Queensland’s State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers have had a demanding start to 2025, stepping up time and time again in the face of severe weather and community need. From devastating floods in the state’s north to the widespread impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred and record-breaking inundation across Central and South Western Queensland, these dedicated individuals have been on the ground helping wherever they are needed most.

The SES has remained a crucial part of the state’s emergency response efforts, not only during disasters but in countless other roles that support and protect Queenslanders. SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong acknowledged the dedication shown by volunteers during what has already been a challenging year.

“We have had a very busy and challenging start to the year and our volunteers all around the state have all pitched in to assist the communities in need,” said Chief Officer Armstrong.

“They’ve also been involved in search and rescues, training programs, agency requests and so much more - no matter the job, our volunteers are always so willing to give their time and expertise to help.”

The events of early 2025 have been a stark reminder of the value of the SES. In late January and early February, parts of North Queensland received more than 1.2 metres of rain in a short period, prompting widespread flooding. Over 500 SES volunteers were deployed during this time, responding to nearly 3,000 calls for assistance. They carried out rescues, offered logistical support, and helped communities begin to recover.

Now, as the weather begins to ease, there’s a moment to pause and recognise the extraordinary work these volunteers continue to do. Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW Day), set for the 21st of May, will offer Queenslanders the chance to say thank you. Falling during National Volunteer Week, which runs from the 19th to the 25th of May, WOW Day is a national initiative that celebrates SES volunteers and the crucial role they play in times of crisis.

Getting involved is simple. You can add a splash of orange to your outfit, attend a local event or celebration, or post a photo of yourself in orange to social media using the hashtags #thankyouSES and #WOWDAY. It’s a small but powerful way to show appreciation.

“This is a chance for you to thank the people who go above and beyond for their community,” said Chief Officer Armstrong.

“They go out of their way to help, so it’s important we acknowledge that dedication and show our appreciation for all their hard work.”

Originally named HMS Apollo, she was a Type Modified Leander, of the Light Cruiser Class. The Apollo was built at the Devonport Dockyard, United Kingdom, having first been laid down on August 15, 1933. She was launched on October 9, 1934 and completed for service in January 1936. After joining the RAN on September 28, 1938 she was renamed HMAS Hobart by Mrs SM Bruce, wife of the Australian High Commissioner.

During the Battle of the Coral Sea, the HMAS Hobart gunners shot down two Japanese aircraft. She came through the battle unscathed, but her Captain received a shrapnel wound to his arm.

On July 23, 1943 while accompanying HMAS Australia to the Admiralty Islands, the Hobart was torpedoed in the After Stearing Section on the port quarter. Thirteen crewmen were killed and seven injured. The Hobart limped to Espiritu Santo for de-ammunitioning and escorted to Cockatoo Dock, Sydney by HMAS Arunta and HMAS Warramunga, arriving on August 26, 1943. After refitting HMAS Hobart left Sydney in April 1945 and joined the cover force for the Tarakan, Brunei, Wewak and Balikpapan landings. She was one part of the Allied Occupation Fleet which sailed into Japanese waters and anchored in Tokyo Bay for the surrender ceremony in September 1945.

In 1962 the HMAS Hobart, the last Australian Cruiser afloat, was sold to the Mitsui Company of Japan for 170,000 pounds ($300,000) and on March 3, 1962 she departed Port Jackson. The final irony is that the HMAS Hobart, Lady of the Sea, damaged by a Japanese torpedo in World War 2, spent her final moments in peacetime Japanese waters before being broken up for scrap metal.

Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch. From the Cardwell 1993 booklet 'Coral Sea Battle Memorial: 1942 the experiences and memories of World War II, through the eyes of the local residents.

There's a mighty river in the north of this land we call Down Under.
And each year its gentle snaking flow can be raged into a thunder.
In the year of 2025 when it burst beyond controlling,
the Herbert rushed through Ingham town, the floods came up, the floods went down -
but the people kept on rolling.

As it swept the roads and houses, picking up tv sets and sofas,
and the lizards drifted through the streets - this was not a time for loafers.
While the SES - all volunteers - were the heroes out patrolling,
the currents sucked up utes and cars, and ripped through coffee shops and bars -
but the people kept on rolling.

Then a gateway bridge was washed away - which had cut the town's supply line.
And the Ergon station was a swamp - as more water filled the skyline.
There were townsfolk out in tinnies - helping their neighbours and consoling.
For days on end they had no power, or water in this endless shower -
still the people kept on rolling.

Some have lost their living and their homes, and their hearts are surely aching -
but the gutsy Herbert River mob are a long way yet from breaking.
And the valiant mayor and councillors - they have won their points for polling.
Each gave their all and had no rest, all members strived to do their best -
and the people kept on rolling.

It has smashed the records on the charts from the flood in ‘67 -
and has rivalled history's biggest flood - back in 1927.
When the sewage spread these streets were not fit for bathing or for strolling.
The homes they built on stilts up high, that never flood, did not stay dry -
but the people kept on rolling.

See, this town was built on floodplain paths of the Herbert when it’s raging.
And for five-score years and fifty now this town's culture has been aging.
All the sporting teams will soon go back to their soccer, league or bowling.
‘Cos choppers circled down and stopped, with parcels, fuel and food they dropped -
and the people kept on rolling.

As the bridges flood and roads are creeks and the central street’s a river -
there are ballsy Herbert River folk who will stand up and deliver.
They'll be out in force to give their all - while the trolls will keep on trolling.
When turkeys, chooks and bullock beef are sucked towards the coral reef -
Ingham people keep on rolling.

So this mighty flood of ‘25 may have left the town depleted,
but the honest Herbert River folk will be strengthened - not defeated.
And the cows will calf, and cane will grow, as the horses keep on foaling.
And when old man Herbert roars again, we know he will, but can't say when -
see the people keep on rolling.

By Jonny Paul, of Abergowrie.

Authors note: This bush poem is for the people of North Queensland, wider Australia (for their support), and Hinchinbrook Mayor Ramon Jayo, who, despite becoming a grandfather during this disaster, and seeing his own farms go under, has never left his post - being an almighty voice for his community.

We live in a fishing and boating paradise here in the Hinchinbrook region—but the tides govern everything we do on the water.

Beyond just clearing the sandbar at the Dungeness exit and the belt of sandbars two-thirds of the way out along the Sugar Jetty, there are numerous other tidal hazards that boaters must be aware of.

One key example is the narrow gap between Agnes Island and the eastern side of Hinchinbrook Island. Even at high tide, this passage is not navigable. As seen in the photo, this yachie ended up high and dry, with likely damage to the vessel. Fortunately, the Lucinda Coast Guard was able to assist and tow the yacht off the coral during the next big high tide.

Always study your tide charts carefully and ensure there’s sufficient water beneath you before navigating our waterways. With a little planning, you’ll enjoy everything our beautiful waters have to offer, safely.

Contributed with thanks by Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard.

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Something as simple as a haircut can save lives. Elina, a Year 11 student at Gilroy Santa Maria College, is taking real action to help those affected by leukaemia. This September, she will be cutting her hair to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation through the World’s Greatest Shave.

Since her first major haircut in Grade 6, Elina has understood how change can carry meaning. Over the years, she learned more about the impact of leukaemia and how the foundation supports patients and families. When the opportunity came to join the World’s Greatest Shave, she knew it was her chance to contribute.

"The thought of being able to become a part of this and contribute, however little, stayed in my mind," she shared.

To promote the cause and raise more funds, Elina will also be performing live! She will be singing and playing her guitar at Link2Country on May 24th and at Markets at the Mosaic on August 16th, with all proceeds earned from her performances going directly to her Greatest Shave fundraiser.

Support Elina as she uses her voice, her talent and her courage to help others. Scan the QR code to donate or come see her perform in person, every donation makes a difference in getting treatments to those who desperately need it.

https://www.worldsgreatestshave.com/fundraisers/elinarosealappattdaijo/2025

Cardwell's community spirit shines as the Cardwell RSL recently received a generous $1000 donation, raised during Anzac Day celebrations this year by The Marine Hotel. This impressive sum, gathered through meat tray raffles and sausage sizzles, reflects the community’s unwavering support for local veterans.

Special thanks go to Callan from the Cardwell Butchery for donating a mega meat tray, as well as The Salad Bowl and Port Hinchinbrook Marine for supporting the Friday night raffles. These fundraising efforts are part of the RSL’s ongoing social support, which annually totals around $20,000 to support veterans, local schools, and community groups.

The RSL remains committed to providing a welcoming space for veterans to share a meal, a drink, and the companionship to lend an ear with understanding and acceptance. Reach out, or pop-in for a drink on Sundays!

As we near the end of the financial year many of us will be waiting intently to see what funding will be allocated for Hinchinbrook in the 2025–26 Queensland State Budget. Last month, I wrote to Treasurer, David  Janetzki with a list of key priorities for our electorate. I’ve kept this budget submission focused on projects that are fully costed and are only waiting for funding to advance. These are costed projects that have gone through the necessary planning, approvals, and community consultation. This year I am calling for funding for marine infrastructure, roads, and flood resilience projects to improve the liability of our region.

The $12 million Dungeness Breakwater and Dredging Project is ready to be funded. With all the environmental approvals now locked in, it’s time for the Government to commit funding for construction. This project would restore safe marine access by dredging the mouth of Enterprise Channel and building a rock wall to retain the dredge spoil and restore the historical spit. We’re also asking for funds for the relocation of the Cassady Beach boat ramp at Forrest Beach to the mouth of the creek, as well as continuing the fight for a long-term dredging solution at Port Hinchinbrook. Encouragingly, with Economic Development Queensland now involved, we’ve seen positive momentum at Port Hinchinbrook and have promising meetings scheduled to occur over the coming parliamentary sitting weeks.

Road infrastructure is important in Hinchinbrook, that’s why this year’s submission calls for $20 million to upgrade Woolcock street through Townsville’s northern suburbs and funding for essential trunk infrastructure that would help unlock over 3,000 new home blocks in the suburb of Mount Low. I’ve also advocated for upgrades to the Ingham electrical substation to make it flood-resilient.

None of these requests are excessive but were forgotten under the previous Labor Government. I, along with our local Mayors will be eagerly awaiting to see if these important projects can advance under a Crisafulli Government.

Contributed with thanks to Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto.

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With environmental approvals now secured for the Dungeness rock wall and dredging project, Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto says the ball is now firmly in the State Government’s court, calling for urgent funding commitments to deliver long-overdue marine infrastructure upgrades across the region.

Mr Dametto said securing environmental and planning approvals was often the hardest part of delivering major regional projects; “Much of the heavy lifting has been done with navigating environmental regulations, planning requirements, and departmental red tape.” He said that “Now it’s time for the Government to step up on a number of Hinchinbrook marine projects that are costed and simply need funding to get construction started.”

The Dungeness project, costed at $12 million, will dredge the Enterprise Channel and construct a rock wall to restore safe and reliable marine access while protecting the channel from re-silting during weather events. In April, Mr Dametto formally wrote to Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki outlining a suite of infrastructure projects in Hinchinbrook that have already undergone significant departmental assessment or environmental approvals and were now ready for delivery.

Among those were the proposed relocation of the Cassady boat ramp at Forrest Beach and the long-overdue restoration of all-tidal access at Port Hinchinbrook, both identified as regional priorities in the State’s own Recreational Boating Facilities Demand Forecasting Study 2022.

Mr Dametto affirmed; “We’ve had positive movement behind the scenes at Port Hinchinbrook, particularly since Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) came onboard,” in addition with there being "ongoing discussions with the liquidator and the mortgagee of Port Hinchinbrook, some very promising meetings are scheduled for late May, and I’m hopeful they’ll bring us closer to a final resolution on the long-standing access and dredging issues."

“These projects are not only about restoring infrastructure for boat users, they’re about restoring confidence in our region’s future and unlocking Hinchinbrook’s full potential as a tourism and lifestyle destination." He finished with; "These are not pie-in-the-sky asks. They are well-developed, ready to go, and supported by our councils, departments and communities. What we need now is funding in the budget to make them happen."

Over 3,000 soldiers have flocked to the Hinchinbrook region to engage in one of Australia’s largest war-fighting exercises, second only to Exercise Talisman Sabre.

The major event, titled the North Queensland Warfighter and Exercise Southern Jackaroo, will host soldiers and equipment from Army’s 3rd Brigade, the United States, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia and Papua New Guinea.

Thousands Of Troops Descend On Hinchinbrook

Commander 3rd Brigade, Brigadier Ben McLennan said Townsville and Hinchinbrook will host the largest iteration of Exercise Southern Jackaroo to date with hundreds of Unites States Marine Corps and Japanese Ground Self Defence Force soldiers travelling to North Queensland to participate.

“Exercise Warfighter in its entirety is a long exercise which allows us to put our people, our processes, and our platforms under pressure in a rehearsal activity to see how they would hold up if it was a real thing,” explained Mr McLennan.

“The arrival of the Marine Corps Ospreys is an indication of how important the exercise is, how significant it is, and it gives an indication of the types of impact it will have.”

Vehicle moments commenced on Monday the 12th of May, however the exercises themselves will begin on Monday the 19th of May and conclude on Friday the 13th of June. Residents in Forrest Beach, Lucinda, Halifax, Ingham, Abergowrie, Mount Fox and adjacent to the Townsville Field Training Area, and Lavarack Barracks can expect to see ADF and partner nation forces training in and around these locations, including the coastal areas of the Hinchinbrook Shire.

“I'm very confident that during the training exercise we will be able to push ourselves as individuals, as teams, as teams of teams, to be able to lift our combined readiness as we rehearse for war,” Mr McLennan added.

Over the coming weeks, training activities will run into the night and may include the use of pyrotechnics, blank ammunition and helicopters and the movement of armoured vehicles with the Department of Defence asking the community to be aware, but not alarmed, by their presence.

Bruce Highway (Townsville to Ingham), Flinders Highway (Townsville to Mingela/Charters Towers) and Hervey Range Road (Townsville to TFTA) road users can also expect increased military traffic during this time. The ADF sincerely thanks the residents from the many communities hosting various components of the exercise for their continued support.

“Any opportunity for us as a brigade, for our soldiers and teams to work with the United States Marine Corps is always a real pleasure and it lifts our capability,” noted Mr McLennan.

“Few armies across the planet do this type of military training routinely, so it's a real opportunity to have it here in the north, and we will jealously guard it.”

Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade during Exercise Brolga Run in June of 2024 at Townsville Field Training Area (Photo Credit: TPR Dana Millington)
The Australian Army's 3rd Brigade deployed to the Townsville Field Training Area and Ingham in 2024 (Photo Credit: CAPT Brittany Evans)

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Hikers dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime trek through the rugged beauty of Hinchinbrook Island National Park will need to plan ahead, with a new seasonal booking system now in place for the world-renowned Thorsborne Trail.

The highly sought-after hike, nestled within one of Queensland’s most breathtaking protected areas, has long attracted adventurers from around the globe. With growing popularity and limited daily capacity to preserve its remote experience, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) has introduced a 'booking seasons' model—giving walkers equal opportunity to secure a coveted camping permit.

Under the new system, camping permits for several months will be released in blocks on specific dates announced in advance. The move mirrors models already in place at other major hiking destinations around Australia and aims to improve access and planning for visitors, while continuing to protect the trail’s pristine environment.

Despite the change in how permits are secured, the number of hikers allowed on the trail at any one time remains unchanged. Seasonal closures during January and February will continue as usual due to the high risk of unsafe weather conditions, with bookings opening months ahead of each season.

Ranger Michelle from QPWS encourages all prospective hikers to plan thoroughly.

“Forward planning is how you make the most of your time on the Trail - take the time to really soak in all of its natural and cultural values, knowing you’re a part of it staying protected for years to come.”

Hinchinbrook Island—known as Munamudanamy to its Traditional Owners, the Bandjin and Girramay peoples—is part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and home to a rare diversity of landscapes. From towering peaks and secluded beaches to lush rainforest and vast mangrove systems, the island boasts 54 unique ecosystems, including four not found anywhere else in Queensland’s protected areas.

Spanning nearly 40,000 hectares, Hinchinbrook’s conservation is supported by a long-standing partnership between QPWS Rangers and Girringun Rangers. The collaborative Munamudanamy Working Group ensures that Traditional Owners’ knowledge, history, and connection to Country guide ongoing management of this sacred and spectacular place.

"Munamudanamy is as beautiful as it is remote," said Ranger Michelle.

“It's vital hikers know what to do in the case of an emergency or adverse conditions - we want everyone to love the trail as much as we do, and good preparation can make a huge difference to your experience.”

The Thorsborne Trail, named after local conservationists Margaret and Arthur Thorsborne, is a challenging 32km hike traversing some of the country’s most extraordinary wilderness. Thanks to this updated booking process and the tireless work of rangers and Traditional Owners, its legacy and wild beauty will remain protected for generations to come.

For more information or to book your adventure, visit the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service website at https://parks.desi.qld.gov.au follow the prompts to the Thorsborne Trail.

Queensland’s farmers and regional businesses will benefit from strengthened leadership at the state’s rural support agency, with four new appointments to the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) Board – each bringing deep roots in agriculture, regional development and the private sector.

The Queensland Government’s renewed focus on rural resilience and economic growth is reflected in the announcement by Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last, who has named a new-look QRIDA Board set to champion the needs of primary producers and rural enterprises across the state.

Among the new appointments is sixth-generation farmer and senior lawyer Caitlin McConnel, who has made history as QRIDA’s first female Chairperson. Joining her on the Board are agricultural machinery industry leader Bruce Vandersee, rural business banking expert Danica Olsen, and agribusiness lawyer Ari McCamley.

Ms McConnel, Mr Vandersee and Ms Olsen will serve three-year terms, while Mr McCamley has been appointed for approximately 16 months to provide continuity in governance.

Minister Last said the new Board brings strong agricultural credentials and practical insight that will be vital in steering QRIDA through challenges such as recovery from recent flooding in Western and North Queensland.

“Strong leadership at QRIDA is vital to support our long-term disaster recovery efforts, particularly after the recent flooding in Western Queensland and in North Queensland,” he said.

“These Board appointments will bring new perspectives and help the organisation explore new opportunities in developing Queensland’s rural and industry sectors.

“QRIDA plays a critical role assisting farmers, businesses, and non-profits, particularly through financial support during times of hardship,” Minister Last said. “With this refreshed Board, QRIDA is in a strong position to deliver for rural Queenslanders in the long-term recovery from this year’s natural disasters.”

For an increasing number of years, attracting workers to pursue career pathways or fill the many seasonal roles available to support the agricultural sector within the Hinchinbrook shire, has become one of the most significant factors impacting local businesses. For this reason, the membership of Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc made the decision to proudly support and sponsor of the upcoming Link2Country Expo, to be held at Ingham Showgrounds on May 23 & 24.

Chamber also believes it is very important to support the young entrepreneurs who have developed this event that will focus on showcasing career opportunities in agriculture locally and more broadly across many industry sectors. This is a very exciting new event for the region, with business participants and attendees expected from across the shire and the broader region.

By way of supporting local businesses, Chamber has been sharing job vacancies and employment opportunities through social media platforms for some time and will be creating a “noticeboard” that will showcase available jobs for this event, with the aim to achieve successful application outcomes.

Another resource that many local business owners are using for recruitment is the “Jobs North Queensland" website (www.jobsnorthqueensland.com.au). This site developed by Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West, enables businesses to list jobs vacancies and job seekers to register their resumes for free. It is a regional site, which incorporates a Hinchinbrook Employment section and Chamber has been working with locals to promote the use of this website.

Chamber is requesting any businesses currently recruiting, or looking to recruit in the near future, please email the details to admin@hinchinbrookchamber.com.au, to have this information added to the online and event platforms.

The Ingham Probus Club recently held its Annual General Meeting (AGM), bringing together more than 50 members to reflect on the past year and plan for the future. The AGM was presided over by Ken Muhling, with other office bearers including Bring and Buy Officer Pam Fox, Assistant Secretary Millie Gesch, President Carole Willoughby, Secretary Cheryl Scott, Treasurer Mary Kerrisk, Guest Speaker Officer Grace DiBella, and Media Officer Sarina Lamari.

Probus, which stands for PROfessional and BUSiness, is an international social club active in 23 countries, dedicated primarily to retired and semi-retired individuals. The Ingham branch provides a welcoming environment where members meet monthly to discuss shared interests, socialise, and listen to engaging guest speakers from the local community.

The club offers its members a wide range of activities designed to enrich their retirement years. These activities include social outings, learning opportunities, and various trips to destinations around Australia. Members also have the chance to participate in social events with other Probus clubs, including Christmas parties and other organised gatherings, fostering camaraderie and lasting friendships.

Joining the Probus Club offers retirees an opportunity to stay active, socially connected, and intellectually engaged. It is an ideal setting for individuals looking to explore new interests, develop skills, and enjoy the company of like-minded people. The Ingham Probus Club continues to thrive, offering its members a supportive community and opportunities for enrichment in their retirement life.

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For over 30 years, Hinchinbrook Real Estate has been a cornerstone of the lower Cassowary Coast and Hinchinbrook regions, offering unmatched expertise in residential and commercial property management, sales, storage, and holiday leasing. Established in Cardwell in 1992 by Lindsay and Jennifer Hallam, the business has grown into one of North Queensland’s most trusted and professional agencies.

Leading the way today is Tamara Stokes, a respected and driven businesswoman who purchased the agency in 2022. Her journey with Hinchinbrook Real Estate began more than a decade ago when Lindsay and Jennifer recognised her potential and brought her on board. Since then, Tamara has become a vital part of the community “This is a family-owned business. I have a husband, children, and just like everyone else, my life revolves around my family and the business. I’m a mum living the everyday life, I just happen to work in real estate.”

Tamara’s passion for Cardwell is evident not just in her professional achievements but also in her personal commitment to the region. A local through and through, in 2013 she established herself as a leading real estate agent. Having upgraded her licences under the guidance of the previous owners, Tamara has maintained the agency’s reputation and driving growth all while keeping Cardwell at the heart of the business.

“If we were approached to take on property, we would never say no!” Tamara says confidently, embodying her determination to support the community’s evolving needs. With properties spanning Bilyana, Cardwell, Kennedy, Forrest Beach, and even some in Ingham as their reach is growing.

Working alongside Tamara is Kaci Newman, the dynamic property manager who started her real estate journey in 2020. A proud local and former sports star, Kaci brings her passion for the community and her professional expertise to the team.

Together, Tamara and Kaci are not just real estate professionals but integral members of the Hinchinbrook community, driven by a shared goal of making Cardwell a jewel in the Queensland tourism crown.

For more information, reach out to Tamara at sales@hinchinbrookrealestate.com.au or Kaci at rentals@hinchinbrookrealestate.com.au or visit their website at: https://www.hinchinbrookrealestate.com.au

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by Victoria Velton

For nearly four decades, Sue and Douglas Barrie have been the heart and soul of the Seymour Hotel, dedicating themselves to preserving its rich heritage while creating a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike.

Sue and Douglas’s journey to owning the Seymour Hotel began with family. Originally from Victoria, the couple eventually settled in Townsville. Sue explains, "We came to Townsville because that's where the kids were, and we looked at what we would do in Townsville. My son and husband found this place, which was in not good shape, and fell in love with it. This is where we've been for 38 years."

The hotel itself has a rich history. Built in 1903 and rebuilt in 1928 after two devastating fires, the current two-storey concrete structure has survived countless floods. One notable feature is the mural of a smiling crocodile on the side of the building, proudly marked with historic flood heights, including the 2025 flood.

Sue and Douglas take pride in the hotel’s role as a gathering place, whether it’s hosting weddings, 21st birthdays, wakes, or simply welcoming familiar faces back through the doors. Douglas shares, "Many others come back to find not their childhood, but their youth... they walk in the door and say, 'Oh, I drank here 30 years ago and my father drank here 60 years ago,' and that happens regularly."

Even during tough times, the community rallies around the hotel. Douglas recalls the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying, "We were closed for 17 weeks, but we still had the locals who would come buy a six-pack rather than a carton, just to keep us here." Their dedication to maintaining a welcoming space has built a loyal customer base, including regular visitors who return every six or nine months. "We know about their lives, their families, their work... We take an interest in their fishing and how it is."  Sue explains that, "A lot of tourists come in here, specifically to do the fishing tours... After a day of fishing, they would come in, have a drink, play some pool,"

One of the Barries’ most significant contributions to the community is their work in restoring the old cemetery. Many of the graves had fallen into disrepair, and Sue and Douglas took it upon themselves to restore the site. "We've spent six, seven years out there standing up the headstones and organising them to be visible," says Sue. This tireless dedication earned them an Australia Day award, recognising their commitment to preserving local heritage.

For Sue and Douglas, the Seymour Hotel is their way of life. It’s a place where history is cherished, traditions are kept alive, and community spirit flourishes. Sue reflects, "This pub has a very special place in the community. It's a community centre still, but not as much as it used to be." The dedication of Sue and Douglas Barrie is clear as they say to value the Shire, shop local, and to appreciate the nature and the heritage this land is still very much connected to.