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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Disaster season is here and last Thursday 28 November the Herbert River Sub Group gathered to discuss the upcoming season and re-access the plan in case of emergency.
Sergeant and Officer in Charge of Halifax Police Station Giovanni Tantalo is coordinator of the meeting.
Sergeant Tantalo said this sub-group was created from the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG), following the 2012 disaster season.
“The idea is to get together and have a bit of a brainstorm, and if any of the wardens or any of the members can think of a problem we have had previously that might need to be addressed we can bring those issues up with the LDMG,” explained Sergeant Tantalo.
“This meeting brings together our area wardens in each of our little townships that become islands in major floods, the emergency services, any other additional personnel who may need to know information for major events, such as our food providers, fuel business owners, that type of thing.
“The best advice I can give is to look at the Council’s notice board on the web, they also have hand-out flyers. Read those and follow those steps.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said it’s important to be prepared in disaster season.
“It is important that people understand what the risks to them are because then they can start thinking about how they will plan and prepare themselves to deal with that risk,” said Mayor Ramon Jayo.
“For instance, our most common risk here is flooding. What happens when there are floods? People are going to get isolated.
“At the council, we’ve got information which is relevant and tells us what our risks are and how best to prepare for it.
“We’re in cyclone alley, our big three disasters are cyclones, floods and storm surges.”
Sergeant and Officer in Charge of Halifax Police Station Giovanni Tantalo and Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
On Thursday 28 November, the State Government took the first step towards restoring community safety and legislating Adult Crime, Adult Time with the introduction of the landmark, Making Queensland Safer Bill 2024.
The Making Queensland Safer Laws deliver on a key commitment to Queenslanders to turn the tide on the Youth Crime Crisis. Under the new laws, juvenile offenders who commit some of the most serious crimes will face the same penalties as adult offenders and the rights of victims will be put ahead of the rights of offenders.
With proposed amendments to the Youth Justice Act 1992, the tough provisions contained in the Bill complement plans for Gold Standard Early Intervention, crime prevention and effective rehabilitation to ensure fewer Queenslanders fall victim to crime.
Adult Crime, Adult Time offences include murder, manslaughter, unlawful striking causing death, grievous bodily harm, wounding, serious assault, home business break-ins and robbery, and dangerous operation of vehicles.
The Making Queensland Safer laws propose removing the principle of detention as a last resort and will change the way in which offenders are sentenced with courts empowered to consider an offender’s full criminal history when sentencing.
Premier David Crisafulli said restoring community safety would be the first order of business with the Making Queensland Safer Laws.
“The Making Queensland Safer Laws are the first strike back against a youth crime crisis a decade in the making,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Where we are today is the result of decisions made a decade ago; a fresh start is what we need, Queenslanders demanded it and we are delivering it.”
A travel influencer recently put Cardwell on the digital map, creating a viral video detailing the suspected extraterrestrial nature residing within the region.
Terry’s twenty-minute YouTube video titled, “Cardwell: Is this Tiny Town Australia’s UFO Capital?” has attracted well over 67,000 views and counting, with the video prompting many locals to reminisce on their own paranormal experiences.
Terry’s inspiration to investigate the mysterious alien phenomenon came after he read many reports of strange lights flickering in the night sky, exhibiting seemingly unexplainable behaviours, and acting on his inquisitiveness, he decided to interview a handful of locals on his travels in attempt to find answers.
“Since settlement there’s been unusual stories recorded about different things in the sky, coming out of the water, and on the land,” shared Thea, organiser of Cardwell’s annual Australian UFO Festival.
“There’s one particular phenomenon that has been recorded since early settlement and it’s these two lights that travel across the sky, parallel with each other and then they will just shoot straight up, and we’ve just coined it, the Cardwell Lights.”
The northern end of Cardwell, has homed many reports over the years where residents have claimed to witness these two strange lights travelling parallel at high speeds across the sky to then suddenly shoot directly upwards into the atmosphere, leaving onlookers feeling anxious and on edge.
Similarly, foreign objects have been witnessed emerging from the ocean nearing towards Hinchinbrook Island and rapidly flying into the sky, without a trace. Described as spaceships, fisherman recall the objects suddenly flying out from the depths of the ocean below, with some experiences causing all electronic equipment on board to lose power and reception.
Above all else, the most famous interplanetary sighting was reported in January of 1966 when local farmer, George Pedley was left “frigid with fright” after witnessing a flying saucer rise at great speed from a lagoon on his Tully property.
Regardless of the countess stories and local recounts, many are confident “seeing is believing,” despite the blanketed perception being “we aren’t alone,” however, although there’s a lack of evidence proving the reality of aliens, many scientists and researchers believe it’s likely extraterrestrial life exists.
A mysterious “crop circle” found by George Pedley following a harrowing 1966 paranormal ordeal.
On Monday 6 January 2025, physical emergency dredging operations will commence at Port Hinchinbrook’s One Mile Creek to improve both recreational and essential access.
Announced on Wednesday 27 November, countless locals welcomed the news with open arms, taking to social media to express their gratitude towards the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, adding these plans have been highly anticipated across the entire boating and fishing community.
One Mile Creek has been a contentious topic of discussion for many years, with Member for Hinchinbrook, Nick Dametto, spearheading concerns for the area since 2020, outlining the necessity of developing both a long-term solution as well as actioning emergency dredging.
Scheduled for January, the dredging will extend across a four-week period with approximately 990 tonnes of material expected to be removed from the area.
In order to execute the planned operations, a 100m exclusion zone around the dredging area will be established to protect the safety of all water users, whilst stabilising the batter slopes and seabed.
The Port Hinchinbrook Boat Ramp will be closed throughout the period, with the Cassowary Coat Regional Council encouraging the community to utilise alternative boat ramp locations at Marine Parade, Meunga Creek or Fishers Creek.
A lengthy process, the Cassowary Coat Regional Council has undertaken sediment testing, analysed dredge sediment disposal sites, conducted a hydrographic survey, and met with the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) prior to receiving $1.5 million in funding from the Australian Government to commence works.
“Following the receipt of a Deed of Variation from the Department of Infrastructure in October 2024, we are moving forward with this crucial project to enhance our local waterway,” shared the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.
“We want to reassure the community, that environmental considerations are a priority, and we will be managing our obligations under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 to monitor and mitigate any potential impacts.”
Although vital, the current emergency program exists as merely a short-term solution to the ongoing accessibility issues concerning One Mile Creek, Port Hinchinbrook Marina and the surrounding onshore facilities.
One Mile Creek underwent emergency dredging in 2022.
One Mile Creek was also a contentious topic of discussion in 2020.
The 58th Parliament of Queensland commenced last week as the Legislative Assembly sat for the first time under the incoming Crisafulli Government. Most of the first week was filled with ceremony and official proceedings except for Thursday when the incoming government introduced three new bills, one being the anticipated Making Queensland Safer Bill, which is set to become law before Christmas.
While the legislation is a step in the right direction, in my opinion it doesn’t go far enough. The bill takes inspiration from several of the Katter’s Australian Party’s (KAP) crime policies, like “removing detention as a last resort” and the principle of “adult crime = adult time” but fails to address the public’s calls to implement minimum mandatory sentencing and castle law.
Youth offenders must be locked up, but the fact is, our detention centres are full. Young crims are climbing over themselves to get into places like Cleveland Bay detention centre before Christmas because it’s a holiday camp. Detention should be a place to avoid, instead of plush purpose built metro facilities. I’d like to see these kids spending the Christmas holidays out in Western Queensland on a cattle station or in donga style accommodation near Urandangi serving time under KAP’s Relocation Sentencing policy.
Also, during the first week of parliament, I moved a disallowance motion to oppose incoming regulations that would make wearing a lifejacket mandatory in certain circumstances. From December 1st, boaties in vessels under 4.8 metres will be forced to wear lifejackets when boating alone or at night.
I’m all for safety, however mandating this requirement is overbearing and takes away what should be a personal responsibility. Boaties should have the right to decide if it is necessary or safe for them to wear a lifejacket or not. The regulations are not justified. What’s next, regulating floaties for everyone who decides to go swimming?
Opinion Piece
Contributed with thanks to Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto
Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto with his son Deekin at the official opening of the 58th State Parliament. Photo supplied
Felix Reitano of Felix Reitano Furniture & Real Estate recently became a life member of the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ).
He was recognised for a lifetime of dedication to the real estate profession and REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the real estate peak body considers this distinction for REIQ members who have shown long outstanding and meritorious service.
“Felix certainly fits the bill for the honour of Life Member, holding REIQ membership since 1992, more than three decades, and in that time proudly and exceptionally serving his community and giving back to his real estate colleagues,” Ms Mercorella said.
“He has been a great supporter of the REIQ and our advocacy efforts over the years and it’s wonderful to acknowledge his contribution and firm commitment to the REIQ family.
“Felix Reitano Furniture & Real Estate is a family business that’s not only highly respected, but after celebrating 100 years of operation, it’s woven into the fabric of the community and is an Ingham institution – dare I say, it’s become part of the furniture!
“Felix is undoubtedly a ‘people person’ who thrives off human interaction, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he knew just about everyone in his district, giving him great influence.”
Accepting the Life Member certificate in person at the REIQ Office HQ, alongside his wife Judy, Felix said he was honoured to receive the award and dedicated it to his family.
“I’m 77 years young and my son, Felix Peter, is the fourth generation in our family business, but we both always keep in mind that we are carrying the baton on behalf of those that came before us,” he said.
“I dedicate this award to my grandfather and my father who were faced with much greater challenges, yet still accomplished so much and established a business with exceptional standards and service.
“We respect and honour that tradition by living by those standards, and the REIQ has been a great support in our endeavours because its high standards match ours.
“Real estate is far more technical now than the old days when you shook hands and away you went, but with rights come responsibility and I take that responsibility seriously.”
Felix Reitano has spent nearly all of his 77 years in Ingham, leading the family business for over 45 years. As the third generation to take the helm, Felix has upheld a proud legacy of service in the Hinchinbrook district, with the business celebrating 100 years of operation in 2023.
He is a family man and active community leader, Felix was named the Hinchinbrook Shire’s Citizen of the Year in 2024, further cementing his legacy of service, dedication, and commitment to the real estate profession and his local community.
Antonia Mercorella (REIQ CEO), Felix & Judy Reitano & Peter Brewer (REIQ Chairman). Photo supplied
In January of 2014, the lives of the Williams and Fettell family were turned upside down when thirty-four-year-old mother of two, Lauri Fettell was diagnosed with breast cancer. In navigating the news of her daughter’s diagnosis, Sandra Williams discovered a way in which she could not only help her daughter, but also support so many others experiencing breast cancer, and channelled her daughter’s strength to establish The Simple Gift of a Bag.
Lauri underwent a mastectomy, and whilst in hospital recovering from the surgery, Sandra noticed the unpracticality and uncomfortableness her daughter’s drainage bag caused, and with that, she began planning for something better. Although experiencing the unthinkable, both Sandra and Lauri focused on providing other breast cancer survivors with compassion and strived to provide women across Australia with the opportunity to access the bags.
“Even while undergoing chemotherapy, my daughter Lauri would lie in bed, and ring around to try find hospitals within Australia that would like our bags as each bag gives that little bit of dignity and kindness for a person during an overwhelming time in their life and Lauri knows this as she’s lived through it, and knows exactly how the patient feels,” added Sandra.
“Our page grew bigger and so did the volunteers – the generosity of people never ceased to amaze us, and we have around sixty women who have been sewing bags, with more offering to help every day,” Sandra added.
The pair’s initiative has continued to gain traction, and today, with women sewing across Australia, ‘The Simple Gift of a Bag’ posts drainage bag covers to over eighty-eight hospitals and specialist rooms throughout the country for patients to use freely during their post operation recovery. To date, just over 30,500 bags have been handmade and donated as part of ‘The Simple Gift of a Bag’[, with both Lauri and Sandra beyond grateful for the support of the Hinchinbrook community and beyond.
“We love our connection to the Hinchinbrook community, and the businesses in Ingham, Halifax and Lucinda suburbs are so generous with gift vouchers, and prizes that we use each year for our Winter Fundraiser Raffle – it’s a very important part of our yearly fundraising campaign.”
Sandra invites anyone who may be interested in volunteering their time in support of The Simple Gift of a Bag to email sly.sis@bigpond.com.
Lauri Fettell today with her beautiful family.
John Flynn Private Hospital staff with some of the amazing bags donated by The Simple Gift of a Bag.
Fundraising for a fantastic cause, Sandra is often blown away with the community’s support.
Greetings, Hinchinbrook Residents!
It is such a privilege to be able to contribute to the Hinchinbrook Life Councillor Column. The first issue of the Hinchinbrook Life set the bar high, it was great to be able to sit down and read through what has been and will be happening throughout our Shire.
I am deeply passionate about our community, and I was thrilled to be allocated the Infrastructure Services Advisory Portfolio.
Since taking on this role, I have been eager to meet with the public, listen to your concerns, and bring your ideas back to the Mayor and Councillors. Together, we can work on initiatives that will benefit our community.
In addition to my primary responsibilities, I also sit on several other Council advisory committees and external organisations.These include Herbert River Improvement Trust (HRIT) as Deputy Chair, Hinchinbrook Road Safety Advisory Committee as Chair, Asset Management Steering Committee and the Hinchinbrook Recovery Group Infrastructure Sub-Group Chair Councillor.
Council is responsible for its infrastructure assets, however may seek reimbursement of expenditure for restoration of damaged infrastructure assets through the DRFA and NDRRA programs, subject to eligibility assessments undertaken by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA).
Recently attending a Mount Fox Community Shed Meeting gave a great opportunity to share a coffee and scones whilst catching up with and listening to the residents.
Continuing to represent Council at the Halifax Progress Association’s monthly meetings is a real honour, and I am looking forward to collaborating with the Association to support their ideas and events, including their monthly markets and yearly street party.
I am committed to being accessible and responsive to your needs. Please feel free to reach out to me with your thoughts and suggestions. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us make informed decisions that enhance our community.
I am excited about the future and the opportunity to serve you. Together, we can make Hinchinbrook an even better place to live, work, and play.
As the current crushing season draws to a close and we head towards a well-earned break with family and friends, please stay safe and take time to enjoy your Shire and what it has to offer.
Finally, I would like to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas in Hinchinbrook.
Nestled just beyond the winding, mangrove lined Hinchinbrook Channel lies Australia’s largest island national park, Hinchinbrook Island, spanning 39,00 hectares of pristine wilderness.
Fringed by the world’s most extensive coral reef system, this untouched paradise is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure.
A short 20 minute charter from Lucinda, located northeast of Ingham, brings you to this awe-inspiring destination.
As you draw closer, the island unveils a breathtaking tapestry of emerald rainforests cascading over rugged mountains that plunge dramatically into deserted beaches.
For the adventurous, the island features the legendary Thorsborne Trail, ranked as one of the world’s top 10 multi day hikes.
Pack your bags, embrace your sense of wonder, and prepare to uncover one of Australia’s best kept secrets and find your Hinchinbrook Way.
I am pleased to report that Council adopted the Annual Report for 2023-2024 at its monthly General Meeting held 26 November 2024. The Annual Report is a reflection on the past year, highlighting Council’s achievements and progress towards enhancing the wellbeing and advancement of our community.
The report contains a great deal of information including infrastructure projects undertaken and emerging initiatives in the maintenance, renewal and replacement of essential assets to meet demand and expectations of the community and in that regard, it was pleasing to observe, albeit very modest, the continued upward trajectory of our population statistics over the past two years.
As a key indicator of our population growth in the past year, Council was excited to welcome 49 babies at the Underwater Wonderland Baby Welcoming Ceremony, a new record for the annual baby welcoming event.
A further indicator of continuing growth was observed through the demand for additional housing reported by real estate agents in the community, reports supported by the exponential growth in property transfers occurring and building applications for new housing lodged. Applications for land reconfigurations have also risen significantly in the past year compared to the previous decade.
The report is available on Council’s website under Corporate Documents or may be purchased from Council at a cost of $40.00.
It’s time to Get Ready Hinchinbrook
Our storm season is now approaching, and it is time for us to prepare for whatever Mother Nature has in store for Hinchinbrook this summer.
We will experience flooding which may prevent us from coming to town and obtaining food. So as part of your plan, it would be essential that you have a pantry full of food to last you at least three days, just in case.
We know that in Hinchinbrook we are prone to cyclones. Do you have torches, batteries and mobile devices to recharge your phone batteries from your car plug.
Many more examples of problems you may experience and actions you should take to address such problems can be found on Council’s website under Disaster and Emergency Information as well as websites such as Get Ready Queensland. If you don’t have access to the web, then call into Council’s offices on Lannercost Street and pick up hard copies to read at home.
Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers has been owned and operated by the same family since 1994, which means the team are now celebrating their 30th year of servicing the community together.
Christine Pagliuso, current owner of Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers, bought the business from her father Franco, in 2022.
When her parents first purchased the store, it was called Ingham Motorcycles and Marine, specialising in motorcycles, boating and camping equipment. It was some years later that her father Franco sold the marine side of the business, choosing to concentrate on power equipment instead. And so, Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers was born.
Christine, now owner of the store, has been working at the store since 1998 and knows the store inside and out. She has even completed a motorcycle and small engine mechanical trade certificate. Her sister Karen works alongside her, after returning to Ingham in 2005.
“Being women in a male dominated industry has its challenges but my sister and I have been doing this for a long time and we know our products,” said Christine.
Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers has been in the Pagliuso family for over three decades and Christine believes it is due to the standard that they set.
“We maintain the same level of sales and workshop support that we always have for the local community and surrounding areas,” said Christine
“I have three full-time mechanics out there at the moment, two qualified technicians, and one third-year apprentice.
“We repair everything that we sell, plus many brands of motorcycles, mowers, generators, all the power equipment.”
“What sets us apart is our good quality honest service, reasonable rates and a quick turnaround of work.”
Christine was born and raised in the area and she loves the region, saying it is a great place to live. Above all, however, Christine loves supporting her local community, staff and customers.
Her love for the staff shines through and customers of the store always experience a warm greeting when they come through the doors.
Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers owner Christine Pagliuso. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
December is here, which means Christmas festivities are quickly approaching. For the Hinchinbrook community this year’s launch of “Christmas in Hinchinbrook”, commencing with the celebration and community event in Ingham CBD last Thursday, meant that the festive season kicked off in the most spectacular way.
On behalf of Chamber members, business owners and the broader community, acknowledgement and recognition must be given to Hinchinbrook Shire Council for organising and funding this wonderful Christmas Launch event.
The success of this event was witnessed by the vast numbers of locals and visitors in the street from early afternoon and well into the night.
It was very pleasing to witness the culmination of the significant planning, engagement with business owners, market stall holders, community groups and implementation of an effective marketing campaign which resulted in such a wonderful night.
Feedback from community, retailers and stall holders has been exceptionally positive, with particular emphasis focusing on the opportunity for family and friends to enjoy a relaxed evening of shopping, catching up and enjoying the entertainment.
Many business owners have expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the overwhelming community support and this has provided confidence to explore the option of participating in a similar event on the last Thursday before Christmas.
This week, the community has responded with overwhelming positivity to the return of a local community newspaper. It is hoped this will rebuild communication with the residents and raise a stronger awareness of the activities taking place locally and rebuild some of the connectivity that has slipped over the past several years.
Chamber continues to work with local businesses, bringing together this year’s massive prize draw for the “Shop & Win – the Hinchinbrook Way” promotion, that is due to be drawn on December 19th. Shoppers are reminded to enter their receipts into the boxes provided, for their chance to win some amazing prizes.
Often described as the “cane farmer’s supermarket”, Ingham Agencies has been serving the community under the management of the Pelleri family since 1994 and exists as a celebrated industrial and agricultural equipment supplier.
Collectively, Ingham Agencies operates locations in both Ingham and Tully, and effectively incorporate general engineering, retail, transportation and manufacturing services into their business structure to better accommodate clients and expand their customer base.
With expertise in agricultural manufacturing, Ingham Agencies specialises in manufacturing harvester parts, and tillage equipment along with carrying out general engineering, and repairs to further cater to the requirements of industrial and agricultural professionals in and around the community.
“We offer a broad range of services, and we cover the needs of cane farmers and industrial businesses between Ingham and Tully,” shared Michael.
A proud, family-owned business, Michael Pelleri and his wife Siobhan Pelleri have managed Ingham Agencies since his parents retired just over six years ago, and the pair pride themselves on continuing to uphold the same levels of customer service and expertise established thirty years ago.
Reflecting on the past three decades, Michael notes raising six children as an achievement he’s most proud of, and reminisces on establishing the business’ Tully branch, transport depot in Townsville and introducing transportation in 2009 into the mix as additional milestones.
“The transport business, QS Transport, was started to cater for the transportation needs of Ingham Agencies, and it’s grown from starting with one small, single axel truck to now running three semi trucks,” added Michael.
“QS Transport has been a major asset – it allows us to be far more flexible in our supply and services and puts us in control of our freight requirements.”
In seeing the whole picture, Ingham Agencies understands the integral role they play in supporting the success of the region’s sugar industry, and are committed to supporting the professionals in the industry to fulfill their industrial and agricultural endeavours.
Brian Richmond has confidently managed and coordinated the purchasing and retail sales department of Ingham Agencies for just over eight years where he has come to value the key role his position plays in the company’s daily operations.
In catering to the needs and requirements of customers across the state, Brian’s additional four years with Ingham Agencies allows him to navigate the position with ease, professionalism, and with a high level of expertise.
Having relocated to Ingham from Cardwell in 2012, Brian has held prior positions in mechanics, purchasing and retail, furthermore, providing him with additional opportunities for development and growth.
“Michael and Siobhan are good people to work for, and I have done it all - each day at Ingham Agencies is different, no two days are the same,” explained Brian.
Over the past twelve years, Brian enjoys the ever-shifting day-to-day dynamics of Ingham Agencies, understanding each day presents a world of new challenges, opportunities and responsibilities to take on.
For an impressive three decades, Ingham Agencies & Queensland Steel and Equipment has been a trusted provider of agricultural and industrial supplies across Ingham, Tully, and the broader regions of North and Far North Queensland. Established in 1994, this family-owned and locally operated business is synonymous with quality products, excellent service, and prompt delivery options.
Diverse Product Offerings
Ingham Agencies boasts an extensive inventory tailored to meet the demands of agriculture, engineering, and industrial sectors. From hydraulic hoses and fittings to welding equipment, batteries, trailer parts, cleaning fluids, and tools, the range is designed to cater to businesses and individuals alike. A key highlight is their variety of high-grade steel products, including RHS, pipes, bars, plates, mesh, beams, and more. These materials support projects of any scale, offering options such as stainless steel, aluminium, and galvanised varieties.
Additionally, their engineering workshop provides customised solutions, including hole punching and the fabrication of bespoke components like cattle ramps.
Specialised Categories
Harvester Parts
The business is a one-stop shop for harvester components, offering a range of products such as blades, chopper knives, base cutter blades, elevator chains, and bearings. These parts ensure peak performance for agricultural machinery, helping customers maintain efficiency and productivity.
Bearings and Seals
Their comprehensive range of hydraulic seals, O-rings, and bearings caters to various applications, ensuring equipment operates smoothly.
Building Materials
Builders and renovators can access materials such as corrugated and trim deck sheeting, purlins, chain wire mesh, star pickets, gates, and roofing screws. These products support construction projects with durability and reliability.
Automotive and Trailer Supplies
Vehicle owners and operators benefit from their range of oils, lubricants, filters, coolants, cleaning agents, and essential trailer parts. Truck safety signs and sugar-dissolving oils are among the niche offerings that highlight the company’s attention to industry-specific needs.
Hardware and Tools
The general hardware section features wheels, castors, adhesives, grinding disks, and material handling equipment. Their selection of hand and power tools includes cordless combo kits, air tools, and toolboxes, perfect for professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Power and Safety Equipment
Generators, pressure cleaners, and compressors form part of their power equipment line-up, while fire extinguishers, PPE, safety signs, and spill kits ensure a safe working environment.
Services and Manufacturing
Beyond retail, Ingham Agencies excels in manufacturing components like harvester blades, rippers, and fertiliser worms. Their ability to fabricate purlin cleats, angle brackets, and vida plate strips further enhances their reputation as a versatile solutions provider.
Customer Commitment
The team at Ingham Agencies is dedicated to offering high-quality products, tailored advice, and outstanding customer service. Their vast inventory, coupled with an in-house engineering workshop, allows them to address a wide array of industrial and agricultural challenges.
For businesses and individuals seeking dependable supplies and services, Ingham Agencies & Queensland Steel and Equipment is the region’s trusted partner, delivering solutions that help North Queensland thrive.
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