By a retired cane farmer

There was movement at the farm shed
when the word was passed around,
That the price of export sugar had fallen to the ground.
As farmers we are takers, we have no right to choose,
Sometimes we come out winners and then sometimes we lose.

They say we are complainers but we’re lovers of the land,
All we ask is a fair go and perhaps a helping hand.
The lifestyle is the greatest, you nominate your hours.
Sometimes we work from dawn to dark and
sometimes between the showers.

We’ve built up some fond memories as
we’ve journeyed through the years.
We also have some hard ones that reduce a man to tears.
We recall the young gun cutters, the rails, the knives, the file.
You couldn’t keep up or catch them to within a country mile.

They came across from distant lands,
they stayed around a while,
they left behind a legacy and they made the farmers smile.
The hours they worked were long and hard
and what they earned was small.
They were the backbone of the industry
and they still stand strong and tall.

Then came the 515 harvester, the damn thing wouldn’t go!
After working twelve long hard hours
only thirty bins you had to show.
But things are all done different now, it’s done within the hour.
All the farmer does now is go home and take a shower.

Along comes the contractor, he is looking for more dough.
“The price of things is rising, I can’t survive you know.
This is the price I’m asking that’s what you have to pay,
You take it or you leave it, we’ll talk another day.”

So then the tracks start turning, it's money in the bank.
We get pain upon delivery, the mills we have to thank.
Then the bills start rolling in, they’re
coming, coming thick and fast.
That’s when you have to hope and pray
the money’s going to last.

Along come all the greenies but they’re not all that green.
They say they’re out to save the world
but they’re not all that they seem.
They say that all the farmers are endangering the reef,
We’ll not take it laying down let’s hand them out some beef.

We’ve got all this new technology, GPS and traffic lane.
But with all this increased knowledge
we seem to grow less cane.
We have all of these computers and also the spreadsheet,
but the bottom line is always we have to make ends meet.

Then there are the politicians with
their theories and their tales,
“You’ve never had it so good” but something jumped the rails.
You’re told to work hard and smart,
that’s what they have to say.
While there are more inquiries, they
get an increase in their pay.

We struggle with diseases, RSD and smut and rust.
We have numbers of varieties but in many we can’t trust.
We battle with the elements, sometimes the rain won’t come.
We get long hot summer days and lots and lots of sun.

Then you look to heaven and pray the rain will fall.
You take a look around your farm, the crop it will be small,
and then the heavens open and the rain just tumbles down.
The rivers are all running, there is water all around.

The cane is going under and you can’t get to town,
“We’ll pack a few belongings and head for higher ground!”
There are the Larrys and the Yasis with wind and driving rain,
you estimate the damage and you try to wear the pain.

That’s when you get up and learn to start
again with faith and trust and hope.
With heart in hand and courage, we pray that we will cope.
You look around the district with farmers old and grey.
They can’t afford to get out and they can’t afford to stay.

The children have all but left home,
they've left behind the land.
They don’t want to build their home life upon the shifting sand.
They’re gone away to better things, their futures to explore,
some headed for the cities and some to distant shore.

They leave behind them this fair land,
they shall return no more.
So we’ll work a little harder to keep the banker from the door.
You begin to wonder was it all worthwhile,
all the anguish and the pain.
The striving and the hardship for oh, so little gain.

And then the time will come around when
you knock on heaven’s door.
You no longer have to worry if the price falls through the floor.
Then you ask yourself the question, “Did I really pass the test?”
You heard the voice say, “Welcome home my
son, you’re the best of all the best!"

"You’re a cane grower!”

The Author wished to remain anonymous, and we thank them for their contribution to the Hinchinbrook Life as it echoes many of the lives of our regions growers.

Kelton is a striking ginger-and-white gentleman with a personality as neat as his perfectly kept coat. Your quiet companion with a heart of gold! He takes great pride in staying clean and keeps his space just as tidy, a true house-proud cat!

While Kelton isn’t a fan of being picked up, he more than makes up for it with his gentle presence and affectionate nature. He enjoys simply being near you, sharing quiet moments, and offering soft head-butts while you relax on the couch. This food-motivated fellow will gladly accept snacks from your hand, making every interaction rewarding.

Though cuddles may not be his thing, Kelton’s calm, low-maintenance charm brings a comforting companionship to any home. If you're looking for a sweet, dignified soul who offers quiet affection and a touch of elegance, Kelton could be your perfect match.

To meet Kelton, fill out an enquiry form at: www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

Adoption Fee: $210
DOB: 15/07/2023
Sex: Male
Breed: Domestic Short Hair (DSH)
Colour: Ginger and White
Kid Friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Untested
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors only

Adoption fee includes: Desexing, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, flea/tick and intestinal worm treatment.

The first season of senior squash for 2025 ended with close games in the grand final match ups. In the A Men final, underdogs, Fantome came from fourth place to secure a 2 to 1 win over favourites, Hinchinbrook.

Fantome captain, Liam Fascetti defeated Hinchinbrook captain, Jordan Di Bella 3–0. Matthew Giliberto (Hinchinbrook) defeated Jason Erba (Fantome) 4-1. Oliver Flynn (Fantome) defeated Rodney Fascetti (Hinchinbrook) 3-2.

The A Mixed also saw an upset with Turkish Delights securing a 3-1 win over Dream.

Turkish Delights captain, Beau Lepinath defeated Dream captain, Brendan Seri 3-0. Carter Hague (Turkish Delights) defeated Nigel Newman (Dream) 3-1. Niko Dillon (Dream) defeated Oliver Hoyle (Turkish Delights) 3-0. Ashton Hoyle (Turkish Delights) defeated Clint Seri (Dream) 3-2.

Season 2 begins this week with A Men on Tuesday night and A/B Mixed on Thursday night. Come along and enjoy a great sport!

Contributed with thanks by Kim Di Bella.

Palm Creek #82 - 27 participants.
"Foggy but fabulous start to the weekend!"
New Faces: 4 | PBs: 7
Fastest time: 20:26 | Finishers time: 50:35
Volunteers: Sandra Coco, Ted Cogger, Bridgette Duffy, Matteo Mancuso, Donna Panzenbock

Cardwell #344 - 25 participants.
"Well done to the 25 participants who took to our beautiful foreshore this morning. Congratulations to youngsters Jake and Phoebe on taking the win today. Welcome to all the visitors and first-timers."
New Faces: 11 | PBs: 2
Fastest time: 21:06 | Finishers time: 49:00
Volunteers: Kellie Ball, Judith Clarke, Terry Curtin, Jan Ferguson, Nate Ihle, Kerry Snell, Ward Weare

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Photos sourced from Cardwell and Palm Creek Parkrun Facebook pages.

With Christmas In July

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) Seniors Morning Coffee Club proudly hosted an amazing Christmas in July celebration, bringing together seniors from across our region for a day of good food, fun, and festive cheer. What began as a planned gathering for 80 quickly grew to a sold-out event, welcoming 120 guests who filled the Noorla Bowls Club in Ingham to capacity. Our usual Coffee Club of around 40 members more than tripled in size for this special day, with the added delight of 21 visitors from Rollingstone Neighbourhood Centre and groups from Lifelong Supports and Blue Care.

Continued on page 26 & 27

Christmas In July At Noorla Bowls Club

These valuable partnerships and events help create meaningful social connections and reduce isolation among our seniors, something our Centre is deeply committed to. Adding an informative touch, we were joined by two wonderful representatives from ADA Australia, who gave an insightful presentation about their fully funded advocacy services for older persons, highlighting vital support available within our community.

It was a feast to remember as guests were treated to a traditional Christmas meal, lovingly prepared by the talented team at Oasis Café. The generous spread featured baked ham, roasted pork, lamb, and vegetables, pasta and salad, and a crowd-favourite lasagne made by our very own HCSC Men’s Group facilitator, Angelo — a true kitchen whiz! To finish, a classic trifle provided a sweet end to a hearty meal.

The holiday spirit was alive and well, with many attendees arriving dressed in their best Christmas-themed outfits. Best Dressed prizes went to Veronica as The Grinch, Jimmy as Woody, Carol as Mrs Claus, Gordon as Christmas Bob Marley, and young Tara, whose festive energy lit up the room. The celebration continued with lively Bingo games and a spirited round of Trivia that had everyone scratching their heads and laughing in equal measure.

A special thank you goes to Rachele from the Lions Club, who not only brought along the iconic Lions Christmas Cakes, one of which was kindly donated as a raffle prize, but also generously lent a hand serving meals and ensuring everyone was well looked after. Events like these are only possible through the dedication of our wonderful volunteers and the unwavering support of the HCSC Staff. Your time, energy, and community spirit are the beating heart of these special gatherings.

To everyone who joined us for our Christmas in July, thank you for bringing warmth, laughter, and festive joy to our seniors. Here’s to many more moments of connection and celebration within our Hinchinbrook community.

Contributed with thanks by The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC)

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Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/27guvbhn

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With a united front from the board, staff, and club patrons, the RSL rallied together to raise vital funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation through a month-long series of raffles and events. Setting an ambitious goal of $5,000, the club not only met it but soared past it, raising a total of $8,042.

The campaign wrapped up with a special Sunday barbecue fundraiser that saw the function room buzzing with generous supporters and fantastic prizes. Local businesses got behind the cause, with Beauty on Lannercost contributing vouchers courtesy of Bec Weston, and Bissons Electrical donating an array of meat trays sourced from Blanco's and Flower arrangements from Mandy’s Beauty in the Bush. The afternoon barbecue was also proudly sponsored by Bissons Electrical, whose ongoing support helped make the event such a great success.

The Herbert River RSL extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who bought raffle tickets, wore pink, and stood united. The incredible funds raised will go directly toward supporting the National Breast Cancer Foundation in its mission to fund life-saving research and support Australians affected by breast cancer.

The fundraising spirit continues as the Herbert River RSL launches its next campaign, It’s a Bloke Thing, in support of the National Prostate Cancer Foundation. Running through August and into Father’s Day, the campaign will culminate in a free sausage sizzle on Sunday, 7 September.

They’re calling on our community once again to get behind a cause that matters, standing together and making it count.

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Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire! This past weekend was so packed with events that it was difficult to make it to them all, but rest assured, I tried my best. Thank you to all who sent in reports on the events I couldn't get to!

I took my mother out to the races and we enjoyed the sunshine and the horses at the Ingham Gold Cup. So many beautiful people out in their race-day best, I know the Fashion On The Fields competition was just as fierce as the horse racing! I didn't place any bets myself, but in hindsight, maybe I should have. My mother and I had a little friendly competition between us, and our picks kept coming in the top 3. I guess we knew how to pick them! I greatly enjoy most horse sports, and I am happy I got to share the memories of my first horse races with my wonderful mother.

I also had a quick moment to visit the Conroy Hall Markets after Parkrun on Saturday, and it was quaint with some stalls inside the hall and some outside. Many talented stallholders let me take their pictures for my next market feature (coming soon!). I picked up a little sponge cake and it was so soft and fluffy, I enjoyed it as a post-Parkrun pick-me-up.

Victoria

Fun Fact: champion racehorse Winx's filly by stallion Pierro sold for a world record $10 million in 2024. The sale set an all-time southern hemisphere record for a thoroughbred yearling, doubling the $5 million paid for Black Caviar's half-brother in 2013.

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The Ingham Flotilla QF-14 of the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard has officially opened the Matthew White Wing, named in honour of Matthew White and his mother, Donna White, in memory of their service and dedicated support to the Coast Guard.

Steve Whipps of QF-14 spoke with pride and gratitude, saying, “It's a special occasion for us. We don’t have many of them, but I would like to say that the funds for this shed all came out of public fundraising in the Shire of Hinchinbrook. Without the people of Hinchinbrook, we wouldn't have been able to do it. Some of the funding did come from one of our generous contributors, and we’re very grateful. I’d also like to acknowledge our squadron, Commodore North Queensland Squadron, Commodore Terry Spurrier, and invite him to say a few words and cut the ribbon.”

Commodore Terry Spurrier said the occasion was deeply meaningful, “This shed doesn't just represent storage for the boat. It symbolises the hard work of our members, our sponsors, and it stands as a memorial to a valued past member. There’s a lot of sentiment here today. I’d like to thank everyone for the work they do, and a special thank you to the partners and families for understanding when the 2am call-out comes and it’s time to go. I’m very proud to be here.”

Nick Dametto MP shared his personal reflections on the dedication, “Having the Matty White Wing opened today is an absolute testimony to the dedication that young man had for, at the time, the Ingham Coast Guard. A life taken too early, but one that will be remembered for many years to come." He continued, “It’s very heartwarming to see the shed named in his honour. Matty was known for his commitment, from driving the tractor down to launch the boat to helping rescue those in need. They even nicknamed it ‘Matty’s tractor’. The fact that this new wing was funded entirely by local donations is a testament to the hardworking volunteers and the community that supports them.”

Acting Mayor Mary Brown also praised the efforts of the Coast Guard and the significance of the new facility, “It’s fantastic to see an extension to the infrastructure and facilities already here. The role the Coast Guard plays in our community is critical, often not fully appreciated until you need them. Kudos to all the volunteers and to the community that stands behind them. This shed is not just infrastructure; it’s about building resilience for a growing coastal region and ensuring we can continue to support both residents and visitors enjoying our marine environment.”

The Matthew White Wing stands as a proud symbol of local unity, volunteer dedication, and the enduring memory of a young man whose legacy lives on in every rescue, every launch, and every life kept safe on the water.

The Ingham Gold Cup Races was a gathering for the district and beyond to enjoy. The turnout steadily built throughout the afternoon as many flocked to the racetrack. Encouragement from trackside and the grandstand grew as onlookers rallied their picks to gallop faster. A crescendo of joy for the event and the sport could be heard as many raised their drinks to their winnings and a good show across the five races.

Christina Spencer, the Herbert River Jockey Club Secretary and Fashions on the Field Coordinator, was delighted with how the event was shaping up: "It's turned out to be a perfect, beautiful day. No clouds in the sky, and the crowd is starting to roll in."

She was ready to take her position at the fashion tent as many beautifully dressed ladies and smartly dressed men signed up to be judged across the various categories. It was shaping up to be a tough competition this year. Alternating between races and fashion show segments, the atmosphere was lively and even those whose bets didn’t pay off took it in their stride with a good-natured laugh at the friendly competition.

The winners of Fashions on the Field gorgeously twirled and walked the catwalk for the judges. There were eight overall winners and four Spotter’s Choice winners, and according to the judges, the contest was fierce. They were looking for matching features and overall outfit continuity, as one judge put it: "Head to toe perfection of it all tied together."

Fashions on the Field Winners
Coffee Presto Contemporary Lady of the Track Winner: Sarah Fascetti
Coffee Presto Contemporary Lady of the Track Runner Up: Ibi Holder

Beauty on Lannercost Classic Lady of the Track Winner: Kymberlee Cockrem
Beauty on Lannercost Classic Lady of the Track Runner Up: Marnie Davidson

Ingham Agencies Man of the Track Winner: Phillip Burger
Ingham Agencies Man of the Track Runner Up: Ryan Todd

Snippers Boutique for Hair Millinery Winner: Marnie Davidson
Snippers Boutique for Hair Millinery Runner Up: Amy Byrnes

Spotter’s Choice Winners: Rae Scuderi, Rebecca Weston, Shannon Reynolds and Erica Lee Cheu

Ingham Gold Cup Race Winners
Race 1 Winner: Pardon The Purr
Trainer: Joanna Hassett
Jockey: Denicious Smith

Race 2 Winner: Tequila Dancer
Trainer: Shryn Royes
Jockey: Tyler Leslight

Race 3 Winner: Injada
Trainer: Bodine Bailey
Jockey: Lacey Morrison

Race 4 Winner: Seventies Hit
Trainer: Bodine Bailey
Jockey: Lacey Morrison

Race 5 Winner: Mission House
Trainer: Matthew McGuire
Jockey: Graham Kliese

Photos credited to Christopher Spencer

Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/yw8uybsq

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Acting Mayor
Mary Brown said the Crisafulli Government’s
Residential Activation Fund would
support the delivery of critical trunk infrastructure
across two key growth areas in
Hinchinbrook Shire.
“These projects are a game-changer for
Hinchinbrook, unlocking nearly 200 new
housing lots on flood-resilient land and
setting the stage for sustainable growth,”
Cr Brown said.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the
Queensland Government for backing this
vital infrastructure investment. It’s not just
about pipes in the ground — it’s about creating
a future where our community can
thrive.”
At least half of the total Residential Activation
Fund is earmarked for regional, rural
and remote areas, with Hinchinbrook recognised
as a priority growth location.

I believe all Queenslanders should have access to quality health services and medical professionals should have the equipment and facilities that support them to do so.

That’s why I recently asked a Question on Notice to the Minister for Health, the Hon. Timothy Nicholls, what steps the Government has taken to progress the proposed upgrades at the Ingham Hospital Emergency Department
(ED), and what the current status of the project is.

I am pleased to advise that the Minister has stated the Townsville Hospital and Health Service (THHS) has identified the need to upgrade Ingham Hospital’s ED as a local infrastructure priority. The first step will be for the THHS to develop a clinical service plan for Ingham Hospital, which is expected to be completed this year. This will then drive the development of a revised infrastructure master plan to set a roadmap for expansion.

Currently, Ingham Hospital’s ED is a small, confined space that does not allow for proper patient triaging. The absence of a designated waiting area and private consultation spaces means patients are often treated in an open space area which is sometimes in close contact with others.

The current open space design offers no segregation and very little protection for our healthcare workers, which can be particularly dangerous in situations involving an aggravated or violent patient.

Additionally, in the event of a cardiac arrest, for example, healthcare workers are required to perform medical care in an open area, with only curtains providing separation from others. This situation can be distressing not only for the patient’s family but also for others in the vicinity.

Ingham Hospital’s ED is in urgent need of upgrades to ensure it can deliver a high standard of care for patients and provide a safe, comfortable and productive working environment for staff.

While we are talking about upgrades for the Ingham Hospital, the Minister also advised that work is continuing to deliver the CT Scanner at the Ingham Hospital, and this is on track to be delivered in 2026.

I look forward to seeing the clinical service plan developed by THHS and will continue to keep the community updated as this important project progresses.

Contributed by Nick Dametto MP, Member for Hinchinbrook.

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Nick Dametto MP at Ingham Hospital. Photo supplied.

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In 1873, the Banshee, a wooden paddle steamer, met its end off the coast of Hinchinbrook Island. Caught in treacherous seas near the island’s northern tip, the vessel struck a reef and was wrecked, becoming one of the earliest recorded maritime accidents in the area.

The Banshee was on a routine journey transporting cargo and passengers when rough conditions proved too much. Thankfully, all aboard survived, but the ship was lost to the sea. Over time, the remains of the Banshee have become shrouded in sand and mystery, occasionally revealed by shifting tides.

This wreck adds to Hinchinbrook’s reputation as a place of natural beauty with a dramatic past. For maritime history buffs, the story of the Banshee offers a glimpse into the risks of early sea travel in Far North Queensland and the enduring legacy of vessels lost to the Coral Sea.

The improving weather conditions locally, is witnessing a return of the visitor drive market to the Hinchinbrook Shire for 2025.

Welcoming visitors to the district is a very important milestone for the Shire, in terms of the community recovery and signifying some return to routine, as well as providing economic benefit to the community.

This current tourism season is already witnessing encouraging trends in overnight visitation at the local RV Parks and reflects a steady presence of visitors in the wider community.

The strong early start of the drive market visitation this year, is raising hopes for positive growth and improvement to tourist numbers recorded this year.

These are encouraging statistics help guide decision making in relation to Council investment in supporting the growth of the tourism sector in the Shire.  As the community is aware, a number of Council assets have been damaged during the flood event and are still awaiting repair.

Sadly, the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre has been impacted, yet the very dedicated staff who support the tourism industry locally, have worked tirelessly to continue their service delivery from a demountable on-site.

Our passionate team continues to welcome travellers from across the globe with big smiles, tailored travel tips, and a whole lot of local pride. From self-guided strolls through the stunning TYTO Wetlands to exploring hidden gems across our region, the visitor experience is still alive and well — because at the end of the day, it’s not the building that makes the magic, it’s the people.

Thank you to our staff and volunteers for their resilience. It’s certainly not going unnoticed.

Another example of our community spirit is the upcoming Lucinda Coastal Clean Up on Saturday 19 July 2025. Volunteers will help remove flood debris along the beaches, mangroves, and foreshore from Dungeness to Gentle Annie Creek, with all waste collected and disposed of. The clean up will kick off at Borello Park Lucinda at 7.30am and we hope to see you there.

This event is proudly supported by Hinchinbrook Shire Council as a Reef Guardian Council, alongside our partners: Lucinda Progress Association, Herbert River Catchment and Landcare Group, Girringun Aboriginal Corporation, and the Ingham Rod and Reel Club. Lunch will be provided, and to register, simply call Council on 4776 4600.

I also encourage all residents to take part in the 2025 February Severe Weather Event Community Feedback Survey, which closes on Sunday 20 July 2025. Your feedback is vital to helping us plan, respond, and recover more effectively in the future.

Let’s keep building a Hinchinbrook that’s ready for anything.

As a Councillor for the Shire of Hinchinbrook, I am committed to transparency and keeping our community informed about the recent budget decisions that directly impact our residents. After extensive discussions and careful consideration, we have approved an overall rate increase of 4.79% for the upcoming financial year. For more information, visit Council’s website.

This decision was not made lightly. Council understands that any increase in rates can be a concern for our ratepayers. However, this adjustment is essential to ensure we can continue to provide high-quality services, particularly in the areas of waste management and sewage treatment, which fall under my portfolio. Our infrastructure requires ongoing maintenance and improvement to meet the growing needs of our community. The additional revenue generated from this rate increase will ensure they remain efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant.

This investment will help us reduce the risk of system disruption.

Moreover, we are committed to implementing innovative solutions to improve our services while keeping costs manageable. As we look to the future, our goal is to strike a balance between maintaining essential services and minimising the financial burden on our residents.

I encourage all residents to stay engaged and provide feedback on how we can continue to improve our community. Together, we can ensure that Hinchinbrook remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Thank you for your understanding and support as we navigate these important decisions for our shire.

For any questions or further information, please feel free to reach out to me.

The new QCAR Herbert Committee was installed on 18 June 2025. The results of the recent QCAR District Committee elections were announced in May following the election. Successfully elected to the five available committee positions were:

· John Board (Chair)
· Matthew Pappin (Deputy Chair)
· Walter Giordani
· Gino Zatta
· Robert Carey

Michael Penna was appointed to the Committee as the AgForce delegate and representative.

QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella said he and the Committee would like to thank Carole Mackee and Bradley Perkins for their nominations, however they were unsuccessful in this bid on this occasion.

“The calibre of all the nominees was of a very high standard and quality, making the decision a difficult one for members to elect the Committee,” Mr Di Bella said.

“Having a well-contested election is a sign of a healthy and vibrant organisation, whereby its members are engaged, willing to give their time and effort to drive the industry forward.

“We would also like to thank our outgoing Committee members who have served our industry well - Johnathan Biasi, Carole Mackee and Ian Kemp. We would like to give a special mention to Ian and Carole for decades of service to the ACFA, the integration of ACFA into QCAR and more recently as QCAR committee members – job very well done.”

John Board accepted the role as QCAR Herbert District Committee Chair and Matthew Pappin accepted the role as QCAR Herbert Committee Deputy Chair and QCAR/ACFA National Board member.

The new Herbert QCAR Committee look forward to working hard for its members and advancing the industry, he said.

During the QCAR Herbert District Committee meeting Matthew Pappin and QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella presented Carol Mackee and Ian Kemp

with commemorative cane knives. This gesture recognised their longstanding dedication to the cane industry and their tireless involvement with both ACFA and QCAR.

Mr Di Bella said the QCAR Herbert Committee extended a heartfelt thank you to Carol and Ian for their commitment and contributions to the industry for many years.

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