Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Introducing Hinchinbrook Life and Cassowary Coast Life Newspaper, a newly extended newspaper uniting our regions and highlighting the importance of sharing local community news to inform and uplift. Produced weekly and running on the flipside of this newspaper, Cassowary Coast Life will be distributed to Tully, El Arish and Mission Beach, along with the paper’s current footprint of Cardwell, Ingham, Halifax, Lucinda, Forrest Beach, Rollingstone and more. We have some exciting news to share — Hinchinbrook Life is welcoming a little sister to the family, and she’s going to be part of this very newspaper! You may have noticed her gradually taking shape over the past several months as we’ve expanded our coverage across the broader region. What started as a growing presence has now become something official. In fact, next week she will take her first breath when Cassowary Coast Life is born. Most importantly, we want to reassure our loyal readers that Hinchinbrook Life will remain exactly what it has always been. You will still receive the same 28–32 pages of dedicated local news, stories and community coverage each week. The only difference is that, from next week onwards, you’ll receive a second newspaper completely free on the flip side of this publication. Essentially, it’s two newspapers in one - a Hinchinbrook Life masthead on one side and a Cassowary Coast Life masthead on the other. This expansion has been almost a year in the making. Over that time, we’ve seen increasing demand for more Cassowary Coast news and greater coverage of the communities that sit just beyond our traditional footprint. Since launching Hinchinbrook Life, Cardwell has always been an important part of both our news coverage and distribution network. Now, we are extending that reach further south to include Tully, Mission Beach and El Arish. Our goal is simple: to strengthen the connection between neighbouring communities and encourage the flow of people, ideas and opportunities across the region. From next week, readers will be able to discover local events, community stories, business news and inspiring people from both regions every week. This is the second time Life Publishing Group has adopted this unique newspaper format. We first introduced it with our flagship publication, Mackay and Whitsunday Life, where readers embraced the opportunity to share stories and celebrate what makes each community special. We hope you enjoy it just as much. As always, we value your feedback and would love to hear your thoughts, so please feel free to reach out and share your views. Rach
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Missed calls cost money. Patchy reception, dropped calls, and “can you hear me now?” isn’t a great look, especially when customers are trying to reach you. Logilytics helps locals set up modern phone systems that are reliable, clear, and built for the way you work (or live). Whether you’re in an office, on the road, juggling multiple locations, or just want better calling at home, we’ll design a solution that keeps you connected. We can help with: New business and residential phone system supply and setup Desk phones, cordless handsets, headsets, and mobile-friendly options Call routing, hunt groups, after-hours messages, and voicemail-to-email Better call quality and coverage (including network/Wi‑Fi checks) Clean installs and tidy cabling where needed Most importantly, you get local support. If something isn’t right, you’re not stuck on hold to a provider, you can call us and we’ll sort it. If you want a phone system that makes your business easier to reach – or your home setup clearer and more reliable – talk to Logilytics. Captipn: Logilytics helps locals set up modern phone systems that are reliable, clear, and built for the way you work and live. Photo supplied
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A Cassowary Coast ambulance leader who has weathered the storm of Queensland’s biggest natural disasters has been recognised for community leadership and her role in reinforcing local disaster preparedness. Officer in Charge, Tully Ambulance Station, Vanessa Schafranek is one of three Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) paramedics announced as an Ambulance Service Medal (ASM) recipient in the King’s Birthday 2026 Honours List. This prestigious recognition is awarded to ambulance staff who have consistently exemplified the highest levels of dedication and professionalism throughout their career. As Officer in Charge of Tully Ambulance Station, Vanessa Schafranek has served her beloved Tully community for the past 15 years, after first commencing as a paramedic in 2002. As goes hand-in-hand with working in the Cassowary Coast region, Officer Schafranek has led her community through numerous natural disasters, including Tropical Cyclone (TC) Larry in 2006, TC Yasi in 2011, TC Ita in 2014, TC Debbie in 2017, and most recently TC Jasper in 2023. Drawing on her boots-on-the-ground experience during these disasters, Officer Schafranek has been instrumental in developing procedures that assist the QAS in preparing for natural disasters to this day. In addition to Officer Schafranek’s efforts during disasters, she continues to exemplify the characteristics of a frontline operational leader. She leads by example, mentoring and guiding up-and-coming leaders and remaining active in ensuring positive welfare, wellbeing and psychological health in the workplace. Officer Schafranek fell into the service by happenstance, when her husband saw an advertisement in the paper. “It was nothing I'd ever thought of beforehand - it was never, ever on my radar,” she said. “It was just completely by chance that the paper was there that day, which we didn't usually have.” Officer Schafranek hasn’t looked back since, with 24 years of service now under her belt. Officer Schafranek values the trust and support of her colleagues and the community, explaining that her love for rural areas is what drives her. “I think working in a rural setting is very rewarding because you see the whole circle. You see patients after whatever has happened and see the results of what you’ve done,” Officer Schafranek said. With a preference to fly under the radar, she was shocked to discover she had been nominated for the award. “It's nice that someone's noticed that you've gone above and beyond, and you're doing a great job in that space,” Officer Schafranek said. “It’s very heartwarming.” QAS Commissioner Craig Emery said that Officer Schafranek’s dedication and professionalism have made her a standout leader in the service. “This prestigious medal is a testament to her exceptional service, her tireless work ethic, and her passion for helping others,” Commissioner Emery said. “I commend Officer Schafranek on her exemplary service, and her fitting recognition as she joins the distinguished few to receive an Ambulance Service Medal.” 1 - Officer in Charge, Tully Ambulance Station, Vanessa Schafranek is one of three QAS paramedics announced as an Ambulance Service Medal recipient in the King’s Birthday 2026 Honours List. Photo supplied 2- Vanessa promoting the CPR Awareness Program at an expo for local school students. Photo source: Facebook.
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Queensland children and teenagers who are uncomfortable with needle vaccinations can now access a free nasal spray flu vaccine under an expansion of the State Government’s FluMist program. The Government has widened eligibility for the free nasal spray vaccine to children and teenagers aged six to 17, building on the existing program already available to children aged two to five years. The expanded rollout forms part of the Government’s $31 million free flu vaccination program, which is available through participating GPs, pharmacies and vaccination clinics across Queensland. The expansion comes to help fight the winter chills with families being urged to get vaccinated while FluMist stock remains available. More than one million Queenslanders have already received a flu vaccination this year, including a significant rise in vaccinations among younger children. The Government said the expansion followed feedback from health professionals and families, including parents of children with disability or sensory sensitivities, who said the needle-free option would make vaccination less stressful and more accessible. Families have been encouraged to book vaccinations sooner rather than later, with FluMist supplies expected to run out nationally after early August due to the vaccine’s shorter shelf life. More information about the free flu vaccination program and participating providers is available through the Queensland Health Flu Vaccination website via www.health.qld.gov.au.
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New owner Melissa with Chanel and Rachael. Photo credit: Beauty on Lannercost
There’s a new energy at Beauty on Lannercost, with new owner Melissa stepping into the space and bringing with her a wealth of experience and a clear vision for what’s next.
Her focus is on building on the strong foundation already in place. “My vision is to continue the beautiful products and services that Rebecca has thoughtfully provided to the community, while also introducing a range of elevated day spa experiences.”
Melissa’s background spans luxury day spas across Australia and internationally, most recently in the Hunter Valley. “Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work in environments delivering high-quality treatments focused on relaxation, restoration and overall wellbeing,” she said. “At the heart of my work is a simple belief, when your body feels good, everything flows.”
She is joined by a highly experienced team, with Chanel bringing 6–7 years in the beauty industry and a strong focus on facials and waxing, while Rachael offers more than 30 years of experience and deep knowledge in skin health. “Together, we work seamlessly as a team to provide a welcoming, professional and personalised experience for every client,” Melissa said.
With Mother’s Day approaching, the team is encouraging locals to give the gift of time and care. Gift vouchers, packages and in-salon treatments are available, from facials and massages to brows and beauty essentials designed to help Mum unwind.
“We look forward to welcoming you in and being part of your wellness journey,” Melissa said.
If Mother’s Day has crept up and you’re not quite sure where to start, News Extra Ingham has made it easy. This year, the store is packed wall-to-wall with gift ideas, turning a simple shop visit into a one-stop destination for everything Mum could love.
From the moment you walk in, it’s clear the Mother’s Day range has arrived in full. Shelves are filled with thoughtful pieces, from beautifully designed greeting cards and wrapping paper to candles, diffusers and delicate bracelets. There’s even a charming collection of teapot sets and matching accessories for those who love a quiet cuppa, alongside sweet treats including chocolates and lollies for a little extra indulgence.
For mums who enjoy time in the kitchen, the range of resin-poured boards offers something both practical and beautiful, perfect for entertaining or everyday use. And for those who appreciate a signature scent, there’s no shortage of options to create a calming, welcoming space at home.
What makes News Extra Ingham stand out is the variety. Whether you’re putting together a full gift package or searching for that one finishing touch, there’s something here to suit every personality and budget. With new products arriving regularly, there’s always something fresh to discover.
This Mother’s Day, take the guesswork out of gifting and find it all in one place. Visit News Extra Ingham at 56 Lannercost Street, or follow along on Facebook to see the latest arrivals and inspiration.
At Mandy’s Beauty in the Bush, Mother’s Day is more than a date on the calendar, it’s a feeling. A moment to slow down, connect, and honour the people who shape our lives, both those beside us and those we carry with us in memory.
This year’s Love Blooms Here collection is inspired by something simple and meaningful, sharing a cup of tea and a quiet catch-up with loved ones. It’s in those gentle, unhurried moments that connection grows, and as Mandy reflects, “we bloom together.” It’s also in these moments that we remember, creating space to honour those who are no longer with us, but remain part of our story.
The collection captures that sentiment in every piece. From fresh floral arrangements to preserved roses, each creation is designed to express gratitude, warmth and reflection. Beautifully curated gift packs, delicate potpourri and handcrafted floral resin art offer something lasting, a way to hold onto memories while celebrating the present.
What makes Mandy’s work so special is the intention behind it. Every arrangement is created by hand, with care and emotion at its core. Whether it’s for Mum, a grandmother, an aunt, or someone who has always been there, each piece becomes a quiet tribute to love in all its forms.
There’s also a little extra reason to visit, with customers who spend $30 or more going into the draw for special Mother’s Day prizes.
This Mother’s Day, Mandy’s Beauty in the Bush offers a gentle way to celebrate, remember, and reconnect, with love that truly blooms here.
For I Love Boutique, it’s all about celebrating the people who make life a little brighter. Whether it’s a partner, a best friend, a mentor, or someone who simply deserves to feel appreciated, this is where thoughtful gifting comes naturally.
Step inside and you’ll find a carefully curated range designed to make every person feel a little more special. From iconic wardrobe pieces you won’t find anywhere else to statement jewellery, signature perfumes, and bold patterns and prints. I Love is about helping you find something that feels personal, not generic.
Every item is chosen with individuality in mind, ready for you to walk in and exclaim ‘Oh this will be perfect for them!’
For those looking to complete the perfect gift, I Love Boutique also offers stylish shoes, hats, and even cheeky drink mixes for a fun finishing touch. It’s the kind of place where inspiration strikes as soon as you walk through the door.
To make gifting even easier, free gift wrapping is available in store, ensuring every purchase feels personal, polished and ready to impress from the moment it’s handed over.
I Love is a destination for finding something a little different, or a little quirky, something that says you were thinking of them.
Find their fit, their style, and their spark at I Love Boutique, where gifting is an experience in itself, and every piece is chosen to help you make someone feel truly special.
As Mother’s Day approaches, Fiori With Love offers a gentle reminder to slow down, breathe, and celebrate the women who mean the most. Surrounded by seasonal blooms and soft natural light, the space feels like a quiet escape into nature, right in the heart of Ingham, where time slows just enough to enjoy the moment.
At Fiori With Love, Mother’s Day is about connection in every form. Whether it’s “do it for Mum” with a beautifully arranged bouquet, or “do it with Mum” over a shared experience, the café and florist work together to create something thoughtful and memorable. Fresh and everlasting floral arrangements are available for gifting, each designed to reflect care, beauty and meaning. Alongside this, a curated range of boutique gifts and homewares makes it easy to find something personal for every kind of mum.
This year, Fiori With Love will also be hosting a special Mother’s Day morning tea in the café, inviting families and friends to gather, slow down and celebrate together. With limited seating available, bookings are essential to secure a table for this popular occasion.
More than just a destination for flowers and gifts, Fiori With Love is a place to pause. It’s where choosing a bouquet becomes a moment of reflection, and where time spent together feels just as meaningful as the gift itself.
This Mother’s Day, come to Fiori With Love for flowers, gifts and treats, and take the opportunity to truly celebrate the people who matter most. To book a table or order flowers, call Louise on 07 4776 2362.
Nominations for the Queensland Landcare Awards will close on Friday, 31 July. Photo source: Shutterstock
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Queensland Landcare Awards, recognising the everyday Queenslanders making a difference in their local environments.
The biennial awards celebrate individuals, groups and organisations dedicated to restoring bushland, protecting waterways, improving soil health, caring for coastlines and supporting sustainable environmental practices across the state.
From volunteer groups regenerating creeks to farming families trialling innovative approaches, schools introducing students to landcare, and First Nations organisations caring for Country, the awards highlight the wide range of contributions being made at a grassroots level.
Nominations are free and open to everyone, including self-nominations, with entries closing on Friday, 31 July, 2026.
Award categories span a diverse range of areas, including innovation, sustainable agriculture and community partnerships, reflecting the many ways Queenslanders are working to protect and enhance the natural environment.
The Queensland Landcare Awards are considered a prestigious state program, shining a spotlight on those driving real, on-the-ground change in their communities — not in distant locations, but right across regional and rural Queensland.
Winners in selected categories will progress as finalists to the 2027 National Landcare Awards, to be held in Adelaide, South Australia, providing an opportunity for local efforts to gain national recognition.
Community members are encouraged to nominate individuals or groups making a positive impact, or to put forward their own work.
For more information or to submit a nomination, visit the Landcare Australia website at www.landcareaustralia.org.au/awards.
Community Safety Must Always Come First
Following a serious dog attack on 15 March 2025, where a member of our community sustained significant injuries requiring extensive hospitalisation, Council lawfully acted to seize and destroy the two dogs involved under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act, with community safety as its primary consideration.
On 17 April 2025, Council issued a combined dangerous dog declaration and destruction order. This decision was not taken lightly. It was based on detailed evidence, expert assessments, and Council’s clear legal obligation to act where there is an ongoing risk to public safety.
The dog owner exercised the right to challenge that decision. An internal review was undertaken and completed on 2 May 2025, confirming Council’s original determination
The dog owner, unhappy with Council’s decision, appealed to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT), triggering a process that took 12 months to conclude. Hearings were not held until January and March 2026.
This matter has imposed a cost of over $70,000 on local ratepayers, a burden created not by Council’s actions, but by a legislative framework that permits lengthy and costly legal challenges, even when decisions are made lawfully to protect public safety.
Rather than being invested in frontline community services or local infrastructure, these public funds were spent because Council was legally compelled to defend a public safety decision through an inefficient and protracted review process following a serious dog attack.
Ratepayers deserve transparency about why this occurred and why the current system allows it to happen.
Throughout this extended period, Council was legally required to securely house the dogs and engage legal representation, expert witnesses, and operational staff to meet statutory obligations.
Although the owner was self‑represented, Council had no discretion to reduce its involvement or limit escalating costs.
The system requires full participation by local governments regardless of cost, complexity or impact on ratepayers.
This outcome does not reflect a failure of Council decision‑making. It reflects a failure of the legislative and review framework.
Current dangerous dog and QCAT processes allow serious public safety decisions —supported by evidence and upheld through internal review — to be delayed for extended periods at substantial public expense.
Councils are left to absorb these costs simply for doing what the law already requires them to do: protecting the community.
While access to review rights is important, those rights must be timely, proportionate, and balanced against the public interest. A system that enables year‑long delays and tens of thousands of dollars in ratepayer costs in clear‑cut public safety matters is not fit for purpose.
Council is calling for urgent State Government review and reform of the dangerous dog legislative and tribunal framework, particularly in cases involving demonstrated risk to community safety.
Local governments and their residents should not be expected to underwrite prolonged legal challenges where public safety is clearly at stake.
Despite these systemic shortcomings, Council will not compromise on safety.
Community safety is not optional.
This incident also highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership.
When dogs are not properly controlled, the consequences are serious and long‑lasting. Victims carry the impact, and community confidence in public safety is undermined.
This matter was about accountability and reinforcing that dangerous behaviour will not be tolerated. The appeal process has now been exhausted, and the confirmed orders have been carried out.
While the outcome is regrettable, it reflects the seriousness of the incident and Council’s obligation to act, even when the system makes doing so costly, time‑consuming and unnecessarily difficult.
Proceedings relating to the dogs have concluded. Criminal proceedings against the owner remain ongoing. Owner responsibility is the central issue and is appropriately before the courts.
Dangerous animal laws exist to prevent harm, and when responsibility fails, accountability must follow. Council’s actions reflect the real and lasting impact incidents like this have on victims and on the wider community.
ANZAC Day services across Hinchinbrook and Cardwell drew strong community attendance, with locals gathering to pause, reflect, and honour those who have served. From the Dawn Service in Ingham to ceremonies at Forrest Beach and Halifax, the day was marked with respect and remembrance.
Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa said it was an honour to attend services across the region and deliver the main address in Cardwell, noting the strong turnout as a powerful reminder that the ANZAC spirit remains as strong as ever.
“It was incredibly special to see so many people come together to pause, reflect, and remember.” He said, “ANZAC Day is about honouring the courage, sacrifice and service of the men and women who have served our country, and ensuring their legacy continues for future generations.”
Under Jesse, SpinFX has built a long-standing reputation for reliable workmanship, high standards, and delivering quality results from the outset. That reputation underpins every part of the business, including its expanding solar and energy division.
While Jesse cannot be on every site personally, he ensures each member of the SpinFX team is fully supported with the training, tools, and ongoing professional development required to meet the same standard. Regular upskilling and industry training are embedded in the business, keeping the team aligned with current best practice and evolving technology.
This approach is what defines The SpinFX Standard. It extends beyond installation work alone and reflects a commitment to consistency, attention to detail, and outcomes that clients can depend on long after the job is complete. Jesse has confidence in every team member to deliver work that reflects the same professionalism, care, and accountability that the SpinFX name represents.
That standard is especially evident in the company’s solar and battery installations. Power your future with SpinFX Energy! A recent project featured a 19.74kW solar PV system using TW 470W panels, a Sungrow 10kW hybrid inverter, and a Sungrow 20kWh battery. Designed to combat rising electricity costs, systems like this provide greater energy independence, long-term savings, and improved household or business resilience.
For homeowners and businesses considering solar and battery storage, SpinFX Energy delivers tailored solutions backed by proven workmanship and ongoing support.
When you choose SpinFX, you are choosing consistency, capability, and a standard of work that is built to last. It’s North Queensland powered right.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that smoke testing and visual sewer inspections will be carried out in selected areas of Ingham from Wednesday 29 April to Wednesday 27 May 2026, weather permitting. These works are being undertaken by Council’s appointed contractors as part of the sewer manhole condition assessment program.
Smoke testing and inspections will occur in the following Ingham streets: Hardy Street, Cartwright Street, Atzeni Lane, Blackburn Street, Burke Street, Bird Street, Renouf Street, Stone Street, Stallan Street, Harvey Street, Flynn Street, Cassady Street, Lyons Street, Clay Street, Forgan Street, Jesson Street, Hunter Street, Morrissey Street, Victoria Mill Road, Covell Street, Mahoney Street, Tilley Street, Giugni Street and Scott Street.
Smoke testing is a safe and non-invasive way for Council to inspect the sewer network and identify issues that are not always visible. It helps locate cracks or breaks in sewer pipes, damaged or deteriorated infrastructure, illegal stormwater or roof drainage connections entering the sewer system, and faulty house drain connections linked to Council assets.
Identifying these issues early helps reduce sewer overflows and system failures, improves the reliability and performance of the sewer network, and protects the environment.
Smoke testing also helps prevent sewer backups that can affect properties during wet weather and reduces the risk of costly emergency repairs by addressing problems before they escalate.
Smoke testing works by blowing non-toxic smoke into sewer mains through manholes, allowing authorised inspectors to observe where smoke escapes and identify areas where Council infrastructure may need to be inspected and resealed.
The smoke is non-toxic, odourless and harmless. It is made from a high-grade food oil, may be visible around sewer vents, yards or roof drainage points, and clears quickly. There will be no disruption to water or sewer services.
If smoke enters your home, it may indicate a perished toilet seal or a dry or empty gully trap. These are private plumbing issues and do not pose a health risk.
Authorised Council officers may enter properties for restricted inspection purposes only. Entry is limited to the property and does not include entry into buildings. Inspectors will doorknock the day before access is required, or leave a notification leaflet if no one is home, advising of inspection the following working day.
Please ensure pets, including dogs, are secured to allow safe access for inspectors.
Council thanks residents for their cooperation while these important inspections are undertaken. Call Council on (07) 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au for more information.
When it comes to crop establishment, getting the first stage right is critical, and that is where LiquaForce PlantStarter is setting a new benchmark for growers. Designed to deliver nutrients directly to the root zone, PlantStarter is helping farmers achieve stronger germination, faster strike rates, and more consistent crop performance from day one.
PlantStarter can deliver faster strike rates, greater shoot lengths, and a reduction in nitrogen leaching compared to traditional granular fertiliser. These results reflect a major step forward in both efficiency and environmental performance.
Unlike granular products that rely on soil breakdown and moisture movement, PlantStarter delivers nutrients straight to the cane set or seedling roots. This direct delivery system reduces nutrient tie-up in the soil and ensures immediate plant availability, even in challenging conditions.
For growers, this means fewer risks at planting time. Cold, wet soils or waterlogged paddocks do not prevent uptake, with PlantStarter remaining effective in conditions that typically slow establishment.
If a tractor can travel across the paddock, PlantStarter can be applied.
Liquid application also brings practical advantages, loading faster, applying faster, and going further using existing machinery. This reduces man hours while improving coverage and consistency across planting operations.
PlantStarter combines enhanced efficiency fertiliser technology with organic and synthetic growth promotants to deliver a balanced nutrient mix. The result is rapid root development and stronger early shoot growth, giving crops the strongest possible start.
PlantStarter continues to demonstrate that strong establishment is the foundation of strong yield outcomes, season after season.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that several Council facilities will be closed for the Labour Day public holiday on Monday 4 May 2026.
The following facilities will be closed:
• Lannercost Street Office
• Martin Street Works Depot
• Water and Sewerage Depot
• Hinchinbrook Shire Library
• TYTO Regional Art Gallery
• Halifax Library Sub-Branch
• Halifax Resource Recovery Centre
Residents are encouraged to plan accordingly during this period until normal operating hours resume.
Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre and kerbside waste collection will continue as normal and visit https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/water-waste-and-roads/waste-and-recycling/domestic-waste-collection/ for more information.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that line marking works for the annual reseal program will be carried out at various locations across the Shire between Thursday 30 April 2026 and Friday 1 May 2026 (weather permitting) at the following locations:
Traffic control measures will be in place, and motorists may experience minor delays while works are underway. Motorists are asked to allow extra time when travelling through work areas.
Council thanks the community for their patience and cooperation during these works.
The reseal-line marking project is jointly funded by the Australian Government through the Roads to Recovery Program and the Queensland Government’s Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme in association with Hinchinbrook Shire Council.
For more information, email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or call Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4776 4600.
Image from Shutterstock
To understand a community like Hinchinbrook, you start with the people who turn up. The volunteers. The ones who stay back, lend a hand, and quietly keep things moving.
That’s the spirit behind the Stronger Together Hinchinbrook Grassroots Training Project, being launched by Volunteering North Queensland (VNQ) during National Volunteer Week 2026. VNQ will be on the ground in Hinchinbrook, not to lecture or dictate, but to listen. To sit down with volunteers, community groups and local leaders and ask a simple question: What do you need to keep going?
VNQ Secretary Margie Ryder says the answers matter. “This isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all workshop,” Ms Ryder said. “It’s about hearing from the people who live and volunteer here and building support around what they actually need — not what someone else thinks they need.”
The session is practical and hands‑on, designed to help local groups strengthen what they already do. From attracting and keeping volunteers to running events, navigating funding and building confidence to step into leadership roles. But the listening comes first. The initialsession will gather ideas and identify priorities, with VNQ returning to Hinchinbrook three more times to deliver targeted training shaped by local voices and real‑world experience.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council has welcomed the initiative, with Mayor Ramon Jayo describing volunteers as the heartbeat of the community.
“With one of Queensland’s oldest populations, it’s more important than ever that we grow the next generation of local volunteers and support those who already give so much,” Mayor Jayo said.
“This project is an important step in strengthening our community organisations, building capacity, and giving people the skills and confidence to step up and lend a hand. We’re proud to support an initiative that invests in our people today and helps secure a strong, caring community for the future.”
The project is supported by funding from the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), part of a shared commitment to strengthening rural and regional communities where it matters most.
For anyone who’s ever thought about volunteering, already volunteers, or simply cares about their community, the invitation is open for the hour session from 10:00am to 11:00am on Wednesday, 20 May 2026 at the TYTO Conference and Events Centre.
Visit https://events.humanitix.com/hinchinbrook-nvw-volunteer-workshop to register now.
Australian farmers are set to benefit from faster access to fertiliser following new measures introduced by the Government to streamline import processes without compromising biosecurity.
Announced on 16 April 2026, the changes aim to reduce delays at ports, cut costs and ease administrative burdens, while maintaining Australia’s strict biosecurity standards.
The Government said the move comes amid ongoing global pressure on fertiliser supply, particularly due to conflict in the Middle East, which has impacted availability and delivery times.
Under the updated system, imported fertiliser will undergo improved offshore certification processes, ensuring goods are free from biosecurity risk material before arriving in Australia. Importers using higher-risk pathways will also be required to provide samples for inspection, while registration and compliance processes will be simplified.
Despite the streamlined approach, strict safeguards remain in place, including the requirement that all imported inorganic fertiliser be free from contaminants.
The announcement builds on a range of existing measures designed to support the agriculture sector, including the establishment of a Fertiliser Supply Working Group, collaboration with alternative suppliers, and legislative changes to support private sector purchasing.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the changes strike a balance between efficiency and safety.
“We understand how important fertiliser is for Australian farmers and our food production system,” she said.
“That’s why the Government is working day and night with industry to support fertiliser getting to Australian farmers. We have engaged closely with industry to establish these changes, and appreciate Fertilizer Australia’s commitment to practical collaboration and problem solving.
“The Government will never compromise on biosecurity, but this is a sensible way to streamline the robust systems in place to help get the fertiliser we need faster.”
Fertilizer Australia Chief Executive Officer Stephen Annells welcomed the announcement, highlighting the importance of collaboration between industry and government.
“Fertilizer Australia is committed to working alongside the government, ensuring that our collaborative efforts lead to sound biosecurity systems and timely access to fertiliser for Australian farmers,” he said.
“This partnership not only emphasises the importance of practical solutions but also reinforces our shared dedication to maintaining rigorous biosecurity standards, protecting Australia's farming ecosystems and export markets.”
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