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.
Read the full story
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.
Read the full story
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.
Read the full story
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."
Read the full story
.JPG)
The real estate market at Forrest Beach remains quite fluid compared to the slowing of the market seen in the Southeast of the state. Venables Real Estate is still receiving many out-of-town enquiries from both investors and buyers looking to move to the area. There is a good mix of retirees and young families, as well as professionals looking to live in the friendly coastal community. Many feel that the area is a safe and welcoming community to either raise their family or retire to.
The owner of Venables Real Estate said a safe community is a huge reason why Forrest Beach is so popular.
“Being safe is a huge thing, especially for families and children growing up, but also with people on their own, or older people. Having a safe community in which to live is a major point in why they would stay.”
During COVID Venables Real Estate saw a positive impact on the real estate market at Forrest Beach with the median house price increasing to $360,000 (an increase of $120,000 over the past four years) and land valuations increasing across the region. Modern, low-set, concrete block homes are still in high demand, and they have a waiting list of buyers wanting to move to the area.
Increased interest from interstate investors is having a positive impact on Venables Real Estate. Mary said it allows for additional rental properties to be added to their listings.
Mary also said that the days of buyers looking for renovation projects are over.
“Many of our clients are looking for homes that they can walk in and put their feet up,” she said.
“Properties with renovated kitchens and bathrooms are seen favourably by buyers, as it reflects value for money; whilst large garages with high vehicle access are highly sought after for boat and caravan storage.
“Above all, buyers are looking to escape the flashy tourist beaches like the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Airlie Beach or Port Douglas. They enjoy the relaxed, friendly community and the pristine beach that Forrest Beach has to offer, while still being able to access all of the necessary amenities.”
Contributed with thanks to Venables Real Estate
.jpeg)
Ingham’s Australian Air Force Cadet (AAFC) 103 Squadron resumes this Friday 31st January and Flight Lieutenant and Commanding Officer (CO) Rodger Bow is looking forward to another year.
Rodger Bow has been with the 103 Squadron for 36 years and what keeps him coming back is the working with the cadets and seeing them grow up and mature.
With the Air Force Cadets, cadets learn a wide variety of skills.
“They learn field craft which includes putting up tents, building fires and camping activities, we are now into drone technology, so cadets build drones and fly the drones,” said CO Rodger Bow.
“But it’s all about discipline, the AAFC are the primary youth organisation in Australia and disciplines part of it.”
Cadets also learn skills in the classroom too and last year the 103 Squadron implemented a new curriculum, and CO Rodger Bow said it includes everything.
AAFC is not just learning in the classroom; they get to use those skills on bivouacs.
“We join up with Townsville, Charters Towers and Ayr and we go to a scout camp down in Bluewater. Or we go out to Macrossan Training Area at Charters Towers.
“They live in tents while they are there, they sleep on the ground in their sleeping bag.
“Also, once a year we go to Ayr for a weekend of firearms training. Cadets shoot .22 Calibre Rifles and the best part is they're trained to shoot load, clear the weapons and things like that, they are taught properly.”
To become a part of the Australian Air Force Cadets you must be 13, or be turning 13 before the 31st December 2025.
The AAFC runs every Friday night 6.30pm – 10.30pm during school terms, and fees cost $160 a year for the first year, but following that $100, all uniform is included.
The 103 Squadron are currently recruiting up until the 31st March, and CO Rodger Bow encourages any that are thinking of signing up, to come and have a tour of the squadron.
Location: Ingham Airport Entrance, Townsville Road, Ingham, QLD, 4850
Apply online: https://www.airforcecadets.gov.au/how-to-join/wings/1-wing-aafc-nth-qld/103-squadron-ingham
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre has extended a warm invitation to locals with a love for both caffeine and socialisation to attend Chat Room!
A newly introduced group working to connect the community, Chat Room meets every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30am to 10:30am at 52 Mcilwraith Street, Ingham. In the interest of making connecting with neighbours easier, the event does not require registration or signups – instead, community members are encouraged to drop in within the hour and have a cuppa!
“The aim of these groups is fostering social connectedness for adults,” shared the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre.
What: Chat Room
When: every Tuesday and Thursday, 9:30am to 10:30am
Where: 52 Mcilwraith Street, Ingham
More Information: call 4776 1822 or email communitysupport@hcsc.org.au
Losing a beloved pet can be a stressful experience, but the Hinchinbrook Shire Council is here to help. The Council’s pound provides a safe, temporary haven for impounded animals and offers clear steps for owners to reclaim their pets.
Owners have three to five working days to collect their animals, depending on registration and microchipping requirements. If unclaimed, these animals become available for rehoming after 2pm on their exit date with the full list of currently impounded animals available online at www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/community-environment/pets-and-animals/impounded-animals/.
Want to give a pet a forever home? You can register your interest in rehoming with the Council before noon on the exit date. Adopting a pet requires completing a simple application and paying a registration fee.
To report a lost or found animal, contact the Council by calling 4776 4600 or emailing council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.
Vixen, a beautiful 15-month-old dog, has been patiently waiting for her forever home for over 400 days. This energetic and loving girl, weighing in at 25kgs, is ready to fill your life with joy and excitement. With her tall and agile frame, Vixen is the perfect companion for an active household that can match her spirited enthusiasm for toys, long walks, and playful activities.
A social dog, Vixen thrives on human interaction and loves to explore her surroundings. After burning off some energy with a few zoomies, she’s happy to curl up for a cozy cuddle session, making her the ultimate companion for those who appreciate both adventure and relaxation.
After such a long wait, it’s time for Vixen to find the loving home she deserves. While she may show initial excitement during a meet, with the right guidance, she’ll quickly settle in and provide endless love and loyalty in return. If you’re looking for an active, loving, and snuggly addition to your family, Vixen is the one! Come meet her and see why she’s ready to be the perfect fit for your home. Let’s make sure her wait is finally over!
To meet Vixen, please fill out a DOG and PUPPY Animal enquiry form with Angel-Paws at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
Vixen's adoption fee is $300 and she will join your home DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, with up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated and on PROHEART
Adoption Details:
DOB: 12/07/2023
Sex: Female
Breed: Bullarab x
Kid friendly: Yes - Older
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes - Very slow introduction
Fences: 6ft
BIN: BIN0000268254643
Who would like a cuppa? The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre’s regular Seniors Morning Tea events continue to provide elderly residents with a friendly, welcoming environment to socialise and build new connections.
Held every second Friday from 9:30am to 11:30am at the Support Centre located at 71 Townsville Road, the morning often stages a guest speaker as well as plenty of games and an enjoyable morning tea for just $3 per person. The Support Centre also offers transportation to the event around Ingham who may struggle to make their own way.
As spaces are limited, RSVPs are required and can be made through calling 4776 1822.
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre runs with the dedicated help and support of 40 registered volunteers who serve at both the Seniors Morning Tea event and many other of the centre’s wonderful activities.
What: Seniors Morning Tea
When: every second Friday, 9:30am to 11:30am
Where: Support Centre, 71 Townsville Road
More Information: call 4776 1822 or email communitysupport@hcsc.org.au
As part of the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, the Men’s Social Group will host a selection of regular activities within the community, including one set for this Tuesday, the 28th of January.
A FREE excursion bus will depart from the Support Centre located at 71 Townsville Road and will travel to Cardwell with stops scheduled for the Historic Telegraph, and the Post Office before arriving at the SeaView Café for a bite to eat and then heading home to Ingham.
“Are you a man over 60 or 55 if you identify as ATSI, looking for a place to belong, connect and share good times?” shared Hinchinbrook Community Support.
“Whether you’re feeling socially isolated or simply seeking a supportive and welcoming environment, we offer a space to meet other men, enjoy meaningful conversations, and participate in fun activities.”
To access additional details on how to register for the excursion, please reach out to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre on 4776 1822 or email communitysupport@hcsc.org.au.
What: Men’s Social Group Cardwell Excursion
When: Tuesday the 28th of January
Where: meet at the Support Centre, 71 Townsville Road
More Information: call 4776 1822 or email communitysupport@hcsc.org.au
As announced last November, the commencement of physical dredging operations for Port Hinchinbrook’s One Mile Creek officially began on Monday the 6th of January 2025 to enhance the local waterway.
Approximately 990 tonnes of material will be removed from the area and a 100m exclusion zone has been outlined around the site to ensure the safety of all water users and the stabilisation of the batter slopes and the seabed.
Although the Port Hinchinbrook Boat Ramp will be closed during the physical dredging period, the Cassowary Coast Regional Council encourages residents to utilise alternative boat ramp locations at Marine Parade, Menunga Creek or Fishers Creek.
Weather pending, the works will be completed before Saturday the 1st of February with working periods dependent on tidal variations.
.jpg)
The construction of the Taylors Beach revetment wall officially began Monday the 13th of January, with completion expected by Monday, the 24th of March. This important project will help protect the local coastline and improve the area’s resilience to coastal erosion.
As part of the works, the foreshore playground and surrounding area will be temporarily closed to the public for safety reasons. Residents and visitors are advised to follow any signage or instructions provided by the contractors working on-site.
Council acknowledges the disruption this may cause and appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation during the construction period. The finished revetment wall will significantly enhance the long-term stability and safety of Taylors Beach, benefiting both residents and visitors to the area. Further updates will be provided as necessary.
Council thanks everyone for their understanding and support during this essential work.
.jpeg)
Hi everyone,
I hope you all had a great week.
Many of us find ourselves in a creative slump from time to time, and last week was one of those weeks for me. I spent a lot of time searching for inspiration—scrolling through Facebook for story ideas—but when content was scarce, it was easy to feel disheartened and lose momentum.
Thankfully, this week I sought advice from Mark at our sister paper, Burdekin Life. Mark offered some fantastic suggestions, like focusing on transcribing quotes from interviews early in the writing process and ensuring article photos are uploaded while drafting. These small steps helped me build momentum and maintain motivation. Thank you, Mark, for the wisdom—it’s made a huge difference!
On the personal front, balancing my Whitsundays rental commitments while living here in Hinchinbrook has been a challenge. I’m still paying rent for my place in the Whitsundays due to an agreement with the landlord, and while I’ve tried subletting, I haven’t had any luck yet. If you know anyone who might be looking for a place in the Whitsundays, I’d love to hear from you! Meanwhile, I’m grateful to Ruth from Whitsunday Life, who kindly created a budgeting spreadsheet to help me manage my finances better. Ruth, your support means the world—thank you.
I’m reminded every week how fortunate I am to work alongside such an incredible team. While I often hear how much people love the paper, it’s truly a group effort. Every member of our team contributes to making this a newspaper that reflects the heart of our Hinchinbrook community.
This paper is as much yours as it is ours, and I’d love to hear from you—whether it’s ideas for stories, events to highlight, or feedback on how we can improve. Let’s continue to grow this publication together, making it bigger, better, and an even greater celebration of our community.
Quote of the week
Take nothing but pictures, kill nothing but time
Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club lifesavers Darius and Chris have become a part of a vital and historical moment in surf life saving.
On Wednesday 15 January Surf Life Saving Queensland received artwork from Darius and Chris.
Surf Life Saving Queensland posted on Facebook about the moment.
“Yesterday [Wednesday 15 January], we had the privilege of receiving the incredible artwork from talented First Nations artists Christopher Ketchup and Darius Lewin-Pearson,” the post said.
“Every symbol in this piece is a tribute to the rich traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“Christopher Ketchup and Darius Lewin-Pearson, from St Teresa’s College Abergowrie, bring Queensland’s First Nations artistry to life, sharing their deep connection to land and water.
“Their work carries forward generations of storytelling and visually represents SLSQ’s commitment to protecting Queensland’s coasts and honouring the custodianship of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples over these lands and waters.”
The artwork is set to be digitalised and will feature in various Surf Life Saving Queensland platforms, hoping to inspire a sense of belonging across the organisation and the communities they serve.
The short-term dredging project at the Cardwell and One Mile Creek Boat Ramp in Port Hinchinbrook, is finally underway. This emergency dredging project, managed by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council (CCRC), has been made possible through $1.5 million in federal funding.
I recently attended the site and met with Glen Black of AMA Marine Coastal Services, the contractor carrying out the project. Despite a few small mechanical and environmental hiccups, the project was progressing as planned and it has been estimated that works should be completed in approximately four weeks.
Although this dredging project won’t restore all tidal access it was the option the CCRC decided to go with as dredging under 1000 cubic meters required less stringent environmental approvals from the State.
While this dredging work addresses some of the immediate navigational challenges at the boat ramp, I remain focused on the bigger picture of a long-term solution for Port Hinchinbrook. My vision is for Cardwell and Port Hinchinbrook to once again thrive as a premier destination on the Cassowary Coast.
Through ongoing discussions with Economic Development Queensland and the new LNP government, the goal is to see the Port Hinchinbrook remediated into a saleable asset with a robust governance framework in place. This would ensure the entire area can thrive, providing benefits for all stakeholders.
It's important to celebrate the successes of Port Hinchinbrook as they occur, and this includes the recent opening of the Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP). This milestone marks a key achievement in the overall normalisation process of Port Hinchinbrook. With this critical infrastructure in place, we are one step closer to ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of the entire Cardwell region and the surrounding communities.
Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook
As temperatures soar across the state, it's essential to take extra care of our furry, feathered, and scaly companions this summer. In accordance with the guidelines set out by the RSPCA Queensland, we have put together some important tips to keep your pets cool, comfortable, and safe in the heat.
DOGS
Dogs don’t sweat like humans, so they rely on panting and finding cool spots to regulate their body temperature. High humidity and heat can make this process less efficient, so always ensure your dog has access to fresh water.
Outside your home, make sure to provide plenty of shade, and avoid leaving your pups in confined hot areas like doghouses, however, in extreme heat, it’s best to keep your pets indoors in a well-ventilated space.
You can also create cool spots for your pets to lay by dampening their bed, using cool mats available in pet stores, or setting up a small kiddie pool in a shaded area. Another fun way to beat the heat is by making homemade frozen treats or ‘pupsicles’ to keep them entertained and cool.
It’s essential to remember to never leave your pet in a car during hot weather as it can be fatal, and always be mindful of heat stress symptoms, such as excessive panting or salivation.
CATS
Cats also need extra care during the heat, and simple tasks like keeping their water in a cool, shaded area and offering a fan or damp towels for them to lay on will go a long way.
SMALLER PETS
Guinea pigs and birds are also vulnerable to heat stress, and it’s highly beneficial to ensure they have plenty of fresh water, shade, and cool surfaces to rest on. For fish, monitor the water temperature closely, and for larger livestock, make sure they also always have access to shade and water.
In taking these simple steps, you can help ensure that your pets stay safe, comfortable, and healthy during the summer months. Remember to always monitor for signs of heat stress, and don’t hesitate to seek veterinary assistance if needed. Visit www.rspcaqld.org.au for more tips on how to keep your pets chill this summer.
This Australia Day, let’s raise a cold one to our Aussie spirit and celebrate in style at the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL Ingham!
Escape the heat and dive into the community vibe with a free sausage sizzle lunch, served from 12pm to 3pm. Whether you're catching up with mates or spending time with family, there's plenty to enjoy all day long.
And that’s not all – get ready for a cracking raffle with top-notch prizes. You could be the lucky winner of one of five delicious meat trays, or even a VB esky! It’s the perfect chance to grab something special while supporting your local RSL.
Adding to the lively atmosphere, musician Kevin Spencer will provide entertainment, delivering a fantastic soundtrack to keep the celebration vibrant and memorable.
The Herbert River RSL will operate on its usual Sunday hours for the day, opening its doors at 10 am and closing at 6 pm. Please note that although there is a free sausage sizzle, there will be no lunch or dinner service from the restaurant on this day.
Make your Australia Day one to remember by joining in the festivities at the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL Ingham. With great food, music, and prizes, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the national holiday indoors with good company.
Bring your family along and head to the Herbert River RSL to enjoy an afternoon full of Aussie pride and community spirit!
.jpg)
Excitement is building as the 2025 Hinchinbrook Australia Day Awards approaches, set to take place this Friday, the 24th of January, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall. One of the evening's most anticipated moments will be the announcement of the Shire Citizen Award, an honour recognising outstanding community contribution. This year's nominees exemplify dedication, passion, and service to the region.
The nominees for the 2025 Shire Citizen Award are: Yvonne Bosworth, Tammy Collins, Piera Delroy, Alan Giles, Natalie Hulett, Keith Phillips, Rita Phillips, and Helen Stanton. Each nominee has demonstrated remarkable commitment to improving the lives of those around them.
In addition to the Shire Citizen Award, the 2025 Hinchinbrook Australia Day Awards will feature several other categories, recognising achievements in sports, culture, and community engagement. The full list of categories includes:
• Junior Sports Award
• Senior Sports Award
• Junior Cultural Award
• Senior Cultural Award
• Individual Achievement Award
• Community Event of the Year Award
• Shire Young Citizen Award
Congratulations to all nominees for their exceptional contributions, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements this Friday!
.jpeg)
Mirusia Louwerse is a world-renowned soprano and entertainer, celebrated for her 18-year global career spanning operas, musicals, oratorios and concerts. At 21, she became the youngest recipient of the prestigious Dame Joan Sutherland Opera Award, launching her international career as the star soprano with Andre Rieu and the Johann Strauss Orchestra.
“It is an honour to welcome Mirusia, an extraordinary ambassador of Australian talent, to Hinchinbrook for our 2025 Australia Day celebrations. Her remarkable career and inspiring achievements embody the spirit of excellence and resilience we hold dear. We look forward to her joining us for this special occasion,” declared Councillor Marbelli.
The Australia Day Ambassador Program is one of the longest-running and most successful national Australia Day programs, sending high-achieving Australians to over 300 community celebrations nationwide every Australia Day. Ambassadors are past recipients of the Australian of the Year Awards, sportspeople, scientists, businesspeople, actors and community workers who contributed greatly to the community.
Mirusia will be present at the Australia Day award presentations and celebrations. Australia Day is about so much more than the events of the one day – it is about who we are as a nation and what we aspire to be.
Mirusia will return to Ingham to grace our community with her extraordinary talent when she performs at the JL Kelly Theatre on 15 March 2025, promising an unforgettable evening of world-class entertainment.
2025 Hinchinbrook Australia Day Award Nominees
This annual celebration highlights the remarkable individuals and events that make the Hinchinbrook Shire such a vibrant and thriving community. The nominees for the Shire Citizen Award have been recognised for their outstanding contributions in various fields, from volunteer work and community service to arts and sports.
Shire Citizen Award
• Yvonne Bosworth – Recognised for her community leadership as Manager of Canegrowers Mitre 10, mentoring school trainees, volunteering at school events, and organising successful fundraisers for the McGrath Foundation. Yvonne has also made contributions to the Ingham Football Club and Ingham State High P&C.
• Tammy Collins – Honoured for her extensive volunteer fundraising for charities, including significant efforts supporting the Palliative Carers Committee. Her boundless energy and generosity have left a lasting impact.
• Piera Delroy – Celebrated for decades of volunteering, including roles with the Australian-Italian Festival and Ingham Palliative Care. Piera’s dedication to community events and support exemplifies selfless service.
• Alan Giles – Recognised for 20+ years with the Ingham Theatre Group, directing standout productions and coordinating community performances, spreading joy through the arts.
• Natalie Hulett – Acknowledged for her volunteer work with Audrey’s Angels of Hope, Hinchinbrook Blue Light, and PCYC Emergency Cadets, where she introduced Blue Light Care Bears to support hospital patients.
• Keith Phillips – Honoured for his vital role with the Lower Herbert Halifax Lions Club, contributing expertise and resources to community projects like the Seniors Centre and Meals on Wheels.
• Rita Phillips – Celebrated for her dedication to Meals on Wheels and the Anglican Church, including coordinating volunteers, finances, and redevelopment of facilities, alongside her community ministry work.
• Helen Stanton – Recognised for her contributions to the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club and gymnastics, including coaching, event coordination, and securing funding to support local sports programs.
Shire Young Citizen Award
• Coen Luxford – Nominated for his participation as a drummer at all local ANZAC Day parades, rain or shine. He also participates with the Ingham Theatre Group when possible. Coen served as Junior Sports Captain and is now Senior School Captain at Ingham State High School. In 2024, he represented the Hinchinbrook Electorate at the Queensland Youth Parliament, attending Parliament House on several occasions.
Good luck to all nominees for the Shire Citizen Award and all other categories! The celebration doesn’t stop there, as several more awards are up for grabs:
Junior Sports Award
• Liam Fascetti
• Jack Larsen
• Brax Roveda
Senior Sports Award
• Ally Rhodes
Junior Cultural Award
• Coen Luxford
• Kaitlyn Rapista
Senior Cultural Award
• Alan Giles
Individual Achievement Award
• Piera Delroy
• Bridgette Duffy
• Alan Giles
• Natalie Hulett
• Coen Luxford
• Rita Phillips
• Helen Stanton
Community Event of the Year Award
• Dean Schifilliti Shield (Herbert River Junior Rugby League)
• 'Mystery on the Orient Express' – Ingham Theatre Group
• Palm Creek Parkrun
• Rootbound Festival
• Safer Families Event 2024 – Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre
.jpeg)
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes. Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Ltd.
