Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.
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There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.
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Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.
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The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."
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Thrown into the deep end, Lisa Scobie, Forrest Beach Takeaway Owner, did not expect to be running Forrest Beach Disaster Management Group during a disaster.
Lisa contacted Forrest Beach Area Warden Gary Berkley to find out that he was not in the area and unavailable to assist Forrest Beach, so she stepped in to help the local community at a time when she was needed most.
On Sunday 2 February Lisa had taken initiative to door knock Wattle Street, to ensure people's safety for the next 24 hours, and on Monday she contacted Helen Stanton from Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving and she said that’s when things really started happening.
Lisa didn’t know she would be called upon to become the area warden, but she stepped up to the task.
The Forrest Beach Takeaway was set up as the Forrest Beach Disaster Hub and Lisa knew that, with communications were down, the shop would be a good way to centralise things.
With thanks to Jason from Blue Spark Electrical, the takeaway shop was able to regain communications thanks to his Starlink internet modem, and with a generator in place, they had power too.
After the first evening, Lisa said things just fell into place and the whole week ran itself.
“We had identified some key people. Helen Stanton was in charge of our comms. We had our medical people doing necessary checks and referrals and people that we already knew were unwell, and they worked in conjunction with Jo," she explained.
"We had the Surf Life Savers doing the welfare checks in conjunction with the firies. And we went and had a look at the school to make sure we had a helicopter landing zone,” said Lisa.
Lisa and the Disaster Management Group set up a barbecue outside of the takeaway shop, for people in need of hot food. After a few days of this, the strip of shops at Forrest Beach was named the Recovery Hub and the name stuck.
Power was restored for the majority of Forrest Beach on the Friday evening, with some getting power on Saturday afternoon, and after this things slowly got back to normal, Lisa also had her takeaway shop open for normal business on Sunday.
Recent high tides and heavy rains have washed large logs and other debris into the offshore waters of the Hinchinbrook Shire region, creating a significant hazard for fishers and boaters. Strong currents have carried these obstacles into commonly used waterways, increasing the risk of collisions, particularly for those travelling at high speeds or in low-light conditions.
Coast guards are warning anyone heading offshore before daylight to exercise extreme caution, as floating debris can be difficult to detect in the dark. A collision with a log or other submerged object could cause significant damage to vessels, potentially injuring occupants or even throwing them overboard. In severe cases, this could result in life-threatening situations, especially if safety precautions are not in place.
To reduce the risk, boaters are advised to slow down in low-visibility conditions, maintain a proper lookout, and ensure all safety equipment—such as life jackets, emergency lights, and communication devices—is in good working order. Mariners should also consider carrying additional safety gear, such as flares and emergency beacons, in case of unexpected incidents.
Local marine authorities are urging boaters to report large debris sightings so potential hazards can be monitored and, where possible, removed to prevent further danger.
With unpredictable weather patterns persisting, mariners are reminded that preparation and vigilance are key to staying safe on the water.
Stay alert, navigate cautiously, and watch out for debris in the area.
Monday last week marked Random Acts of Kindness Day, a time to celebrate generosity and compassion. One heartfelt gesture in Ingham this week has reminded us all of the power of kindness during difficult times.
While visiting the flood-affected region, Carey Group People and Culture Lead, Kristian, made a generous personal donation that had a ripple effect of goodwill. His contribution touched Marina, the owner of the Majestic Café, who used the funds to provide breakfast for approximately 50 State Emergency Service (SES) workers.
Marina was deeply moved by Kristian’s support, expressing her gratitude for his generosity during a time when the Ingham community is still recovering from recent floods. With emergency workers tirelessly helping locals rebuild, the simple gesture of a warm meal was a meaningful way to show appreciation for their dedication.
The impact of Random Acts of Kindness Day extends far beyond just one moment. Acts like Kristian’s serve as a reminder that even small gestures can make a big difference, particularly for those facing hardship. In challenging times, kindness can foster connection, hope, and resilience within communities.
As the people of Ingham continue to recovery, little acts of kindness like these can help make life a little easier.
Hello Everyone,
Welcome to the 13th issue of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper – lucky 13!
What a few weeks it’s been! The biggest flood in a generation to hit the region and what a blessing to have a weekly paper back in circulation to help you all stay connected.
A huge thank you to our journalist Daniel Heggie for navigating his first North Queensland weather event while still grasping the reins of a brand-new newspaper.
From assisting with rescue efforts to being the ‘on-the-ground connector’ for all communications - Daniel has done a fantastic job.
A huge thank you also goes to your local Sales Manager, Sherie Hensler-Adams, who was out snapping photos, helping businesses and being a wonderful representative for the newspaper during such a tough time.
Also, thank you to our young distributors Harley and Julian who, along with Sherie, have been braving the weather and the roads to ensure the paper is delivered.
It was a moment of immense pride for the whole newspaper team when we finally went to print with the special Flood Edition a few weeks ago. We were so grateful that the roads opened and we could get the paper through from Townsville and into your hands.
To deliver this paper was incredibly meaningful to all of us, and we were determined to do you proud – the paper we produced is a moment in history which we had the honour of documenting for you.
In fact, information and coverage of the floods will be shared with you for many weeks, months, possibly years to come – I don’t think we’ll run out of stories for a very long time!
Back in 2017 I was caught in the middle of Cyclone Debbie when it hit Airlie Beach. I was seven months pregnant at the time and we had no running water for a week, no power for two weeks.
Despite not living in the Hinchinbrook, I can completely relate to much of what you guys have been through over the last few weeks. I have also spent a lot of time in the region, meeting business owners and community members, and my heart bleeds for you all.
I wish you all the best in your recovery and as your local newspaper, we are here to help in any way we can – whether that be by sharing your stories or supporting your businesses.
Sherie has created a special Flood Relief package where local businesses can receive massively discounted rates to help you spread your message and drive your business forward.
I’d like to finish this note by thanking our current advertisers. At just 10 weeks old this brand-new newspaper was, like all of you, hit with a ‘once in a generation’ flood event. There was a period of time when we didn’t know how we would recover. But thanks to all our loyal advertisers for sticking with us in the toughest of time, we came through.
Without your support we would not be here, thank you.
Readers: Please take the time to read all the advertising in this newspaper – these are all the businesses that make your free weekly paper possible – please go and support them like they are supporting you.
Spend your money at their shop, book their services, eat at their restaurants, recommend them to your friends – it is by doing this that you can help ensure the continuation of this newspaper for years to come.
Rach
Editor-In-Chief
Life Publishing Group
Quote of the Week “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying ‘I will try again tomorrow’” (Mary Anne Radmacher)
Most of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables 500 Herbert employees are now back at work, after two weeks of disruption from the major flood event.
General Manager Operations Mike McLeod visited Wilmar’s Victoria and Macknade mills last week to check on employees and get a firsthand briefing on the flood damage. He also met with workers at Wilmar’s Herbert Centralised Workshop in Lannercost Street.
Mr McLeod’s visit took place a day after the bulk of Wilmar’s Herbert workforce was finally able to return to work, following two weeks of localised flooding and road closures.
“It was really good to be able to get up to Ingham, visit all of our sites and check on our people,” Mr McLeod said.
“Last Monday (17 February) was the first day that all of our employees were able to get to work. Prior to that, only a small portion of the workforce was able to travel to their work sites.”
Mr McLeod said crews had now finished the bulk of the clean-up and were working on planned maintenance activities. Major contractors were also back at the sites progressing capital projects.
He said that, in the background, the business was continuing to assess damage and develop repair plans.
“Due to the significant amount of time lost from the flood, we’re re-evaluating our maintenance plan to ensure we complete critical work ahead of the start of crushing in June.”
“Our absolute priority is on getting the maintenance program back on track and being ready for the 2025 season.”
Mr McLeod paid tribute to the Herbert team’s ability to bounce back and get on with the flood recovery work, even though some had been directly impacted by the disaster.
He also thanked the many teams across Wilmar’s broader business for supporting the Herbert flood recovery efforts.
Over 100 people attended Andy’s Roadhouse on the weekend for a barbecue, live music and good vibes.
People sat back, enjoyed live music and catching up with friends in a social setting, a much-needed light-hearted social occasion after devastating flooding swept through the region.
In attendance was Federal Member for Kennedy, Bob Katter, who said it was great to catch up with many of his mates.
Andy Barra, owner of Andy’s Roadhouse said he decided to run a special Flood Recovery Concert to say thank you to everyone in the region for their hard work and to lift spirits following the challenging event.
He thanked businesses for their donations to keep Andys Roadhouse afloat during the flooding and also Tropic Distributors for sponsoring the Flood Recovery Concert.
“Today, the major sponsor is tropic distributors. They donated all the bread, all the sausages, all the onions, they donated the lot! Plus, they also donated $5,000 of fuel,” said Andy.
“This is to say thank you to the people of Ingham and district, Townsville, and we thought we'd put something back into it, and that's why we've got the bands playing free, everything is free. There's no charges for the band or anything.”
Marketing and Sales Manager of Tropic Petroleum Andrew Peters said the event was all about giving people a good time.
“It's about getting the people out of their homes. People look out their front yard and they’ve got all their furniture and everything there, so we try and give them a different outlook, where they don't have to spend money to go somewhere,” he said.
“It's just to try and create a little bit of positivity, we can't rebuild anybody's house, but at least we can give them a good experience for a couple of hours.”
Member for Kennedy Bob Katter MP said he was thrilled to show his support at the Flood Recovery Concert and said it was wonderful to see people in good spirits.
As recovery efforts from the recent major weather event continue, selectability is working through the impacts to operations and supporting our hardest hit regions as they continue to deliver services to vulnerable regional Queenslanders, despite not having a physical premises to base themselves.
As one of our most affected regions, the Ingham team, led by regional coordinator Julie Ross, has continued to provide support to their consumers, looking for innovative ways to stay connected amidst adversity.
“I am incredibly proud of the entire team and community for coming together during this event,” said Julie.
As an essential service, selectability employees have been providing phone support to consumers where possible both during the event and after.
“We have seen strong displays of community and dedication during this time, including a generous donation from the local Coles,” Julie said.
“With their support, we were able to prepare and hand out close to 50 food bags for consumers once roads were clear enough to drive on.
“The community was without these services for a long period of time, so we wanted to ensure those they had enough until they had access.
“From milk, bread and pasta, to hygiene items and cakes, consumers were very excited to receive supplies!”
Contributed with thanks to selectability
In the aftermath of the devastating flood that swept through our community, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) is striving for ‘business as usual’ despite one of their office buildings being lost to the flood.
Usual services are up and running and HCSC has strived to support the community whilst managing the relocation of staff and equipment from the flooded building, the Centre, on Townsville Road. This building will be under repair for some time, so all services and events will be delivered from the HUB on McIlwraith Street.
The weekly Canasta group, meeting for the first time since the disaster, gathered at the HUB to share stories, support one another, and enjoy their favourite card game. For many members offers not only entertainment but also a sense of community.
“After everything we’ve been through, just sitting together, laughing, and playing feels like a step toward normalcy,” said one attendee.
A mammoth effort has been the coordination and distribution of donated goods into the community. Many individuals and businesses from all over Far North Qld have rallied together to send donations.
HCSC staff have been responding to requests from the general community and have coordinated the delivery of essential items to our most disadvantaged seniors in need.
HCSC has partnered with community groups, support services and local council to share resources and offer helping hands. While the flood brought hardship, it has also strengthened our community bonds.
Contributed with thanks to Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre
There's a mighty river in the north of this land we call Down Under.
And each year its gentle snaking flow can be raged into a thunder.
In the year of 2025 when it burst beyond controlling,
the Herbert rushed through Ingham town, the floods came up, the floods went down -
but the people kept on rolling.
As it swept the roads and houses, picking up tv sets and sofas,
and the lizards drifted through the streets - this was not a time for loafers.
While the SES - all volunteers - were the heroes out patrolling,
the currents sucked up utes and cars, and ripped through coffee shops and bars -
but the people kept on rolling.
Then a gateway bridge was washed away - which had cut the town's supply line.
And the Ergon station was a swamp - as more water filled the skyline.
There were townsfolk out in tinnies - helping their neighbours and consoling.
For days on end they had no power, or water in this endless shower -
still the people kept on rolling.
Some have lost their living and their homes, and their hearts are surely aching -
but the gutsy Herbert River mob are a long way yet from breaking.
And the valiant mayor and councillors - they have won their points for polling.
Each gave their all and had no rest, all members strived to do their best -
and the people kept on rolling.
It has smashed the records on the charts from the flood in ‘67 -
and has rivalled history's biggest flood - back in 1927.
When the sewage spread these streets were not fit for bathing or for strolling.
The homes they built on stilts up high, that never flood, did not stay dry -
but the people kept on rolling.
See, this town was built on floodplain paths of the Herbert when it’s raging.
And for five-score years and fifty now this town's culture has been aging.
All the sporting teams will soon go back to their soccer, league or bowling.
‘Cos choppers circled down and stopped, with parcels, fuel and food they dropped -
and the people kept on rolling.
As the bridges flood and roads are creeks and the central street’s a river -
there are ballsy Herbert River folk who will stand up and deliver.
They'll be out in force to give their all - while the trolls will keep on trolling.
When turkeys, chooks and bullock beef are sucked towards the coral reef -
Ingham people keep on rolling.
So this mighty flood of ‘25 may have left the town depleted,
but the honest Herbert River folk will be strengthened - not defeated.
And the cows will calf, and cane will grow, as the horses keep on foaling.
And when old man Herbert roars again, we know he will, but can't say when -
see the people keep on rolling.
Contributed with thanks to Jonny Paul
Queensland’s community clubs are again swinging behind those impacted by the state’s severe weather with a $75,000 donation and an offer for free drinks with friends in the Herbert River.
The support from Clubs Queensland clubs kicks off with the donation collected from clubs in the North Queensland region. The donation will be handed to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre at a dedicated event for the local community at Herbert River RSL on Friday 28 February from 2pm.
Clubs Queensland CEO Kelly Egan said Operation Clubs Care: Have a Beer on Us was initiated by community clubs, including Brothers Rugby League Townsville and Cowboys Leagues Club, wanting to help after floods devastated the north.
“Our clubs only exist because of our communities, so they want to return the favour and provide that support to communities in times of need,” Mr Egan said.
“These severe weather events are not new for North Queenslanders but that doesn’t mean anyone is immune to their devastating effects. It is just heartening to know that when the chips are down, the clubs will rally around one another to help them get back on their feet.”
Herbert River RSL Manager Kerryn Brock said this Friday afternoon’s free community event provided the community with a chance to take a breath, relax and enjoy a few drinks on the house.
“No one has been able to come up for air yet,” Ms Brock said. “This event will be a way for people to come together, have conversation, enjoys some drinks and nibblies and present this incredible fundraising amount to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre.
“It’s extremely important to make sure the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre has the finances to keep supporting those in our community that do need that help right now.”
In the weeks since Chamber last provided an update, so very much has changed in the Hinchinbrook Shire, as a result of the February rain event.
Now as our community slowly commences the process of rebuilding lives, homes, businesses and more broadly our community, we know the journey ahead will be at times difficult and challenging.
Having acknowledged that, we also know that as a community, we have always come together to support, encourage and work together, when and as required and we know with absolute confidence, that in time we will recover and rebuild.
Many of our local businesses have been significantly impacted as a result of this flooding event and because of this, Chamber commenced the process last week of undertaking an initial survey to gain a better understanding of specific impacts, to enable data to be available more immediately to raise awareness to government agencies and visiting politicians.
Once the roads were able to open, there has been a strong and immediate response from insurance companies, government support agencies and other organisations offering to provide any assistance to the community, as it commences its recovery.
This week’s Chamber meeting provided an excellent opportunity to bring together many of these representatives and connect them to the business owners who were able to attend. The evening provided a broad oversight of the grants, support and services currently available locally and gave assurance that help is here to assist those who have been impacted.
One of the key messages provided was the need for the business community to complete the Queensland Government survey, which will provide critical information regarding impact and its economic effect. This survey data will provide evidence to the government, when formulating the level of funding support that may be offered moving forward. All business are strongly encouraged to complete this survey, if they have not already done so:-
Disaster impact surveys | Business Queensland
For anyone who was unable to attend this meeting or for those who require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact either Administration Assistant Christina Spencer on 0407569550 or President Mary Brown on 0409356252 or email admin@hinchinbrookchamber.com.au.
Contributed with thanks to Chamber President Mary Brown
I believe the Month of February 2025, will gain a new place in the history books as the event that has reset the historical benchmark for floods and their impact, in the Hinchinbrook Shire.
Our community has been through some incredibly challenging and sometimes distressing times, in the past few weeks and we also acknowledge that for many, the hard work is just beginning, as we move to the recovery phase.
As Chair of the Local Disaster Recovery Group, I can assure the community that no time has been wasted in commencing the process of planning, bringing together the various stakeholder groups to gather information on impact, provide input on potential solutions and to commence the process of formulating the Hinchinbrook Recovery Plan 2025.
The Recovery Plan, is a framework that brings together as many relevant and impacted community groups, government agencies and representative organisations, to inform the “community lead” pathway to recovery, that will guide how the Hinchinbrook Shire rebuilds into the future. The plan will incorporate short, medium and long term goals, to achieve and in addition to the practical outcomes, will be valuable advocacy document when communicating with political leaders and decision makers.
The announcement last week of former State Member and Deputy Mayor of Hinchinbrook – Andrew Cripps, as State Disaster Co-ordinator, to assist all impacted communities navigate their pathway as we emerge from these weather events, has been welcomed.
Andrew has an existing knowledge of some of the key issues that impact these communities and not wasted any time in getting on the ground in the Shire to speak to community. Andrew was also able to attended the first meeting of the master recovery group, last Friday and this has provided some early insights into the challenges being faced.
The structure of the recovery framework, in simple terms, includes myself as Chair, Cr. Pat Lynch as Deputy Chair, Chairs of Sub Groups that engage with the various stakeholder groups being:-
• Infrastructure – Cr Andrew Carr
• Economic – Cr mark Spina
• Human and Social – Cr Donna Marbelli
• Environment – Cr Kate Milton
The chairs of the sub groups continue to reach out to the community, to gather information and understanding of impact, to enable them to provide the best possible details and data into the meetings, that will then be captured and incorporated into the recovery planning.
New lifejacket laws have come into effect that all boat users must be aware of. The changes include stricter rules on when lifejackets must be worn as well as the phasing out of older Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) that do not meet modern Australian Standards.
While safety on the water is paramount, many North Queenslanders consider the new laws to be impractical as they fail to consider the realities of local boating conditions.
The laws came into effect on December 1, 2024, however there are still many people who are unaware of the new requirements. We are told that enforcement of the new rules will be delayed until July 1, 2025, as Marine Safety Queensland (MSQ) attempts to improve communication and education of the public about the requirements.
For those who aren’t yet aware, the changes now make it mandatory to wear a lifejacket in the following circumstances:
• When boating alone, or only with children under 12 on an open boat under 4.8m while underway.
• When crossing designated coastal bars on an open ship or in an open area of any boat.
• For children aged 1-12 who are on an open boat or in an open area of any boat while underway.
• During night-time boating (sunset to sunrise) on an open boat under 4.8m while underway.
In response to community concerns, I moved a disallowance motion in Parliament to scrap these heavy- handed changes which were introduced by the State Labor Government just prior to the 2024 State election. Although I had hoped for the current State Government’s support, the subordinate legislation was passed and will remain in force.
I will continue to push back against government over-regulation and fight to protect our cherished North Queensland freedoms. For more information about the new rules please visit https://www.msq.qld.gov.au/About-us/News-and-stories/New-rules-for-wearing-lifejackets or phone MSQ on 13 23 80.
Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook
Opened in 1949, the New Ingham Cemetery lies just 5 km from town, hidden amongst fields of tall sugar cane.
At first glance, there is grey argyle granite, gleaming white marble and enough tiles to pave a path back home to Italy.
Ornate ceramic flowers and crucifixes adorn the landscape, standing in solemn contrast to the grand mausoleums that define the cemetery’s character.
The Mammino family mausoleum, built in 1952, holds the distinction of being the first of its kind.
Nearby, the Prestipino family mausoleum, constructed in 1955, spans eight burial plots and boasts a stately portico—providing shelter rain or shine. Here, the departed rest beneath pieces of their homeland, a poignant tribute to the rich Italian heritage that helped shape Ingham.
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