Every year, around late winter, something magical happens in the Hinchinbrook region’s hidden corners — thousands of bright blue Ulysses butterflies gather in secluded bays and forest glades. Butterfly Bay, tucked near Zoe Falls on Hinchinbrook Island, is one of their favourite haunts.

When sunlight filters through the canopy, the air comes alive with flickers of iridescent blue — like nature’s own confetti. You’ll find yourself holding your breath just to listen to the silence they leave behind. The locals say you don’t see them — you feel them — a shimmer of joy before they vanish again.

If you ever needed a reason to slow down and wander off the tourist map, this is it: Hinchinbrook’s best secrets don’t shout, they flutter.

Recently, Airlie Beach hosted the CANEGROWERS Policy Council, bringing together grower-elected representatives and district managers from all 12 CANEGROWERS districts. Representing the Herbert were Chair Steven Marbelli, Deputy Chair Leah Russo, and Manager Frank Scardamaglia, who joined colleagues to discuss the key challenges, opportunities, and policy settings shaping the future of Australia’s sugar cane industry.

Across two days, the Policy Council examined a wide range of issues affecting growers at both the farm and industry levels. Workforce shortages remain a major concern, with members continuing to explore solutions to attract and retain skilled labour. The harvesting sector also featured prominently, with discussions around improving operational efficiency, supporting contractor sustainability, and managing increasing pressures on harvest logistics.

Workplace Health and Safety was another strong focus, as districts shared experiences and considered ways to strengthen WH&S culture across all farming operations. This linked closely with environmental and sustainability discussions, including updates on the greenhouse gas calculator, ongoing progress with Smartcane BMP, and discussing future expectations from government, markets, and the community.

Other key agenda items included sugar marketing and trade dynamics, mental health support for growers and workers, regional transport challenges, and exciting developments in plant breeding—particularly the emerging use of artificial intelligence to enhance varietal development.

A standout highlight was the national rollout of the industry’s education strategy, which continues to gain strong momentum. Many CANEGROWERS districts are engaging students through competitions, classroom resources, and farm visits. The cane growing competition alone has seen an estimated 43 primary and secondary schools participate, helping build greater awareness of the industry among young Australians.

Throughout the meeting, grower leaders worked collaboratively to analyse these issues and develop practical pathways to influence policy where needed. This blend of grassroots insight and strategic planning ensures the Policy Council remains a vital voice for growers.

Reflecting on the meeting, Deputy Chair Leah Russo said:

“These gatherings are incredibly valuable. They allow growers from all districts to come together, share insights, and develop united solutions. The strength of our industry comes from collaboration and having a real voice in shaping policy for the future.”

The discussions in Airlie Beach reaffirmed a shared commitment to supporting a resilient, innovative, and profitable sugar industry that continues to deliver strong economic, environmental, and social outcomes for regions like Hinchinbrook.

A major community-driven effort is now delivering long-awaited upgrades to the interpretive signage along the Cardwell Foreshore, with the first six new signs completed and all remaining signs expected to be installed before the end of the year.

The project began after Cassowary Coast Regional Council (CCRC) was unable to allocate capital funding to replace the ageing foreshore signs, many of which had deteriorated under harsh UV exposure. Despite the budget constraints, the CCRC Open Spaces team redirected funds within its current operational budget to complete the first six signs.

To ensure the full replacement of all 24 signs, Wildlife Queensland Cassowary Coast–Hinchinbrook sought additional support and successfully secured a CCRC Infrastructure Grant of $7,500. This effort was strengthened by contributions from numerous community groups and individuals. Wildcard Art provided in-kind support by preparing consultancy reports and assisting with graphic design, while Wildlife Queensland Cassowary Coast–Hinchinbrook supplied an additional $5,000 to progress the project. A small funding shortfall remains, but organisers are confident the remaining costs will be met.

All new sign graphics are being produced by ARMSIGN using high-quality UV-protected materials. Although the existing placement along the foreshore exposes the signs to ongoing sun exposure, relocating them to more sheltered positions would have required engineering assessments at 24 different sites, adding significant cost and time. Given the circumstances, organisers opted to proceed with the best available materials to ensure a long-lasting result.

The original foreshore signage, installed in 2009–2010, was an extensive community initiative involving local research, writing, design, and contributed artwork. The current project continues that legacy, bringing together volunteers, organisations, and council staff to restore an important community asset.

CCRC is now exploring options to schedule future maintenance and renewal funding to ensure the signage can continue to be updated as needed.

With all 24 signs now in production and installation planned by year’s end, the Cardwell Foreshore is set to receive a refreshed and informative display that reflects the dedication of the local community.

Our School’s Christmas Giving Tradition

Every year, St Peter’s Catholic School proudly responds to the needs of others in our community, living out the message of love for your neighbour. One of our most cherished Term 4 projects is the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal. Each class receives a list of essential items to donate, and our families never fail to show incredible generosity.

Throughout the year, students also raise funds by selling ice blocks, with proceeds used to purchase toys for the local Mayor’s Christmas Appeal. This initiative culminates in a special tradition: our Year 6 students venture into town to personally select gifts for local children, ensuring every child experiences the joy of Christmas.

Through these acts of kindness and generosity, our school community demonstrates that giving is at the heart of Christmas. Together, we make a real difference for families in need.

With the much anticipated ‘Grad Week’ underway for Gilroy Santa Maria College Year 12 students, Pastoral Leader Mrs Erin Cerutti has taken a moment to reflect on their GSMC journey.

As their Pastoral Leader, I have had the privilege of walking alongside the Year 12 cohort throughout their final year of schooling. This group’s journey through high school has been anything but ordinary. They began their secondary education in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time of great uncertainty and change, and they concluded it following the floods that marked the beginning of this year. Through it all, they have shown remarkable resilience, adaptability, and unity.

What has stood out most about this group is their willingness to throw themselves wholeheartedly into every aspect of college life. Whether it was cheering at carnivals, leading assemblies, participating in ANZAC Day services, or supporting one another through the ups and downs of senior year, they have consistently demonstrated teamwork, spirit, and pride in their college community.

Over the past few months, I have seen a genuine transformation in their mindset. They have approached their studies with determination and maturity, focused on their goals and motivated to pursue their chosen pathways. Their perseverance and commitment to personal growth have been truly inspiring.

On behalf of the college community, I’d like to wish our class of 2025 every success in their future endeavours.

Contributed by Erin Cerutti - Pastoral Leader Yr11/12

On the evening of Friday 14th, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School came alive with festive cheer as the community gathered for the annual Christmas Fair, the school’s major fundraiser for the year. The event attracted a large crowd, drawn by a fun-filled program and an exciting new feature, the 50/50 Raffle.

The raffle proved to be a standout attraction, with one fortunate winner taking home an impressive $17,265. The school retained the same amount, which will go directly toward enhancing facilities and improving learning opportunities for students.

The Christmas concert performed by Prep to Year 2 students was another highlight. Their joyful singing and festive routines captivated families and set a heartwarming tone for the night. Classes also created themed wares for the popular Christmas Markets, where families enjoyed browsing and purchasing handmade items.

There was no shortage of delicious food for the community to enjoy, with a fantastic selection of vendors serving up crowd favourites. The Ingham Lions Club hosted a traditional BBQ, while Woodfired Pizza, Cobby’s Kitchen, and Thai cuisine were on offer, along with Italian delights from Ingham’s newest food van, The Saucy Stallion. The school extends its thanks to these wonderful food vendors and to the community for their ongoing support.

The Cent Sale was another major drawcard, made possible by the generosity of local business houses and school families who donated a wide range of prizes. Thanks to this strong community support, the Cent Sale enjoyed tremendous success.

The Christmas Fair once again showcased the strength, spirit, and generosity of the Our Lady of Lourdes community, making it a memorable evening for all who attended.

Ingham State High School is proud to recognise the exceptional accomplishments of the following students, who have achieved a perfect score of 100% in all Internal Assessments this year.

This remarkable achievement reflects not only their diligence and determination but also their passion for learning and commitment to excellence.

Congratulations to Year 12 students: Zoe Lahtinen, who excelled in both Mathematical Methods and Chemistry; Kara Nash, who achieved perfection in Chemistry; Lily Chittenden and Sophee Lepinath, who both achieved a perfect score in Biology; and Emily Provians, who attained full marks in Drama.

Their success reflects not only their dedication and determination but also the commitment of the school’s Expert Educators who have supported and inspired them throughout their studies.

This result reflects the strength of Ingham High’s academic culture and the school’s ongoing mission to equip students for success in both their senior years and beyond.

By Joyce Finocchiaro

Ingham's Namesake
Born 4-6-1850 Black Hall, Yorkshire, England
Died 28-11-1878 New Guinea

He was handsome, he was charming,
From the landed English gentry,
An adventurer and a dreamer was he.
He was brave and self-reliant,
With a Cambridge education,
He left the Royal Navy aged twenty-three.

Adventure lured him to the colonies,
With sixty pounds at his disposal,
He sailed to a far off destination.
Via Tasmania and New South Wales
He came to the Herbert River Valley,
Bought and named Ings Plantation.

He acquired a steamboat, cleared his land,
Had Kanakas plant sugarcane,
And machinery for a sugar-mill be bought.
Low sugar prices and rust disease
Forced him to abandon his plantation,
And the dream in the fortune he had sought.

He headed north on the 'LOUISA'
Freighting cargo unsuccessfully,
But his sawmill turned out a good investment.
He surveyed the Barron River,
Moved to Port Moresby in New Guinea,
And became an agent for the Queensland Government.

He met with his untimely end
Along with six others of his crew,
On the Louisade Archipelago at Opening Bay,
Where by natives he was killed,
In a cannibalistic ritual he was eaten,
On that fateful, twenty-eight September day.

He was handsome, he was charming,
From the landed English gentry,
An adventurer and a dreamer was he.
He was brave and self-reliant,
With a Cambridge education,
William Bairstow Ingham was he.

Author’s Note:
The town of Ingham was gazetted and named in 1874. Prior to this the settlement was known by the Irish name Siligo. Ingham's relatives and the townsfolk installed three stained glass windows in the Anglican Church of the Holy Trinity as a further memorial to this young man whose name will forever live in Ingham's history.

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Since launching its Container Refund Point in 2018, MAMS Group has transformed recycling in Ingham, processing over 40 million drink containers and returning a staggering $4 million to local residents. This family-owned North Queensland business has become a cornerstone of community sustainability, economic growth, and job creation.

As part of Queensland’s Containers for Change initiative, MAMS Group contributes to a statewide mission that has already kept more than 600,000 tonnes of waste out of landfill. In Ingham, the refund point is more than a drop-off site, it’s a community hub where recycling pays off, both environmentally and financially.

In a major development earlier this year, MAMS Group secured two key logistics contracts under the Containers for Change program. These contracts cover the Far North and North Regions—from Bowen to Mossman—expanding the company’s footprint and reinforcing its commitment to a cleaner, greener future for North Queensland.

“Our success in Ingham shows what can be achieved when business, community, and environmental goals align,” said Josh Lannen, General Manager of MAMS Group. “We’re proud to contribute to the region’s prosperity while keeping millions of containers out of landfill.”

With a proven track record and growing influence in Queensland’s recycling network, MAMS Group is showing how local businesses can lead the way in environmental innovation and community impact.

Drop off your eligible 10-cent containers at 21 Challands St, Ingham, and be part of the change.

Looking for the perfect Christmas gifts this year? NewsExtra Ingham has everything you need to make your festive season extra special.

Step into the store and explore a wide range of giftware and thoughtful presents for both men and women. From photo frames to capture life’s special moments, to greeting cards for every occasion, not just Christmas, you’ll find something to suit everyone on your list. There’s also a great range of novelty items and small gifts that are perfect for those “just because” moments.

Make your house smell great this Christmas with some beautiful diffusers and candles from Home Fragrances. We also have perfumes and colognes from many big-name brands, making it easy to find that perfect, personalised gift.

Don’t forget to check out our Christmas Scratchie tree, with treat-filled stockings and baubles, plus a full selection of lottery tickets and scratchies for a little Nextra luck this festive season.

There's also a selection of Christmas decorations in store too. Beautiful ornaments and snowglobes that are perfect for perching on the mantle or gracing the centre of the dining table at your Christmas dinner.

Keep up with all our latest arrivals, special promotions, and gift ideas by following us on Facebook at NexsExtraIngham. Make this Christmas memorable and support your local community by shopping local at NewsExtra Ingham!

Looking to make your Christmas and Boxing Day celebrations extra special? Halifax Meats has you covered, with everything from mains to sides, snacks, and spreads, all made fresh at Halifax.

Start with our famous cabanas, beer sticks, salamis, and hand-made bacon. They're perfect for platters, table spreads, or simply to snack on while celebrating. Our wood-smoked hams are fan favourites and are keeping 16 years of tradition alive and getting better every year.

With everything handmade in store, they also offer a wide variety of roasts from duck to beef, and stuffed meats, catering to all tastes. Popular stuffing flavours include sun-dried tomato, baby spinach and feta, camembert and asparagus, cranberry and pistachio, as well as simpler options like garlic and parsley.

To complement your feast, they also stock jams, chutneys, hand-glazes, and sauces, along with Lions Club Christmas cakes. Whether it’s your main course, sides, or everything in between, Halifax Meats has all you need to make your Christmas table unforgettable.

Whole turkeys and tur-duck-ens are available, as well as pork and chicken balls, marinated fillets, chicken wings, pork ribs, belly bites, and rolled loins, absolutely perfect for a family BBQ or for accompanying your glorious, central Christmas ham.

The last day for pre-Christmas shopping in store will be Wednesday, 24 December, and we’ll reopen on Monday, 29 December. Orders have been open since March, and we’ll continue taking them right up until early Christmas week to make sure everyone gets their festive favourites.

"Celebrate with family, eat, drink, and be merry", says the team of amazing butchers at Halifax Meats.

Halifax Meats has everything you need to make this Christmas deliciously memorable. Come in and see their mouthwatering selection today at 25 MacRossan St, Halifax. Or call (07) 4777 7711 and order ahead!

Children across the country were up before sunrise this week, eagerly lining up at public phones as Telstra’s beloved Free Calls to Santa hotline officially switched on for 2025.

The festive tradition, now in its fifth year, allows young callers to dial #HOHOHO (#464646) for free from any of Telstra’s 14,000-plus public payphones to share their Christmas wishes directly with Santa at the North Pole. The hotline will remain open daily from 13 November until Christmas Eve.

What began in 2021 as a simple way to teach kids how to use a public phone has quickly grown into one of Australia’s most cherished Christmas rituals. More than 1.5 million calls have been made to Santa since the hotline’s launch, with almost 100,000 children phoning his out-of-office line over the past year alone while waiting for the service to reopen.

This year, pint-sized callers will again be treated to the popular kid-sized Telstra payphones, specially designed to make it easier for younger children to reach the handset. These miniature phones will be available in select Telstra stores in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane right up until Christmas Eve.

Telstra’s call data reveals some quirky trends behind the thousands of kids phoning the North Pole each year. Around 60 per cent of calls come from phones located near beaches and waterfronts, while a quarter originate from city centres and busy shopping precincts. Regional towns also play their part, with one of the most remote calls made from Anmatjere (Pmara Jutjunta), a First Nations community in the Northern Territory.

Meanwhile, Melbourne’s Bourke Street Mall holds the title for the nation’s busiest Santa payphone, logging nearly 10,000 calls to Santa since the program began.

The hotline serves a practical purpose too, helping children learn how to locate and use a public phone, an important life skill in an emergency.

Since Telstra made all standard calls from payphones free in 2021, the use of public phones has tripled nationwide. Last year alone, more than 25 million free calls were made, including over 300,000 to emergency services. Over 4,000 of the payphones also provide free Wi-Fi, with more locations set to follow.

Families can locate their nearest participating phone through Telstra’s Payphone Finder or through Google Maps. All Telstra retail stores will also feature special Santa Phones from 3 December, allowing families to make their call while doing their Christmas shopping.

With thousands of excited children already lining up across Australia, it’s clear that Free Calls to Santa has secured its place as a truly modern Australian Christmas tradition - connecting communities, spreading festive joy, and keeping the magic of the season alive.

Looking to get your boat ready for summer or find the perfect gift for the boating enthusiast in your life? J&B Marine has you covered with incredible pre-Christmas deals and expert service.

If you haven’t booked your boat service yet, now is the time. Schedule in before all our spots fill up and get your vessel ready for a season of adventure on the water.

Mercury Outboard Savings – 2.5–30HP
Mercury is offering up to $700 off their 2.5–30HP FourStroke outboards (inc. GST), delivering unmatched performance, efficiency, and reliability. Perfect for inflatables, tinnies, or small fishing rigs, these lightweight engines provide smooth handling, easy portability, and trusted Mercury engineering. Offer ends 23 January 2026 – terms and conditions apply.

Mercury Outboard Savings – 60–150HP
For those looking to upgrade to more power, Mercury’s 60–150HP FourStroke outboards are built to deliver performance, efficiency, and reliability for offshore thrills or confident cruising. From 20 October to 15 December 2025, you can save up to $1500 (inc. GST) and enjoy Mercury Finance at a 3.99% comparison rate.

Whether it’s for a gift or your own adventure, there’s no better time to get more value, performance, and enjoyment from your boating season.

Visit jandbmarine.com or stop by in store at J&B Marine on 102 Cartwright Street, your local Mercury Dealer. Get that boatie in your life one of these limited-time offer outboards, seriously built to perform.

This gorgeous girl has a heart of gold, and there is nothing she loves more than curling up on her foster mum's bed for a snooze in her favourite sleeping position - belly up with her paws in the air!

Heidi loves her pats, especially under her chin and behind her ears. She has such a sweet nature and is very polite, she even knows to sit patiently and wait while her dinner is being prepared.

Her favourite game to play with her foster dad is hide and seek… probably because she always wins! Heidi can be a little nervous at first, but if you have a bit of patience and a lot of love, she will be your best friend in no time.

Does Heidi sound like your perfect match? Come see for yourself! To meet Heidi, fill in an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

Included in the adoption fee of $210: DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated.

DOB: 1/03/24
Sex: Female
Breed: DSH
Kid friendly: Soft Hands
Cat Friendly: Untested
Dog Friendly: Untested
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors
BIN: BIN0000268254643

Historic Revitalisation for Port Hinchinbrook Announced

FRONT COVER

The State Government has kickstarted a long-awaited revitalisation of Port Hinchinbrook. The plan includes works to reinstate all-tide and Coast Guard access and resolve long-running legal issues. A Provisional Priority Development Area will be established to transform the precinct into a thriving tourism, economic, and residential hub. This initiative is part of the Government’s commitment to delivering a fresh start for Queensland and regional communities. Port Hinchinbrook will become the first-ever Provisional Priority Development Area, unlocking its full potential. The Queensland-first declaration marks a historic step and addresses long-standing issues that were neglected during the previous decade. Read on page 6

P.3
Premier Announces Port Hinchinbrook Revitilisation Plan

Economic Development Queensland will lead the initiative in partnership with Cassowary Coast Regional Council, industry, the community, and other key stakeholders.

Prior to the formalisation of the Provisional Priority Development Area, Economic Development Queensland will secure all final approvals for infrastructure works, including the dredging at Port Hinchinbrook.

The declaration enables the State Government to begin transforming the Port and surrounding areas by:

• Reinstating all-tide access for boats to the Port’s marina and public waterways by removing dredging spoil.
• Restoring clear access for the local Coast Guard to improve safety for boaties.
• Resolving long-standing legal issues that have impeded the Port’s redevelopment and economic future.

The Government will also acquire selected land parcels within the 140-hectare Provisional Priority Development Area – with no impact on private residential properties – to address economic and environmental issues.

The conformed deed over the property will be extinguished.

Residents are encouraged to provide feedback before the formalisation of the Provisional Priority Development Area in January 2026. Enabling works will follow, with dredging scheduled to commence in the second half of 2026.

Premier David Crisafulli said the Government was delivering a fresh start for Port Hinchinbrook.

"We've only been in office for a short period of time, but I think most people realise that you've got a government that understands that Queensland is a little bigger than Brisbane, and that's what this is about."

“Port Hinchinbrook has been neglected for far too long and today marks the beginning of a new chapter for this proud North Queensland community,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“This historic declaration is the first step towards unlocking the Port’s economic and tourism potential and finally fixing the issues that have held this community back for a decade.

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the people of Port Hinchinbrook deserved a fast-tracked solution to a complex issue – one that had remained unresolved for far too long.

"Local tourism stalled and the community was repeatedly left without answers."

He said they were, "restoring Port Hinchinbrook to its rightful place as a thriving tourism and lifestyle hub for North Queensland.”

Mayor of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, Teresa Millwood, said the project means more to the people of the area as "It's about bringing Port Hinchinbrook back to its former life. The dredging is only one part of it, but it'll mean the world to not only Port Hinchinbrook, but the whole township of Cardwell and the whole of the Cassowary Coast. You heard them talking about the jewel in the crown. This is the southern gateway. So it's going to be unbelievable."