Simon Hood Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

Recently, we released the first edition of this season’s comparative analysis for growers. This year’s analysis takes a slightly different focus, offering valuable insights into the strategies growers use to manage their GEI price exposure.

Typically, growers who choose to market with Wilmar Grower Marketing use the Target Price and GMPRS pricing mechanisms, which give them maximum control over their final price outcomes. This year’s report analyses the variation in the weighted GEI Sugar price by examining how different proportions are allocated across these mechanisms. With the revamped Managed Pool Plus (MPP), growers now have an additional choice within the committed cane category. As at the end of September, the analysis indicates that the greater the GEI Sugar exposure allocated to the MPP, the higher the weighted price overall.

The report also compares pricing mechanisms between marketers. As at 29 September, there was a clear benefit in marketing your GEI sugar tonnes through Wilmar across most pricing strategies employed. It’s important to note that it is still early in the season, and as pools are only partially hedged, the outright price and marketer differentials could shift significantly as the pricing period progresses.

Growers have a range of options to manage their GEI sugar pricing. Wilmar Grower Marketing offers a suite of products that allows you to take control of your own pricing or have Wilmar manage your exposure. You can lock in prices up to three years forward to gain income certainty or commit to pools that allow your GEI price to move with the market over time.

This flexibility enables you to tailor a pricing strategy that suits your individual circumstances and risk appetite. The Wilmar Grower Marketing team can help you understand how each mechanism works and provide general guidance on price risk management principles.

With the 2026 season nomination deadline fast approaching, this is the final opportunity for growers to choose Wilmar Grower Marketing.

It is important to note that you can make or change your nomination up until this date. Any proportion of your GEI sugar that isn’t priced can be moved – you aren’t locked in.

Nominations close on 31 October, so now is the time to review your options and decide on the marketing partner that best aligns with your business goals.

The Herbert River Cane Auditing Team continues to demonstrate professionalism and integrity in their role, ensuring accuracy and fairness in the assessment of cane quality throughout the crushing season. Their main function is to test and audit cane juice and fibre under the Cane Analysis Program (CAP), a critical component of the Cane Supply Agreement (CSA). This program underpins how cane payments are determined, making the auditing team’s work essential to maintaining trust between growers and the miller.

The auditors operate as a bipartisan team, with both the growers and the miller sharing the employment costs, reinforcing the impartial nature of their work. Every week, the cane auditors present detailed auditing reports, providing transparency around the testing outcomes. Their commitment to accuracy ensures that the process remains fair and reflective of the true quality of cane being delivered.

While the Herbert River and Burdekin regions follow almost identical auditing processes, the Burdekin does have additional procedures which relate to burnt cane. However, aside from these minor adjustments, both districts adhere closely to the same CAP guidelines, ensuring consistency across the regions.

One of the greatest strengths of the cane auditing system is its transparency. Every grower, or their representative, has the right to engage directly with the cane auditors to question results or request a full breakdown of data to understand how results were derived. This open process allows for accountability at every stage, fostering confidence in the system.

All growers also have full access to the Cane Analysis Program (CAP) document. For those who do not yet have a copy, Canegrowers Herbert River encourages them to contact the office to obtain an electronic version.

One way to further enhance cane testing accuracy and efficiency is through the adoption of Near Infrared Reflectance (NIR) technology, which provides rapid and precise analysis of cane quality. Unfortunately, the mill has not shown interest to date, citing that NIR is not currently National Measurement Institute (NMI) approved. Nevertheless, Canegrowers Herbert River will continue to advocate for NIR to be introduced in the future, recognising its potential to modernise and strengthen the cane testing process for the benefit of all stakeholders.

To further enhance understanding of the cane testing process, Canegrowers Herbert River has extended an invitation to growers interested in participating in a mill and juice lab tour before the end of the crushing season. This initiative provides a valuable opportunity to see the testing process firsthand and gain deeper insight into how results are calculated.

Growers who wish to take part in the upcoming mill and juice lab tour are encouraged to contact the Canegrowers office on (07) 4776 5350.

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Women in Manufacturing Apprentice Awards, which aim to inspire women to pursue careers in Queensland’s manufacturing sector.

The awards celebrate the state’s manufacturing trailblazers, offering $10,000 to the winner of the Leading Apprentice Award and a $5,000 prize to the runner-up Highly Commended Apprentice Award. Judged on outstanding leadership and a passion for excellence in the workplace, the prizes will support winners by funding training or helping with essential costs such as tools and uniforms.

“These awards are about celebrating the trailblazing women leading the way in manufacturing, because we want more young women to see the exciting opportunities in this sector,” Minister Last said.

“Through the Government’s Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Strategy, we’re putting manufacturing back at the heart of our state’s economy by cutting red tape, driving investment and giving more young Queenslanders pathways to rewarding, secure careers.

“But right now, women only make up a quarter of the manufacturing workforce. As we grow the sector through the Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Strategy, we want more women to be part of that success, whether it’s on the factory floor, in a robotics lab or alongside emerging industries like critical minerals processing.

“Opening doors for young women to pursue diverse careers in manufacturing is a priority for the Government, because it’s about delivering real opportunities for the next generation.”

Nominations close 5pm AEST, on 14th November 2025.
Winners will be announced at the Women in Manufacturing event in Brisbane on 6 March 2026 to coincide with International Women’s Day.

The awards will have 2 prize categories judged by an independent panel:
Women in Manufacturing Leading Apprentice Award 2026 ($10,000)
Women in Manufacturing Highly Commended Apprentice Award 2026 ($5,000), sponsored by Manufacturing Skills Queensland.

To make a nomination or for more information, visit www.nrmmrrd.qld.gov.au/manufacturing/women-in-manufacturing/apprentice-awards.

Home to Australia’s highest density of southern cassowaries and half of the country’s remaining Licuala Fan Palm forests, Mission Beach is a place of rare beauty and ecological importance. But as urban growth and environmental change continue to place pressure on the region, the community faces an important challenge: how to balance conservation with responsible development.

The Mission Beach Planning and Mapping Project, funded by a grant from the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, will support smarter conservation and development planning in the area. The project is being led by Friends of Ninney Rise in collaboration with Terrain NRM, James Cook University, and the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

C4 President Peter Rowles will join the project’s Steering Committee, which brings together key local and scientific leaders to ensure community values and environmental priorities are reflected in future planning.

Over the next year, the project will map critical rainforest values and wildlife corridors, identify gaps and opportunities in existing planning tools, and host community workshops to gather local knowledge and perspectives.

On Saturday, the 8th of November, the community are invited to attend a Mission Beach Mapping and Planning Community Workshop at Ninney Rise to learn about the future of the area's environment and development. To register, visit https://tally.so/r/w20d29.

An outcomes report will be prepared for public review before being delivered to Council in July of 2026. The findings will help guide future decisions to protect the natural character and biodiversity that make Mission Beach so special.

Visit www.ninneyrise.com for project updates or email friendsofninneyrise@gmail.com

WHAT: Mission Beach Mapping and Planning Community Workshop
WHEN: Saturday, 8 November
WHERE: Ninney Rise

‍

With the warm weather fast approaching, now is the perfect time to prepare your pool for a season of sunshine, swimming, and outdoor fun. A little preparation now will save time, money, and stress once summer hits, and the team at Ingham Manufactures Mitre 10 is ready to help make your pool sparkle.

The first step to a healthy pool is crystal clear water, and regular water testing is essential. Ingham Manufactures Mitre 10 offers free professional in-store water testing using the WaterLink Spin system. This industry leading technology provides fast and accurate results, allowing trained staff to analyse your water and provide a clear, easy-to-follow report. With expert advice on the spot, you can correct imbalances quickly and keep your pool safe for the whole family.

Keeping your pool clean and well-maintained throughout summer is easier when you have the right tools and products. In-store, you will find a full range of Baracuda pool chemicals, accessories, and automatic pool cleaners to suit every pool size and budget. From chlorine and balancing products to brushes, nets, filters, and robotic cleaners, the team can help you choose exactly what you need.

A well cared for pool not only looks inviting, it reduces the risk of algae, cloudy water, and costly repairs later in the season. With friendly service and a passion for helping residents enjoy the best of outdoor living, Ingham Manufactures Mitre 10 has all the essentials for a stress-free summer.

Visit Ingham Manufactures Mitre 10 at 100 Herbert Street and get your pool summer ready today. The team is always happy to share tips so you can enjoy sparkling water all season long.

Tuesday 28 October

Cafe Crawl
9:00am – 11:00am, cafe location provided on RSVP.
Join us on a cafe adventure through our community. Come along as we explore the different cafe's we have available to us within our community and have a chat, sip a coffee and a bite to eat. If interested please RSVP with Mei at: 07 4776 1822.

Green Thumbs Club
2:30pm at Community Garden, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Join the Green Thumbs for an afternoon of planting, chatting and getting dirty in the soil. Whether you’re putting seedlings in the ground or just soaking up the fresh air, it’s all about community spirit and good vibes. No experience needed – just bring a smile and maybe a pair of garden gloves. Call the HSCS (07) 4776 1822 for more info!

Wednesday 29 October

Morning Melodies: Frankly Sinatra
9:00am – 12:00pm at Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham.
Enjoy a special Morning Melodies performance starring Queensland-born music theatre performer Ian Stenlake and award-winning singer Michelle Fitzmaurice. Doors open at 9:30am for a relaxed morning of live music and entertainment. Tickets at www.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au

Hinchinbrook Stitchers, Social Sewing Group
9:00am - 3:00pm at Victoria Mill Social Club Hall, Ingham.
Quilting, crocette, knitting and sewing, all crafts are enjoyed at at this club! Bring whatever you need and your own lunch and refreshments for a lovely day of being creative. Contact Jackie for further detials on: 04 2771 7605.

Canasta & Cards
1:30pm – 3:30pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd.
Enjoy games of canasta among other card games with your fellow card players! Please call Desley to register your interest: 07 4776 1822.

Halifax Community Shed Meeting
5:00pm at Community Hall, Argaet Street, Halifax.
An open community discussion focusing on disaster preparedness, response, and resilience. These sessions are part of a regional series designed to help residents strengthen their homes, neighbourhoods, and communities ahead of the disaster season. Sessions will also be held in Bambaroo, Abergowrie, Mount Fox, Forrest Beach, Trebonne, Taylors Beach, Macknade, and Ingham.

Social Darts
7:00pm in the Upstairs Area, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
Social darts have been back in full swing and the enthusiasm is stronger than ever. Be sure to check in before 7:00pm to join the competition and experience the friendly spirit of the game.

Thursday 30 October

CWA Craft Group
9:00am – 12:00pm at the Forrest Beach CWA Hall, 6 Palm St.
Everyone is welcome to do your own craft or join an organised craft activity. For just $2.00 enjoy the company of other crafters, all levels of experience and craft types welcome! Our gold coin donation library is also open with books aplenty, CDs, DVDs, and puzzles too!

Senior Men's Social Group
9:00am – 12:00pm at HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd, 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? Meet other men, enjoy meaningful conversations, and participate in fun activities. Please contact Desley at: 4776 1822.

Mummy’s Matter
1:00pm to 2:00pm at The Hub, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
A welcoming and judgement-free group for mums who may be feeling isolated, vulnerable, or at risk of postnatal depression. Expectant mothers are also encouraged to join. Sessions focus on connection, support and creating a sense of belonging, with children under school age welcome to attend alongside their mums. For more info, contact Shannen at the HCSC on 07 4776 1822.

Mahjong
1:00pm – 3:00pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd.
Join in friendly games of mahjong and test your tile skills with fellow enthusiasts! Please call Desley to register your interest: 07 4776 1822.

Friday 31 October

October 2025 Tea And Trivia
9:30am – 11:30am at TYTO Conference and Events Centre, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Join in the fun at Council’s Tea and Trivia morning and enjoy a lively mix of trivia, bingo, raffles, and locally baked treats, along with tea and coffee. Tickets are $12 per person and can be purchased from Council’s Main Office. Bookings are essential, with ticket sales closing at 1:00pm Wednesday 29 October 2025 (unless sold out earlier). For more information, phone 4776 4600 or email events@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au

Beers By The Beach
5pm at the Forrest Beach SLSC, 6 Palm st, Forrest Beach.
The SLSC is a place where everyone can unwind with a cold drink in hand while soaking up ocean views. Nibbles and occasional raffles add to the fun, with prizes like fresh prawns up for grabs. Bring the kids, there’s a park next door, or pop in before your evening beachside stroll. It’s a laid-back evening for everyone to enjoy.

-----------------------------NEW MONTH---------------------------------------------------

Saturday 1 November

Park Run
7:00am in Palm Creek, Ingham & The Cardwell foreshore.
A FREE weekly 5k exercising event for participants of all fitness levels, an opportunity for all the local community, regardless of age or gender, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy the outdoors and get physically active. Encouraging people to run, jog, walk and volunteer together!

Mt Fox Markets
11:00am at the Mt Fox camp grounds.
Spend your Saturday browsing through the talents of local stallholders at the Mt Fox Markets! If you’re looking to become a stall holder yourself, contact Brandie on 0477 199 758.

HR Crushers – Derby Day
1:00pm – late, at The Crusher Clubhouse.
Celebrate the race that stops the nation in style at the Crusher Clubhouse’s annual Derby Day. Enjoy all the racing action, music from DJ Westy, delicious finger food, and a lively black-and-white themed atmosphere. Whether you love the horses, the fashion, or the party, don’t miss this iconic event—tickets are limited.

Sunday 2 November

Ingham Raintree Community Markets
8:00am – 12:00pm at Rotary Park, Ingham.
Held under the shade of Ingham’s iconic raintrees in Rotary Park, enjoy crafts, bric-a-brac, tropical plants, and local made treats! All stallholder fees are proudly donated to Palliative Care Ingham, supporting a vital local cause. For more infoor to book a site, please contact Linda on 0436 047 358.

Monday 3 November

Chat Room
9:30am – 10:30am at the Community Support Centre, 52 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
A social group for like-minded adults who wouldlike to gather, socialise and enjoy a chat with their coffee. No need to sign up, just drop in and have a cuppa!

Empowering Women Generations XYZ
9:30am to 11:30am at Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, Ingham.
Designed to support women through connection, confidence and community belonging. Sessions provide opportunities to build skills, improve wellbeing, and access both formal and informal supports in a safe space. Transport assistance is available. For more info or to get involved, contact the HCSC on 4776 1822 or email donna@hcsc.org.au

Creative Corner Craft Group
2:00pm – 3:00pm at The HUB, 100 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
This crafty event is free and materials will mostly be provided. However on occasion, depending on the activity, members will be asked to bring consumables. Please contact Desley, Shannen or Mei at: 4776 1822.

Tuesday 4 November

Mayor’s Christmas Appeal 2025
8:30am Tuesday 4 November – 5:00pm Wednesday 10 December 2025 at Hinchinbrook Shire Council, 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham.
Donate a new toy or non-perishable food item at Council’s Customer Service Centre to support local families in need this Christmas. Contributions go directly to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre-, which provides emergency relief, food assistance, counselling, and referral services to vulnerable residents across the region. For more info, phone 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au

Cafe Crawl
9:00am – 11:00am, cafe location provided on RSVP.
Join us on a cafe adventure through our community. Come along as we explore the different cafe's we have available to us within our community and have a chat, sip a coffee and a bite to eat. If interested please RSVP with Mei at: 07 4776 1822.

Green Thumbs Club
2:30pm at Community Garden, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Join the Green Thumbs for an afternoon of planting, chatting and getting dirty in the soil. Whether you’re putting seedlings in the ground or just soaking up the fresh air, it’s all about community spirit and good vibes. No experience needed – just bring a smile and maybe a pair of garden gloves. Call the HSCS (07) 4776 1822 for more info!

Wednesday 5 November

Hinchinbrook Stitchers, Social Sewing Group
9:00am - 3:00pm at Victoria Mill Social Club Hall, Ingham.
Quilting, crocette, knitting and sewing, all crafts are enjoyed at at this club! Bring whatever you need and your own lunch and refreshments for a lovely day of being creative. Contact Jackie for further detials on: 04 2771 7605.

Canasta & Cards
1:30pm – 3:30pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd.
Enjoy games of canasta among other card games with your fellow card players! Please call Desley to register your interest: 07 4776 1822.

Bambaroo Community Shed Meeting
5:00pm at Bambaroo Rural Fire Station, Bambaroo Road, Bambaroo.
An open community discussion focusing on disaster preparedness, response, and resilience. These sessions are part of a regional series designed to help residents strengthen their homes, neighbourhoods, and communities ahead of the disaster season. Sessions will also be held in Abergowrie, Mount Fox, Forrest Beach, Trebonne, Taylors Beach, Macknade, and Ingham.

Social Darts
7:00pm in the Upstairs Area, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
Social darts have been back in full swing and the enthusiasm is stronger than ever. Be sure to check in before 7:00pm to join the competition and experience the friendly spirit of the game.

Thursday 6 November

CWA Craft Group
9:00am – 12:00pm at the Forrest Beach CWA Hall, 6 Palm St.
Everyone is welcome to do your own craft or join an organised craft activity. For just $2.00 enjoy the company of other crafters, all levels of experience and craft types welcome! Our gold coin donation library is also open with books aplenty, CDs, DVDs, and puzzles too!

Friday mornings at the Ingham Flames Gymnastics Club are a hive of activity with the Under 5's class filling the gym with excitement and exploration.

Gymnastics for our littlest members is all about fun and movement as the children swing, crawl, climb, jump, hop, balance and roll in an inviting and colourful environment.

It is remarkable to watch the children’s physical and social confidence soar over a gymnastics term, in a space that celebrates and channels the high energy levels and creativity of our toddlers and pre-schoolers.

Come and join us for a free trial class to see what the hype is all about!

Or inquire with us by emailing ingham.gymnastics@gmail.com

‍Candidates announced for Hinchinbrook by-election after Dametto’s shock exit

The Hinchinbrook by-election is set to be a hot contest after Nick Dametto’s unexpected resignation earlier this month. The candidates are now confirmed ahead of the fast-approaching vote.

Katter’s Australian Party has nominated Mark Molachino, former Townsville Deputy Mayor and councillor, who brings years of local government experience. His recent switch from the Labor Party has attracted attention.

The LNP’s pick is Wayde Chiesa, a local former Regional Development Australia CEO. Premier David Crisafulli praised Chiesa’s commitment to tackling crime, flood recovery, and supporting local agriculture.

One Nation’s candidate is Lisa Buchtmann, a Cardwell small business owner and ex-army truck driver, focused on youth crime, tourism infrastructure, and housing affordability.

Labor confirmed it will run a candidate but has not yet made an official announcement.

As campaigning ramps up, voters will be closely watching these candidates and their policies ahead of the by-election.

‍

‍

Mark Molachino

Representing Katter’s Australian Party in the Hinchinbrook by-election is Mark Molachino, the former Deputy Mayor of Townsville. Mr Molachino served as the councillor for Division 4 from 2016 until he lost his seat in the 2024 local government elections. Throughout his time on council, he was involved in a range of infrastructure, planning, and community initiatives across the city. Prior to joining Katter’s Australian Party, Mr Molachino was previously affiliated with the Labor Party, a detail that has drawn attention in the lead-up to the by-election. His candidacy brings both experience and a notable shift in political alignment.

Wayde Chiesa

Wayde Chiesa has been announced as the LNP candidate for the Hinchinbrook by-election, launched by Premier David Crisafulli in Ingham. A former RDA CEO, Mr Chiesa grew up locally and said he’s “passionate about delivering for this region.” Premier Crisafulli, who’s known him for decades, said Chiesa is “made of the right stuff” and “will do a great job.” Mr Chiesa identified crime, flood recovery, and agriculture as key issues. “I will fight 24/7 to make our community safer,” he said, backing new CCTV under the Secure Communities program. “I’m getting off the bench and on the field,” he added.

Lisa Buchtmann

Former army truck driver and small business owner Lisa Buchtmann will stand as One Nation’s candidate for the Hinchinbrook by-election. Based in Cardwell, the 40-year-old is focused on tourism infrastructure, youth crime, housing affordability, and cost of living. “I’m a mother with a teenage son and I’m very concerned about his future in our community, and the future for all kids in Hinchinbrook,” Ms Buchtmann said. She pointed to the Bruce Highway’s poor condition and backed One Nation’s plans to “slash immigration,” dismantle “net zero policies,” and reduce youth crime through programs like “Operation Hard Yakka” and a judicial accountability panel.

Labor Party

The Labor Party has confirmed it will contest the by-election, although a formal announcement of its candidate is yet to be made.

As the political arena heats up, more information on each candidate will be shared to help inform your vote - you can read more in our 'Meet the Candidates' special in the paper next week.

Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!

Goodness, it felt like I didn’t sleep a wink all week, as I was positively buzzing with anticipation for my Maraka Queen introductory events last weekend. I haven’t stepped out of my comfort zone so much since I was 10 years old performing ballet at QPAC in Brisbane. You’d think being a journalist would make me an excellent public speaker, but I still get shaky hands.

I loved really getting to know my fellow queens and the little princesses, and I think we all looked stunning. And no, we weren’t all told to wear blue, as many people asked us; it just so happened we all have very good taste. Blue for winners was my thought because we all are winners. It takes a lot of courage to do something like this, and I commend each and every one of my fellow entrants.

The Maraka Afternoon Tea was a highlight. It was wonderful to see all the town’s ladies done up gorgeously. I can’t wait for the Parade and Mardi Gras, as any occasion to get glitzed up is a good one. I hope to see you all out there in the crowds as the other queens and I wave from the back of our utes.

Victoria

Fun Fact: My shoe broke just before we were sashed as queens. Thank you to the amazing bar staff on Wine & Cheese Night, who pulled out so much tape to strap my shoe down and keep me going!

Catherine Zupp, a valued member of the Ingham community and whose husband is part of the Freedom Riders Association of Townsville, recently wrote to the paper to express their gratitude to the Ingham and Herbert River district for their ongoing support of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS).

This year’s fundraising efforts raised an impressive $9,560.34 locally, contributing to a total of $13,600 handed over to the RFDS. Catherine wrote on her husband Austin's behalf, “Your commitment to this cause makes a huge impact.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service continues to be an essential service for rural and remote communities, providing emergency medical care and support across vast regions. The generosity of local residents and supporters ensures that the RFDS can keep doing its vital work.

The Freedom Riders Association of Townsville has long been a supporter of this cause, combining their passion for riding with fundraising efforts that unite communities across North Queensland.

Anyone interested in supporting next year’s fundraiser or joining the 2026 motorcycle ride from Kurrimine Beach to Karumba is encouraged to contact Austin Zupp on 0439 922 165 for more information. The ongoing dedication of locals continues to make a real difference for those who rely on the Flying Doctor.

Well done, Freedom Riders Association of Townsville!

By Victoria Velton

Merlin Gammon ran through Ingham on the 18th as part of his ‘Yorkmania’ journey — a Cape York to Tasmania adventure on foot. He stopped in for a morning of Parkrunning with locals at the Palm Creek course and narrowly beat the local top runner, Jayon Catasti, by just eight seconds to take first place.

"Decided to ditch the trailer and see if the legs still had any speed in them at Palm Creek Parkrun. I told myself I would just cruise but my competitive side took over and I ended up running faster and faster," he said.

"(It) Felt good to let the legs loose and surprisingly pulled up well afterwards, I ended up having one of my best days on the road, so maybe the change in pace is what my legs needed? Locals were very friendly, (we) had some good chats afterwards."

Merlin is on a mission to walk, but mostly run, from Cape York to Tasmania. He is taking on Ned’s Uncomfortable Challenge, a personal endurance challenge designed to push participants far beyond their comfort zones while raising awareness and funds for Australians experiencing homelessness. The challenge encourages people to tackle a difficult physical or mental feat, set ambitious goals, and use their journey to support a cause that matters. His next goal is to cover the distance from Townsville to Rockhampton in just 10 days, a target well within reach given his average of 71 km per day.

"One of the main reasons I decided to embark on the YORKMANIA mission was to push myself beyond my perceived limits and this challenge will do exactly that," Merlin said.

"If a goal doesn’t scare you then it probably isn’t big enough. Time to see what the human body and mind can really do!"

"Sky ain’t the limit, your mind is. Anything is possible once you release the mind from its shackles."

If you would like to support Merlin and his journey, follow him on Instagram @wizardofrun or donate via his fundraiser to help him reach his $1000 goal at www.neddsuncomfortablechallenge.com/fundraiser/merlingammon

The Government has launched the Empowering Queensland Women (EQW) program, a new grants initiative designed to strengthen women’s economic security and create lasting opportunities across the state.

The program will be delivered across two rounds, with a total of $540,000 in funding available. Round one offers $270,000 in grants, with eligible organisations able to apply for up to $10,000 each. Funding will support projects that focus on financial literacy, training programs, leadership development, networking, and community events aimed at empowering women and girls.

To be eligible, applicants must be an incorporated not-for-profit organisation, an incorporated association, an Indigenous corporation, a Queensland university, or a Queensland local government authority.

Minister for Women and Queensland’s first-ever Minister for Women’s Economic Security, Fiona Simpson, said the grants program was a vital step in helping women break down barriers to participation.

“The Empowering Queensland Women Grants Program focuses on empowering women and girls across Queensland to achieve their full potential by supporting organisations making a real difference in the community,” Minister Simpson said.

“Women in Queensland face unique challenges, particularly in rural and remote areas, and this funding is an opportunity to support crucial initiatives which can help to address these challenges and provide lasting benefits for women and their families.

National Council of Women of Queensland President Sandy Smith welcomed the initiative, saying it will play a key role in advancing opportunities for women and girls.

"By supporting projects that improve financial literacy, leadership skills and economic security, this program helps to address the systemic barriers that many women and girls face,” Ms Smith said.

“Empowering women strengthens families, builds resilient communities, and drives positive change for all Queenslanders. We strongly encourage organisations to apply and make a lasting impact."

Applications for Round One close on 30 October 2025. Further details, including eligibility criteria and application forms, can be found via the Queensland Office for Women website: https://qldofficeforwomen.smartygrants.com.au/EQW2025

For The 2026 Australia Day Awards

The February 2025 floods left an undeniable mark on Hinchinbrook Shire, affecting every corner of the community and testing resilience like never before.

In response, Hinchinbrook Shire Council is introducing a new category in the 2026 Australia Day Awards — the Flood Hero Recognition — to honour the countless individuals who selflessly stood up to support their neighbours and help rebuild our community.

Mayor Ramon Jayo said the overwhelming spirit shown during those difficult days. “These floods impacted us all, and throughout the crisis, ordinary people showed extraordinary kindness and courage,” Mayor Jayo said.

“They didn’t seek recognition; they acted out of love and a deep sense of responsibility to their community.

“This award is about recognising their quiet heroism and the strength they gave us when we needed it most.

“This is the community’s chance to thank those who gave so much without expecting anything in return.”

The Flood Hero Recognition category is unique. It’s not about a single winner but about honouring the many hands that held us together.

Council invites the community to nominate anyone who inspired them from volunteers to emergency responders to neighbours who simply helped in small but meaningful ways.

From celebrating outstanding citizens of all ages, to recognising cultural and sporting achievements, community events, and acts of heroism during the 2025 floods — there’s a category for every kind of contribution.

Judges may reassign nominations to ensure they’re recognised in the most fitting category.

Nominations across all categories are now open and will close at 5.00pm on Monday 15 December 2025.

Visit www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/community-environment/australia-day-celebrations/how-to-nominate/ for more information, visit the Council office at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham or call 4774 4600. Award recipients will be celebrated at the Australia Day event on 26 January 2026 at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall.

In the Natural Resource Management part of Hinchinbrook Shire Council, all is going well with Council staff controlling the eradication of weed species as identified through our Biosecurity Plan and management of feral pigs. There have been no positive reports of yellow crazy ants and no reports of any bird flu infestations.

Although there aren’t any reports of Varroa mite infestations in bee hives here yet, workshops are being held to inform beekeepers on ways to manage Varroa mite in their hives. If you are a commercial or recreational beekeeper, or even if you are interested in keeping bees, I would recommend that you attend these free workshops — they are very informative.

The next workshop is on Wednesday, the 19th of November at TYTO from 5:00pm–7:00pm. To register, ring Carla on 0467 236 135.

On Friday, the 7th of November, from 8:45am to 12pm, Council is partnering with Greening Australia to plant 1,500 native tree species in our TYTO Wetlands.

The area to be planted is infested with para grass and other weed species.

In an effort to control the weeds sustainably, we will be planting these trees and are asking anyone who is interested to come along, get their hands dirty, and enjoy planting the future with us.

Make sure you wear sun-protective clothing and closed-in shoes. You will be rewarded for your labour with a sausage sizzle after the event. It would be great if some of our schools were interested in joining us. Please register your interest (so we have enough snags!) by calling Council on 4776 4600.

A big shout-out to our Parks and Gardens staff who have been working very hard getting our parks looking lovely in preparation for the upcoming Maraka celebrations this October.

Did you know the Comb-crested Jacana is known as the “Jesus Bird” because it appears to walk on water? These striking wetland residents, often spotted at TYTO Wetlands and lagoons across Hinchinbrook, have remarkably long toes and claws that spread their weight so evenly they can stride across lily pads without sinking. With their bright red facial shield, golden collar and chestnut wings, Jacanas are a photographer’s delight — but their parenting style is just as fascinating.

In this species, Dad does the work! Males build the nest, incubate the eggs and carry chicks under their wings for safety while mum moves on to find her next mate. Next time you’re at TYTO, look closely among the lillies — you might just see this delicate little miracle bird stepping gracefully across the water’s surface.

It’s Aussie Bird Count Week! Join thousands of nature lovers across the country in counting our feathered friends. Get involved at aussiebirdcount.org.au to learn more.