Isn’t it interesting how things seem to coincide and seemingly come together in time. You will recall that last week I mentioned our planned delegation to Canberra to address the Federal politicians on matters important and critical to our region to enable our economic growth, one in particular being the emerging sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel supply chain. As one of Australia’s leading sugarcane regions, we can contribute feedstock and logistics to processing, refining, and export.

Unfortunately, I did not attend due to the flood threat to our district, but the delegation did meet and push the cause with a number of members, including the Minister for Renewable Energy, Chris Bowen. Feedback is that the Minister is keen on progressing the concept, and we will now wait and see what action is taken.

We are all looking closely at what effect the war on IRAN is having, or going to have, on our fuel supplies and, more immediately, on fuel prices. Prices in Ingham have already risen sharply which does not augur well. I read this morning that Australia is holding around 30 days of refined fuel supply, well below the International Energy Agency recommendation of at least ninety days. This apparently leaves Australia vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions, as appears to be presently occurring.

I can report that the Australian Sugar Manufacturers (ASM) is also calling on the Australian Government to introduce a strong national ethanol mandate to unlock the most affordable pathway to sustainable aviation fuel and biodiesel, while strengthening Australia’s sovereign fuel capacity. ASM states that a national mandate would provide the certainty needed to drive investment in domestic ethanol production and support the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and biodiesel. ASM has identified that a national ethanol mandate would provide certainty to unlock billions of dollars in private investment, deliver the lowest-cost carbon abatement in transport fuels, support the development of affordable sustainable aviation fuel and biodiesel, strengthen Australia’s fuel security and sovereign manufacturing capabilities, and create regional jobs and economic opportunities.

I believe it is becoming quite clear to us all that Australia is facing a clear choice: continue relying on imported fuels or build a domestic industry that delivers affordable emissions reductions and regional economic growth. A national ethanol mandate will transform Australia’s sugar manufacturing sector for generations, and we definitely need to start becoming much more vocal about same.

As you may or may not be aware, the Queensland State Government has over the past year been conducting an inquiry into the Queensland sugar industry bioenergy opportunities through the Queensland Primary Industries and Resources Committee. The committee recently had its final public hearing and, I understand, was told of the significant role that the sugar manufacturing sector can play in supporting Queensland’s renewable energy future, regional economic growth, and long-term energy security. That is, of course, significantly reliant on farmers continuing to provide the feedstock to enable manufacturing to occur.

What I am not hearing or seeing yet is how farmers are going to be brought in as an integral part of this process given the existing Cane Supply Arrangements in place where, effectively, farmers are only paid for crystal sugar and a little bit for other things like molasses, but definitely not renewable energy outputs.

The elephant in the room remains.

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The Thorsborne Trail doesn’t shout, it whispers. Stretching 32 km along Hinchinbrook Island, Australia’s largest island national park, this world‑class hike stays wild thanks to a strict permit cap of just 40 people on the trail at any one time.

Usually completed over 3–5 days, many walkers prefer the slower pace, taking extra time to absorb the beaches, rainforest saddles and tidal creeks along the way. The best window to hike is April to September, when temperatures are kinder and creek crossings more predictable: though tides, weather and park alerts always make the final call. Expect soft sand slogs, steep pinches and serious “leave no trace” ethics.

The reward? Freshwater swims at Zoe and Mulligan Falls, empty coves, and nights filled with stars and sea air. Permits book fast. Go slow. Breathe deep. Let the island do the talking. Start planning: hinchinbrookway.com.au

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Working Together for Hinchinbrook’s Water Management

As a representative of the Hinchinbrook Council on the Lower Herbert Water Management Authority (LHWMA), Chair Cameron Barber and Board members made up of members of the Cane Growing community. I am also a member of the Drainage Advisory Group, which includes representatives from the Council, Canegrowers Association, QCar, Herbert River Trust, Qld Government departments to advocate and find solutions to our local water systems.

Our collaboration has proven invaluable, as we tackle the pressing issues that affect both urban and rural areas in Hinchinbrook. The collective expertise and perspectives brought together in these meetings have led to innovative solutions aimed at ensuring our waterways are well-managed and sustainable. The challenges we face are significant; all water from urban and agricultural areas must navigate through systems that, unfortunately, are often blocked and in disrepair. Due to outdated legislation and finical impediments.

I want to take a moment to acknowledge the important roles played by Chair Cr. Carr, Mayor Ramon, and Deputy Mayor Mary. Their advocacy and coordination efforts with the community have been instrumental in driving progress. They have worked tirelessly to ensure that the concerns of our residents are heard and addressed, fostering a spirit of collaboration that is essential for effective water management.

While the issues are complex, I am optimistic about the path forward. The commitment from all parties involved demonstrates our shared responsibility to protect and enhance our water resources for current and future generations. Together, we are working to ensure that Hinchinbrook's waterways are resilient, accessible, and capable of supporting our vibrant community. With continued collaboration, I believe we can overcome the challenges ahead and build a brighter future for everyone in our region.

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A fun-loving little boy with a big heart and an even bigger purr. I’m playful, curious, and always ready for the next game or adventure. Every day I’m growing more confident, exploring a little farther and trying new things with my foster friends cheering me on.

I adore playing with the other foster kittens! We tumble, chase, and wrestle until we’re all worn out. I’m also getting used to the dogs in my foster home. I’m taking it slow, but I’m learning they aren’t so scary, especially when they’re calm and gentle.

I’m ready for my forever home and can’t wait to bring lots of fun, affection, and my trademark loud purr to the family who chooses me.

Complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

Included in adoption fee of $240 desexed when of appropriate age, micro-chipped, up to date vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated.

DOB: 10/11/2025

Sex: Male

Breed: DSH

Colour: Silver, stripes and white

Kid friendly: Yes

Cat Friendly: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors only

BIN: BIN0000268254643

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Thousands of Queenslanders living in community housing will benefit from cost-of-living relief and better thermal comfort in their homes thanks to the new Queensland Community Housing Energy Upgrades (Q-CHEU) program jointly funded by the State and Federal Governments.

Applications are now open for up to $4,500 in rebates to help eligible community housing providers deliver energy efficiency and thermal comfort upgrades to around 4,000 community homes across Queensland.

Upgrades could include:  

• insulation and shading for homes
• installation of efficient electric appliances like hot water systems, ovens and cooktops and split-cycle air conditioners
• solar systems such as solar panels.

The Q-CHEU program is the latest part of a broader $116 million investment by the Australian and Queensland Governments to improve energy performance for up to 32,000 social housing properties across the state.

Federal Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson said the Commonwealth's Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative is a great example of policy delivering positive results for people.

“No matter their circumstances, all Australians deserve to benefit from cheaper energy bills and more comfortable homes and that’s why the Federal Government is investing $1.1 billion to upgrade the nation’s stock of social and community housing – with 100,000 dwellings to be upgraded,” Mr Wilson said.

“Upgrades like shading, insulation energy efficient appliances will deliver instant and permanent hip pocket relief for Queensland’s community housing tenants.”

Queensland Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor said the scheme would help to reduce the cost of living for some of the state’s most vulnerable people.

“This is a practical program that will change the lives of our community housing tenants by helping to cut their power bills and making their homes more liveable,” he said.

“Our tenants in community homes are on low incomes, so reducing energy costs and improving thermal comfort will make a real difference especially during our scorching hot Queensland summers."

Community Housing Industry Association Queensland CEO Julie Saunders said the Q-CHEU program would deliver meaningful benefits for both tenants and providers.

“By backing upgrades like insulation, solar and efficient hot water systems, the Queensland Community Housing Energy Upgrades program will deliver real cost-of-living relief while improving the liveability of homes across the community housing sector.”

Applications can be submitted until 30 October 2026, with all upgrades works to be completed by 30 June 2027.

For registered community housing providers seeking more information or wishing to apply, visit www.housing.qld.gov.au/initiaitives/queensland-community-housing-energy-upgrades-program.

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A lunar eclipse, also called a blood moon, is an astronomical event that occurs when the Moon passes through Earth’s shadow. Lunar eclipses occur during eclipse season, when the Moon’s orbital plane is approximately in line with Earth and the Sun.

On March 3, this rare event occurred, but it was also a night of storms and heavy cloud cover across Queensland. Some were lucky enough to spot the striking red face of the Moon at its peak through breaks in the clouds. The next one visible in Australian skies will not occur for another three years.

Upcoming Total Lunar Eclipses

31 Dec 2028 – 1 Jan 2029
20 – 21 Dec 2029
25 – 26 Apr 2032

Caption: During a total lunar eclipse, Earth’s atmosphere scatters blue light, allowing only red hues to illuminate the Moon: Image credit: timeanddate.com

Caption: The ‘Blood Moon’ as it appeared in clear New Zealand skies. Photo credit: AstronzNewZealand

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that, in anticipation of inclement weather and to ensure public safety, the road access to Wallaman Falls was closed from the afternoon of Thursday, 5 March 2026, and is still in effect due to flooding in the area.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service will conduct a site inspection to confirm that all members of the public have safely vacated the area.

Members of the public are advised to monitor conditions and check the Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard at https://disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/ for the latest information on road conditions and other relevant updates.

Caption: Wallaman Falls on a clear and bright sunny day. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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The Ingham community has another reason to be proud, with Canegrowers Mitre 10 Ingham Store Manager Yvonne Bosworth receiving national recognition for her outstanding service and leadership.

Yvonne was recently awarded the National Paul Murphy Mighty Helpful Service Award at the 2025 TTHG Awards of Excellence in Adelaide. The award recognises individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to customer service and embody the “Mighty Helpful” spirit across the Mitre 10 network.

Yvonne’s journey with Canegrowers Mitre 10 spans an incredible 37 years, beginning as a shop assistant in 1989 before stepping into the role of store manager six years ago. During this time, she has built a reputation for her hands-on leadership, deep product knowledge and genuine commitment to helping customers find the right solutions for their projects.

Her leadership was particularly evident during the North Queensland floods in February 2025, when the store was inundated with floodwater and mud. Despite the devastation, Yvonne rallied staff and community volunteers to clean up and restore operations, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination.

Beyond the store, Yvonne is well known for her strong community involvement, supporting initiatives such as Pink Breast Cancer Day, representing the business at local sporting events, and serving as a member of the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce.

On behalf of the Canegrowers family and the wider Hinchinbrook community, we congratulate Yvonne on this outstanding achievement and well-deserved national recognition.

Contributed with thanks by Frank Scardamaglia, Manager at Canegrowers.

Yvonne Bosworth with her National Paul Murphy Mighty Helpful Service Award at the 2025 TTHG Awards of Excellence in Adelaide. Photo supplied

Yvonne, surrounded by her supporters on stage when she won the award. Photo supplied

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On Friday, 27 February, St Vincent de Paul Society confirmed the temporary closure of Vinnies Ingham whilst renovations are completed following flood damage sustained earlier last year.

Vinnies Ingham confirmed that the cherished charity store would remain closed for approximately four to six weeks while works are carried out, leaving the local community saddened as another familiar business shuts its doors.

In an online post, Vinnies Ingham Volunteer, Caroline Kane, expressed her sadness at the closure, explaining that donations would no longer be accepted while the store is shut, highlighting the decision had been made by St Vincent de Paul Society Townsville Diocese and was beyond her control.

Executive Officer of St Vincent de Paul Society Townsville Diocese, Sharin Nicholson, explained the closure was necessary to repair, renovate and modernise the building, assuring the Townsville Diocese has been working closely with Vinnies Ingham throughout the entire process.

“We anticipate renovations may take four to six weeks to complete and we look forward to delivering even more for the local community to better serve our shoppers and donors,” Ms Nicholson said.

“We have been working with our wonderful Ingham team throughout the renovation to keep them informed and are excited to provide them with a fresh, new space to work in.”

Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa said the temporary closure would allow important repair works to move forward, kindly asking locals to keep donations aside in anticipation of the store’s reopening in April.

“Vinnies plays a vital role in our community, whether it’s helping families doing it tough or providing an affordable place for people to shop,” said Mr Chiesa.

“While it has taken some time for insurance approvals to come through, it’s great news that the works are now able to move ahead and that the store will soon return better than ever. I know Hinchinbrook locals are incredibly generous, and I encourage everyone to keep those donations ready so we can support the volunteers and the great work they do when the doors reopen.”

Vinnies Ingham’s temporary closure leaves the community without a charity store, with many residents recalling the previous closures of Lifeline Shop Ingham and the Salvation Army Family Store as significant losses to the local community.

Residents initially reacted with concern to the closure online, voicing how integral small shops like Vinnies are in supporting the local economy and community of the Hinchinbrook Shire.

“The big stores who make these decisions forget there are people in the smaller towns who also need to buy from these great little shops – very sad when this happens,” one resident wrote.

Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre Support Worker, Mei Yakuma acknowledged the store’s temporary closure would be greatly felt across the community, noting the integral role services like the St Vincent de Paul Society play in creating a cycle of generosity and support within communities.

“Many members of our community are living paycheck to paycheck, and having low-cost outlets such as Vinnies provides a realistic place for families to purchase essential items like clothing, shoes, and furniture at affordable prices,” Ms Yakuma said.

“Vinnies has also historically been a key support during times of crisis. Many families and individuals received assistance during events such as the recent floods, demonstrating how valuable these services are during difficult times.”

While the store remains closed, Ms Yakuma hopes residents will consider alternative ways to support one another like utilising social media pages to share donations directly with those in need. Ms Yakuma also confirmed The HUB unfortunately no longer accepts donations of second-hand items.

“Ingham’s a very strong and close-kit community,” she said.

“While the closure will certainly be felt, I would encourage community members who have items to donate to consider alternative ways of supporting others locally.”

Although disappointing, Vinnies Ingham’s temporary closure presents an opportunity for generosity to flourish across the Hinchinbrook Shire, with community organisations encouraging residents to support one another through local initiatives like car boot sales, markets and online community groups.

In the meantime, St Vincent de Paul Society Townsville Diocese thanks residents for their understanding and assures the charity store will return it Herbert Street shortly.

“We appreciate the community’s patience and ongoing support,” said Ms Nicholson.

“We look forward to reopening in Ingham as a better, fresher Vinnies as we continue to raise important funds to support locals in need.”

CAPTION: Vinnies Ingham is temporarily closed for repairs following 2025 flood damage. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

On Wednesday 4 March, a Queensland Police recruitment pop-up stand outside Sportspower in Ingham received a very positive response from the public. Officers Michelle Jardine and Trina Ryland were on hand to assist hopeful applicants with paperwork, hand out some fun merchandise, and talk with visitors about what a career in policing involves.

Speaking about the day, the officers said they were delighted with the turnout. They explained that even before the stand was fully set up, enthusiastic hopefuls were already waiting to ask questions and learn more about joining the service.

Among those stopping by were Joshua and Emily-Rose, who were both eager to begin their application process and grateful for the opportunity to receive guidance in person. The pair left the stand feeling confident and motivated, ready to organise the next steps as they pursue their policing careers together.

Caption 1: Officers Michelle Jardine and Trina Ryland with Joshua Barram and Emily-Rose Pulis at the pop-up stand. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

Caption 2: Joshua Barram and Emily-Rose Pulis looking at the pamphlets, merch, and having fun trying on Police hats. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Hiya Hinchinbrook!

Last weekend the community celebrated International Women's Day with much flair and lots of support. I managed to stop by the QCWA in Forrest Beach on Sunday and see the wonderful ladies in action. Who doesn't love a spot of tea, good company and delicious scones? Me, I love it!

The ladies of the QCWA were very kind offering me cold water or a cheeky scone when they saw how much I was melting in the Sunday heat, kudos to them for pushing through their open day with only fans running, pushing about the hot air, I have to say I went straight home to aircon I felt boiled alive in my black uniform.

I have great love and respect for the Country Women’s Association, as when I was a Girl Guide back in Brisbane, my hut automatically joined us with their organisation. This meant we would occasionally get special guests from our local QCWA to come in and teach us soft handicrafts and baking.

It also meant we got to volunteer with them. I remember with much fondness going to the huge EKKA event in Brisbane, unchaperoned by parents, with a volunteers pass proudly around my neck. I helped the ladies of the QCWA serve tea, coffee and baked goods to hungry farmers and city-goers between shows in the arena, even though I was just barely tall enough to reach over the counter.

Fun fact: It was at the EKKA QCWA cafe that I first tried pecan pie. I have loved it ever since, especially with a dollop of cream.

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Hinchinbrook women came together to celebrate International Women’s Day in heartwarming style. The community united to support one another and honour the strength and courage of women everywhere.

A sea of pink poured through Ingham’s streets in a Fun Run in aid of Chicks in Pink, raising awareness and funds for women living with breast cancer. Meanwhile, the Forrest Beach QCWA welcomed locals to an open day with high tea and charming conversation. Both events were a celebration of friendship, generosity, and the power of women standing together in support of one another.    

A sea of pink gathered at the Herbert River Jockey Club before pouring into Ingham. Photo supplied.

Women Uplifting Women This International Women’s Day

Tracey Chinotti and Elisa Seri, along with a group of family and friends, organised an International Women’s Day Fun Run in partnership with Chicks in Pink, a local organisation supporting women living with breast cancer. The morning attracted community members of all ages, who came to walk or run in support of the cause.

Councillor Donna Marbelli shared a message from several cancer support services that deeply resonated with the organisers:

“Not until you’ve faced cancer do you truly understand how heavy life can feel. The battles you once thought were small become mountains, and the strength you never knew you had becomes your lifeline. Every good day feels like a blessing, every bit of progress a quiet miracle. Cancer warriors don’t just survive they fight, they hope, and they rise again and again. And that courage deserves to be honoured.”

Tracey and Elisa reflected on the impact of these words saying, “We just honoured that courage, and it is as much for us as for the Cancer Warriors.”

They also expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the event with, “We just wanted to thank the wonderful people who ran or walked, those who secured sponsorship, and all the other generous people who made monetary donations. The Herbert River Jockey Club for letting us use the venue. Chiesa Butchery for donating the sausages and Mick's Bread Kitchen for the bread. Also, Wholelife Pharmacy for the beautiful raffle prize. Once again, we come to realise our beautiful little town is so full of caring, generous people that become treasured friends along the way. Thank you all for your help and support.”

The Forrest Beach QCWA also celebrated International Women’s Day with an open day at their hall. It was a deliciously delightful morning, featuring the perfect high tea with scones and generous dollops of jam and cream.

The QCWA ladies couldn’t have been happier as they worked hard in the heat, serving up smiles along with tasty treats, and sharing information with prospective members who popped in to explore the facilities and enjoy a scone. Did you know the club also has a very well-stocked second-hand library? For just a coin donation, you can borrow—or even take home—a beloved book.

Both events celebrated the ways women in Hinchinbrook support each other. Whether coming together to raise funds for breast cancer awareness or sharing stories over tea, the events reflected the generosity and thriving community spirit that keeps the region connected.

Jessica Seri, Tracey Chinotti, and Elisa Seri, organisers of the day. Photo supplied

The International Women’s Day fun run as it makes its way through Ingham township. Photo supplied

L-R Derryl, Margeret, Beverley, and Valerie serving tea and scones. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

L-R Rebecca, Inara, Arlene, and Rochelle. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

L-R Mary Maria, and Carolyne. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

L-R Sombat, Mary, Annette, Dayu, and Barb. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

The International Women’s Day fun run as it departs from the Jockey Club. Photo supplied

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On Monday, I had a bit of a scare. Driving out from Forrest Beach in my little work car that morning, the rain was just starting to fall. But as I drew closer to Halifax, I started to regret not checking the Disaster Dashboard before I headed out.

Soon the rain was pelting down, and there was a little water on the road, but not yet concerning enough that my little car couldn’t navigate it. I was off to meet with an important client of the paper, but when I got to the meeting at Lucinda, we all didn’t stay for long.

A soggy young man in a thin yellow raincoat burst into the meeting and told us all that if we wanted to get home, we had to leave now as the roads were going under. I knew I had to hurry out of there as I definitely didn’t pack a swimsuit and my car could not forge anything like what the huge 4WDs parked around it could.

In the end, I saw the waves and spray on the Halifax roads and knew I had to take the long way around, from Lucinda to Forrest Beach via Ingham. I kept checking in with my family and work to make sure they knew, and I knew, we were all driving and getting home safely.

Knowing the limitations of your vehicle and your own driving ability is very important. Don’t drive in wet weather if you’re unsure about either, as it makes it unsafe for everybody else on the road. Stay safe everyone!

Fun fact: When I knew I was going to be moving to the North Queensland region for work, I purposely looked for a personal car that could handle a notorious puddle or two. I loved making the city-to-rural switch. It’s made driving so much more fun.

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Community spirit was in full force across the shire on Sunday, 1 March, as locals turned out in strong numbers for Clean Up Australia Day, rolling up their sleeves to protect the coastline they call home.

In Wongaling Beach, volunteers met at Rotary Park before splitting into four teams to patrol Wongaling, South Mission, Main Mission and Bingil Beaches. From 1pm to 5pm, participants scoured the sand at and below the high tide mark, collecting plastic debris ranging from tiny fragments to larger washed-up items. Gloves and bags were provided, with volunteers encouraged to work at their own pace as the task involved significant bending and sifting through sand.

Later in the afternoon, another clean-up effort brought families, dog-walkers and long-time volunteers together at Porters Promenade, near North Mission Beach. Organised by community group C4, the 3pm event invited residents to “bring your kids, bring your dog (on a leash), bring your smiles” and help care for a stretch of coastline of special significance to the Djiru custodians.

With a 3.55-metre tide earlier in the day creating ideal conditions for collecting marine debris, two teams were formed following a briefing at the northern amenities block. One group focused on the Fish Trap and North Mission Beach area, while another tackled more challenging terrain near Clump Point Lookout before regrouping at 4.30pm. In 2025, organises reported removing 99 kilograms of rubbish from the shoreline between Clump Point Lookout and Fish Trap.

Across both events, bags of collected plastic stood as a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenge of marine waste — and the strength of a community committed to keeping its beaches pristine.

C4 continues to coordinate annual initiatives on Clean Up Australia Day! Photo source: C4

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The Hinchinbrook Shire’s brightest young minds were celebrated recently during a unique, combined judging night of the Lions Youth of the Year Quest, bringing together two Lions clubs and two secondary schools in a one-night event.

Hosted jointly by the Ingham Lions Club and the Lower Herbert Halifax Lions Club, the competition involved students from Ingham State High School and Gilroy Santa Maria College. It marked the first time both clubs and schools had been judged together on the same night, making the event distinctive in its format.

At club level, Nalini Schofield was named Overall Winner for Ingham State High School, with Ava Ackery awarded Best Public Speaker. Gilroy Santa Maria College student Elina Rose Alappatt Daijo claimed both Overall Winner and Best Public Speaker for the Lower Herbert Halifax Lions Club.

Hinchinbrook’s Future Leaders Recognised At Youth Of The Year

Elina went on to be named Zone Level Overall Winner, achieving the highest score across both clubs and schools. The event marked a welcome return after last year’s Youth of the Year competition was cancelled due to devastating flooding in February. Following the cancellation, Ingham Lions were eager to relaunch the program and deliver the opportunity for students in 2026.

Ingham Lions Club Chairperson for Youth of the Year, Diane Hobbs, organised and coordinated the project by liaising with Year 12 coordinators and school principals from both secondary schools, providing information about the program and outlining the interview and public speaking criteria. She was assisted throughout the project by Lower Herbert Halifax Youth of the Year Chair Michael Bube and Ingham Lions member Arlene Turnbull.

A total of three students from each school participated in the competition. Students were marked out of 100 points, with interviews weighted at 70 points and public speaking weighted at 30 points.

During the interview component, students were assessed on their presentation, community involvement, and their views on local, state, national, and international issues. They were also required to justify their opinions, responding to questions such as whether dangerous native animals should be culled, whether the Brisbane Olympics would benefit Queensland, and whether the Premier made the right decision not to declare a Queensland public holiday for Anzac Day. Judges were particularly impressed by the maturity of the students and their ability to present and consider both sides of each issue.

Judging took place at the RSL, where students were given two impromptu questions and required to speak on each for two minutes. The impromptu component allowed judges to assess how well students could think on their feet and communicate confidently on unfamiliar topics. Following dinner, students delivered a prepared five-minute speech to the audience, covering a wide range of topics including “Make America What Again?”, the power of artificial intelligence, and whether European spacecraft may one day discover life on Jupiter.

Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Ramon Jayo said the event highlighted the strength of the region’s youth.

“Our young people are our region’s future, and that future is looking very bright. They represent the very best of Hinchinbrook,” Mayor Jayo said.

“I’d also like to extend our sincere thanks to the Lions Club for hosting such a worthwhile event and creating opportunities for our young people. Their continued support makes a real difference.”

Elina described the experience as transformative.

“Competing in the Lions Youth of the Year competition has been an unforgettable experience. From preparing my speech to discussing current affairs in the interview section, the process challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and grow both personally and intellectually,” she said.

“Meeting other talented young people from across the zone was inspiring - we each brought unique perspectives and passions yet shared the same drive to make a difference in our communities. The judges and Lions members created a supportive atmosphere, encouraging us to express our ideas with confidence and authenticity.

“Winning the zone title is an honour, but what I’ll remember most are the connections I’ve made and the lessons I’ve learned about leadership, service, and self-belief. I’m so grateful to the Lions Club for providing opportunities like this that empower young Australians to find their voice and contribute meaningfully to society.”

Diane Hobbs has been involved in the Youth of the Year project since joining Ingham Lions in 2008, continuing the legacy of stalwarts Lion Ed Morris and the late Carlo Cavallo, whose passion was to give local youth opportunities to develop interview skills, ‘thinking-on-your-feet’ abilities, and public speaking confidence.

The Lions Youth of the Year program began in Queensland in 1964 and soon became a national initiative. More than 100,000 young people have participated in the program, with notable past contestants including Kevin Rudd, Peter Beattie and current Queensland Premier David Crisafulli.

Secondary students aged 15 to 19 are eligible to enter the program by completing an entry form available through their Year 12 coordinator. Year 11 students considering entering in 2027 are encouraged to reflect on their involvement at school, community activities outside school, academic achievements, future aspirations, hobbies, and interests, as these form the basis of the initial assessment.

With the competition now firmly back on the calendar after last year’s disruption, Lions members and supporters alike left with a renewed sense of optimism, reassured that Hinchinbrook’s future is in capable, thoughtful and passionate hands.

1. Gilroy Santa Maria College were proud to compete in the Lions Youth of the Year Quest. Photo supplied
2. Three students from Ingham State High School excitingly competed in the Lions Youth of the Year Quest. Photo supplied
3. Elina Rose Alappatt Daijo was awarded Overall Winner, Zone Level Overall Winner, and Best Public Speaker for the Lower Herbert Halifax Lions Club. Photo supplied.

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