Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.
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There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.
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Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.
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The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."
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Cardiovascular disease touches more than four million Australians and remains the leading cause of death across the country with the disease claiming 51 lives every day – killing one Australian every 30 minutes.
Heart Research Australia has concluded maintaining a healthy heart can also help protect the brain, cognitive function, and memory and reduce the risk of age-related conditions like dementia, with research highlighting the intimate connection heart and brain health share.
“The brain relies on a steady supply of blood from the heart,” says Clinical Neuropsychologist Dr Miranda Say.
“Conditions like high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can disrupt blood flow, increasing the risk of stroke and cognitive decline, including dementia.”
As recorded in 2024, over 421,000 Australians are living with dementia, and with the figure projected to double by 2054, vascular dementia and its link to cardiovascular health is becoming a growing concern.
In recognition of Heart Research Australia’s Heart Awareness Month, also known as REDFEB, Australians have been urged to come together and take action to safeguard both their heart and brain health to effectively reduce the alarming nationwide statistics.
Heart Research Australia’s CEO, Nicci Dent, has outlined the importance of taking proactive steps now.
“Prioritising heart health isn’t just about preventing heart attacks—it’s also about safeguarding your brain health and reducing your future risk of cognitive decline, including dementia,” she said.
“The message is simple, what’s good for your heart health is also good for your brain health.”
As part of REDFEB, Heart Research Australia encourages Australians to take small, simple steps to benefit both their heart and brain health in the areas of meals, movement, measurement and mental wellness. For further information on REDFEB, visit www.heartresearch.com.au.
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Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods in Ingham is anything but your typical pharmacy. With exciting changes ahead, they’re set to offer a range of services that go beyond the usual prescriptions.
In 2025, they’ll be recognised as a Queensland Full Scope Community Pharmacy involved in the Queensland Health pilot. Enabling them specially training pharmacists to provide consultations and even prescribe treatments for specific range of conditions.
Owner Brenden Seri believes this new service will be a game-changer for the local community, providing accessible care for a variety of conditions.
“The consultations will cover things like earaches, shingles, and school sores, and they will be offered at a fee-for-service basis—it’s not bulk-billed or anything like that,” Brenden explained.
“We will be able to autonomously prescribe, within a set of guidelines, and I think it's only going to add to better health outcomes for the community, because we should also be able to refer the cases that need doctor or hospital in a more timely manner, resulting in better treatment.”
The new consultations will bring something fresh to the community, further enhancing the unique services Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods in Ingham already provides.
In 2021, Brenden and business partner Atlanta Knuth took on the Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods brand, expanding their offerings to include Healthfoods.
“We can offer advice and provide a range of products that complement medicines, taking this pharmacy beyond just somewhere to pick up your prescriptions. Now, you can come and shop the awesome range,” said Brenden.
“You can make healthy choices and get your organic items. If you have seen our fridges and freezer section, do yourself a favour and do that as soon as possible—it’s something Ingham didn’t really have. If we don’t have your favourite product ask the staff our available via our suppliers in over 12000 health food items and growing every month.”
“We have lots of cafés, and plenty of options for food, but we didn’t have many options when it came to health food shopping.”
Please see page 7 for their ad and contact details.
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Happy New Year Hinchinbrook, I cannot believe that Christmas and New Years have come and gone. I hope everyone had the time and opportunity to catch up with family and friends where possible.
For myself, I did manage to spend time with family and enjoy the great natural assets Hinchinbrook Shire has to offer with them.
I look forward to continuing my work with the Councillors and Staff in 2025, ensuring that the projects from the current financial year progress smoothly toward successful completion.
With Australia Day not far away, whether you’re a local or visiting the area, the Hinchinbrook Shire is the perfect place to celebrate. Enjoy a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure and community spirit.
For an up-to-date list of events, you can check out the Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Community Events Calendar on our website. The Council Australia Day Awards Ceremony will kick off the weekend on Friday night, with the Fuller Family Golf Day and Australia Day Pool Party organised for Sunday.
On a more serious note, disasters can be a frequent occurrence during the wet season. If you are new to the area, be sure to visit Council’s Disaster Information page to gain a better understanding and access valuable links to vital information to assist you to Plan and Prepare for disasters. 'Opt-In' to the Disaster Dashboard for crucial updates, tips and links. As a Local Area Warden for the Local Disaster Management Group, I understand the need to provide valuable assistance in response to a natural disaster for the Cordelia area. I can't stress enough the need to be informed and to plan and prepare well in advance of the wet season commencing.
Once again, it’s great to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and explore the highlights of what has happened and what’s ahead for our Shire.
Have a great 2025, thank you.
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Situated near the southern end of World Heritage-listed Hinchinbrook Island, the Lucinda Bulk Sugar Terminal boasts the longest service jetty in the Southern Hemisphere.
Constructed in 1979, the jetty extends 5.76 kilometres into the Coral Sea. Supported by over 660 concrete and steel pylons, the jetty is nothing short of an engineering masterpiece, where its design accounts for the earth's curvature, resulting in a 2-metre difference in height between its two ends.
It is a bulk sugar loading facility, transporting raw sugar from the Lucinda Bulk Sugar Terminal to large shipping vessels anchored offshore. Sugar takes 22 minutes to travel along the conveyor from the terminal on-shore storage to the ship loader.
I would like your opinion on an issue that arises every wet season, resulting in persuasive argument both for and against, and that is whether the Minor Flood Level classifications in the Herbert River should be changed to a higher level.
Minor flooding is defined as ‘causes inconvenience’. Low lying areas next to watercourses are inundated which may require the removal of stock and equipment. Minor roads may be closed and low-level bridges submerged.
With the exception of the Dalrymple Bridge on Hawkins Creek Road, no inconvenience is caused anywhere along the Lower Herbert River at current minor flood level classifications. As an example, let’s look at the Abergowrie Bridge where the minor flood level is 6 metres.
The argument is that this criteria is not met at a river height of 6 metres, it comes into play at around the 8-9 metre mark. The argument is that issuing the periodic notices and advanced warnings at 6 metres, when no inconvenience is occurring, causes people to ignore the warnings and to become complacent.
There have been 17 instances since January 2020 where the Minor Flood Level has been exceeded at Abergowrie Bridge. Of these, 5 went on to rise further to moderate level.
Last year (2024) we recorded 7 exceedances of minor, with only one going on to exceed moderate.
On the other side of the coin, the argument is that you can never get enough notice of potential flooding. It is also argued that the river, in some instances, can rise very rapidly between minor and major and increasing the minor level may result in insufficient or inadequate notice on some occasions.
Do you have a view? If so, we would like to hear it. Please email Council on council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au at your convenience.
Cane toads remain a persistent menace in Queensland, and with their breeding season in full swing, the Great Cane Toad Bust is back.
This nationwide effort, running from January 18–26, 2025, invites communities to join the fight against this invasive species. Last year, more than 50,000 toads were removed, and organisers hope to surpass that figure this year.
These unwelcome amphibians, introduced in 1935 to combat sugarcane beetles, have wreaked havoc on native ecosystems. Cane toads can live up to 10 years, and a single female can lay an astonishing 30,000 eggs at once. Their toxic glands, lethal to predators, make them a dire threat to wildlife. Combined with their ability to consume almost anything, they’ve become one of the most destructive forces in Australia’s environment.
The Great Toad Bust encourages participants to trap and humanely euthanise toads, using methods outlined in free info packs from Watergum. Specialised traps can eliminate up to 47% of local populations. It’s crucial, however, to avoid mistaking native frogs, such as the Giant Frog (Cyclorana australis), for cane toads.
On the cultural front, Bob Katter has renewed his call for kids to become cane toad bounty hunters. He advocates for low-powered air rifles and 50-cent rewards per toad. Speaking on Tony Armstrong’s Eat the Invaders, Katter argued that this approach could engage communities while tackling the problem.
As part of the show, Katter dined at Tasmania’s Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), known for its daring experiments with invasive species cuisine. Initially believing he was eating cane toad legs, Katter was served sugarcane pheasant (chicken) paired with invasive Indian myna bird. MONA’s executive chef, Vince Trim, clarified that scientists have ruled out cane toads as safe for consumption due to their toxicity.
MONA’s “Eat the Problem” philosophy stems from the 2019 release of Kirsha Kaechele’s deluxe food and art book, which champions creative solutions for addressing environmental issues. Instead of relying on heavily farmed meats, MONA’s menus highlight feral and abundant species like wallaby, deer, and rabbit. By transforming these invasive species into gourmet dishes, MONA aims to reduce their environmental impact while challenging conventional dining norms.
“The scale of the food operation at MONA is mammoth,” Trim explained. “Eat the Problem forced us to ask why we’re serving farmed meats that can negatively affect the environment while valuable resources like pests are being culled and left to waste.”
From wild-harvested venison to sea-urchin cocktails, the initiative turns ecological challenges into innovative dining experiences.
“Magpies eat cane toads,” Katter said, doubling down on his push for grassroots action to combat the pest.
With the breeding season upon us, the time to act is now. Whether you’re helping local wildlife thrive or simply keeping your farm’s dam clear, join the fight.
Register for the Great Cane Toad Bust at watergum.org/greatcanetoadbust and play your part in protecting Australia’s environment!
A new venture, Oxitec Australia, is taking on two of the deadliest virus-carrying mosquitos in the Pacific region—Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus —to fight the spread of diseases like dengue, Zika, and yellow fever, which claim hundreds of thousands of lives globally each year.
Oxitec Australia is a collaboration between CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, and UK-based Oxitec Ltd, the leading developer of biological solutions to control pests.
The new venture leverages Oxitec's proven biological Friendly™ platform where genetically engineered male mosquitoes carry a self-limiting gene that ensures only non-biting males survive, reducing pest females and overall mosquito numbers through sustained releases.
Professor Brett Sutton, Director of Health & Biosecurity at CSIRO, said Oxitec Australia is now seeking partners to accelerate its activities and product development in Australia.
“Oxitec Australia offers a unique opportunity to help combat the growing threat of invasive and exotic pests, some of which are on mainland Australia’s doorstep like Aedes albopictus,” Professor Sutton said.
“Factors like climate change and growing pesticide resistance will only bring greater challenges to the health of Australians and our region via vector-borne diseases.
“By investing in new and innovative solutions that complement existing control programs, we can reduce the public health impacts of these exotic and invasive mosquito species.
“This technology platform could also be used to develop solutions for a wide spectrum of pests that threaten livestock and crops and our food systems.”
Subject to government and regulatory approvals, Oxitec Australia’s first solution will be a “just-add-water” product using the Friendly™ Aedes aegypti mosquito technology.
This innovative product allows for the rapid production of Friendly™ non-biting male mosquitoes following the addition of water.
Oxitec Australia is also developing a solution for the Aedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito) with funding from the CSIRO to help prevent a major invasion risk to mainland Australia.
The new venture is already working with local communities in the Torres Strait affected by these mosquito and dengue outbreaks. Once completed, it aims to deploy this technology in impacted regions.
Grey Frandsen, CEO of Oxitec, said, “In collaboration with Indigenous communities, leading scientific institutions, industry partners, and farmers, we’re committed to transforming how pest threats to health, food security, and ecosystems are addressed. In doing so, we aim to not only protect lives, livelihoods, and biodiversity but also empower Indigenous communities.”
Oxitec Australia is also working to address pests threatening crops, such as the fall armyworm caterpillar.
Fast facts:
Mosquitoes
• Mosquitoes in the Indo-Pacific spread diseases like malaria, dengue, and Japanese encephalitis and cause over 23,000 deaths each year.
• Globally, dengue alone infects more than 390 million people every year and threatens billions more across the tropics.
• Only female mosquitoes bite and are capable of transmitting viruses to humans.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council has taken a bold step forward in its commitment to protecting the region’s environment with the launch of the 2024-2026 Prevention and Control Program. This new initiative is designed to tackle the growing threat of invasive species, helping to preserve the Shire's unique biodiversity and ensuring the long-term health of its ecosystems.
This program marks a significant step forward in safeguarding our environment and protecting our way of life.
The biennial program will focus on preventing the entry, establishment, and spread of invasive species that pose a significant biosecurity risk throughout the Shire.
As part of this program, Council officers will provide ongoing support and expert guidance to landholders, offering advice on best practices for biosecurity management. Educational initiatives, workshops, and resources will be available to ensure everyone understands their role in managing biosecurity risks and how they can contribute to the health and resilience of the local environment.
As a community, we are committed to maintaining the unique beauty and biodiversity of our Shire. The 2024-2026 Prevention and Control Program will run until 30 September 2026.
To view the program, please visit Council’s website, Land and Pest Management page.
For further information or clarification concerning this matter, please contact Council’s Natural Assets Team on 4776 4740.
Did you know?
Singapore Daisy is a restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014.
It has the ability to quickly invade drainage systems, lawns and the natural environment, destroying its biodiversity by smothering native vegetation and pasture.
Social media has transformed the way we explore and share the natural world, but it has also had unintended consequences. Studies show that the rise of social media has contributed to habitat disturbances, impacting native species. Popular wildlife spots often experience increased visitor numbers, which can lead to habitat abandonment, changes in usage patterns, reduced breeding success, and altered feeding behaviours.
If you’re planning to photograph wildlife and share it online, here are some tips to ensure your actions contribute positively to conservation efforts:
Respect Your Surroundings
Be mindful of your environment. Avoid trampling sensitive vegetation or disrupting animals in their natural habitats. Every small action matters when it comes to preserving delicate ecosystems.
Say No to Flash Photography
When photographing nocturnal animals, avoid using flash. The sudden burst of light can startle them, disrupt their behaviours, or even lead to stress, which can have long-term impacts.
Maintain a Safe Distance
Keeping an appropriate distance from wildlife is essential to prevent causing stress or prompting animals to abandon their habitat. Use zoom lenses or binoculars to observe and capture them without interference.
Avoid Playback of Animal Calls
While it might seem like a harmless way to attract wildlife for the perfect shot, playing recorded animal calls can confuse or distress creatures. This can cause them to leave their nests or aggressively defend territory, putting them at risk.
Follow Local Regulations
Abide by local rules, including restricted access areas and opening hours. These guidelines are in place to protect both visitors and wildlife, ensuring a safe coexistence.
Queensland’s unique flora and fauna are worth celebrating, but it’s crucial to do so responsibly.
By being mindful of our actions, we can help ensure these precious environments thrive for future generations to admire.
The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism Inc. is a membership based, not-for-profit organisation that supports and advocates on behalf of the local business community. With this, comes valuable partnerships with leading organisations such as Townsville Enterprise Limited, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland, Government Bodies, Regional Development Australia Townsville North West.
Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce understand that many businesses showcase job opportunities, and they want to help you.
By using the Jobs North Queensland/ Regional Development Australia/Live North Queensland Online portals it allows businesses to reach a broader audience of people seeking employment, it is also free.
If you are a business looking to advertise a position you can follow the directions below:
• Jobs North Queensland (https://www.jobsnorthqueensland.com.au)
• Sign In/Register
• Job Seeker? Employer?
• Register your details or sign in with Facebook, Google or Apple Accounts
• Along the top menu, you’ll find “Employers” – “Post a job”
• Fill in job details as prompted – Save and Go to Preview
OR
• Employer Dashboard can also take you to “Post a Job”, and follow the above directions
• Employer Dashboard shows all the jobs you have listed, any applications made, and any AirCV’s that are selected for that job.
OR:
• Regional Development Australia (https://www.rdanwq.org.au)
• Projects
• Jobs Townsville North Queensland
• Jobs North Queensland (https://www.jobsnorthqueensland.com.au)
• And follow the directions as per above to list your job
OR:
• Live North Queensland (https://www.livetownsvillenorthqueensland.com.au) is also connected to Jobs North Queensland, so if someone clicks into “work” along the top menu bar – “Find a job in North Queensland”, it’ll take you to Jobs North Queensland and your job listing. Or there’s a side bar menu “Looking for Jobs?” – “Find out more”, and it’ll take you to Jobs North Queensland as well.
• And follow the directions as per above to list your job
The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc. wish you all the best filling your employment positions, and should you require any further assistance with any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact them through any of their platforms. New members are always very welcome and also make sure to follow them on social media.
Contributed with thanks to Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce President Mary Brown.
Market goers and stallholders alike across the Hinchinbrook region are rejoicing following the confirmed return of the infamous Ingham Up Town Markets on Saturday the 22nd of March.
The Ingham Up Town Markets have been operating for many years with the event holding a special place on the fourth Saturday of each month from March to November. Running from 8am through to midday, the event invites members from the community to browse the impressive talents of their neighbours and enjoy a memorable market outing with family, friends and four-legged companions.
Over the past year, Julie Reed has been the friendly face behind the emails, coordinating stallholders, and overseeing the monthly event’s success following Barbra Raiteri stepping down from the role in 2023.
Unlike other markets you may come across, the Ingham Up Town Markets operates with a different approach and prides itself on hosting 100% local stallholders who retail 100% handmade products.
“We’re exclusive to legitimate makers, bakers, growers and sewers who live in the shire,” explained Julie.
“We don’t allow stallholders from out of town, so these markets are just local people supporting local shops.”
Running in Lannercost Street roughly between Lee’s Hotel and Rachel Cauchi Optometrists, the markets provide additional foot traffic to surrounding retailers and being an occasional stallholder herself, Julie highlights the mutual benefits the location provides for both businesses and stallholders.
“We’re really grateful for the support from the shops that allow us to set up in front of them and the markets bring added interest to the street, and that’s the point – to liven up the street a little bit more than normal,” shared Julie.
The Ingham Up Town Markets provides a variety of talented locals with the opportunity to showcase their handmade creations with the event hosting stalls specialising in a plethora of niches including glass art, machine embroidery, wooden replicas, candles, leatherwork, plants and more.
“January is quiet with no markets so we’re looking forward to March and all the stallholders are rearing to go,” added Julie.
What: Hinchinbrook Makers and Growers’ Ingham Up Town Markets
When: The fourth Saturday of the Month from 8am to 12pm
Where: Lannercost Street, Ingham
More Information: inghamuptwosnmarket@gmail.com or call 0467 901 306
Since opening its doors in August last year, Sola the Salon has become a breath of fresh, stylish air for the Cardwell community.
As the town’s sole salon, Sola has quickly earned its place as a cherished hub of beauty and connection. Owner Tennille Capstick shared her heartfelt gratitude for the warm embrace she’s received from locals.
“Honestly, it’s been overwhelming to see just how kind and generous people are,” Tennille said.
“They’re so grateful to have a hairdresser back in Cardwell, and I’m equally grateful to be part of this beautiful community.”
At Sola the Salon, all your haircutting needs are taken care of, including ladies, men's, children’s, and Tenille’s favourite—colours.
“I have a particular interest in balayage and lived in blonde transformations. That's what I love to do,” said Tennille.
“I love seeing people's faces when you do a big transformation, something that they've never had done before, or perhaps techniques that they've not had done on them before.
“At the end, people will say, ‘I love it,’ and that’s a feel-good moment for me.”
Tennille is a born-and-bred Ingham local. After some time away, she has returned to start her family while also being close to her family, who reside here.
“We love the lifestyle as well the weather, but we love fishing and doing all those sorts of things, which we couldn’t really do where we used to live,” she said.
Tennille travelled around the country but returned to Ingham with her husband in 2020. She found herself in other jobs outside of her passion for hairdressing, but now she is happy to be back in the industry and is looking forward to a busy 2025.
Heading back to school is an exciting milestone, but it can also bring its share of stress. To help your child start the year off on the right foot, here are some essential items and tips to ease the back-to-school jitters:
1. Invest in a High-Quality Backpack
A good backpack is a must-have for students who carry a variety of items, from lunch boxes and water bottles to books and stationery. Look for a comfortable, durable rucksack with adjustable straps and multiple compartments to help organise everything. A well-designed backpack can make all the difference in your child’s day!
2. Essential Stationery Supplies
A complete stationery set is key for primary school students. Make sure to stock up on these basics:
• Pencils
• Highlighters
• Pens
• Folders with pockets
• Three-ring binders
• Lined notebooks
• Ruler
• Calculator
• Index cards
• Stretchable book covers
• Sticky notes
These items will not only help with everyday learning but also keep things organized for easy access.
3. Lunch Boxes and Water Bottles
Healthy eating habits start with good planning. A sturdy, reliable lunchbox ensures your child can enjoy fresh, nutritious meals at school. Don't forget a reusable water bottle to keep your child hydrated throughout the day!
4. Educational Games and Toys
Learning can be fun! Educational games help promote creativity, problem-solving, and social skills. Choose toys that foster interactive learning and encourage your child’s curiosity. These can be a great addition to their at-home study routine.
5. Scientific and Graphing Calculators (for High Schoolers)
For high school students diving into advanced math or science courses, a scientific or graphing calculator is essential. Make sure it meets the school's requirements and is appropriate for your child’s course load. Brilliant Minds offers a range of Sharp calculators at competitive prices in Australia.
6. Planners and Organisers
High school brings a surge of responsibilities, from homework assignments to extracurricular activities. A well-organised planner can help your child stay on top of deadlines and improve time management skills. The 2024 Student Diary, available at Brilliant Minds, is a fantastic tool to keep everything in order.
By preparing with these essentials, your child will feel more confident and organised as they embark on the school year. Let the learning and growth begin!
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Here is an amazing opportunity for you to buy into a piece of history of the Hinchinbrook district! The Trebonne Hotel has been a popular watering hole for a long period of the shire's history. The hotel has a bar area, pool room, toilets and beer garden. There is also a kitchen and dining room that could possibly be re-opened by a new owner. There are also 2 coldrooms and a storage area downstairs.
There is also manager's residence including a bathroom and 8 guest rooms with 2 extra bathrooms upstairs. The deck at the front gives great views over the canefields to the mountains surrounding the area.
A large modern 5 bay shed (1 enclosed, 3 roller doors & 1 open bay) is located at the rear of the property. A new roof was added to the hotel since Cyclone Yasi, while a large amount of fencing has been done.
The 1,388 square metre corner block is located on a busy intersection. The main road travels between Ingham and Abergowrie while the side road leads to Mount Fox.
A new owner could continue on as the hotel with opening up the other avenues available or even make it into a bed & breakfast establishment. There are so many opportunities to consider.
The hotel is down the road from the local nursing home and across the road from the local shop, mechanic & fuel depot. The local state school is a short drive away.
The property is listed at $650,000.
For further details, or to arrange an inspection contact Felix Reitano Real Estate at their office at 109 Cartwright Street, Ingham or on 4776 5007, or Peter on 0407 167 108 / peter@reitano.com.au or Felix on 0417 641 830 / felix@reitano.com.au
Contributed with thanks to Peter Reitano
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This three-bedroom home is located in a great area, in a nice quiet location that is high and dry, just off the far Eastern End of Cartwright Street.
The home has had internal refurbishments including works to the bathroom with updated flooring and being fully airconditioned, with a mix of split system and box air conditioning units. The layout of the home is also quite unique with a back bedroom that has its own living area and kitchenette area making this a great teenagers or parents retreat.
With a fully fenced yard, including an inner fenced yard that is great for the pets. The block size is 809m2 with room for side access to the back yard if need be. The property is just a short walk to the High School, Primary Schools and the local Swimming Pool.
Did I mention that the home also comes furnished with what you see in the photos. Currently vacant possession but from an investment point of view it was recently rented for $500 per week on a fixed term lease, being fully furnished.
Sure, the exterior needs some paint but choose your colours to make it Home. As the headline says, blink and this will be gone, so arrange your inspection today.
For further details contact Ingham Real Estate on (07) 4776 5222 / info@inghamrealestate.com.au or Mark Spina on 0409 584 900 / mark@inghamrealestate.com.au
Contributed with thanks to Mark Spina
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