Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Victoria Velton Seventy-five years of history and service were commemorated in Ingham last Saturday, as the 103 Squadron of the Australian Air Force Cadets celebrated its three-quarter-century anniversary with a special dinner at the Herbert River RSL, bringing together generations of cadets and supporters. The 75th Anniversary Dinner was a significant occasion for the squadron, welcoming current cadets and their families alongside former cadets, past members and special guests who travelled to Ingham to mark the occasion. Among the guests were visiting representatives from the Australian Army and Royal Australian Navy, adding to the significance of the celebration and highlighting the strong connections the Australian Air Force Cadets share with the wider Australian Defence Force. For the current generation of cadets, the evening provided an opportunity to meet people who have served in uniform and hear from those who have been part of the squadron and its history over the decades. Just as importantly, former cadets returned to support the young people who are now following in their footsteps. Instructors, volunteers, parents and supporters were all recognised. Event organiser Simone Lennox said the celebration was the culmination of several weeks of planning, organising, printing and chasing up the many details needed to bring such a significant event together. “There were plenty of late nights, last-minute changes and stressful moments, but we did it,” Simone said. For a youth organisation with such a long history in the community, the presence of ex-cadets was particularly meaningful, demonstrating the endurance of friendships, experiences and lessons gained through the program. The evening also featured displays and memorabilia reflecting the squadron’s history, helping to bring together stories from its past with the work being carried out by its current members. Special commemorative pieces were also created for the occasion, with current Cadet Unit Officer Saxon Crabb and former CUO/LAC Corey Crabb working together to create 75th Anniversary 3D-printed pieces giving guests a unique reminder of the milestone. Simone thanked Erin and Sandra for their work in helping organise the celebration, as well as the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL for hosting the event. Bec from Budget Colour Copies was also recognised for her help with the extensive printing, scanning and last-minute jobs required in the lead-up to the dinner. “Seeing everyone there, catching up, sharing stories and enjoying the night made all the work worthwhile,” Simone said. After 75 years, the anniversary was a celebration of the people who have been part of 103 Squadron, the memories created along the way and the young cadets who are now carrying that tradition into the future. Caption: Photo credits: Victoria Velton Generations of 103 Squadron members, ex-103 cadets and visiting officials and representatives gathered at the Herbert River RSL for the 75th celebration. The current Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. Current 103 Squadron leaders, ex-103 cadets, alongside visiting officials and representatives from the broader Australian Defence Force. The current members and leaders of the Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. All attendees enjoying their time at the 75th celebration. Extras to put online: Extra 1. The current Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets and family table. Extra 2. The Ex-Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets and family table. Extra 3. The visiting dignitaries and officials table.
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Ingham’s own Mick’s Bread Kitchen has cooked up a spectacular result on the national stage, taking home two gold medals at the 2026 Official Great Aussie Pie Competition. The bakery’s Smoked Brisket Pie and Pork Pie both claimed gold, with the brisket creation developed by Mick’s daughter, Monique Toichev. The bakery entered four pies in the prestigious competition, with its Ned Kelly Pie also taking silver and its Plain Pie earning bronze. The four-medal haul has given the local team plenty to celebrate, with Monique saying the recognition was the result of hard work and a commitment to perfecting every part of the pie.
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By Sian Bantock One of Mission Beach’s signature endurance events took place on Sunday 6th September as Cassowary Coast Multisport Club (CCMC)’s Ona Mission challenged competitors across three disciplines: paddling, running and cycling. The event drew competitors of all ages and abilities, each pushing themselves past their limits to complete the course. Participants tackled the event individually or in teams, beginning with a 4km paddle-over to the iconic Dunk Island, before a 6km trail run and 30km cycle, finishing with a 6km run along the region's tropical beaches. Calm seas made for great paddling conditions, though rising temperatures ensured the athletes were working hard under the tropical sun. CCMC Club President Richard Blanchette was overjoyed with the turnout. “Wow Mission Beach! Superb day for Ona Mission 2026 with participants paddling, riding and running along the beach,” he said.
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Locals are being encouraged to grab their rods and help tackle one of the region’s invasive pests when the annual Tilapia Tournament returns to Warrina Lakes during the October school holidays. Cassowary Coast Regional Council will host the free, family-friendly fishing competition from Thursday 1st October to Saturday 3rd October, combining a day out for the community with an important effort to protect local waterways and native aquatic life. The tournament challenges participants to catch and remove Tilapia, an invasive pest fish capable of rapidly establishing large populations and outcompeting native species. Tilapia feed on plants, insects and small native fish and can produce hundreds of young in a single season. Their nesting behaviour can also stir up mud and damage important habitat for native fish and other aquatic species. Fortunately for competitors, the pest fish are relatively easy to catch and will take a variety of bait, including corn, bread, worms and pellets. Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said every fish removed during the tournament would contribute to improving the health of the local ecosystem. “The Tilapia Tournament is a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors to get involved in protecting our waterways while enjoying a free, family-friendly event during the school holidays,” Cr Millwood said. “Every Tilapia removed from Warrina Lakes helps reduce the pressure on our native species and improves the health of our local ecosystem. I encourage everyone to come along, register and be part of this important community effort.” The tournament is open to all ages, although children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing gear, hat, sunscreen, water bottle and camping chair, with prizes also up for grabs throughout the event. Entry is free, however registration is essential. Further information and registration details are available through the Cassowary Coast Regional Council website. CAPTION: The annual Tilapia Tournament will return to Warrina Lakes this October. Photo supplied by Cassowary Coast Regional Council
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Year 9 and 10 Drama students from Ingham State High School rehearsing for ‘The Scene Project’. Photos supplied
Young creatives from Ingham State High School are set to shine across the arts, with two upcoming events showcasing local talent.
A new exhibition at TYTO Regional Art Gallery, Storytellers will showcase the imagination, creativity and artistic skills of Year 7 to Year 12 Visual Art students, offering visitors a glimpse into the stories told through their own creative perspectives.
The exhibition will open at 6pm on Friday 4th September and run until 4pm on Saturday 3rd October at the Tyto Regional Art Gallery.
The school’s drama students will be taking their talents to the wider North Queensland stage as they participate in Queensland Theatre’s The Scene Project.
Over the past term, students have been working together to interpret, shape and rehearse their own performance as part of The Scene Project, which is a statewide theatre education program that gives students the opportunity to work with a specially commissioned script and bring it to life in their own way.
With their performances polished, the Year 9 and 10 students will soon join other school ensembles in Townsville, where they will perform alongside drama students from other North Queensland schools, see the creative choices made by other ensembles, and view a professional performance of the script by QLD Theatre.
The Scene Project is an outstanding example of how authentic learning experiences can unlock student potential, inspire creativity and give young people the confidence to find their voice. Ingham High is proud to support its students as they take their place on the wider North Queensland arts stage.
The Queensland sugarcane industry has launched a push to secure the evidence needed to restore paraquat access in cane production, with industry groups warning the herbicide’s removal could leave growers without effective weed-control options. Photo sourced: CANEGROWERS.
Hinchinbrook sugarcane growers are among those watching closely as Queensland’s cane industry pushes for a pathway to retain access to paraquat, following a decision that has removed sugarcane from the herbicide’s revised labels.
The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) made its final decision in June after reviewing paraquat and diquat, finding new restrictions were necessary because of risks associated with the chemicals. While paraquat remains available for a range of uses, its approved use in sugarcane is no longer supported under the new labels.
The decision has particular implications for the Herbert River region, where sugarcane is a major part of the local economy and growers rely on effective weed-management tools throughout the growing season.
Industry bodies say paraquat remains an important tool for early-season weed control and minimum-tillage farming. CANEGROWERS and Sugar Research Australia have sought a one-year emergency permit that would allow growers to purchase and use paraquat under previous label conditions, subject to appropriate safeguards.
Under the APVMA decision, paraquat products carrying labels approved before June 22nd 2026 can continue to be supplied and used until June 22nd 2028. However, growers are limited to the existing supply of those products while the industry works towards alternatives.
Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has now joined the push, working with SRA to establish a cross-industry technical working group to investigate the evidence required by the regulator.
QCAR General Manager Tara Malapass said paraquat remained one of the few effective options for early-season weed control and that its removal from in-crop use had significant implications for growers.
The APVMA’s decision was driven by an unresolved assessment relating to birds. QCAR said historical data on bird interactions with paraquat use in cane did not provide the specific evidence required by the regulator, making further research a priority.
The proposed technical group will bring together specialists in chemistry, regulation, agronomy, ecology, spray technology and cropping systems, with other agricultural industries also facing similar challenges expected to contribute.
For Hinchinbrook growers, the outcome could shape the weed-management options available in future seasons as the industry works to develop and register alternatives.
QCAR has stressed there is no guarantee paraquat will regain approval for sugarcane, but said it would pursue every viable avenue while keeping growers informed as the process progresses.
Sharon Cislowski with her Photography category winning ‘Peekaboo’. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
After 10 years of entering the Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards, Sharon Cislowski has taken out the Photography category with Peekaboo, a photograph capturing a fleeting moment with a spangled drongo at the TYTO Precinct.
Sharon said her love of the local art scene and the region’s birdlife had kept her returning to the Awards each year.
“I love supporting the local art scene and have entered the Birdlife Awards for the last 10 years,” she said.
“I was inspired by the beauty and character of our local birdlife. Living in the Hinchinbrook region, we’re surrounded by such incredible natural wildlife, and Peekaboo was a way for me to capture a little piece of that and share my appreciation for the birds we’re lucky enough to have around us.
“I also loved the idea of celebrating our local environment through art.”
The winning photograph came from a walk through the TYTO Precinct, where Sharon spotted a spangled drongo with a large grasshopper in one of the pandanus trees just off the path.
She stopped to watch before the grasshopper escaped and was chased to the ground by the drongo.
“There was a lot of rummaging around in the tufts of grass and I crept forward to see if I could have a better view,” she said.
“The bird must have heard something because it popped its head up from behind the grass and that’s when I snapped the shot.”
Capturing these fleeting moments requires patience, quiet observation and plenty of preparation.
Sharon usually walks with her camera in hand, scanning for movement and listening for noises before slowing down and trying to become unnoticeable.
“I try to make sure my ISO and aperture are set for the conditions and adjust the shutter speed accordingly,” she said.
“I usually have my lens at 600mm and autofocus to one spot. Waiting for the right moment with my camera poised, I’ll only raise it to shoot when the bird is easily seen.”
Her love of bird photography comes from both the challenge and the environment.
“I enjoy the challenge of capturing something that can easily get away and the peaceful environments that you find yourself in,” she said.
“My approach is ever-changing according to what I have learned while taking photos.”
Winning the Photography category was not something Sharon expected when she entered.
“I entered simply hoping people would enjoy the image, so winning was completely unexpected,” she said.
“I was genuinely thrilled and very proud to see Peekaboo recognised.”
Sharon said she hoped her photography would encourage others to take an interest in the wildlife around them.
“I have always loved wildlife and just find birds delightful to watch,” she said.
“I hope people become curious enough about the subjects of my photography to want to protect them.”
She thanked her friends and followers of Mama Shaz’s WildLife for helping her decide which images to enter.
“It’s such a honour to be recognised alongside artists of such high calibre and I’m grateful for the opportunity to exhibit in such shows organised by Hinchinbrook Regional Gallery,” Sharon said.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council has issued its first half-yearly rates notices for the 2026-2027 financial year, with residents urged to check their mailboxes and inboxes.
Rates notices were issued on Wednesday 12th August, with residents who have not received their notice by Wednesday 26th August, asked to contact Council’s Revenue Team.
The full payment due date is Wednesday 30th September . Residents who pay their rates in full by the due date will automatically be entered into Council’s $2,000 Rates Incentive Scheme, with vouchers to be spent at local Hinchinbrook businesses.
The winner will be randomly drawn at a public Council meeting on Tuesday 27th October.
From Thursday 1st October, unpaid rates will accrue interest at 12.19 per cent per annum, compounded daily.
Residents experiencing financial difficulties are encouraged to contact Council as early as possible to discuss payment arrangements and support options available under Council’s Financial Hardship Policy.
Rates can be paid online through BPoint, in person at the Council office or any Australia Post outlet, by phone using Visa or MasterCard, through BPAY or POSTbillpay, by cheque or money order, or by direct debit.
Residents can view the full 2026-2027 Rates and Charges information and payment options on the Hinchinbrook Shire Council website.
To receive future rates notices by email, residents can register through Council’s Electronic Rate Notices service.
Clayton Smith, Ingham State High School Year 12 student. Photo supplied
Ingham State High School Year 12 student Clayton Smith will take part in Design Tracks, an arts education and mentorship program hosted by Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA).
The program supports Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and South Sea Islander young people aged 15 to 19 to explore the possibilities of a career in the creative industries while building connections with artists and creative professionals.
Design Tracks gives participants the opportunity to work directly with established First Nations artists, designers and creative practitioners across a range of disciplines, including visual arts, fashion, design, performing arts and media.
Through a combination of hands-on creative experiences, mentoring and exposure to professional practice, participants can gain a better understanding of what working in the arts and creative industries can look like beyond the classroom.
The program also provides young people with opportunities to experiment with different creative disciplines, develop practical skills and consider how their interests could translate into future study or career pathways.
For Clayton, the experience will provide an opportunity to develop his creative practice while learning from established First Nations creatives and exploring the different directions a career in the arts could take. Alongside developing his skills, Design Tracks places an emphasis on cultural identity and the importance of First Nations perspectives within contemporary creative practice.
Clayton will have the chance to connect with other young creatives, build industry relationships and gain insight into the professional creative world as he considers his next steps after Year 12.
Visual of the overall report results. Graphic credit: The State of Queensland (Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation) 2011–2026
The latest Reef Water Quality Report Card has highlighted continued progress towards improving the health of the Great Barrier Reef, with catchment health improving and progress recorded towards all water quality targets.
The Reef Water Quality Report Card 2023–2025 points to the impact of investment, collaboration and practical changes being made by landholders and industries across reef catchments.
Queensland's sugarcane, banana, grain and grazing industries have contributed to improvements through more sustainable land management practices, while targeted gully and streambank restoration projects have also helped reduce pollutants reaching waterways.
The report demonstrates and records the importance of continued action to protect the reef, with poor water quality capable of damaging seagrass ecosystems and reducing the sunlight needed for coral to grow and thrive.
The Federal Government and Queensland Government have committed more than $2 billion to 2030 to support water quality improvements, working alongside industry, Traditional Owners, scientists and local communities.
The report examines locally tailored approaches to reducing key pollutants, including fine sediments, nutrients and pesticides, which can affect coral and seagrass ecosystems.
The reef remains an important environmental and economic asset, contributing an estimated $9 billion annually to the Australian economy and supporting around 77,000 jobs.
The 2023–2025 report is the final report under the Reef 2050 Water Quality Improvement Plan, which has now been replaced by the Reef 2050 Catchment Water Quality Strategy. The updated reporting framework takes a whole-of-catchment approach, places greater focus on wetland condition and inshore marine health and includes new measures reflecting landholder efforts to improve water quality.
The full report is available at www.reefplan.qld.gov.au/tracking-progress/reef-report-card/2023-25
The Ingham Theatre Group launched their latest theatre restaurant production this week, with the remaining shows of Cruise Club selling out following a laughter-filled opening weekend.
Two packed performances saw audiences swept onto the Costa Lotta cruise ship’s chaotic voyage, complete with suspicious characters, a twisting murder mystery and plenty of opportunities for audience interaction.
By Victoria Velton
The Costa Lotta has officially left the dock, and if opening weekend was anything to go by, passengers aboard the Ingham Theatre Group’s latest theatre restaurant production are in for a wonderfully chaotic cruise.
After two packed Friday and Saturday performances the Cruise Club is looking forward to more electric evenings, as all upcoming shows are officially sold out.
Steven Veltmeyer, Director of the Cruise Club, said the opening weekend set a high bar.
“Opening weekend was everything live theatre should be — great fun, lots of laughs and even a few exciting opening-night teething issues, which our cast and crew handled with absolute skill and professionalism. I’m incredibly proud of how everyone pulled together and kept the show rolling.”
“Cruise Club is a wonderfully funny, slightly crazy night out, and judging by the laughter and reaction from our first audiences, they certainly enjoyed the voyage with us.”
Councillor of Community and Cultural Services Donna Marbelli also praised the local talent behind the production.
“The talent, energy and effort that went into the production was outstanding, and it was wonderful to see such a great night enjoyed by the community. Congratulations to all our talented locals involved in putting together such an enjoyable evening.”
For those lucky enough to have secured tickets to the upcoming performances, it is time to pack that suitcase, dig out a jazzy shirt – there's a prize for the best dressed holidayer – and prepare for an interactive cruise through Florida, the Bahamas and back again.
Even the play’s author Lianne Mills, will be making the special voyage up to Ingham to join the local crowd on the final weekend of the show.
Fill your plates at the 7pm midnight buffet, enjoy a cheeky cocktail, and set sail with the Ingham Theatre Group as they bring on the next round of Costa Lotta’s holiday cruises - just make sure you look out for pirates!
Nearly every Sunday the Cardwell RSL holds a BBQ lunch, a much-loved local event. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch has donated $11,200 to local schools, community groups, events and charitable causes so far in 2026, with volunteers taking pride in supporting the wider Cardwell and District community.
The donations, made between January 1 and August 10, have supported a broad range of local initiatives, including schools, community events, sporting activities and cancer fundraising.
The Sub Branch said its community involvement also provides veterans with the opportunity to connect with the wider community while working alongside fellow volunteers.
“Our principal aim is to look after our veterans, and that remains paramount. However, this voluntary work enables our veterans to socially interact with the wider public and is a great team-building experience for all,” said Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch.
The organisation also congratulated Thea Ormond and her committee on the success of the Australian UFO Festival weekend across Cardwell.
“Our congratulations to Thea Ormond and her committee for organising such a wonderful weekend of events,” said Robert.
Current Cardwell RSL 2026 Donations:
May 5: Biggest Morning Tea, Cancer Council – $200
May 12: Cardwell State School – $2,000
May 12: Kennedy State School – $1,000
May 12: Murray River Upper State School – $1,000
May 12: Gilroy Santa Maria College – $500
May 12: Our Lady of Lourdes – $500
May 12: Tully State High School – $500
June 15: Cardwell U.F.O. Festival – $2,000
June 15: Families Sculpture War Memorial – $500
June 20: Cardwell Sports Fishing Barra Bonanza – $1,000
August 10: Cardwell Seafest Festival – $2,000
TOTAL DONATED IN 2026 SO FAR: $11,200
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Principal Rod Flood, Vanessa (Palms Aged Care), Courtney Larragan, Marcia (Palms Aged Care). Photo supplied
Contributed with thanks by Ingham State High School
Ingham State High School is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Year 12 student Courtney Larragan, whose dedication to her studies, employment and the aged care sector has culminated in an outstanding national scholarship achievement.
While balancing the demands of Year 12, employment and senior schooling, Courtney has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to building a career in health and aged care. Last year, she applied for the highly competitive Aged Care Nursing Scholarship Program, supported by the Australian College of Nurse Practitioners.
The prestigious scholarship recognises individuals already working within the aged care industry who demonstrate outstanding potential and a strong commitment to further professional development. Providing $6,000 towards further study, the program offers recipients valuable support as they continue to develop their skills and pursue careers in the aged care and nursing sectors.
Courtney was selected from applicants from across Australia to receive this prestigious scholarship — an extraordinary accomplishment and a testament to her professionalism, determination and genuine commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Rather than simply celebrating this achievement, Courtney has continued to turn opportunity into action. Following her scholarship success, she enrolled in a Certificate IV in Ageing Support, which she has since completed in record time, all while continuing to meet the demands of her Year 12 studies.
Courtney's success also highlights the significant role that strong partnerships between schools, industry and the wider community can play in creating meaningful pathways for young people. A special acknowledgement goes to Churches of Christ Palms Aged Care, where Courtney is proudly employed. Palms Aged Care has been a valued and longstanding partner of Ingham State High School, supporting many students through school-based traineeships, work experience and vocational placements. These partnerships are instrumental in helping students connect their learning with the world of work and make informed decisions about their futures.
Ingham State High School was delighted to welcome Marcia and Vanessa from Palms Aged Care to a recent school assembly, where they joined staff and students in recognising Courtney's outstanding achievement and celebrating this significant milestone.
Courtney's story is an inspiring example of the many pathways available to young people beyond the traditional classroom. Her scholarship success demonstrates that opportunities can emerge well before graduation when students are willing to embrace challenges, pursue their interests and work consistently towards their goals.
Ingham High looks forward to seeing Courtney continue to grow and make a meaningful contribution to the health and aged care sector. Her achievements are a source of great pride for the entire school community.
As part of the Duke of Edinburgh program students hiked Mt Tyson. Photo Supplied
Tully SHS sits in the heart of Tully, educating over 750 students across the Cassowary Coast as the district’s only secondary school.
Tully SHS offers a broad range of programs that cater for every student, spanning academic, cultural and sporting pathways. Students continue to shine across these areas showcasing their capabilities which reflects the strong standards and supportive learning environment the school has.
NAPLAN RESULTS:
Tully SHS values student success and in credit to teachers and students alike, this year’s NAPLAN results show significant improvement and a positive trend that is increasingly aligned with national performance.
DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD:
Beyond the classroom, Tully SHS students can take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Awards; an internationally recognised program designed to challenge young people, build leadership qualities and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone.
The program has different awards which require the students to complete community service, develop a personal skill, spend time doing physical recreation and participate in an adventurous journey.
The program offers students many benefits and provides the opportunity to set goals, overcome challenges, work as part of a team and discover what they are capable of achieving - all whilst making memories that will last a lifetime.
Tully SHS looks forward to supporting students as they take on this exciting challenge and begin their Duke of Edinburgh journey.
SPORTS DEV PROGRAMME:
This year’s sporting achievements has been outstanding with students taking part in the Sports Development Program, which provides students with opportunities to participate in a wide variety of sports throughout the year.
The aim of the program is to develop their skills, confidence and enjoyment of physical activity, students are encouraged to get involved, have fun and challenge themselves.
The sports featured in the program include Netball, Cross Country, Volleyball, Athletics, Touch Football, Cricket, Basketball, Golf and the Gym/Fitness Club.
The initiative also aims to strengthen connections between Tully SHS and local sporting clubs and community organisations. These partnerships provide students with pathways to continue participating in their chosen sports outside of school and encourage them to become active members of local sporting communities.
Overall, Tully State High School continues to create a learning community where every student is encouraged to discover their strengths, pursue their passions and reach their full potential.
Members of the Girringun community, pictured in 2022, have been part of an organisation that has helped strengthen culture, Country and community across the region for three decades. Photo supplied
Three decades of culture, leadership and connection to Country have been celebrated in Cardwell, as Girringun Aboriginal Corporation marks 30 years since its establishment.
The milestone was commemorated through a three-day celebration from Friday 14th to Sunday 16th August, bringing together Traditional Owners, Elders, youth, partners and the wider community to reflect on Girringun’s journey and look towards its future.
Girringun was established in Cardwell in 1996 as a united voice for nine Traditional Owner groups and has since grown into a significant Indigenous-led organisation working across cultural heritage, Caring for Country and land and sea management.
2026’s 30-year celebration held over the weekend centred on the theme “Our People, Our Country, Our Voice”, with Girringun Aboriginal Corporation describing the milestone as an opportunity to acknowledge those who have walked before, celebrate achievements and recognise the next generation carrying the work forward.
Attendees from several communities in North Queensland enjoyed storytelling, cultural activities, community connection, music, cultural dance, markets, workshops, an art exhibition, children’s activities and lighting installations over the weekend, as well as a formal Gala Dinner held on the evening of Friday 14th August.
Hinchinbrook Shire Councillor Donna Marbelli attended the dinner on behalf of Hinchinbrook Shire Council, describing it as an honour to celebrate 30 years of “culture, connection, community and creating opportunities for people and families across the region”.
“The evening was a beautiful celebration of Girringun’s history, strength and vision for the future, with a Smoking Ceremony, Welcome to Country, cultural dance, music, inspiring stories and wonderful guest speakers sharing their knowledge and experiences,” Cr Marbelli said.
“It was particularly special to hear the Creation Story and to reflect on the generations of knowledge, culture and connection that continue to be shared and passed on.”
The milestone also comes during a significant year for Girringun, which has been recognised nationally for its Indigenous-led approach to Caring for Country and culture. Girringun was named a finalist in the 2026 National NAIDOC Caring for Country and Culture Award category.
As the organisation looks towards the next 30 years, its celebration has provided an opportunity to honour the past while continuing to strengthen culture, Country and community for future generations.
Member for Hinchinbrook, Wayde Chiesa MP at Port Hinchinbrook. Photo supplied
Plans to revitalise Port Hinchinbrook are continuing to gather momentum, with the search for a contractor to undertake major dredging works now moving into its next stage.
The latest milestone follows the closure of market sounding and early market engagement on 17th July, with Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) receiving responses from multiple suitably qualified dredging contractors and local suppliers.
EDQ has now progressed to an Early Contractor Involvement tender process, with bids due to close on 28th August.
Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the progress was another important step towards restoring activity at the long-troubled Cardwell precinct.
“Getting Port Hinchinbrook moving again was a commitment I made to this community, and it’s good to see us reaching another important step,” Mr Chiesa said.
“We now have multiple suitably qualified contractors expressing interest in the dredging work and are moving into the next stage of the process.
“There is still work to be done before dredging can begin, but these are the steps that need to happen to get us there and I’ll continue to keep the community updated as the project progresses.”
The proposed dredging is a key component of the broader Port Hinchinbrook revitalisation project, which aims to restore navigability throughout the marina and surrounding waterways and create greater opportunities for marine activity, tourismand future investment.
Earlier planning for the precinct identified the reinstatement of waterways, the Stony Creek canal and access channels as important outcomes, with restored access expected to support marine rescue operations, recreational users and tourism operators.
The broader project also includes safety upgrades to existing marina buildings and offices, as well as environmental management measures addressing long-standing issues including siltation and sediment management.
Initial environmental and geotechnical investigations have now commenced and will help inform the civil engineering methodology for works on Lot 170.
EDQ has also met with the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation to discuss environmental approval requirements and will continue working with the department throughout the approval process.
Discussions are continuing with Cassowary Coast Regional Council to coordinate works and approvals as the project progresses.
The Port Hinchinbrook precinct covers approximately 140 hectares and was declared a Provisional Priority Development Area in November 2025, providing a framework for future development across the site.
The revitalisation project is intended to address long-standing infrastructure and environmental issues while helping unlock future economic opportunities for Cardwell and the wider Hinchinbrook region.
While dredging is yet to commence, the current tender process marks a significant step towards securing the contractor needed to deliver the works.
Mr Chiesa said further updates would be provided as the project moves through the necessary procurement, environmental and approval processes.
Cassowary Coast households have a new incentive to tackle those long-overdue property clean-ups, with free waste disposal vouchers arriving alongside August rate notices.
The new program will provide households with two free vouchers each year, designed to make it easier to clear out unwanted household waste. Each voucher can be used once for an eligible load of dry household waste at any Cassowary Coast Regional Council waste transfer station.
Vouchers are linked to the property they were issued to, are valid until the expiry date shown, and they cannot be used for items including tyres, fridges, freezers, air conditioners, solar panels and asbestos, which attract separate disposal fees.
Johnstone River Towing has received $20,000 through Round 2 of the Secure Communities Partnership Program – Small Business stream to fund access control and entry management upgrades. Photo source: Johnstone River Towing
Johnstone River Towing has been awarded $20,000 under Round 2 of the Secure Communities Partnership Program – Small Business stream to deliver access control and entry management upgrades aimed at improving site security and helping prevent crime.
Johnstone River Towing stands one of more than 170 small and family businesses across the state to share almost $2 million in funding during the latest round of the program, which supports practical security improvements such as CCTV, alarm systems, secure fencing, lighting, bollards and access control measures.
Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the program highlighted the State Government's commitment to helping businesses operate in a safer environment.
"This program is a testament to the Government's commitment to ensuring small and family businesses across the State have the tools they need to operate in a safer environment," Mr Minnikin said.
"From local retailers to tradespeople and hospitality operators, small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities, and we are proud to stand with them."
Mr Minnikin said the funding would enable more businesses to implement practical crime prevention measures that protect premises, staff and customers while giving business owners greater peace of mind.
The Secure Communities Partnership Program has now completed two funding rounds, with grants helping businesses across Queensland improve security, create safer workplaces and contribute to stronger, more secure communities.
Vivienne Edwards and her uncle Victor “Shorty” Cassady share their love of music through Cassady Connections. Photo supplied
For North Queensland musicians Vivienne Edwards and her uncle Victor “Shorty” Cassady, music is more than a performance — it is a family tradition spanning generations.
Together, the pair form Cassady Connections, a musical duo built around the motto “One Blood. One Family. One Musical Connection.”
With more than 115 years of combined musical experience, the duo’s roots stretch back to gospel music in Halifax Gardens, Innisfail and Ingham, alongside a shared love of country music.
Vivienne, 58, has enjoyed a distinguished career as a singer-songwriter and recording artist, recording four albums, earning recognition for her songwriting, receiving a Deadly Award nomination and progressing through the blind auditions of The Voice.
Yet, she said performing alongside her 83-year-old uncle was her most meaningful musical achievement.
“I am privileged, honoured and blessed to be able to share a stage with Uncle. He is the Guitar Guru,” Vivienne said.
Victor, known affectionately as “Shorty”, hails from Halifax’s Gardens and has spent a lifetime playing guitar and singing.
A passionate fan of classic music, he is particularly renowned for his instrumental performances of songs by The Shadows.
Vivienne said her uncle’s talent and warmth were a major reason she wanted to share the stage with him.
“Uncle Shorty is a legend,” she said.
“His talent and gifts are far too bright to remain hidden from the world.”
Together, the pair aim to make audiences part of the performance, encouraging participation and creating an atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the music.
Whether performing gospel favourites, country classics, original songs or beloved guitar instrumentals, Cassady Connections celebrates family, heritage and community.
“Most importantly, I want to share my stage with my Uncle because he is my hero,” Vivienne said.
For the duo, the greatest reward is simple: sharing music, meeting people and celebrating a connection that has been generations in the making.
Contributed with thanks to Vivienne Edwards.
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