Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.
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There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.
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Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.
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The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."
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Hi everyone! We may have chatted together already, but if not, I’ll introduce myself.
I’m Chelsea Ravizza, and I have been helping Daniel here and there to bring you this wonderful free newspaper for the past few weeks. It has been an absolute pleasure hearing your stories and publishing the news of the Hinchinbrook region.
I’ve spent just about half my life living in Townsville, and the later half living in the Burdekin after my family moved to Ayr just before I began high school. For the past few years, however, I’ve been living in Brisbane while completing a Bachelor of Communication and Journalism at Griffith University.
Actually, today, Tuesday 10 December, is my graduation day, and if you’re reading this at around 10am, I’ll be taking a stroll across the stage at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre in South Bank… how exciting!
Although I have been living in Brisbane, I have been writing for the Burdekin Life Newspaper for just over 12 months now after completing a university placement period in October of 2023.
I’ve loved sharing community focused news stories since before I even began my studies and have always had a passion for writing and journalism since I was very young after watching movies like The Devil Wears Prada and Confessions of a Shopaholic with my Mum!
This week I’ll be braving the journey and driving up from Brisbane back to the Burdekin, and you’ll certainly see me pop up to Hinchinbrook to say hello! I can’t wait to keep meeting you all, and please feel free to reach out and send me an email, chelsea@lifepublishinggroup.com.
Steven Devietti is a true local and was born and bred in Ingham where he has owned Ingham Tyre Centre for nine years now.
When Steven completed a mechanical automotive apprenticeship, it sparked his interest in the automotive industry.
Inspired to pursue a career, he purchased the old Goodyear tyre service store, recuing it from liquidation in December 2015.
Steven said it was quite challenging getting the store up and running again.
“This business was shut for three months, and it was in the middle of cane season, so it was a tough start,” said Steven.
“But since then, we built it up and now everything's going well.
When Steven took over the store, it was Goodyear but has rebranded earlier this month and is proudly Tyrepower.
He made the decision to swap networks for several reasons.
“The Goodyear Autocare Program had changed quite significantly, where they no longer distributed their own tyres,” explained Steven.
“The opportunity presented itself that I could change to a Tyrepower and Tyrepower is the biggest independent tyre network in Australia, and I wanted to become one of them.”
Tyrepower Ingham supply a range of services to the community, including new tyres for every piece of equipment, and service work.
“In our service work we go out in the field,” said Steven.
“We go out to farms and do tyre changes for customers.
“The best thing is talking to people and giving people the best service we can.
“I want to keep serving the community the best we can.”
Welcome to the first Ingham Police Report in our new Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, the Police Report will be a monthly feature covering matters of interest to our great community.
The Hinchinbrook Shire has two police stations, Ingham which is staffed 24/7 and is responsible for Ingham, Trebonne and all areas west, Toobanna and south to Bambaroo, Forrest Beach and locations north to the Cardwell Range. As well as uniformed officers Ingham also has a permanent Criminal Investigation Branch and Highway Patrol Officers. Ingham Station office hours are 8am-4pm Monday to Friday, during these times you can contact the station directly on 07 4776 9777 and wait until the end of the recorded information to speak to an officer.
Halifax Station covers, Halifax, Lucinda, Taylors Beach, and all other locations in the Lower Herbert area and is assisted in responses and 24hour coverage by Ingham Station.
We are fortunate in our area to enjoy a relatively low crime rate and a generally stable population base. We have in recent times however been targeted by offenders travelling to Ingham and surrounding areas in stolen vehicles, as recently as last weekend there were several houses broken into and cars stolen. These crime sprees happen very fast, consist of a group of criminals randomly targeting addresses and stealing vehicles, the cars are then driven straight back to Townsville where they are often abandoned shortly after. This causes a significant impact on victims in terms of financial loss, inconvenience and upheaval, and a feeling of being unsafe in their own homes. We often catch these criminals and recover the vehicles but the impact on victims is still there.
Please keep doing everything you can to make your home and vehicles less of a target, lock your homes and cars especially at night, be vigilant to unusual vehicles and persons in your neighbourhoods and keep an eye out on each other.
Police continue to perform regular patrols of the Hinchinbrook Shire at all hours of the day and night, but we rely on information from members of the public to prevent and solve crimes, so keep us up to date with what is going on to make our community a great place to live.
Remember if you have any information regarding criminal activity, please contact your local police on 07 4776 9777, Policelink 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
If something is happening that requires immediate Police attention contact 000
Contributed with thanks to Geoff Bormann Senior Sergeant | Officer in Charge | Ingham Police Station
selectability is a not-for-profit charity with the primary focus of improving the mental wellbeing of regional Queenslanders and contributing to suicide prevention.
It has been operating for over 40 years and for four years in Ingham.
Julie Ross is the Regional Coordinator of selectability Ingham her role is to manage the current services that selectability provide to the Ingham community, and see what is missing and how we can implement services to suit.
“There is a waitlist for services like Allied Health and this can see us making several trips to support our consumers to Townsville due to the wait to see someone locally, and that’s if that service is available within Ingham,” said Julie
“We have a lot of people on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) that are not actually utilising their plans, which can mean that they are not receiving the support that they are funded to access.”
Julie advised that the number of NDIS plans for residents in Ingham recorded from the NDS (National Disability Services) compared to the amount of people utilising their plans means that a lot of community members are going without supports. selectabiliity Ingham proudly have their own Clubhouse, that anybody can access.
“Clubhouse offers a safe space for our community members to come in and understand there is no stigma about mental health here,” said Julie.
“This is your place where you can openly talk about your struggles, and people are going to listen. All of our consumers and staff are really supportive.”
selectability is proud to be one of regional Queensland’s largest and leading providers of mental health services across a wide footprint, supporting individuals and communities in northern, central and western Queensland.
As an NDIS service provider, the team has helped thousands of regional Queenslanders access and implement their NDIS plans.
In times of need, it’s often the selfless actions of individuals and organisations that remind us of the strength of community spirit. This week, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) extends its heartfelt thanks to dedicated volunteers, Bevan and David and the incredible support of Ingham selectability for their role in the ongoing bread delivery program made possible by the Second Bite Program.
This program, a lifeline for many struggling individuals and families, ensures bread is collected from local supermarkets and distributed through the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre. Thanks to this initiative, countless residents in need can enjoy a basic yet vital staple without financial burden.
Bevan and David collect the bread and set it out in the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centres foyer several times a week. Their unwavering commitment has not only reduced food waste but has also brought hope and dignity to those facing hardship.
Equally instrumental in the program’s success is selectability, which has provided logistical support, and resources to keep the initiative running smoothly. Their partnership has been a beacon of generosity, highlighting the importance of collaboration in tackling food insecurity.
“We are incredibly grateful for the work of these amazing volunteers and the backing of Ingham selectability,” says HCSC CEO Linda. “Together, we’ve created a program that’s more than just about bread — it’s about community, compassion, and coming together to lift each other up.”
Local residents have also expressed their gratitude, with one recipient sharing, “It’s not just the bread; it’s knowing someone cares.”
The bread delivery program is a shining example of what can be achieved when individuals and organisations unite for the greater good.
Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has shared its dismay at the Australian Sugar Milling Council, saying it has lashed out at farmers for their criticism of the performance of mills this crushing season.
QCAR has said that ASMC CEO Ash Salardini accused cane farmers of taking “pot shots” at mill workers and alleged they were “seemingly blaming the mills for not controlling the weather”.
Mr Salardini further said he was “frankly dismayed” at commentary from grower collective groups as he claimed a senior Canegrowers representative had suggested mill breakdowns had cost farmers billions.
QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan said it was ridiculous for the AMSC to claim cane farmers were blaming mills for rain-induced delays.
“ASMC has conveniently glossed over what is at the core of farmers’ concerns, that is the year-after-year poor performances of the mills combined with delayed starts to the season and belligerently extended industrial activity,” Mr Ryan said.
“These factors combined, which are in the miller’s control and not Mother Nature’s or the growers, have significantly contributed to standover crops and a big hit to farmers’ incomes.
“ASMC is using mill workers as a pawn to try and draw a wedge between them and the farmers.
“QCAR members, and cane farmers as a whole, actually value the mill workers and we thank them for their service as many are literally our friends and family members.”
Mr Ryan added mill workers had themselves criticised the millers, demonstrated by the strikes and industrial disputes at Wilmar mills earlier this year.
“Some milling companies are the ones pulling strings in terms of their poor decisions to cut back on investment and not inject the necessary funds to get mills up to par,” he said.
“Mill workers keep telling us management is not listening to the advice of experienced, long-term employees, which is clearly contributing to the embarrassing predicament millers now find themselves in.
“Even when there’s not standover cane, unduly extended crushes have been progressively destroying our industry.”
QCAR said it invited ASMC and millers to attend a public forum in Ayr in July but neither attended.
“Earnest attempts by grower groups to raise legitimate issues in private hasn’t worked and farmers have been forced to go public with concerns,” Mr Ryan said.
“The next generation of farmers are looking on in dismay as the industry they love and want to succeed is being hollowed out before them, dashing their hopes and dreams.”
Mr Ryan said QCAR was not alone in its criticism with Canegrowers Mackay chair Kevin Borg also speaking out on behalf of growers’ frustrations with millers.
He said millers, instead of shaming growers over their legitimate concerns, should focus on performing to Australian expectations and standards.
“They must shape up, now,” he said.
Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has shared its dismay at the Australian Sugar Milling Council, saying it has lashed out at farmers for their criticism of the performance of mills this crushing season.
QCAR has said that ASMC CEO Ash Salardini accused cane farmers of taking “pot shots” at mill workers and alleged they were “seemingly blaming the mills for not controlling the weather”.
Mr Salardini further said he was “frankly dismayed” at commentary from grower collective groups as he claimed a senior Canegrowers representative had suggested mill breakdowns had cost farmers billions.
QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan said it was ridiculous for the AMSC to claim cane farmers were blaming mills for rain-induced delays.
“ASMC has conveniently glossed over what is at the core of farmers’ concerns, that is the year-after-year poor performances of the mills combined with delayed starts to the season and belligerently extended industrial activity,” Mr Ryan said.
“These factors combined, which are in the miller’s control and not Mother Nature’s or the growers, have significantly contributed to standover crops and a big hit to farmers’ incomes.
“ASMC is using mill workers as a pawn to try and draw a wedge between them and the farmers.
“QCAR members, and cane farmers as a whole, actually value the mill workers and we thank them for their service as many are literally our friends and family members.”
Mr Ryan added mill workers had themselves criticised the millers, demonstrated by the strikes and industrial disputes at Wilmar mills earlier this year.
“Some milling companies are the ones pulling strings in terms of their poor decisions to cut back on investment and not inject the necessary funds to get mills up to par,” he said.
“Mill workers keep telling us management is not listening to the advice of experienced, long-term employees, which is clearly contributing to the embarrassing predicament millers now find themselves in.
“Even when there’s not standover cane, unduly extended crushes have been progressively destroying our industry.”
QCAR said it invited ASMC and millers to attend a public forum in Ayr in July but neither attended.
“Earnest attempts by grower groups to raise legitimate issues in private hasn’t worked and farmers have been forced to go public with concerns,” Mr Ryan said.
“The next generation of farmers are looking on in dismay as the industry they love and want to succeed is being hollowed out before them, dashing their hopes and dreams.”
Mr Ryan said QCAR was not alone in its criticism with Canegrowers Mackay chair Kevin Borg also speaking out on behalf of growers’ frustrations with millers.
He said millers, instead of shaming growers over their legitimate concerns, should focus on performing to Australian expectations and standards.
“They must shape up, now,” he said.
A new $3.2 million project will focus on the Herbert catchment – the largest river system in Far North Queensland which begins on the Atherton Tablelands and flows to the ocean almost 300km away at Ingham.
Terrain NRM is working with a wide range of industries and groups to plan for the Herbert Integrated Project, which is funded through the Queensland Government’s Queensland Reef Water Quality Program. More than 40 people have been part of workshops in Ravenshoe and Ingham recently to help determine the best actions to further improve water quality, the land, its resilience, agricultural outcomes and co-benefits for the local community.
Project manager Fiona Barron said a whole-of-catchment outlook was important.
“We will be building on previous projects in this catchment. They include working with farmers on grazing and sugar cane management practice changes to improve everything from the land and production to the quality of water leaving properties. They also include fine-scale water quality monitoring, constructing fishways and repairing streambanks by engineering structures like rock chutes and pile fields.
“Programs delivered over the last 15 years have made good progress. But to meet the 2050 water quality targets, we need to build on past work. This new Herbert project will draw heavily on local knowledge, combined with all the data and science that’s come before, for a program that’s tailor-made to the upper and lower Herbert.
“The upper and lower catchments are very different areas. We are factoring all that in and we’ll be prioritising projects – from weed control and streambank revegetation to road management and whole-of-farm planning - to maximise impact.”
Fiona said the project could also help landholders and the wider community to identify emerging opportunities in the natural capital and green economy markets, supporting economic and environmental resilience.
A group of representatives, from across industry, community and government, will help to manage the project and its design.
The Herbert catchment covers about 10,000 square kilometres and is one of the four main contributors to fine sediment loads on the Great Barrier Reef.
Paul Schembri's election as grower-director to the Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) board has been met with strong approval from grower advocacy organisations CANEGROWERS and Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR). This milestone highlights the increasing demand for transparency, accountability, and grower-focused decision-making within the sugarcane industry.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens hailed Mr Schembri’s election as a victory for growers, emphasising the significance of his leadership.
“Paul Schembri’s election is a win for growers and the industry as a whole,” he said.
“Paul’s decades of experience and dedication make him an invaluable addition to the STL board. His presence signals a renewed focus on ensuring the voices of growers are not just heard but respected.”
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago also acknowledged the overwhelming support for Mr Schembri, describing him as a “bona-fide grower” and expressing optimism about his contributions.
“We congratulate Paul on his election,” Mr Lago said.
“He’s a bona-fide grower who QCAR wholeheartedly endorsed, and we look forward to working with him and fellow G Class director Steve Kirby, who are well-placed to represent the interests of G Class shareholders.”
The election outcome follows a contentious period for STL. Delays in finalising the voting process after the Annual General Meeting (AGM) were compounded by growing frustrations with STL’s leadership and its decision-making approach. CANEGROWERS and QCAR were among those critical of STL’s controversial 2023 move to insource terminal operations, which many growers view as unnecessary and poorly communicated.
“Most farmers do not support the plan—it’s a business model STL has no track record with,” Mr Lago said.
“STL’s claims that it can outperform Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) are unsubstantiated, and we are yet to see any proof.”
CANEGROWERS also pointed to the rejection of STL’s remuneration report for the second consecutive year at the AGM as evidence of shareholder dissatisfaction. While a motion to spill the board was ultimately defeated, the result underscored the demand for change.
“This election is more than just a win for Paul—it’s a wake-up call for STL,” Mr Menkens said.
“Growers are demanding a change in leadership style and decision-making. They want transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the industry’s long-term interests.”
Both organisations have called for reform to address diminishing grower representation within STL. Mr Lago highlighted the decline in voting power among active G Class shareholders, which has dropped from 64% in 2000 to just 36% in 2024.
“Active growers must make up the majority of shareholders as was intended in STL’s founding charter,” he said.
“STL must focus on fixing the share registers and deal promptly, decisively, and fairly with dry shareholders.”
As Mr Schembri steps into his new role, there is cautious optimism that his leadership will help bridge divides and refocus STL’s priorities.
“These terminals represent generations of growers’ hard work and investment,” Mr Menkens said.
“Unilateral decisions that ignore grower input erode trust and unity. Paul’s election is an opportunity for STL to rebuild trust and honour the legacy of the sugarcane industry while preparing it for a sustainable future.”
The industry now watches closely, expecting STL to address concerns, restore grower representation, and provide clarity on its contentious insourcing model.
“This is a critical moment for STL to prove it can genuinely act in the best interests of the growers who built its foundation,” Mr Lago said.
A full STL update is available online: nsx.com.au/ftp/news/021744120.PDF.
The new owners of Halifax Hotel are loving their new life in the Hinchinbrook Region.
In August 2024 Luke Penning and Joe Mikuletic opened their doors to the Halifax community, and were thrilled when more than 200 people came along to welcome to them.
Between the two of them, Luke has the hospitality experience. He has been in the industry for almost 20 years, starting as a barista, and then worked in nightclubs, RSL, clubs, pubs and hotels.
By comparison, Joe has been selling forklifts for the past 27 years and, deciding to go for a career change has now been working in the hospitality industry for 15 weeks, saying he’s loving it so far.
“We're living the dream,” said Joe.
“When I was 18, drinking at the pub I always wanted to buy a pub and 30 something years later, we have.
“What I like about it is the small town, everybody knows everybody. Everybody looks after each other. Everybody respects each other.
“The community is tight knit and so welcoming as well, once you are here you feel like a local and are treated like a local too.
“The way they have welcomed us has been very humbling.”
Meanwhile, Luke said employing local is very important to them.
“We employ local first,” he explained.
“We have an extra seven positions now and they've all gone to locals.”
Since taking over, Luke and Joe have been busy with renovation works too, giving the place a new paint job and spruiking it up so there is a new light and airy feel that the community say they love.
In the future, the pair hope to add a beer garden extension, outdoor entertainment areas, an external wood fired pizzeria, an outdoor bar, and even a kids playground.
The Herbert River Museum is preparing for its Christmas themed display windows, featuring a nativity scene and all things Christmassy.
The volunteers at the museum all get behind it and love the Christmas aspect in the museum during this part of the year.
The Herbert River Museum has 13 volunteers and President Coral Gard said she is always looking for more.
“We only need people to do three hours a week,” she said.
The non-for-profit museum has been open for 32 years now and volunteers always love to see people coming through the doors for the first time.
The museum has six rooms in total and most items on display are donated by members of the public.
“When one of the ladies got here yesterday, on the doorstep was an old fashioned hair dryer,” said Coral.
“Someone had dropped it at the door for us!”
Coral loves working at the museum, she finds it extremely satisfying and interesting.
“I love the history of the place, it is wonderful,” Coral said.
“People come in, and then they'll ask about certain things, and I will say, ‘Well, if I don't know, I can get somebody that does know’.”
Coral also added her thanks to the council, that has donated $5000 a year to the Herbert River Museum.
The Herbert River Museum is open Tuesday – Saturday 9am – 12pm and will be closed from the 14 December until 4th February for volunteers to enjoy Christmas and extra time with family.
Owner of Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy Andrew Giliberto recently decided his store needed a fresh lick of paint, and after a discussion with his wife, he thought a mural would be a great addition to his store.
Andrew had seen artwork by ‘Art by Lavinia’ around Halifax and knew she would be the perfect creative for the job.
“I had the idea of getting Lavinia to do a mural on this wall ever since I had seen what she had done at the butchers, the pub and a few other places around the district, I was familiar with her work,” said Andrew.
“I approached her earlier in the year and showed her a few old photos of the town that we were given by the museum and the locals.
“We did a few high-resolution scans, and I sent them off to Lavinia and said, look, I was thinking we do a street scape and mesh a few of these photos together and have it as a perspective of looking down the street from the same angle.”
Lavinia loved the idea and Andrew says he is thrilled with the result.
“We have had nothing but positive reviews,” he said.
“People come in specifically just to say it looks great and we are really happy with that.”
Andrew explained the mural of the old street in Halifax was in-keeping with the township’s desire to become a heritage village.
“It makes us stand out as a town, and if we lean into this, maybe it's going to be the thing that puts Halifax on the map,” explained Andrew.
“It's a great town, and it's a great community, and we'd like to see it go forward.”
The Hinchinbrook Shire Council Seniors Morning Tea, held on Friday, 6 December, was a resounding success.
More than 300 attendees gathered to enjoy a delightful morning tea, followed by outstanding performances from local talent. The event was a wonderful celebration, with festive cheer and heartfelt Christmas wishes shared, making it a truly memorable occasion for all involved.
Find More pictures at: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/a-lively-seniors-morning-tea
Ingham’s Own Premier of Queensland David Crisafulli is on his way to the region to officially launch Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper at a special event due to be held at Ingham RSL this Wednesday night.
The whole community is welcome to attend the special launch celebrations where they can hear first-hand about the Premier’s journey, starting out as a Cadet Journalist for the Herbert River Express to becoming the 41st Premier of Queensland.
Beginning his professional career as a Cadet Journalist for the Herbert River Express, Ingham-born Premier David Crisafulli has strong ties to both the region and regional newspapers.
It is these ties that recently saw him graciously accept an invitation by Life Publishing Group to officially launch Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper.
The Premier completed work experience at the Herbert River Express from 1995 to 1996, he then started a full-time role in 1998 while at university and finished-up in 2000.
“As someone who started their career as a newspaper cadet in Ingham, regional media outlets hold a special place in my heart,” stated the Premier.
“The Herbert River Express taught me the value of hard work and community and allowed me to tell Queenslanders’ incredible stories.”
Crisafulli adds that regional newspapers are at the cornerstone of the community, keeping everyone connected.
“Regional media outlets provide a vital service keeping residents informed and local communities connected,” he expressed.
“I’m excited the people of Hinchinbrook will have a new local paper to showcase this incredible part of Queensland that I know and love.”
Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper printed its first publication on Tuesday 26th November this year and held an informal ‘Launch Breakfast’ for its Foundation Advertising Partners last week.
Printing 3000 copies every week and distributing throughout Ingham and surrounding townships, north to Cardwell and south to Rollingstone, this is a free newspaper available to everyone in the community from over 50 dedicated distribution stands and pick-up points.
Editor in Chief, Rachael Smith, said she is thrilled to be part of the team bringing a free newspaper to the local community.
“We are 100% dedicated to connecting regional communities through the power of print media,” shared Rachael.
“When the Mayor invited us to Ingham we immediately fell in love with the community and we instantly knew this newspaper was going to be more than words on pages – it’s about bringing the community together, giving them a local platform for their news – every community deserves this.”
Life Publishing Group has been operating for 13 years, beginning with two magazine publications and launching into the world of weekly newspapers in 2020.
Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper has been printing weekly news for over four years now and Burdekin Life Newspaper was launched in 2023, followed by Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper in November.
“In May this year we were honoured to win Best Free Newspaper in Queensland for Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper at the Queensland Country Press Awards,” said Rachael.
“Founder Bec Douthwaite and I accepted the award on the night and it was presented by the then-Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli.
“It was an exciting moment made even more special by the fact David presented us the award.
“I was lucky enough to interview again him for a newspaper article a few months later and that’s when I told him we’d soon be starting Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper.
“It’s a huge honour to be welcoming the Premier to our launch tomorrow and I would like to personally thank him for accepting the invite!”
If you would like to attend the event simply scan the QR code and register.
Life Publishing Group is providing a drink on arrival and nibblies for all to enjoy and Ingham RSL has kindly co-sponsored the event.
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/myevent/1095685247069/invite-and-promote/
Hi Everyone,
I hope you are enjoying your new free local newspaper!
It’s an absolute pleasure to be sharing all your stories with the local community and I hope the paper is allowing you to feel more connected.
We have had an incredible response so far with our phones running hot on the day we first published the paper – most people were calling to find out where they could get their hands on a copy.
You can check out our Facebook page for the full list of locations and, make sure you give the page a ‘like’ while you’re there!
As you can see, Hinchinbrook Life is a free community newspaper, we are dedicated to making local news available to everyone in the community.
This means every printed word is free to read and so is every word published on our website – there are no pay walls.
The reason we can bring this all to you for free is because of the incredible local businesses that choose to advertise with us.
In fact, our Founding Advertising Partners, the community-minded individuals that got behind the paper before it even started, are the reason we are here at all.
I’d like to say a big thank you to this group of local businesses, we really appreciate your faith in us and your desire to help reinstate the local paper.
If you are a local business owner in the community, you can join this group of people by talking with our amazing Sales Manager Trish and booking an ad.
If you are a community member wondering how you can support this paper, the answer is simple – read about the advertisers, look at their ads, go into their businesses and buy a product or service from them.
This will continue to make this paper a success!
Rach
Carol Sanderson has been a dedicated volunteer with the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre since its establishment in 1980—an incredible 44 years of service. Over this time, she has taken on numerous roles within the organization, including receptionist, emergency relief coordinator, and provider of community information and referrals. She also contributed to the food bank and served on the board.
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre began as a simple community information center and has since evolved into the comprehensive service provider it is today. Carol has been a constant presence through this journey, embracing change with a cheerful and friendly attitude.
Beyond her work with the Centre, Carol volunteers with other community organizations, such as Ingham Palliative Care, and previously dedicated 20 years as a Scout Leader. For Carol, volunteering is a way to stay engaged and connected.
"It’s the best thing to do instead of sitting at home feeling sorry for yourself. I’m getting out and meeting a lot of nice people," she said.
When asked about the challenges of volunteering, Carol admits, "Not always being able to help everybody" is the hardest part.
Volunteers like Carol are the backbone of the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, helping thousands of people in need every year. If you’re considering volunteering and want to make a difference in your community, we’d love to hear from you!
Contributed with thanks to Carmon Martin Community Grants Officer from Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre
Carol Sanderson has volunteered with the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre for 44 years. Photo supplied
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