innisfail, before finally arriving in Cairns on Saturday, the 26th of July where they crossed the finish line for another year.

Donations to the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride initiative are still open and can be made online via https://www.tcbr.org.au/sponsor and more information and updates can be found on the TCBR’s website and social media pages.

On Saturday, 19 July 2025, our proactive public spaces and Waste Education teams coordinated a Coastal Clean Up in Lucinda. They were joined by local residents and organisations to remove residual flood waste and rubbish in the mangrove areas along Dungeness Road, Lucinda Road and beaches out to the new spit.

A total of just over 1.1 tonnes of flood debris and other waste was collected by enthusiastic volunteers. Items removed included tyres, a canoe and part of a queen-sized bed ensemble. It was also great to have three of my fellow Councillors participate in the event.

Following the clean up, the Lucinda Progress Association generously provided a sausage sizzle and refreshments for volunteers. Thank you to Council, Herbert River Catchment and Landcare Group, Herbert River Improvement Trust, Girringun Aboriginal Corporation and Ingham Rod and Reel Club for their support.

I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to secure their loads, particularly when leaving our beautiful coastal areas towing a boat or trailer. Interestingly, one volunteer even found a $20 note beside the road.

In other positive news, the presence of Navua sedge rust is increasing in our shire. This biological control appears to be effective where it has taken hold, reducing seed production, weakening the plant and in some cases leading to plant death. Where rust is visible, it is recommended not to disturb the sedge to allow the rust to spread naturally. Rust spores are dispersed by wind, so we hope to see its continued spread across the region.

Where rust is not present, landholders are encouraged to control Navua sedge using a registered herbicide in accordance with label directions. For more information, please contact Council’s Biosecurity Team on 4776 4088.

If you’re a cane farmer still dealing with flood debris, I want to use this column to speak directly to you.

There seems to be a lack of clarity as to what the process to remove the debris from paddocks actually is. If you come across debris while harvesting, you must pull the debris out of the road of the harvester, leave it in the paddock, and contact Council to report and arrange removal.

The debris needs to stay in the paddock for assessment to qualify for collection. I know it might sound a bit pedantic to say: “The debris must remain in the paddock,” or “You have to submit a customer request before we can assess your site,” but unfortunately, that’s exactly how the system works. Council does not make the rules. Much of what we can do is guided by rules developed by other levels of Government — but we do have to follow them. We just need to work within the structure we’ve been given.

So, if you’ve been putting it off — hoping for more time or a simpler process — now’s the moment to act. Call Council on 4776 4600 and lodge your request. Include your contact details, property info, and a photo of the debris if you can. If you can’t, that’s acceptable. As I said, if the waste is in the way, just push it aside — don’t remove it completely. Once you submit, your site will be inspected (usually within five days), and if eligible, we aim to collect the waste within about two weeks.

The current cleanup deadline from the State has been extended to 30 September, which is good news. We’ve asked for it to go further — at least to the end of the season — but so far, the State’s position is firm: no further extension will even be considered until more requests come through. In other words, they want to see demand before they act to extend.

None of this is perfect. But the help is real, and the support is here — as long as we work within the process and act early. So, I want to reiterate: call Council on 4776 4600 and lodge your request.

Ingham proudly holds the status of an RV Friendly Town, offering travelling caravanners and motorhome users a warm welcome and convenient facilities. Recognised by the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia, Ingham provides easy access to short-term parking, dump points and potable water.

Ingham is the perfect stopover to explore the Hinchinbrook region, including TYTO Wetlands, coastal communities and Wallaman Falls.

Drop into the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre at TYTO Precinct — your go-to spot for maps, travel tips, and local know-how, all delivered with a friendly smile.

Local businesses benefit from the steady stream of visitors, with many shops, cafés and attractions catering to the self-contained travel community. The town’s RV friendliness not only supports tourism but also strengthens Ingham’s reputation as a relaxed, traveller-focused destination.

Whether you are passing through or staying a while, Ingham’s RV Friendly status ensures comfort, convenience and a genuine country welcome.

Carol Sanderson has been a lighthouse of a volunteer for the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre for decades. This June 2025 marks her incredible 45th anniversary as a volunteer.

Carol has been with Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) since its humble beginnings.  HCSC now has become a vital community hub, delivering emergency relief, support services, and community programs to individuals and families across the region.

Carol comes into the HUB twice a week, generously giving her time to assist with our Emergency Relief Program . Volunteers like Carol play a crucial role in making this possible. Their dedication, compassion, and countless hours of service help ensure that our community remains connected, supported, and resilient.

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Free Communication Workshop By Coast To Country

Coast to Country Hearing Solutions invites you to a free Communication Training Program designed to help people improve their everyday interactions, with or without the use of hearing aids. This new program reflects their ongoing goal to deliver meaningful, practical services that help people reconnect through better hearing and communication.

Whether you’re experiencing hearing challenges or supporting someone who is, this friendly and informative session will offer practical tools to help you stay connected. The program will explore simple strategies to reduce listening fatigue, manage background noise, and improve conversations with family, friends, colleagues, and others in everyday settings. It’s ideal for anyone looking to build more confident and effective communication skills that last a lifetime.

You’ll also gain valuable insights into how hearing works, how to get the most out of hearing aids or assistive devices, and how to support loved ones who may be noticing changes in their hearing. Whether you're navigating hearing challenges yourself or supporting someone who is, you’ll walk away with realistic, easy-to-use techniques that can make conversations more comfortable, clear, and rewarding, whether at home, in social groups, or at work.

This session is part of Coast to Country’s broader commitment to supporting healthy hearing, strong relationships, and community wellbeing. Come along and take the first step toward clearer, more confident communication.

Held at the Forrest Beach Community Function Centre, morning tea will be provided, and everyone is warmly encouraged to attend.

WHAT: Hearing & Communication Training Program WHEN: Thursday 31st July, 10:00am–11:30am WHERE: Community Function Centre, Forrest Beach

Ingham Exhausts 4x4 & Welding

Built For Adventure, Ready For Work

Located at 3 Haig Street, Ingham, Ingham Exhausts, 4x4 & Welding is your one-stop shop for everything off-road, automotive, and custom fabrication. This family-owned business has built a solid reputation for quality gear, expert installation, and real-world advice to help you get the most out of your vehicle—whether you’re chasing work or adventure.

Ingham Exhausts, 4x4 & Welding will get your car, ute, van, caravan or trailer fully equipped for work or adventure. Their broad range of services includes GVM-approved mechanical repairs, bullbar installations electrical fit-outs, 4x4 suspension upgrades, snorkels, towbars, child restraints, solar panels, and dual battery systems.

They’re also known for custom exhaust work on everything from 4WDs and trucks to tractors and harvesters. On the fabrication side, their skilled team provides engineering, aluminium and stainless welding, and caravan and trailer servicing. In-store, you’ll find a top-quality selection of Australian-made Ultravision spotlights and Engel MTV and Elite Series fridge-freezers—perfect for life on the move.

Whether you’re a tradie needing dependable vehicle upgrades, a long-haul traveller preparing for remote roads, or a 4x4 enthusiast keen to take on the rough tracks, the team at Ingham Exhausts, 4x4 & Welding has you covered. No need to travel to Townsville, they have all the stock you need!

Drop in, get geared up, and let the experts help you get it done reliably, locally, and built to last.

Out near Mount Fox, where the wind whips through the hills and the skies stretch forever, something big is on the horizon at Kilcooney Station. Gawara Baya, meaning “Wind Song” in the language of the Gugu Badhun People isn’t just a wind farm. It’s a new chapter for Hinchinbrook. One with local jobs, real investment, and a long-term focus on people, not just power.

Led by Windlab, a renewable energy company with deep roots in Australia, Gawara Baya is set to generate 400 megawatts of clean electricity. That’s enough to power 240,000 homes each year and cut over a million tonnes of carbon emissions.

But this story isn’t just about clean energy, it’s about what it means for our communities. It's bringing local jobs front and centre. At the heart of this project is a strong push to employ local workers and back local businesses. During peak construction, Gawara Baya will create around 300 direct jobs across trades, transport, catering, environmental services, and more. Windlab is partnering with contractors who have committed to hiring locally and using local suppliers.

They’ve set ambitious targets. At least 10% of total labour hours coming from workers living within 160 kilometres of the site. That includes Mount Fox, Ingham, and neighbouring towns. And at least 50% of all labour hours will be delivered by workers who call Queensland home, meaning more work for people already living in the region, and fewer fly-in, fly-out crews.

Local businesses are being invited to get involved in everything from concrete supply, earthmoving and fencing, fuel and water carting, quarry and gravel materials, civil and electrical labour, traffic control, cleaning and catering, and transport and logistics. So, if you run a small business or know someone looking for work in the trades, this could be your chance to get involved in something big, right here at home.

Windlab is helping build careers and training the next generation. The company has been working with local schools, training providers and organisations like Construction Skills Queensland to support hands-on learning and inspire young people to explore careers in construction, engineering, and environmental science.

Initiatives like the Link2Country Find Your Futures Expo and classroom visits have already made an impact, with more to come as the project moves closer to construction. Windlab is also exploring opportunities for apprenticeships, site visits and work experience, making sure the region’s next generation has a clear pathway into the clean energy industry.

Built with care, not shortcuts, Gawara Baya has been shaped by three years of consultation with landowners, Mount Fox community, environmental experts and Traditional Owners. The layout of the wind farm has been adjusted to minimise visual and ecological impacts, with careful consideration given to local wildlife and cultural values.

Windlab is also investing in a first-of-its-kind 20-year biodiversity strategy that will go beyond basic offsets. The goal is to deliver long-term improvements for local ecosystems, restoring native habitats, protecting species, and managing threats to biodiversity in the region.

Respecting Country and culture of the Gugu Badhun People, the Traditional Owners of the land, are key partners in this project. Windlab and the Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Corporation have a long-term agreement in place to ensure the project reflects shared values, including respect for Country, culture, and community. This partnership includes cultural heritage management, employment and training pathways, and support for community-led priorities.

Windlab will also formally launch its Community Benefit Fund of $200,000 every year to support local initiatives. That could include community halls, sporting events, youth programs, or infrastructure upgrades. Ideas are welcome from anyone - residents, groups, or Council. Already, Windlab has supported events like the Ingham Industry Breakfast and the Find Your Futures Expo, with more local partnerships on the way.

To explore how you can get involved, Windlab will be sharing more about local supply and workforce opportunities at two upcoming events hosted by Hinchinbrook Shire Council and the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc:

Hinchinbrook Industry Networking Event, Thursday 7th August 2025.
Hinchinbrook Industry Breakfast Event, Friday 8th August 2025.

Join us to learn how your business or organisation can be part of this region-defining project. Visit www.gawarabaya.com to learn more or join our mailing list by emailing gawarabaya@windlab.com

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As the hazard reduction burn season ramps up across Queensland, local firefighters and energy providers are reminding landowners to take extra precautions when burning near power infrastructure.

Both Ergon Energy Network and the Queensland Fire Department are urging property owners to be mindful of power poles and electrical equipment when conducting hazard reduction burns, which play a vital role in reducing vegetation and fire risk across rural areas.

Ergon Energy’s Corinne Young, who also serves as a volunteer with the Rural Fire Service, emphasised the potential dangers of uncontrolled burns near community electrical infrastructure.

“Power poles are a critical part of keeping our communities connected, and any damage to these structures can lead to lengthy power outages and significant repair costs,” Ms Young said.

“Beyond the inconvenience, fallen powerlines pose a severe threat - they can cause serious injury or even be fatal to anyone or any animals that come into contact with them. Furthermore, out-of-control hazard reduction burns have been known to partially burn through poles, leaving them standing, only to fall over at a later date during high winds and other severe weather.

“To help protect these vital assets, we strongly recommend that before starting any hazard reduction burn, property owners clear at least five metres around all power poles and electrical equipment.”

Rural Fire Service Queensland Chief Officer Kaylene Jones echoed the importance of preparation and caution when conducting planned burns.

“Before commencing a burn, it’s important for landowners to be prepared by ensuring they have a permit and also have equipment such as hoses, water tanks, or fire extinguishers on hand should these be needed during an emergency,” Chief Officer Jones said.

“Landowners should clear their property and electricity infrastructure of any long grass, foliage and rubbish and never leave a planned burn unattended.”

“Always check the weather forecast before commencing any planned burn and postpone on windy days as conditions can change rapidly.”

“In the event of an emergency, dial Triple Zero and for more information about bushfire preparedness head to www.fire.qld.gov.au.”

Ergon and Energex also reminded property owners to take just as much care with privately owned property poles, which can also pose hazards and incur repair costs if damaged. For more information, visit www.energex.com.au/propertypoles.

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Statistics from Safe Work Australia continue to paint a sobering picture; Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing remains one of the most dangerous industries in the country, with an average of 38 workplace deaths reported each year.

The Australian Institute of Health and Safety (AIHS) used this year’s theme, ‘Second Chances’, to encourage farmers and agricultural workers to reflect on close calls as moments to learn and act before it’s too late.

“Farming is fast-paced and unpredictable. Every day, ag workers are operating heavy machinery, managing unpredictable animals, working at heights, mixing chemicals, or simply navigating long hours in tough conditions,” said AIHS CEO Julia Whitford.

“Near misses aren’t just lucky escapes – they’re important warnings. If we pause to reflect and act after a close call, we can mitigate that risk and prevent future incidents.”

Farm fatalities are often caused by vehicle rollovers, falls, equipment accidents, and being struck by moving objects, but Ms Whitford noted that safety concerns on farms go far beyond physical hazards.

“Long hours, financial pressures, and the mental strain of working in isolation or in extreme conditions also takes a toll,” she said.

“Many ag workers operate in remote areas without easy access to healthcare or support. Add to that the stress of unpredictable seasons, burn out, and market conditions, and you’ve got a perfect storm for both physical and psychological injury.”

National Farm Safety Week served as an important reminder to check in—not just with equipment and safety procedures, but with the wellbeing of oneself and others.

“We want farm workers to start asking: What went wrong? What nearly went wrong? And what can I do differently?” Ms Whitford said.

While Farm Safety Week is held each July, the call to action is year-round. Farmers are encouraged to keep safety front of mind and to treat every close call as a lesson that could save a life. More resources and safety tools are available at the AIHS website, www.aihs.org.au.

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This July, As Green As Garden Centre celebrated an incredible milestone of 20 years of service to Tully and the Cassowary Coast. Established on 1 July 2005 by Lisa and Michael Godfrey, the business has grown from a modest selection of plants to a bustling, full-range garden and pet supply destination. Now under the management of their daughter and her partner, the centre continues to be a family-run business built on the values of great service, community spirit, and trust.

Open seven days a week (Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 5pm, and weekends from 9am to 2pm), the centre is known for its wide selection of products and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're after plants, pet food, aquarium supplies, or unique giftware, you're bound to find something that suits your needs.

The plant range is extensive, with a great mix of Australian natives, tropicals, flowering varieties, ground covers, aquatics and more. You’ll find tube stocks, saplings, seedlings, bulbs and everything you need to top up an established garden or start fresh. There’s also a full selection of potting mixes, orchid mix, cocopeat, fertilisers, mulch, and decorative pots, all ideal for giving your garden new life.

Animal lovers are well catered for too. The store stocks dog, cat, bird, chicken, pig, and even roo food, as well as dog beds, collars, leads, cages, toys, scratchers, and wormers for a range of animals. Chickens, canaries, and budgies occasionally make an appearance, along with all the essentials to get started, like feeders, waterers, mealworms, and chicken treats.

Aquarium enthusiasts will find fish food, tanks, pond setup ideas and an ever-changing variety of fish, covering both indoor tank varieties and outdoor pond fish. For hydroponic growers, the store stocks trusted brands like Greenplanet, Cyco, and Massive Bloom.

The shop also offers gift lines, such as crystals, incense, fairy garden decorations, jewellery, and other whimsical items to fit your garden and homestyle dreams.

What truly sets As Green As Garden Centre apart is its commitment to personal service. The new managers say, “Our staff are always happy to answer questions and help you find what you need. We aim to make every visit a positive experience.”

As the business looks to the future, it does so with deep gratitude for two decades of community support. It’s clear that As Green As is more than just a garden centre; it's a valued part of the local landscape, growing alongside the people it serves.

Ingham Juniors Beat Brothers 5-4 To Win Kelso Cup

This was Ingham Pups’ second carnival victory of the season so far, they went 1-nil down in this final... But a Beatts double, plus goals from Sammy Pearce, Archer Carr and Thomas Martin helped fire Ingham to victory. Huxley Beatts scored a last-gasp winner to seal a 5-4 win for Ingham Pups over Brothers in the Kelso Cup grand final in Townsville. The goal was the culmination of a dramatic comeback for Ingham’s under-7s, who twice came from behind in the final, to overcome a side that beat them 6-1 in the group stage of the competition.

Ingham Pups Win Kelso Cup

Coach Melissa Carr said, "The boys dug deep and brought their A-game when it mattered most. After going down 6-1 to this side in an earlier match, some would have given up - but not these boys," she continued with pride, "It’s a testament to their attitude and the bond they’ve formed as a team."

Brothers levelled on the stroke of half-time and then roared into a 4-2 lead after the break. Archer Carr sparked the comeback for Ingham, curling the ball over four players and into the net to make it 4-3.

Thomas Martin then equalised to make it 4-4, setting the stage for Beatts to grab that late winner. Earlier in the day, Ingham Pups had sealed wins over Ingham Cubs (4-2), JCU Riverway (4-2) and Brothers Blue (3-0) before going down 6-1 to Brothers Red in their final group game.

Pups bounced back to win their semi-final 5-nil over Brothers Blue, sending them into the final, which they won 5-4 over Brothers Red. Patrick Pearce (4 goals) and Cristiano Rapista (2 goals) were also on the scoresheet for Pups during their six games on the day.

There were strong performances all-round from Ingham’s juniors in the Kelso Cup, with Ingham Cubs under-7s, coached by Cameron Blanco, reaching the semi-finals, and Ingham’s under-6s, led by Brenden Accornero, reaching the grand final and finishing runners-up at the event in Kelso, Townsville, on Sunday 14 July. Ingham’s under-13s girls also finished runners-up, having reached the grand final with some impressive performances.

Contributed with thanks by Jonny Pearce.

The Ingham Wolves Soccer Club is getting back on track thanks to a generous boost from the NAB Foundation Community Grant program. The club used the grant to replace vital canteen equipment lost during the devastating February floods, a step that’s helped refuel both their operations and team spirit.

The NAB Foundation’s Community Grants support local initiatives that build long-term resilience and recovery from natural disasters. Ingham Wolves was one of many grassroots groups to benefit from the program, which prioritises funding for community-led projects that strengthen local recovery efforts.

Ingham branch manager, Simon Hitchcock said, 'It’s so pleasing to see the IFC’s Canteen back up and running post the 2025 100-year flood event. Thank you to the dedicated club volunteers and the NAB Foundation Community Grant.'”

With the canteen now operational, the club can continue to provide food and refreshments for players and families, keeping athletes fuelled and offering a place to gather, share a snack and enjoy the club spirit after the final whistle.

This small yet impactful upgrade highlights the importance of community support in sport. Thanks to NAB and the tireless volunteers behind the Wolves, both on and off the field.

Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire! This last week has been a bit of a hectic one with myself and Sherie (our newspaper's fantastic Sales Manager) heading down to Airlie Beach for a two-day training session at the head office.

How I love a road trip! Sherie and I chatted the four and a half hours away and arrived in Airlie ready to learn more and hone our respective crafts. I think we both picked up some helpful tips and tricks across the two days, and it was lovely to see my old colleagues from Whitsunday Life and meet my new ones who were just beginning their journeys with the Life Publishing team.

Special shout-out to our Editorial Team Leader and sharkaholic, Ruth Puddefoot, who competed in the Airlie Beach Half Marathon on the weekend and smashed it! All the best on your travels, I know the team will miss you greatly as you take a well-deserved Western Australian sabbatical.

NAIDOC week is happening this week for the community. With a flag-raising ceremony at Ingham Council's office, and many schools participating in traditional crafts and storytelling. Now is the time to reflect and pay respects to our country's first peoples, their culture and traditions, past, present and emerging.

Victoria

Fun Fact: While more than 400 species of sharks are found worldwide today, about 170 of them inhabit Australian seas, from the world’s largest, the whale shark (14m), to one of the smallest, the pygmy shark (30cm). The Coral Sea is a hotspot of shark diversity with more than 50 species. My favourite shark is the wobbegong.