Hinchinbrook is one of the many Queensland regions set to benefit from a major social housing construction boom, with 27 new social and affordable homes currently under construction or under contract in the region as of 28 February 2025.

The new housing is part of the Crisafulli Government’s Securing Our Housing Foundation Plan, which has accelerated the delivery of 5,000 social and affordable homes across the state in just four months.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor said the government was committed to fixing Labor’s housing crisis and supporting Queenslanders in need.

“We’re getting on with the job of building more social and affordable homes right across the state to ease Labor’s Housing Crisis,” Minister O’Connor said.

The statewide pipeline includes over 3,100 homes already being built, with an additional 1,800 contracted to begin, delivering a 6 per cent boost to Queensland’s total social and affordable housing stock.

Homes are being rolled out in every corner of the state — from the Gold Coast to Goondiwindi, and Palm Island to Pormpuraaw — with Hinchinbrook Shire’s 27 homes a welcome addition to help meet local demand.

With rental stress and housing availability top of mind for many, the new homes represent a much-needed investment in the future of the Hinchinbrook community.

“This is just the start of our housing delivery - we’re rebuilding our housing system from the ground up and backing our builders to get more homes for Queenslanders faster.”

‍

I had the absolute honour recently to present Rosa (Carmela) and Giuseppe Sapuppo with a certificate in recognition of their 60th wedding anniversary, a milestone that reflects a lifetime of love, commitment, and family.

Carmela and Giuseppe’s journey together began far from Ingham, in their native Sicily. Giuseppe arrived in Australia first, working in the cane fields alongside family, while Carmela followed later to stay with her brother and his young family. Fate brought them together at a mutual friend’s wedding, and during their courtship, Giuseppe built the house that would become their lifelong home.

They’ve never left Ingham and to this day they continue to live in the very house Giuseppe built.

Over the decades, they’ve seen the world around them change dramatically. Giuseppe’s work as a cane cutter shifted with the introduction of mechanical harvesters, while Carmela has marvelled at the rapid rise of technology, with computers and smartphones.

Their greatest joy has been their four children and nine grandchildren. They treasure the memories of traveling the world together, with Carmela’s favourite trip being a return to Italy, and Giuseppe’s a cruise from Vancouver to Alaska.

When asked for advice on a long and happy marriage, Giuseppe said, “Take care of each other,” while Carmela advised, “Don’t fight, and if you do, resolve it quickly.” I think this is great advice and it has clearly served them both well.

To celebrate their 60th anniversary, they’ve kept it simple, opting for a family lunch with their children and nearly all of their grandchildren. This milestone is a testament to the life they’ve built together, dedicated to family and love. It’s a day to share their story and teach their grandchildren the importance of patience, commitment, and enduring love.

It was a privilege to be present on the day of Carmela and Giuseppe’s milestone anniversary. Their story is a beautiful reminder of the values that build strong families and lifelong partnerships.

Contributed with thanks to Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto.

In a remarkable achievement, Amanda Way has emerged victorious in the sub-chamber finals, meaning she will be representing North Queensland at the prestigious EKKA in Brisbane. The win is a culmination of her hard work and dedication to not only the role of Showgirl but also to the local community.

Reflecting on her win, Amanda expressed her excitement: “It feels amazing. It is a dream come true to be able to go to the EKKA and represent not only the local show, but all of North Queensland.”

This win highlights the deep connection Amanda has to her roots and the importance of promoting local traditions, particularly involving younger generations in community events.

As she prepares for the next stage, Amanda plans to celebrate with her supporters at the upcoming local show in June. “I hope to keep promoting the Showgirl and keep celebrating my success with the community,” she shared.

Throughout the past year, Amanda has worked tirelessly to engage with local schools, kindergartens, and families, bringing the cane section into educational programs.

“I think what set me apart was my community engagement with developing the cane section that incorporated the kindergartens and schools,” Amanda explained.

"I think that was a massive win for not only our community, but for myself going into the finals."

Balancing university studies, work, and Showgirl duties has been a challenge, but Amanda's motivation remains strong. “I made sure to dedicate time to each part of my life equally and where needed to make sure that I was on top of everything,” she said, proving her resilience and determination.

Looking ahead, Amanda is focused on continuing to represent North Queensland.

“I will hope to attend as many North Queensland shows as possible, representing the sub-chamber,” she said. As for the EKKA, Amanda is determined to enjoy the experience while continuing to learn and grow on her journey.

For Amanda, this win is not just a personal achievement; it’s about showcasing the value of rural life and small communities. “It would mean the world to win down at the EKKA, just bringing the rural life and small community Showgirl to show everyone that you don’t have to be in a big city to win,” she concluded.

Mother's Day is the perfect opportunity to show your mum just how much she means to you. While flowers and chocolates are lovely traditional gifts, it’s the personal gestures and thoughtful acts that can truly make the day memorable. Here are some unique and personal ideas to help you make your mum feel extra special this year:

Write a heartfelt letter:
Take a moment to write down what your mum means to you, recounting cherished memories and expressing your gratitude. A handwritten note can hold far more meaning than a store-bought card, and your mum will treasure it forever.

Tip: You could create a scrapbook or photo album filled with your favourite moments together, making it a personal keepsake she’ll always cherish.

Prepare a special meal for her:
Surprise your mum with a homemade breakfast in bed or a delicious family dinner. If you're not a cook, consider ordering her favourite dishes and setting up a lovely table.

Tip: A picnic in the park with her favourite snacks and drinks could be a perfect way to enjoy the day outdoors.

Create a DIY spa experience at home:
Treat your mum to a relaxing day by setting up a spa experience. Light candles, play soothing music, and offer a DIY facial or bubble bath.

Tip: If she enjoys massages, consider hiring a professional to give her a relaxing massage at home.

Give a personalised gift based on her interests:
Choose a gift that reflects your mum’s hobbies and passions.

For a gardening enthusiast, consider a personalised plant pot or a rare plant species.

For a book lover, a limited edition book or a set of beautiful bookmarks might be the perfect choice.

Shop locally for a unique gift:
Supporting local businesses is a wonderful way to give a truly meaningful gift.

Look for unique, handcrafted items that your mum won’t find anywhere else.

This Mother's Day, it’s the personal touches that will make all the difference. Whether through a heartfelt gesture, a meaningful gift, or a locally sourced treasure, your mum will undoubtedly feel your love and appreciation.

Although the JL Kelly Theatre is temporarily out of action, the arts scene in Hinchinbrook hasn’t missed a beat.

The Hinchinbrook Shire Hall has stepped up as the vibrant heart of live performance—and what a remarkable job it’s doing!

This year’s calendar is packed with an exciting line-up of talent. From musicians and comedians to theatrical productions and top touring acts, there’s truly something for everyone. Feedback from performers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the venue’s outstanding acoustics and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The Shire Hall is quickly becoming a favourite stop for artists touring regional Australia.

But the future of live entertainment in our region doesn’t rest on the shoulders of performers alone—it depends on all of us.

By attending shows, inviting your family and friends, and spreading the word, you help keep Hinchinbrook firmly on the radar for future tours. The more we show up, the more likely artists are to return.

So, let’s keep the curtain rising.

Keep an eye on Council’s website, Events Calendar page for event listings, follow the JL Kelly Theatre and Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Facebook pages and Hinchinbrook Life’s free newspaper. Whether it’s music, comedy, drama or something in between, there’s a little magic waiting on stage—right here in our own backyard.

May upcoming events:

· 8.00pm Friday 9 May 2025 - International Comedian Arj Barker;

· 10.30am Wednesday 21 May 2025 – Morning Melodies: Spirit of the ANZACS; and

· 5.00pm Sunday 25 May 2025 - Johnny Cash and June Carter Show.

Let’s keep Hinchinbrook shining brightly on Australia’s cultural map, one performance at a time.

Carla Pizzi, has called Hinchinbrook Shire home since February 2010, and she’s no stranger to the pages of the Hinchinbrook newspaper. A regular reader with a love for the sport section, Carla always keeps an eye out for what’s happening locally — and that paid off when she CAUGHT COLIN!

With a sharp eye and a bit of luck, Carla managed to spot the elusive Colin in just five minutes while her carer was at an appointment. Proud of her speedy discovery, Carla has a tip on how Colin might 'up' his hiding game. She suggests something a little trickier, perhaps Colin should dive into some literature and hide among the words instead of centre stage!

Whether she’s enjoying the latest sports section achievement or spotting hidden characters, Carla proves that community connection and a bit of observation can go a long way. Colin better watch out next time!

Amazing work catching me Carla and until next time, later 'gators!

The war is just beginning
By a man who has no love
For the lives of human beings
And the God we know above.
So to victory we are marching,
The possessors of no fear,
And throughout the world we're known as
The Australian Volunteer.

When we left our wives and mothers
It was sorrowful, I'll say,
And for the pains they've suffered
Someone will have to pay.
That he's caused them many tears,
And revenge will be the bayonets
Of the Australian Volunteers.

Our fathers fought in '14
When they made a big advance,
And they've made their names in history
As the bravest men in France,
We'll following their footsteps
Though it's after twenty years
To keep the old tradition
Of the Australian volunteers.

When we return to Aussie
Victorious from strife
There's many a lad we'll leave behind
Who gave his gallant life
That freedom may continue
As it has in former years
With the Empire's gains assisted
By the Australian Volunteers.

By "One of the Boys"

Sourced from the Cardwell 1993 booklet 'Coral Sea Battle Memorial: 1942 the experiences and memories of World War II, through the eyes of the local residents.' The poem symbolised the spirit of the Australian serviceman. It was sent to Mrs Dunstan of Ingham by her son, but the author is unknown.

OPINION PIECE

As a proud North Queenslander, I’ve spent my life fighting for the industries and communities that make our region great — our farmers, fishers, tradies, small business owners and the families that call the Hinchinbrook region home.

Now more than ever, Hinchinbrook needs real representation — someone who can sit at the table with the decision-makers, not just yell from the back row.

That’s why I’m proud to stand alongside the LNP Candidate for Kennedy, Annette Swaine — a hardworking, no-nonsense North Queenslander who knows this region, understands its challenges, and is ready to fight for its future.

Under a Dutton-led Coalition Government, we’ll back the people who keep our economy moving.

I’m especially proud of our recently-announced $20 billion Regional Australia Future Fund which will take mining revenue and deliver it directly back to regional areas like Hinchinbrook.

I’m also proud of our $600 million Mining and Agriculture Roads Program which will prioritise roads that take our valuable produce to markets.

I was with Peter Dutton, David Crisafulli and Annette in Ingham just after February’s devastating floods, and we were able to convince the Federal Government to invoke Category D funding to aid the region’s recovery.

The Coalition has also pledged $7.2 billion to work with the Queensland LNP Government to improve the Bruce Highway and make it more flood-resistant — something local politicians have complained about for years but not delivered.

The Coalition will also support small and medium businesses to hire more apprentices with a $12,000 incentive. We’ll deliver cost-of-living relief by cutting fuel taxes. We’ll increase the Instant Asset Write-Off to $30,000 and make it permanent so businesses and farms can invest in their future. And we say no to unfair taxes on family assets which will force farmers to sell their properties — something Labor refuses to rule out.

But electing Annette alone isn’t enough. In the Senate, we need strong LNP voices to stand guard — to block bad laws and champion the needs of North Queensland. That’s why I’m asking you to vote 1 for the LNP in Kennedy AND on the Senate ballot paper. A strong Senate team is the best way to ensure your values, your industries, and your way of life are protected.

As your Senator, I’ve fought to bring common sense back into policy — opposing bans that hurt our cattle producers, pushing for more investment in regional roads and dams, opposing harmful reef regulations on cane farmers, and defending our fishing industry from overreach. With a stronger Senate presence and a Coalition Government advised by people like Annette and myself, we can do so much more.

We can deliver transformational projects that create long-term jobs and opportunity — infrastructure that puts us at the forefront of Queensland’s economic future.

Only the Coalition has a plan to pay for Australia’s future. Australia is a primary industries nation and our pro-mining and agriculture policies will mean we can set off on a road to prosperity and turn back from the path to poverty that Labor has set us on.

We can keep the dream alive for the next generation — that your kids and grandkids can grow up here, build a career, buy a home, and raise their families in the towns we love.

But we can’t do it without your help.

At this election, let’s send a message that Hinchinbrook deserves better — that we’re ready for real representation, real investment, and real results.
Vote 1 Annette Swaine for Kennedy.
Vote 1 LNP in the Senate.

Together, we can give Hinchinbrook the future it deserves.

Standing 11 metres tall, the Observation Tower at the TYTO offers one of the best vantage points in the region.

From the top deck, you’ll enjoy panoramic views over the lush canopies of raintrees and melaleucas, bring those bird watching books and binoculars as the vibrant TYTO Wetlands teeming with birdlife, and the picturesque main lagoon.

Follow your gaze further to the rich green cane fields stretching across fertile alluvial plains, all the way to the mountain ranges that frame the horizon. You might even catch a glimpse of Ingham’s daily rhythm below. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a unique way to experience the beauty and biodiversity of the TYTO precinct.

The town of Cardwell came together in a stirring and heartfelt tribute to commemorate ANZAC Day, honouring the courage and sacrifice of Australia’s service men and women. The day began in solemn reflection as community members assembled at the cenotaph on Victoria Street near the Cardwell Jetty for the Dawn Service. Led by Robert Lang, with a moving address from Mayor Theresa Millwood, the service captured the gravity of remembrance with quiet reverence.

As the sun rose, Colleen Tennent’s rendition of “That Old Rugged Cross” echoed through the morning air, preceding the traditional Gunfire Breakfast at the Cardwell RSL. Spirits remained high as families and veterans alike gathered for fellowship and shared memories. Later that morning, residents and ex-service members convened at the Rockingham Home for the aged, where the ANZAC Day ceremony extended appreciation to those who served and now reside in care.

By mid-morning, the town came together again as the community parade began opposite the Ob-La-Di shop. At 11:10am, a commemorative service led by Councillor Chris Littlemore included readings, patriotic songs by local schoolchildren, and a stirring Anzac address. The Wreath Laying Ceremony was a poignant highlight, marked by the haunting sound of “The Last Post” by bugler Adrian Frost, followed by the raising of five flags and the singing of “Advance Australia Fair.”

The day concluded with a well-attended ANZAC Luncheon at the Cardwell RSL. Open to the public, the event offered camaraderie and reflection over a shared meal, reinforcing the values of unity and remembrance that define the ANZAC legacy.

Cardwell’s commemorations once again proved that the town’s heart beats strong with gratitude and pride for its servicemen and women — Lest We Forget.

North Queensland MP Bob Katter has taken his fight for fairer farm returns to the heart of supermarket power—this time outside a Woolworths in Bathurst, New South Wales.

Backed by farmers and joined by Calare MP Andrew Gee, Katter continued his push to expose what he called “monstrous, unjustified markups” on everyday groceries, urging support for his Reducing Supermarket Dominance Bill.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re on the Tablelands, in the Burdekin or in Bathurst—farmers are getting smashed,” Mr Katter said.

“They're working for peanuts while Coles and Woolies rake in world-leading profits.”

Katter said the rage he felt after reading the ACCC’s February report, which found no evidence of price gouging, left him no choice but to take a stand.

“If you believe there’s no price gouging, you believe in the tooth fairy,” he said.

“I’ll be moving for the head of the ACCC to be sacked when Parliament resumes.”

Hon Andrew Gee said, "We need to get the snouts of the supermarket giants out of the money trough.

"They are wallowing in world-leading profits while paying our farmers a pittance and price gouging consumers on the way through."

While the latest protest was staged in NSW, Katter said the issue cuts deepest in rural and regional areas like Kennedy, where farmers are being forced off the land.

The Bill, introduced in March 2024, would limit any one supermarket’s market share to 20 per cent within five years, cap retail markups to double the farmgate price, and scrap the current food and grocery code of conduct.

“North Queensland farmers are done being squeezed by the duopoly,” Katter said.

"I mean, are we just going to let them continue screwing the farmers down through the floor and charging the consumers a 'squillion' dollars?

"No bloody way."

‍

In 1981 Bill Phillips envisaged a dream of a living memorial to the men and women connected with the Battle of the Coral Sea.

“Cardwell needed something to attract tourists, and being on the beach front, I looked at the idea of the ‘South Pacific image’ with rows of coconut palms in a special park. Other towns had an identifying landmark and I saw the park as one of Cardwell’s future attractions.”

As owner of the Banfield Caravan Park and former Cardwell Shire Councillor, Bill approached the Cardwell Shire Council to set aside 16 acres (6 hectares) of crown land for a memorial park.

When Cardwell was originally settled in 1864 the land was gazetted as a botanical garden. By 1983 local residents became involved with the development and by 1985 scrubby bushland was removed and the whole area beautified, with plantings of trees of remembrance being organised.

The Governor of Queensland, the Late Sir James Ramsay dedicated the site as a living memorial to the Battle of the Coral Sea on April 29, 1984. In 1992 Australia celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea with various commemoration services, but Cardwell is the only place where an annual service is held early in May each year.

The beach front park is the largest war memorial in Australia and is unique because of its closeness to the site of the battle but the ships sunk during it lie on the sea bed about 500 miles east of Cardwell. It is not just a showpiece memorial as all visitors can stroll through the trees, admire the wall of plaques or enjoy a snack at one of the tables or shelters. Each tree is dedicated to a person or group of people who took part in the battle both on and off shore.

This park serves as a living shrine to demonstrate to our Allies and the many domestic and international tourists that Australians hold in high regard those gallant men and women who fought so courageously to protect our shores against foreign intruders.

Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch. From the Cardwell 1993 booklet 'Coral Sea Battle Memorial: 1942 the experiences and memories of World War II, through the eyes of the local residents.

Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Following the successful launch of our Managed Pool Plus for the 2025 season, we’re pleased to
announce that we’re opening nominations earlier for the 2026 season.

Nominations for the Managed Pool Plus open on 1 May and close on 30 June 2025.

We’ve seen strong interest from growers who have experienced a couple of volatile seasons with
unpredictable target pricing and are now seeking to share some of that pricing responsibility with Wilmar.

The enhanced Managed Pool Plus aligns grower exposure with miller exposure, creating a balanced risk
profile. Wilmar will contribute 30,000 tonnes of MEI sugar to the pool and will accept grower GEI
nominations up to the same volume, ensuring a 1:1 exposure ratio in the final price outcome.

Our global marketing team will manage the pricing exposure throughout the life of the pool which, for the
2026 season, will be extended to two years.

This is an actively managed pool, meaning our team will strategically take positions on futures and
currency markets, rather than simply following a passive, incremental hedging strategy. For example, the
recent drop in the AUD below 60 cents allowed the 2025 pool to secure favourable currency rates.

While this strategy offers the potential for improved returns, it also carries increased risk.

If you’re interested in learning how the Managed Pool Plus might support your pricing strategy, please
reach out to your local Grower Marketing team representative.

In other news, we are currently looking to expand our team to strengthen the level of service we offer, as
more and more growers choose Wilmar Grower Marketing. Our regional consultants deliver a broad
range of services to help growers manage their sugar pricing strategies and we have a position open
now in the Burdekin region.

Given that most of our growers forward price a significant portion of their GEI sugar, the most common
question we hear is: What’s the sugar price going to do? While we can’t predict the future, we do share
timely insights and market assessments from Wilmar’s global team, highlighting the key factors
influencing sugar prices.

Allan Colquhoun grew up in Sydney, but his life has taken him far beyond the city limits. In his youth, he worked with a station owner named Bob, whose property combined dairy and sheep farming with a focus on Jersey bulls and cows. One vivid memory that’s stayed with him is of Bob chasing down a bull meant for butchering on his stock horse —a beast that, to Allan’s amazement, climbed over the holding fence one hoof at a time to escape.

Allan spent most of his working life as a coastal traveller, labouring up and down Australia’s eastern seaboard. He was in North Queensland during Cyclone Althea in 1971 and witnessed the destruction of Brampton Island Resort, which would later become defunct after a second devastating cyclone.

In 1999, Allan made Ingham his permanent home. Now retired, his vision for Ingham's future is simple but meaningful: accessible community clubs where people can gather for a chat and enjoy a proper coffee. A lover of flat whites himself, Allan reckons that community begins with good yak and a great cup of coffee.

Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism held their monthly Coffee Connect last week, being hosted by local business Wild Local. There was a very strong attendance at this event, with Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter and KAP Senate candidate, Robbie Lyon.

Rebecca and Dom Zaghini provided a delicious light snacks and gave the audience an overview of their business journey from inception to their current location, the diverse range of products they provide and some insight into their plans for future growth. There were many conversations, discussions and sharing throughout the group, with a strong focus on how the business community is fairing following the recent flood event.

Key issues identified during these conversations, focussed on the challenges of attracting applicants for the many employment opportunities currently on offer and how the lack of applicants is further impacting business recovery processes. Issues relating to transport connectivity during the flood event, both in relation to known hotspots that impact the community on a regular basis during weather events and also the exceptional situation that occurred as a result of Ollera Creek bridge being washed out. Once again the vulnerability of the whole of North Queensland supply chain being affected, when the Gairloch Washaway and Seymour River are flooded, was a very robust discussion point.

The Coffee Connect events provide an opportunity for any business owners, managers and employees to come together in a relaxed environment to gain a better understanding of the diversity of offerings available locally and to discuss with their piers some of the challenges and shared experiences of running a small business. An invitation is extended to anyone from the business community to attend this monthly event. Follow the Chamber socials for updates on when and where the next Coffee Connect event will be held.

‍