As our district is very quickly moving toward the end of the sugar cane harvest season, followed soon after by senior school graduations, the school year coming to an end, and Christmas preparation planning occurring, it is a great time to reflect on how far we have come in this extremely busy and challenging year.

It is hard to fathom how quickly our busy lives change, yet at the same time, so many things remain a constant.  2025 has certainly presented some challenges to the broader Hinchinbrook community, however, this year has also seen some new and exciting opportunities emerge in the Shire.  Early assessments of this year’s sugar cane crop have very pleasantly seen the harvest to date returning a crop number closer to what had been achieved in more recent years, which has assisted in bridging the anticipated economic impact that could have more significantly affected our community.

The 28 actions identified in the 2025 Hinchinbrook Recovery Plan, developed following the February 2025 event, continue to see support services delivered, follow-up continues with building and insurance repairs, grant opportunity assistance and progressing plans for longer term actions to be implemented. Community Recovery Offices continue to work across the Shire, with a reminder to residents, should they still require assistance, to reach out to either Council or the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre.

Even though our community has seen its share of challenges in 2025, we have also witnessed new and exciting opportunities realised this year, that will continue to progress and grow the Hinchinbrook community. The approval and development of commercial and residential projects in the Shire this year is another demonstration of the resilience, vision and confidence being actioned locally, that reminds us all exactly how irrepressibly strong our residents are and how “getting on with the job” is a true demonstration of living “The Hinchinbrook Way”.

The Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is now underway, and I encourage the community to support local families doing it tough.

The appeal is a practical way we can come together to support those doing it tough and ensure that no one is left behind during the festive season.

Residents can contribute by donating a new toy or non-perishable food item.

Donations can be placed under the Christmas tree at Council’s Customer Service Centre, located at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham, during business hours.

All funds raised will be directed to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, a local organisation that plays a vital role in supporting vulnerable individuals and families across our region.

The centre provides emergency relief, food assistance, counselling, and referral services, and has been instrumental in helping residents rebuild after recent disasters.

I thank the staff and volunteers for their ongoing dedication and commitment to our community.

The appeal closes at 5:00pm on Wednesday, 10th of December 2025, allowing time for sorting and delivery before Christmas.

I acknowledge that this year has been challenging for many.

The impacts of natural disasters, economic pressures, and personal circumstances have tested our resilience.

In times like these, it’s important we exercise patience with one another and continue to show the generosity that defines our community.

Hinchinbrook has always been a giving region.

I’ve seen firsthand how our residents step up to support each other, and I’m confident we’ll do so again this Christmas.

Thank you to everyone who has already contributed, and to those planning to do so.

Your support makes a real difference.

Contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au for more information.

Here’s a fact to make your GPS blink twice: Lucinda’s sugar-loading jetty stretches nearly six kilometres — that’s longer than Sydney’s Harbour Bridge … four times over! This engineering marvel funnels sweet Hinchinbrook sugar to waiting ships, floating far out over the Coral Sea.

On the right day, it disappears into the horizon like a mirage. While the jetty itself is off-limits to the public, nearby Lucinda Beach offers the perfect vantage point. Locals joke it’s the “jetty that goes to Fiji,” but it’s also a quiet reminder that industry and paradise can coexist.

Pack a camera and head north at sunset — when golden light hits the metal spine, it glows like a sugar thread stretching across the ocean.

Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) is calling for transparency in the cane audit system and the continuation of the overdue review of the Cane Analysis Program (CAP).

QCAR Herbert District Committee Deputy Chair Matthew Pappin said exclusionary and anti-competitive practices had crept into the CAP document that governed cane testing in the Herbert district.

This is contrary to a misleading article published in the Hinchinbrook Life on 28 October and submitted by Herbert River District Cane Growers (HRDCG).

QCAR Herbert, Burdekin and Central region representatives visited the Burdekin Cane Audit Services (BCAS)
laboratory at Wilmar Invicta Mill on Monday, 27 October to review operations.

BCAS is a private industry company funded by millers and growers equally and is independently managed by a Board of Directors.

“It was eye-opening to see how open and transparent the cane audit services in the Burdekin are when compared to the Herbert,” he said.

In late 2024, a review of the CAP commenced in response to QCAR identifying the exclusion clauses and anti-competitive practices that had crept into the Herbert document and that the review of the document was well overdue.

QCAR representatives met with the Independent Sugarcane Analysist to review the operations in late 2023.

It came as a big surprise when the Independent Sugarcane Auditor informed QCAR representatives that the Cane
Audit Program for the Herbert had instructions that only Herbert River District Canegrowers (HRDCG) members would be sampled for fibre, unless ‘the Growers’ Bargaining Representative Group represents more than 11% of Cane Delivery Tonnes’. - (source document-CAS:2017).

CCS in the Herbert River district is calculated using a district average fibre level to calculate a grower’s CCS and ultimately their cane payment. Sampling should be conducted on a true random basis by the Independent Sugarcane Auditor.

QCAR Herbert District Committee Chair John Board said it required a unanimous vote by industry bodies to make any changes to the CAP to remove the anti-competitive clauses. The CAP review is now being stalled by one group.

“It’s time now for HRDCG to fall into line and allow all growers’ cane to be sampled for fibre - this is the right thing to do,” Mr Board said.

QCAR/ACL/HCQR grower collectives have united to get over the 11% threshold for fibre in 2025/2026; however,  growers on individual contracts and mill cane are still being excluded.

QCAR is seeking the BCAS model to be replicated in all Wilmar regions, ensuring strong governance and procedures for the industry to adhere to.

“It’s time for open, transparent cane audit processes that are of a high quality and standard to be reinstated in the Herbert, while ensuring all sectors of the industry are being financially rewarded appropriately,” Mr Board said.

QCAR Herbert District Committee issued an invitation to HRDCG to join the tours; however, this was declined.

Mr Board said all attendees were appreciative of the time of BCAS and Wilmar staff for the opportunity to tour the laboratory and Invicta Mill.

The 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day is shaping up to be a celebration of everything that makes North Queensland extraordinary: resilient producers, curious kids, cutting-edge tech, and a whole lot of heart.

The iconic Talangalook herd returns to the spotlight. Known for their tropical toughness, calm temperament, and powerhouse genetics, these Santa Gertrudis cattle are a cornerstone of North Queensland beef production. Their presence is a proud nod to tradition and a bold step toward the future.

Attendees can get ready for feathers, flair, and fast feet—Melville’s Racing Ducks will be there to stir up laughter and friendly competition. These waddling wonders will be a Field Day favourite, drawing cheers from all ages.

Kids will be able to grab their Farmers Passport and embark on a hands-on journey across the Field Day. From machinery displays to livestock exhibits, they’ll collect stamps, complete challenges, and learn about agriculture in a fun, interactive way. It’s education disguised as adventure—and a brilliant way to inspire the next generation.

The 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day Committee are thrilled to welcome Travearth back, showcasing their cutting-edge mapping and geospatial technology tailored for agriculture. From precision farming to land management, Travearth’s live demonstrations will reveal how data-driven insights are transforming the way we grow, graze, and plan.

Whether you're wanting to talk genetics, chase ducks, explore the paddock, or dive into ag-tech, the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day promises something for everyone. Come for the cattle, stay for the quacks, explore with the kids, and leave inspired by the future of farming.

With The Pest Control Guy

Christmas is almost here, and no one wants uninvited guests in their home, especially the six-legged variety. The Pest Control Guy in Ingham is making it simple to protect your home from pests before the festive season begins.

With summer in full swing, insects and rodents are more active than ever. From mosquitoes and ants to spiders and cockroaches, these pests can quickly turn a relaxing home or outdoor gathering into a stressful experience. That’s where The Pest Control Guy comes in, offering fast, reliable and professional solutions tailored to North Queensland’s tropical conditions.

Whether you’re hosting Christmas lunch, enjoying a backyard barbecue, or want peace of mind while the family is home, a pre-Christmas pest treatment can make all the difference. The team uses safe, effective treatments to target common household pests and keep your property bug-free, so you can focus on what really matters: celebrating with loved ones.

Locally owned and operated, The Pest Control Guy understands the unique challenges of the region, from the heat and humidity to the variety of pests that thrive in the tropics. Their service is prompt, friendly and flexible, designed to fit around your busy holiday schedule.

This festive season, don’t let pests crash your Christmas. Book a visit with The Pest Control Guy and enjoy a home that’s clean, comfortable and pest-free. From now until the holidays, it’s the perfect time to take action, giving your family and guests a safe, worry-free celebration. Contact Michael Slater, the Pest Control Guy on 0439 722 311 or email appc147@gmail.com.

Just like the dashing masked vigilante, Zorro is a handsome, well-dressed young feline with a heart full of promise and the opportunity for a bright future. Zorro may initially seem a bit shy, but give him just thirty minutes, and you'll find yourself enchanted by his gentle nature and sweet demeanour. Once he trusts you, he transforms into a dedicated purr machine, letting you know you've won his heart with his melodic symphony of affection.

Zorro will do best in an environment where patience and plenty of love are abundant. His progression from a shy feline to an endearing companion makes him a truly rewarding pet to welcome home.

Will you be the one to offer Zorro the loving space to settle and thrive? Please fill in an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

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

DOB: 1/10/2024
Sex: Male
Breed: DSH
Colour: Tuxedo
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Untested
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors

A milestone celebration took place at Cardwell Library on Friday, the 31st of October, marking sixty years since the beginning of one of Australia’s longest-running bird counts. Titled ‘The Coming of the White Birds’, based on the documentary by the same name, the event honoured the extraordinary conservation legacy of Arthur and Margaret Thorsborne and the many volunteers who have continued their work along the North Queensland coast.

More than 150 people gathered to commemorate the Thorsbornes’ pioneering citizen science project, which has played a crucial role in protecting the Pied Imperial Pigeon and preserving its natural habitat. The Cassowary Coast Regional Council hosted the event, recognising both the Thorsborne Trust’s ongoing work and the collective dedication of local conservationists, artists, and community members.

The celebration featured presentations from guest speakers Liz Downes, Daryl Dickson, Dr John Winter, and Damon Sydes; an art exhibition by the artists of the Hinchinbrook Regional Art Association inc.; and imaginative installations of Margaret’s “White Birds” created by community members of all ages across the Cassowary Coast. Guests learned about the origins of the count and the remarkable science and conservation outcomes achieved over 60 years of monitoring. The highlight of the morning was the unveiling of a portrait of Margaret Thorsborne by artist Catherine Bone, a gift to the Cassowary Coast Regional Council that pays tribute to Margaret’s lifelong commitment to the environment.

Guests also enjoyed a screening of ‘The Coming of the White Birds’ documentary and a morning tea hosted by the Cassowary Coast Library & Museum Services team, whose careful planning and facilitation helped make the event a wonderful success. It was a fitting tribute to sixty years of citizen science and community spirit in Cardwell, with plans in place for the count to continue for many years to come.

Mandy Griffiths of Mandy's Beauty In The Bush is proving that a beautiful floral design is much more than just a bouquet: it's a story. As a fully qualified florist with a lifelong passion for the emotions flowers can express, Mandy's extensive background as a make-up artist and beauty therapist, both locally and nationally, has honed her exceptional creative expertise.

Conveniently located centrally in Ingham, Mandy brings her unique talent for blending creativity and a compassionate approach to ensure every design, whether for birthdays, weddings, corporate functions, or gifting, truly understands and reflects the client's needs.

A particular specialism is bespoke funeral tributes, where Mandy crafts arrangements to genuinely honour and reflect a loved one's tale. Furthermore, Mandy is deeply invested in the community; she is a proud supporter and sponsor of local events. Her floral designs are blooming reminders that every season in life deserves to be honoured with beauty and grace.

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) enjoyed a spooky twist on their Seniors Morning Coffee Club this week, celebrating Halloween on 24th October. The morning also included a special birthday celebration for October, with warm wishes to Joan Oldham — happy birthday, Joan!

Attendees enjoyed a morning filled with Halloween-themed decorations, a few festive costumes, and plenty of laughter. Fun activities included a Halloween trivia challenge and several rounds of Bingo, making it a fantastic morning shared with wonderful company.

The next Coffee Morning will be held on Thursday, 7th November. Anyone interested in joining in can contact Desley at the HUB for more details on (07) 4776 1822.

On 26th October, the ladies at the Cardwell RSL were first in line to enjoy selections from the extensive buffet salad bar during on of the RSL's delightful Sunday BBQ lunch sessions. Among the guests were members of the National Servicemen’s Association, who had travelled from the Atherton Tablelands, Cairns, and Townsville for their annual gathering.

The National Servicemen, conscripted into the Australian Army between 1951–1959 and 1964–1972, undertook the same training as Regular soldiers for a compulsory period. Around 20,000 of these “Nashos” saw active service in the Vietnam War, and their contribution to Australia’s defence remains deeply respected.

Though many of the attendees were in their eighties, the camaraderie among the group was evident. The strong bonds forged during their service continue to remain incredibly strong, a testament to the shared experiences that have stood the test of time.

Ingham locals know that the best kind of café is one that feeds both the body and the soul, and that’s exactly what Fiori With Love does so well. This Ingham floral café has become a local treasure where great food meets stunning blooms in perfect harmony.

From the moment you step inside, the scent of fresh coffee mingles with the fragrance of flowers, setting the tone for a truly sensory experience. The café menu is full of wholesome, home-style fare that celebrates simplicity done well. Expect breakfasts, fresh juices, toasted sandwiches, and indulgent cakes, all made with care in-house and served with a smile. Their coffee, rich and smooth, has earned a loyal following among locals who drop by for their morning pick-me-up or a slow afternoon chat among the flowers.

The display cabinet is always stocked with something inviting and worth a peek: house-baked slices, muffins, tartlets, and of course, cakes, that feel just like home. With vegetarian and gluten-free choices available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Adding to the charm is the setting itself. Fiori With Love doubles as a florist, so diners are treated to the sights and scents of seasonal greenery. It’s the kind of place where you can sip your latte while watching fresh bouquets being made just a few metres away.

Whether you’re meeting a friend for brunch, grabbing a takeaway coffee, or choosing flowers for someone special, Fiori With Love offers a taste of Ingham hospitality at its most heartfelt. With a little slice of beauty served on a plate and wrapped in petals. Reach out to Louise at 0407 166 186 to book a table or email louise@fioriwithlove.com.au, and enjoy something beautiful.

With Barnes Sewing Centre

You can get everything for this project at Barnes Sewing Centre on 16 Lannercost St, Ingham. Pop in and see the cute Christmas patterns in stock!

Difficulty: Easy | Time: 30–45 minutes

What You’ll Need:
Christmas-themed cotton fabric (30cm–50cm, depending on bag size)
Ribbon or twine for ties
Scissors or rotary cutter
Sewing machine or needle and thread
Pins or clips
Iron (optional)

Cut your fabric: A good starting size is 30cm wide by 40cm tall. Cut two equal rectangles.

Place right sides together: Pin or clip the fabric pieces together with the right sides facing each other.

Sew around the edges: Stitch along both sides and the bottom, leaving the top edge open. Use a 1cm seam allowance.

Finish the top edge: Fold the top edge down twice (about 1.5cm each fold) to hide the raw edges. Press flat, then stitch along to create a clean hem.

Add ribbon ties: You can either stitch a ribbon directly on opposite sides of the top edge for easy ties, or thread the ribbon through the top edge and leave two slits open for a draw-string effect.

Turn right side out: Flip your bag so the pattern side of the fabric is showing. Add your gifts, tie it up, and you’re done!

Variations: Add embroidered names or decorations to make each sack personal. Make several in different sizes for a matching set! This project also works for those who want to skip the tape and wrapping - it works as reusable gift bags you could pop under the tree every year.

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The Christmas countdown is on, and there’s no better time to refresh your summer wardrobe than at I Love Boutique in Ingham. With the North Queensland sun blazing down, the boutique is brimming with breezy styles that keep you cool while looking effortlessly chic.

For the ladies, lightweight dresses, playful minis and flowing long styles are perfect for sun-drenched days and balmy evenings. Bold prints and soft, breathable fabrics capture the spirit of the coast, while relaxed silhouettes ensure comfort without compromising on style. Pieces like the crinkle cotton dresses or boutique-exclusive statement dresses strike the perfect balance between festive flair and everyday wearability.

The boutique hasn’t forgotten the little ones either. They have bath bombs, cute jewellery pieces like beaded necklaces and crystal bracelets, stylish shoes and funky hats, making for fun and fashionable Christmas gift ideas.

I Love Boutique also offers gift-ready items to delight friends or loved ones this festive season. Accessories, sunhats and jewellery complement the summer wardrobe, providing thoughtful, on-trend gift options.

What makes the boutique truly special is the way it blends style with practicality. Each piece has been chosen to suit the coastal summer heat, offering comfort, colour and character for every occasion. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, your children or someone special, I Love Boutique is your go-to destination for fresh summer styles, festive flair and a little bit of coastal magic, all just in time for Christmas!

Follow their socials for sales and style updates at iloveboutiqueingham on Facebook and Instagram!

If you’re searching for a place where the rainforest meets the reef, where waterfalls tumble from misty peaks and white sand beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, then look no further than Hinchinbrook Island National Park.

Just a hop, skip and a jump from your own backyard, off the coast between Cardwell and Lucinda, this rugged island wilderness is one of the country’s largest island national parks and a true gem of Tropical North Queensland. Known as Munamudanamy by the Bandjin and Girramay Traditional Owners, Hinchinbrook’s spectacular landscapes are rich in cultural and environmental significance.

Protected since 1932, the island spans nearly 40,000 hectares and lies within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Its diverse habitats range from mangrove-lined estuaries and paperbark wetlands to eucalypt forests and mountain ridges often cloaked in cloud. Dugongs, turtles, and countless bird species call these waters home, while the island’s mangrove forests remain some of the most varied in Australia.

But Hinchinbrook isn’t a resort island, it’s an adventure! With no hotels, cars, or crowds, visitors come to experience nature at its rawest, with camping the only way to stay overnight, ensuring a true wilderness escape for hikers, kayakers, and nature lovers.

The island’s crown jewel is the Thorsborne Trail, a 32-kilometre trek named after local conservationists Margaret and Arthur Thorsborne. Recognised worldwide for its untouched beauty, the trail takes around four days to complete and winds through rainforests, waterfalls, and pristine beaches. Only 40 hikers are allowed on the trail at any time to preserve its delicate ecosystems, so booking well in advance is essential.

If a shorter adventure is what you’re after, guided day tours and scenic cruises offer a glimpse into Hinchinbrook’s breathtaking terrain! Visitors can explore Zoe Bay, Mulligan Falls, or Ramsay Bay, where the rainforest meets the ocean, and marine life such as dolphins and dugongs can often be spotted.

While Hinchinbrook’s beauty is undeniable, visitors are reminded to tread lightly, leave nothing behind, take all rubbish with you, and help protect this precious island for future generations. Campers should come prepared and be aware of seasonal closures, crocodile warnings, and marine stingers during the warmer months between November and April.

Whether by foot, kayak, or boat, a journey to Hinchinbrook Island National Park is a journey back to nature which will be nothing short of wild, remote, and unforgettable!

To keep up to date with park alerts, trail bookings, and safety advice, visit the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service website at www.queensland.com/us/en/places-to-see/experiences/islands/explore-hinchinbrook-island.