Residents and business owners in Paluma and Hidden Valley say they are being left in limbo, months after flooding and landslides devastated Mount Spec Road and cut off vital access to their communities.

Hinchinbrook MP and Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) Deputy Leader, Nick Dametto, has joined their call for urgent answers, pressing the State Government and the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) to provide a clear timeline for when the road will be fully restored.

Road crews on the ground have taken on a mammoth task under extremely difficult conditions and I thank them for their continued efforts as they work to clear and stabilise Mount Spec Road, but it’s now time for the Minister to provide the residents and small businesses in this area some certainty around when access will be restored,” Mr Dametto said.

Following the destructive February floods, multiple landslides rendered Mount Spec Road—classified as a Heritage Listed route—impassable. While temporary access has since been restored via the western route, locals are growing increasingly frustrated by the lack of information about the long-term plan.

“Every day without answers pushes this community closer to the brink of collapse," added Mr Dametto.

"People who live in Paluma and work in Townsville have been forced to either spend hours travelling via Hervey Range Road or pay for accommodation in Townsville just to keep their jobs - this situation is completely untenable.”

Mr Dametto acknowledged the importance of preserving historic infrastructure, such as Crystal Creek Bridge and the heritage culverts, but believes the listing of the entire road is preventing critical upgrades.

“Our office is currently putting together an application to scrab the heritage listing in favour of building a fit for purpose road that may mitigate some these issues into the future,” he said.

While praising the collaboration seen during the recovery of the Olera Creek Bridge on the Bruce Highway, Mr Dametto said the same urgency must now be applied to Mount Spec Road.

“People aren’t asking for miracles, they understand that this is a complex task - all we expect is a clear plan and a genuine timeline for delivery,” he said.

Locals are encouraged to share their concerns with Mr Dametto’s office as the push for clarity and stronger infrastructure continues.

Queensland Cane Action Roundtable (QCAR) has been out in force across the state in recent weeks, building momentum for workforce solutions and innovation in the sugarcane industry.

QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella and Central District Manager Sonia Ball were among the representatives at the 2025 Australian Society of Sugar Cane Technologists (ASSCT) Conference, held at the Royal International Convention Centre last week.

Attending alongside AgEtal and AgForce, the team was promoting the AgTIY – RSDetect testing kit, a tool designed to provide reliable, on-farm results to better inform farming decisions.

The exhibit drew strong interest, with many stopping by to speak with Kylie and Adele from AgEtal, and learn more about the testing process. SRA’s Farzana Darain was among those who dropped in to the QCAR, AgEtal and AgForce stall, as was Peter Larson of Wilmar.

Meanwhile, QCAR has been stepping up its engagement with ALA Workforce Solutions, working collaboratively to address labour shortages across the sugarcane and agricultural sectors.

Herbert River district growers have been invited to attend an information evening on Monday 6 May at the Royal Hotel. RSVPs officially closed on 2 May, however last-minute enquiries can be directed to QCAR Administration Officer Anna Di Bella on 0419 673 000.

The workforce push follows a successful start to a three-event series in Far North Queensland, with a strong turnout for the first meeting at the Crown Hotel, Innisfail, followed by Babinda and Walkamin.

QCAR continues to drive change across Queensland and into the northern tip of New South Wales, supporting sugarcane growers with tools, partnerships and opportunities.

For more information about QCAR’s work or the AgTIY – RSDetect kit, contact Lawrence Di Bella on 0448 084 252.

Cassowaries are a majestic animal but they can act in an unpredictable way, which can include dangerous behaviour.

They should never be fed or given access to food. This can cause them to become habituated and begin to approach people expecting food. Cassowaries have been known to become aggressive when approaching people for food but not receiving any.

Recently, a man from Cardwell sustained a minor leg injury after an encounter with a cassowary in his backyard and was treated at Tully Hospital. An inspection from wildlife Rangers saw that the Cassowary displayed behaviour indicative of being habituated to human feeding, serving as a caution to the public about wildlife interaction.

People can help preserve wild populations of cassowaries by being Cass-O-Wary:
➡️ Never approach cassowaries.
➡️ Never approach chicks – male cassowaries will defend them.
➡️ Never feed cassowaries – it is illegal and can be dangerous for the birds and for humans.
➡️ Always discard food scraps in closed bins and ensure compost bins have secure lids.
➡️ Always slow down when driving in cassowary territory.
➡️ Never stop your vehicle to look at cassowaries on the road.
➡️ Keep dogs behind fences or on a leash.

Cassowary sightings in north Queensland should be reported to QPWS by calling 1300 130 372.

‍

By Queensland Environment

‍

Seven residents took a proud step forward in their Australian journey at a Citizenship Ceremony held yesterday, Wednesday 30 April 2025, in the Hinchinbrook Shire Council Chambers.

Mayor Ramon Jayo officially welcomed Mr Daijo John, Mrs Alice Mathew along with their two children Elina and Albin, Mr James Kellett, Mr Thomas Kellett and Mrs Florence Fotheringham as Australia’s newest citizens.

Family, friends and Councillors gathered for the occasion, celebrating the commitment each individual has made to becoming a full member of the Australian community.

The candidates honoured at today’s ceremony come from diverse backgrounds, including India, the Philippines, the United Kingdom and New Zealand, reflecting the multicultural fabric of the Hinchinbrook region.

“Choosing to become an Australian citizen is a meaningful and life changing decision,” Mayor Jayo said, "They were really excited and very happy to be granted their citizenship and I think they're going to add amazing value to our community."

“It is about embracing the values we share including freedom, democracy and opportunity and becoming part of a community that supports and celebrates diversity. I am honoured to welcome Daijo, Alice, Elina, Albin, James Thomas and Florence to our community.”

‍

All seven new Australian Citizens with Mayor Ramon Jayo. Right: Mr Daijo John, Mrs Alice Mathew along with their two children Elina and Albin. Left: Mr James Kellett and Mr Thomas Kellett and Mrs Florence Fotheringham. Photo credits: Victoria Velton.

‍

Within just one hour of Ingham, anglers can access the full spectrum of world-class recreational fishing. Cast a line from Hinchinbrook’s pristine beaches, fish from the wharf at Lucinda and Dungeness, or chase sooty grunter in the rugged Herbert River Gorge.

The Hinchinbrook Channel offers legendary Barramundi fishing in calm, scenic waters, while the Great Barrier Reef delivers thrilling open-water action. Whether you're after serenity or adventure, Hinchinbrook delivers it all.

With picture-postcard scenery as your backdrop, there’s no better way to experience the region than by getting out on the water and embracing its incredible fishing diversity.

This year’s Feast of St Anthony in Bemerside will be extra special as St Anthony’s Committee have made a special donation to Ronald McDonald House to mark the saint’s legacy of caring for children.

Known for compassion and commitment to young people, St Anthony’s memory is honoured in a way that reflects both his values and the community spirit of the day.

At the 98th Feast of St Anthony, everyone is invited to join in the fun and celebrate St Anthony. The 98th annual Feast of St Anthony is on Sunday, 8 June 2025. It will be a day filled with spiritual reflection, family-friendly activities, and delicious food.

Festivities will begin at 11am with the Celebration of Mass led by the Parish Priest, offering a chance for the faithful to come together in prayer and tradition. From 2.30pm, a procession and rosary will be followed by the Blessing of Children and the traditional Distribution of St Anthony Bread.

Food stalls will be open from 12pm through to 6pm, offering a wide variety including BBQ, fish and chips, cakes, sandwiches, and canoli. Visitors can also enjoy tea, coffee, soft drinks, and a fully stocked bar.

Entertainment will be provided throughout the afternoon by popular performer Anthony Fracchia, adding a lively atmosphere to the event. A range of stalls and attractions will keep everyone entertained, including a monster raffle, the 500 Club, a bottle stall, and a jumping castle for the kids. Religious articles will also be adding to the excitement.

The Feast of St Anthony is a long-standing tradition in Bemerside and welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds to come together in faith and community spirit.

For more information, contact Angie on 0427 761 522.

It is so lovely to be entering ‘the best time of the year’ in North Queensland. The weather is fabulous, and things are starting to dry up.

I thought I would mention a potential biosecurity threat Council has been alerted to, that we should all be aware of and actively monitor.

Avian influenza, more commonly known as bird flu. Although no outbreaks have yet been confirmed in Queensland, migratory birds flying along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway pose a real risk, especially in coastal wetlands and inland water systems such as the Burdekin and Herbert River catchments.

While the virus has primarily affected poultry farms and wild bird populations in southern Australia and overseas, biosecurity experts are warning that North Queensland is not immune. With our mix of backyard poultry, commercial operations, and rich biodiversity of migratory birds, the region could be vulnerable to outbreaks if vigilance slips.

For North Queensland residents, the message is clear: don't panic, but don’t be complacent. Report unusual bird deaths, avoid handling sick wildlife, and follow safe poultry handling practices.

Dr. Emma Keating, says North Queensland’s climate and wildlife diversity make it a “hot zone” for surveillance. “We have contact points between wild waterfowl, domestic poultry, and even native mammals. If the virus makes landfall here, containment will be challenging without swift detection and coordination.”

Poultry producers are on high alert, with the Queensland Department of Agriculture reinforcing biosecurity protocols for farms, hobbyists, and bird sanctuaries. Measures include restricting contact between wild and domestic birds, disinfecting equipment, and monitoring for sudden bird deaths or respiratory symptoms.

Early action matters, so if you see anything unusual or have any concerns, please phone Biosecurity Queensland on 132 523 or 1800 675 888 or contact Council’s Natural Assets Team on 4776 4600.

The April meeting of the Hinchinbrook Chamber Meeting of Commerce, Industry & tourism Inc. was held at the community Recovery and Referral Centre at 73-81 Lannercost Street last week and was well attended by Chamber Members.

Chamber has recently taken on the short-term project of supporting the community following the recent flood impacts and will be delivering the Queensland Government funded, Community Recovery Officer role, on behalf of Hinchinbrook Shire Council. This new role will provide the opportunity for chamber to work with and support the community, including business owners and managers, to access the diverse range of assistance that is available to support recovery from the February event.

The meeting provided an excellent opportunity to discuss the issues that have been impacting them as residents and business owners, touching on the various topics from insurance, construction capacity to undertake flood repair works and skilling attraction to fill the workforce gaps to enable businesses to rebuild and recover.

The members were very pleased to be made aware of the announcement that those businesses who had been impacted by loss of electricity during the event, resulting in loss of perishable stock, had now been included as being business grant eligible. The members expressed their absolute thanks and appreciation to Hinchinbrook Shire Council and all those who had advocated so strongly to achieve this outcome.

Another opportunity now available to the business community was shared by Hinchinbrook Life representatives that they are now offering marketing opportunities in their publication “Tripping Magazine”. Hinchinbrook Shire will feature in the May edition, with favourable packages now available for interested businesses. These publications are free, and available in many tourist hotspots from Mackay, Bowen Basin, Whitsundays, Burdekin, Townsville and now Hinchinbrook.

May is Queensland Small Business Month and planning is also well underway for the Chamber event – Hinchinbrook Vibes - being hosted at end of month to celebrate.

For more information, or to keep up to date with what’s happening, follow Hinchinbrook Chamber on Facebook and Instagram, or visit our Website.

In a heartwarming display of generosity and community spirit, Thread Together recently rolled into Hinchinbrook with their mobile clothing van, offering brand-new clothing to anyone in need, completely free of charge.

Stopping at various locations throughout the shire, the initiative provided residents with access to high-quality, brand new, unworn garments donated by top fashion brands. Thread Together is more than just a clothing drive, their mission is rooted in dignity, choice, and environmental responsibility. By collecting end-of-line stock that would otherwise end up in landfill, they give these clothes a second chance and people a fresh start.

Run by passionate volunteers, Thread Together brings practical support and hope to disaster-affected and disadvantaged communities across Australia. Their presence in Hinchinbrook was a welcome relief to many, offering not only essential clothing but also a sense of care and connection.

The organisation’s motto, "new clothes for new beginnings," was brought to life here in our community halls' front lawns. Their work is a reminder that sometimes, a simple act of receiving a new jacket or a pair of shoes can make a world of difference.

Thank you to Thread Together and their dedicated volunteers for making a real impact in our region. Your kindness clothed our community in comfort, confidence, and a new wardrobe.

‍

‍

Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire! Gosh another long weekend and I hope everyone had a great one. I for one, am anticipating the library's reopening as having a good book to read over a long weekend is just the best kind of activity to pass the time.

Speaking of literature, you may have noticed that we have started a new feature - the Creative Corner!

This is where we aim to highlight local artistic and cultural talent and give them the recognition they deserve through the publication. So, if you have a poem, short story, comic or another form of creative writing we would love to hear from any and all aspiring artists. Send them to my email at victoria@lifepublishinggroup.com and I will let you know if your work has been selected to be featured in the newspaper.

Creative writing is a passion of mine, and I love experiencing it in all the forms it can take such as theatre, movies, songs, and of course in books. I have even turned my own hand at writing a few stories myself. I love the traditional way of writing by scribbling down my ideas as they pop into my head, or making a note to develop upon later. Sometimes I will even add a little drawing to really get the idea down right.

What's your creative process?

Victoria

Fun Fact: The American author Mark Twain not only owned many cats, but also rented them when he couldn't travel with his own. He even refused to associate with people who didn't like cats.

After three decades of tireless advocacy, a breakthrough has finally arrived for Dungeness. With State Government approval now secured, a long-dreamed marine access project is one step closer to reality. Promising nearly all-tidal access, restored infrastructure, and a major boost for Hinchinbrook’s tourism and marine industries. Local leaders are calling it a "game-changer" but the fight isn’t over just yet. What exactly does this mean for the region, how soon could shovels hit the ground and what’s next for the Dungeness Breakwater and Dredging Project? Nick Dametto MP shares his journey with the now confirmed Dungeness all-tidal access project.

A Breakthrough For Dungeness All-Tidal Access Project

The tides are finally turning for Dungeness as during last week’s parliamentary sitting, Hinchinbrook MP, Nick Dametto, announced that State Government approval had been secured for the Dungeness, Lucinda near all-tidal access project. At the last council meeting, all councillors including Mayor Ramon Jayo celebrated that the approval had finally gone through after a gruelling, 30-year long battle.

The project involves dredging the existing Enterprise Channel to improve marine access to Dungeness, and to construct a rock wall, to reinstate the sea wall which was previously destroyed in weather events including Cyclone Yasi. Mr Dametto said having nearly all tidal access at Dungeness is something many boating locals have been dreaming about for generations.

“This means that we will finally have the access necessary to unlock marine tourism in Hinchinbrook while also providing the Coastguard with safe passage to improve their emergency response capabilities,” Mr. Dametto said.

“Hinchinbrook is the gateway to not only the Great Barrier Reef but also Hinchinbrook Island, the Hinchinbrook Channel and the Palm Island group. We are lucky enough to have Hinchinbrook Island’s famous Thorsborne Trail right on our doorstep. This marine infrastructure project will help open new tourism business opportunities that will boost our local economy.

“I must acknowledge the hard work of the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Mayor Ramon Jayo and council staff. Mayor Jayo has been working on this project for over nine years. During this time, we’ve worked together to secure financial support from the previous State Government ($400,000) to complete the final sand movement studies necessary for the environmental approvals.

“Improving access to Enterprise Channel has been 30 years in the making. I’d like to personally thank the Environment Minister, Andrew Powell, and his departmental staff for advancing this on his watch. I have been impressed with the incoming Government’s willingness to progress good projects.

“Now that we have the environmental green light to commence, our focus must shift to lobbying for the funding to build the rock wall and dredge Enterprise Channel. I have written to the State Treasurer calling for the $12 million necessary to complete this project, to be included in this year’s State Budget.

“Thank you to Member for Kennedy Hon. Bob Katter for his commitment to fight for federal funding, the Lucinda Progress Association for their continued lobbing to improve the region, and everyone who has been supportive of this project.

“This is a big win for Hinchinbrook.”

Federal Member for Kennedy, Bob Katter applauds final approvals for Dungeness Breakwater and Dredging Project with "This is a win for the people of Hinchinbrook. Mayor Jayo and Nick Dametto have fought like hell – like true tiger fighters – to keep this project alive and on the agenda – and now the approvals are finally in hand,"

"We've seen what all-weather access can do for small communities at Mission Beach. It has been life-changing for those businesses that use the waterways for their livelihood or lifestyle." Katter concluded, "The people of Hinchinbrook deserve nothing less than the same infrastructure."

By Victoria Velton

On the 26th of April, this journalist had the joy of experiencing Cardwell's Park Run course for the first time. There was a small crowd of eight locals, myself and my carpool buddy Steven. So, as the sun rose and bathed the Foreshore in a warm light we set off, all eager to place in the top ten.

I found the run to be enjoyable as the scenery was spectacular and the course was quite flat. You either run right by the sparkling water or through a beautiful shaded wetland forest with the 'shushing' of the waves and twittering birdsong keeping the beat as you run.

When I crossed the finish line to cheers, it was a relief to be handed a cold Zooper Dooper and laugh as Steven made it across the finish not soon after. We all had a drink at the Seabreeze Cafe Lounge afterwards and overall it was a joyful and refreshing morning, I highly recommend it!

Park Run Results: 3rd May 2025
Cardwell - 24 participants.
Fastest time: 19:32 | Finishers time: 56:03
Palm Creek - 21 participants.
Fastest time: 20:07 | Finishers time: 56:51

Residents across the Cassowary Coast may have noticed an increased police presence over the past week as officers from the Queensland Police Service’s (QPS) State Flying Squad returned to the Far North to support local efforts to disrupt and prevent crime.

Running from the 30th of April to the 6th of May, the week-long operation brought specialist officers from the southeast to assist with high-visibility patrols and targeted enforcement throughout the region, including in the Cassowary Coast, Cairns and the Tablelands.

The operation comes as part of a broader QPS strategy to reduce property crime, enhance road safety, deter anti-social behaviour and apprehend high-risk domestic and family violence offenders. It also coincides with the start of Domestic Violence Prevention Month, placing a strong emphasis on community awareness and engagement.

Far North District Acting Superintendent Nathan Blain said the additional police resources would allow local officers to continue cracking down on repeat offenders and better protect the communities they serve.

“Far North police are dedicated to protecting their local communities, these additional resources will empower them to continue cracking down on the people causing harm in the region,” Acting Superintendent Blain said.

Crime and Intelligence Command Detective Acting Inspector Teena Rolls said the squad’s presence had proven effective in previous operations and was expected to deliver strong outcomes once again.

“With the operation’s return to the Far North, we anticipate similarly positive outcomes as we work to strengthen safety and reduce crime in the district,” Detective Acting Inspector Rolls said.

“This surge capacity highlights the QPS’ zero-tolerance approach to serious repeat offenders who put Queenslanders at risk, and commitment to reducing crime, and victims of crime.”

The QPS is urging community members across the Cassowary Coast to report suspicious behaviour, support police visibility efforts, and take part in local engagement activities throughout the week.

Hinchinbrook is one of the many Queensland regions set to benefit from a major social housing construction boom, with 27 new social and affordable homes currently under construction or under contract in the region as of 28 February 2025.

The new housing is part of the Crisafulli Government’s Securing Our Housing Foundation Plan, which has accelerated the delivery of 5,000 social and affordable homes across the state in just four months.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor said the government was committed to fixing Labor’s housing crisis and supporting Queenslanders in need.

“We’re getting on with the job of building more social and affordable homes right across the state to ease Labor’s Housing Crisis,” Minister O’Connor said.

The statewide pipeline includes over 3,100 homes already being built, with an additional 1,800 contracted to begin, delivering a 6 per cent boost to Queensland’s total social and affordable housing stock.

Homes are being rolled out in every corner of the state — from the Gold Coast to Goondiwindi, and Palm Island to Pormpuraaw — with Hinchinbrook Shire’s 27 homes a welcome addition to help meet local demand.

With rental stress and housing availability top of mind for many, the new homes represent a much-needed investment in the future of the Hinchinbrook community.

“This is just the start of our housing delivery - we’re rebuilding our housing system from the ground up and backing our builders to get more homes for Queenslanders faster.”

‍

I had the absolute honour recently to present Rosa (Carmela) and Giuseppe Sapuppo with a certificate in recognition of their 60th wedding anniversary, a milestone that reflects a lifetime of love, commitment, and family.

Carmela and Giuseppe’s journey together began far from Ingham, in their native Sicily. Giuseppe arrived in Australia first, working in the cane fields alongside family, while Carmela followed later to stay with her brother and his young family. Fate brought them together at a mutual friend’s wedding, and during their courtship, Giuseppe built the house that would become their lifelong home.

They’ve never left Ingham and to this day they continue to live in the very house Giuseppe built.

Over the decades, they’ve seen the world around them change dramatically. Giuseppe’s work as a cane cutter shifted with the introduction of mechanical harvesters, while Carmela has marvelled at the rapid rise of technology, with computers and smartphones.

Their greatest joy has been their four children and nine grandchildren. They treasure the memories of traveling the world together, with Carmela’s favourite trip being a return to Italy, and Giuseppe’s a cruise from Vancouver to Alaska.

When asked for advice on a long and happy marriage, Giuseppe said, “Take care of each other,” while Carmela advised, “Don’t fight, and if you do, resolve it quickly.” I think this is great advice and it has clearly served them both well.

To celebrate their 60th anniversary, they’ve kept it simple, opting for a family lunch with their children and nearly all of their grandchildren. This milestone is a testament to the life they’ve built together, dedicated to family and love. It’s a day to share their story and teach their grandchildren the importance of patience, commitment, and enduring love.

It was a privilege to be present on the day of Carmela and Giuseppe’s milestone anniversary. Their story is a beautiful reminder of the values that build strong families and lifelong partnerships.

Contributed with thanks to Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto.