Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Hi Everyone, Exciting news from the Life Publishing Group team this week – we’ve won this year’s Local Government Association of Queensland Journalism Award! We’re particularly humbled by this achievement, especially given the competition with The Australian coming in second and the ABC third. This state award recognises excellence in regional journalism, and our positive, community-focused, hyperlocal coverage across the group took out the top accolade. I travelled to Cairns on Tuesday to accept the award on behalf of our team, and I would like to acknowledge all our journalists for the exceptional work they do every day across all the regions we serve. A big round of applause goes to Hannah McNamara, Victoria Velton, Jacob Casha, Zach Houtenville and our Editorial Team Leader Suzanna McLoughlin. As some of you may know, most of our journalists come to the regions as cadets, embarking on their first jobs in journalism. They are thrown into a new community and often become the only on-the-ground journalists covering local news. They are then supported by our fantastic team of professionals, and together we produce the papers our communities read every week. Every page is a team effort, from the advertising booked by our Sales Managers to the pages created by our designers, the production team bringing it all together and our journalists delivering the content. Thank you to the whole team for everything you do and well done to each journalist for collectively producing a body of work of such a high standard that we received this top gong. I would also like to mention the origins of this award, which are particularly meaningful. The LGAQ established it in honour of ABC cameraman John Bean, journalist Paul Lockyer and helicopter pilot Gary Ticehurst, who tragically died in a crash while on assignment in 2011. They were a well-liked and deeply respected crew who spent much of their time working in regional areas. Their loss sparked an outpouring of grief from regional leaders who understood the enormous contribution they made to ensuring regional Queensland was given a voice and its contribution to public life was recognised. It is an honour to continue their legacy in our own small way, ensuring regional Queensland communities remain connected and have a strong voice through positive, local free newspapers every week. The awards night was spectacular, with more than 500 Mayors, Councillors and local government staff in attendance and I was thrilled to meet up with five of the local Mayors from the regions we serve. When I was called up on stage to accept the award on behalf of the team, it was a moment that made all our dedication to regional journalism feel worthwhile. To my surprise, when I came off the stage, all our local Mayors came over to congratulate us. I was greeted by Mayor Greg Williamson from Mackay, Mayor Ry Collins from the Whitsundays, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort from the Burdekin and Mayor Ramon Jayo from Hinchinbrook. I have to confess, I had tears in my eyes at that moment! I later found out that Mayor Ramon Jayo had nominated us for the award and that every Mayor had received a phone call from the judging committee, with each vouching for the incredible work our team does every day in their regions. Thank you to all the Mayors, including Mayor Teresa Millwood from Cassowary Coast, where we have recently expanded. It was a delight to share your table on the night! And finally, thank you to our incredible team, our Publisher Bec Douthwaite, the LGAQ for this significant recognition, and our wonderful readers and local businesses who are part of the Life community. Rach
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Cardwell RSL Sub Branch’s new back up generator is up and running! The generator was secured through FRRR funding, and will give the sub branch peace of mind and a contingency plan should extreme weather cause any outages come storm season. Electrician Adrian Cammeleri visited the branch this week to give RSL Members a tutorial on how to run the back up generator. “The Cardwell RSL is extremely grateful for the generous support given by the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal (FRRR),” said Cardwell RSL Sub Branch President Robert Lang. “Without their grant funding this Gen Set compound & electrical connection would not be possible.” FRRR works with local organisations and community groups to help address regional needs, recognising the importance of locally led projects in building stronger, more resilient communities. Its funding supports a range of initiatives, from community infrastructure to disaster preparedness. Local electrician Adrian Cammeleri offered the RSL some guidance on how to use their brand new back up generator. Photo supplied
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Tully State High School was delighted to welcome 162 students from Ohori Junior High School in Fukuoka, Japan, for a memorable day of cultural exchange and friendship. The visiting students spent the day getting to know our school community, sharing insights into their own school experiences, daily routines and interests. Tully SHS Year 8 students acted as buddies, proudly showing their Japanese visitors around the school and helping them feel welcome. A highlight of the visit was a range of Indigenous cultural activities facilitated by the Girringun Rangers. Students had the opportunity to try spear and boomerang throwing, hand painting and beading, providing a valuable insight into Indigenous culture and traditions. The day was filled with opportunities to learn from one another, celebrate cultural differences and build connections between the two school communities. A friendly game of dodgeball and Just Dance also brought plenty of fun and laughter! Tully State High School extends a heartfelt thank you to all the students, teachers, staff and the Girringun Rangers who contributed to making the visit such a wonderful and memorable experience. The visit was a fantastic opportunity to strengthen international connections, celebrate cultural diversity and create lasting memories for everyone involved.
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Photo credit: Helen Cook From copyright concerns to smarter booking systems, artificial intelligence is presenting both opportunities and challenges for Cassowary Coast businesses. Members of the Cassowary Coast Businesswomen’s Network (CCBWN) explored the rapidly evolving technology at an informative evening with Cairns-based digital specialist Nicky Jurd at the Mt Tyson Hotel in Tully on Tuesday 13th October. Photo credit: Helen Cook Under the theme Human vs AI, Nicky introduced participants to the growing range of artificial intelligence platforms, explaining how they differ, their practical applications and how dramatically their capabilities have improved in recent months. With technology advancing at remarkable speed, keeping up with developments is becoming a challenge in itself. The presentation explored how businesses can harness AI to improve productivity, streamline everyday tasks and work more efficiently, while also considering the risks and responsibilities associated with its use. Photo credit: Helen Cook Nicky, who established her digital business Precedence in 2000, has more than 25 years' experience helping businesses navigate technological change. CCBWN President Kerry Chow said the evening reflected the network's commitment to supporting local business women through learning, networking and shared experiences. photo credit: Susan Kelly photo credit: Susan Kelly "The Human vs AI event was exactly the kind of evening the Cassowary Coast Business Women's Network is here to create," she said. "An opportunity to connect, learn, share ideas, support one another and explore a business topic that is becoming increasingly relevant to all of us. photo credit: Susan Kelly "It was a terrific example of professional development that was practical, engaging and genuinely useful." photo credit: Susan Kelly Beyond the presentations, the network provides valuable opportunities for local businesswomen to build connections, exchange experiences, learn from one another – and enjoy a fun night out. photo credit: Susan Kelly Next month, CCBWN is supporting the ‘growHer Long Lunch’ event organised by the Tully Women in Ag group, which is an initiative focused on building awareness and understanding around wellbeing in our rural communities - Saturday 7th November at the Tully Country Club. Members and guests are welcome. Visit www.ccbwn.org.au for more information on this and future events. photo credit: Susan Kelly photo credit: Susan Kelly
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Herbert River Orchid & Allied Plant Society celebrated its 52nd annual show Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
The Herbert River Orchid & Allied Plant Society recently celebrated its 52nd annual show, putting on a colourful display of orchids, ferns and foliage plants.
Amongst the exhibitors were three youths, aged aged five, 10 and 14, bringing back the junior section after a long absence.
Society Secretary Judy King said the society was pleased to see younger growers getting involved, and has encouraged them to participate throughout the year, presenting a plant each month with certificates and trophies to be won.
The show featured a wide range of orchids and foliage plants, with Judy saying there was something for everyone to discover, from natives to international varieties and hybrids, while members also shared their knowledge of growing plants in different conditions.
Judy said the society regularly visits members’ bush houses to learn more about how different plants are grown.
“Some are huge, but it’s nice to go through and work out the different shades the orchids need,” she said, “Because all orchids grow under different conditions.”
Hinchinbrook Shire Councillor and society patron Donna Marbelli also attended the show to present the champion awards.
“The displays are absolutely stunning, beautiful orchids, ferns and foliage plants everywhere you look,” Donna said.
“Super exciting to see a junior display… Well done. Congratulations to all the winners, exhibitors and volunteers on another wonderful show.”
The society encourages novice growers to join, with yearly membership costing $15 and including day trips, weekends away and field days.
Six new citizens welcomed in Hinchinbrook Shire. Photo credit: Hinchinbrook Shire Council
Six people have officially become Australian citizens after being welcomed into the Australian community during a citizenship ceremony at the Hinchinbrook Shire Council Chambers.
The ceremony was presided over by Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Ramon Jayo, who had the honour of welcoming the new citizens as they took an important step in their Australian journey.
The new citizens were Fred Maebiru, originally from the Solomon Islands, Jane McDonald and Graham Scott, both from the United Kingdom, and Sheryl Nano, Marivic Normor and Nila Rosaroso, who are all originally from the Philippines.
Becoming an Australian citizen is a significant milestone, and for the Hinchinbrook community, the ceremony was also an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of backgrounds and experiences that contribute to the region.
The occasion held particular significance for Hinchinbrook Shire Council, with new citizen Sheryl Nano also a valued member of the Council team.
Having a Council colleague take part in the ceremony made the occasion especially meaningful for staff and the wider Council family, who were able to share in the important milestone.
The ceremony marked the beginning of a new chapter for all six new citizens as they officially joined the Australian community.
Council extended its congratulations to Fred, Jane, Sheryl, Marivic, Nila and Graham, recognising the significance of the occasion and welcoming them to their new home as Australian citizens.
The members and family of the Innisfail & Tablelands-based former National Servicemen. Photo supplied: Cardwell RSL Sub Branch
Members and families of Innisfail and Tablelands-based former National Servicemen gathered at the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch on Sunday for their annual BBQ and buffet lunch; a long-standing tradition that has raised in a $3,000 boost for Cardwell’s over-65s Christmas celebrations.
The servicemen were called into military service through a national lottery based on their birthdays, creating a generation who shared unique experiences during their time in the Australian military. Although National Service ceased in 1971, the camaraderie forged through their service has continued, with their annual Cardwell gathering now a much-loved tradition.
More than 80 people attended Sunday’s lunch, including members of the Cardwell Lions Club and local sports fishing community, raising $3,000 for the annual Over-65s Christmas Party organised by the Cardwell Lions Club.
The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch congratulated the Cardwell Lions Club for its ongoing volunteer efforts and said it was pleased to support an event that brings the community together.
Balgal Beach Boat Ramp repairs are now completed. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Contributed with thanks by the office of Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa MP
Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa would like to share that the State Government has completed repairs to the Balgal Beach boat ramp ahead of schedule, restoring full access to the important community boating facility.
The project repaired flood damage sustained in 2025 and included works to strengthen the ramp and improve its resilience. Mr Chiesa said the project showed the Queensland Government’s commitment to safe, reliable marine infrastructure.
"It is great to see these works completed early, with the Balgal Beach boat ramp now fully operational ahead of the busy spring school holidays,” he said.
"These works have repaired flood damage, strengthened the facility and improved its resilience to future high-flow events.
"We know the Balgal Beach boat ramp is a popular facility for local boaties, and I thank the community for its patience while the ramp was closed.
"The renewed ramp will help support safe and enjoyable boating for locals and visitors for years to come."
Works conducted by Maritime Safety Queensland included replacing damaged pre-cast concrete planks, reconstructing the lower sections of the ramp, strengthening the foundation and installing scour protection for future high-flow events.
The renewed facility provides local boaties, fishers and visitors with reliable access to the water and supports recreational boating in the region.
Angelika Jakob, Donna Spratling, Eb Harper and Bernard KC Photo credit: Imogen Kars
More than 20 local artists and artisans came together at Bingil Bay Cafe for the opening of Mission Beach All Stars, celebrating the depth of creativity across the Mission Beach community.
While wet weather kept the opening-night crowd a little smaller than usual, curator and organiser Bernard KC said the cafe’s exhibitions had developed a loyal following.
“The locals are always completely supportive,” Bernard said. “We’ve got proper regulars now.”
The exhibition brings together artists at different stages of their practice, continuing the cafe’s focus on giving local creatives a welcoming place to show their work.
“It’s our chance to let everyone have a go,” Bernard said.
He added that Mission Beach itself played a big part in nurturing such a strong creative community.
“It’s more of a village, more natural — it’s a perfect spot for artists. There’s so much to be inspired by,” he shared.
The opening night also featured live music and door prizes donated by local businesses, including Massage by Yoko and the brand-new Bingil Bay Distillery.
Mission Beach All Stars will remain on display at Bingil Bay Cafe until October 30.
The menu sees fresh ingredients transformed into dishes of class. Photo sourced: Seabreeze Cafe Lounge
Seabreeze Cafe Lounge is soon to celebrate its ninth birthday, marking almost a decade as a familiar part of the Hinchinbrook and Cardwell community.
While the business has spent the past nine years serving locals as a cafe, the team has recently taken Seabreeze in a new direction, introducing an evening dining experience featuring à la carte meals and tapas.
The new restaurant offering gives locals another option for dining out in the area, with a relaxed atmosphere, creative dishes and the added appeal of BYO.
The evening menu has already been attracting attention from locals, with diners enjoying the opportunity to try the chef's changing creations and share a selection of dishes with friends and family.
Recent specials have included the Fresh Off the Boat Open Fish Pie, which proved popular enough to make a return to the menu two weeks in a row.
The dish features pan-fried Nanygai (Saddle Tail Snapper), fennel and bacon cream sauce, garlic mash and a golden pastry top, showcasing the fresh and creative approach being brought to the new evening dining experience.
For Seabreeze, the move from a traditional cafe into evening dining marks an exciting new chapter as the business approaches its ninth birthday. After almost a decade in the local community, the team is continuing to focus on good food, relaxed dining and creating a place where locals can enjoy something different without having to travel further afield.
With its combination of cafe favourites during the day, specialised evening dining, tapas and BYO, Seabreeze is building on what customers already love while offering locals something new to enjoy. The new direction is helping the business carve out a fresh place in the local dining scene as it celebrates the milestone that started it all almost nine years ago.
The Cassowary Coast has been identified as one of North Queensland’s most prospective areas for future plantation expansion. Photo supplied
The Cassowary Coast has been identified as one of North Queensland’s most prospective areas for future plantation expansion, putting the region in a potentially strong position to benefit from a new $150 million federal forestry funding program.
Research undertaken for the North Queensland Regional Forestry Hub found significant areas of land across the Cassowary Coast could potentially support commercial forestry under the right market and policy conditions.
Timber Queensland Acting CEO Clarissa Brandt said significant areas of land could potentially support commercial forestry, although establishing new plantations remained a long-term investment decision.
“Interest from landholders tends to depend on factors such as profitability, market certainty, access to processing facilities and the availability of complementary revenue streams such as carbon projects,” Ms Brandt said.
“The funding may help improve the investment environment, but it is unlikely to result in large-scale plantation expansion overnight.”
The comments follow the Federal Government’s announcement of $150 million in grants and initiatives through its Forestry Growth Fund, including up to $15 million to support plantation establishment.
Up to $85 million will target modern wood-product processing, value-adding and manufacturing, while $30 million will support industry innovation and $15 million will focus on workforce capacity and regional career pathways.
The first grant opportunities are expected to open in coming months.
Ms Brandt said forestry investment could generate employment throughout the supply chain, including plantation management, harvesting, haulage, equipment operation, sawmilling, manufacturing, transport and maintenance.
North Queensland’s forestry and wood-products sector already supports around 1,500 direct and indirect jobs.
“While it would be unrealistic to suggest North Queensland will receive a large share of the national funding, any successful local projects could support additional employment and help strengthen existing businesses,” Ms Brandt said.
However, securing investment remains a challenge.
Ms Brandt said North Queensland’s relatively small forestry footprint could make it more difficult to attract investment, training providers and processing infrastructure, while workforce shortages, freight costs, limited local training, investment uncertainty and timber supply were also constraining growth.
Despite those hurdles, she said the new national fund presented an opportunity for the region to build on work already undertaken through the North Queensland Regional Forestry Hub.
“Recent Hub research has highlighted opportunities to expand future timber supply, strengthen workforce capability, grow local processing and increase the use of locally sourced timber products,” Ms Brandt said.
With applications yet to open and projects set to compete for funding nationally, how much investment ultimately reaches the Cassowary Coast remains to be seen.
But with the region already identified for its plantation potential, the coming funding rounds could provide an opportunity to turn that potential into further local investment, industry growth and jobs.
A new group of students is preparing to step up and represent Tully State High School, with the school announcing its 2027 student leadership team.
Jackson and Jordyn have been named School Captains for 2027, leading a team of students recognised for their commitment, leadership and willingness to contribute to the school community. Joining them will be Annie as Sports Captain, while Jesse will serve as President of the Student Leadership Team alongside Vice President Corrinne. Breanna has been selected as the school’s Indigenous Leader.
Leadership roles have also been announced across Tully State High School’s sporting houses. Isaak and Aiden will lead Walter Hill, Hannah and Makayla have been named Tyson House Captains, Riley and Logan will lead Mackay, and Lee and Charlie will take on the roles for Kirrama.
The school congratulated its incoming leaders following the announcement and said it looked forward to seeing the students lead, inspire others and make a positive difference throughout 2027.
While the announcement looks ahead to a new year of student leadership, Tully State High School also took the opportunity to recognise those preparing to hand over the reins.
The school thanked its outgoing 2026 student leaders for their dedication, enthusiasm and service throughout the year, acknowledging the contribution they have made to the wider school community.
The newly announced team will officially take on their leadership roles in 2027, representing their fellow students across school activities, sporting events and the wider Tully community.
Women’s essentials donated to the Tully Support Centre. Photo credit: Office of Councillor Trudy Tschui
The generosity of the Tully community has once again shown how much can be achieved when locals come together, with essential items recently donated to the Tully Support Centre through the Share the Dignity campaign.
Councillor Trudy Tschui thanked everyone who contributed to the August campaign, with the donations helping provide essential products to women and girls supported by the Tully Support Centre.
The centre also provides emergency relief to community members experiencing a crisis, offering assistance such as food, fuel and pharmacy vouchers, as well as help with school fees and supplies where funding allows.
The program is funded entirely through community donations, fundraising and support from Angelcare Tully, allowing the centre to provide practical assistance to local people when they need it most.
With Christmas approaching, the Tully Support Centre is now inviting local businesses to help make the festive season a little brighter for families doing it tough.
Businesses can support the centre by donating suitable non-perishable food items to its food pantry, helping ensure local families have access to essential groceries and a little extra support at Christmas.
Whether it is a box of pantry staples, a product or monetary collection from staff or a larger business donation, every contribution can help put food on the table for a local family during what can be a particularly difficult time of year.
The Tully Support Centre is encouraging local businesses to get involved and help spread some Christmas generosity throughout the community.
Businesses wanting to contribute to the Christmas food pantry are encouraged to contact the Tully Support Centre to find out how they can help.
Cassowary Coast Council’s Cr Jeff Baines recently celebrated a decade of serving the community as a Division 5 Councillor.
His proudest achievements during that time include bringing funds from the federal government to protect the Great Barrier Reef as Chair of Reef Guardian Councils, as well as seeing the local projects like the Innisfail CBD Masterplan and Warrina Lakes Masterplan progress and bring benefits to the community.
“I’ve been very fortunate to live in this beautiful town for twenty five years,” Cr Baines said.
“My wife’s family are from here, my kids are 5th generation… I feel like I’m part of this community, this is my family.”
Throughout his time as a councillor, Cr Baines has highlighted the importance of looking after the environment, for the future generations as well as the wider community.
“Protecting our national assets is really important,” he said.
“We live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world…”
“[Protecting the environment is] something we should all think about but we can do it in practical ways that have value for everyone including the community, including agriculture, including industry.”
As for the most challenging part of the last decade? Cr Baines cited transitioning from a small business background and “learning patience, learning process, learning government skills.”
“You can’t just make things happen.” He explained.
“We have to think about decisions we make, what’s going to be happening in 10, 20 30 years that may come out of those decisions.
“What keeps me motivated is when we get projects on the ground and the community can see them happening and the great benefits that come out of that.”
When asked what message he has for the community, Cr Baines said:
“It’s been an honour to serve the last ten years. It will continue to be an honour for the next ten years and I would like to continue my work into the future- I’m not done yet, there’s plenty for us to do.”
World Cassowary Day will be celebrated on Saturday 26th September, shining a spotlight on one of North Queensland’s most iconic residents. Photo source: Shutterstock
Later this month, locals are being encouraged to celebrate one of the region’s most iconic residents for World Cassowary Day.
The awareness day falls on Saturday, 26th September, recognising the remarkable bird and calling for its conservation.
Mission Beach has been recognised as having the highest density of cassowaries in Australia, with locals accustomed to sharing their backyards, roads and rainforest with cassowaries. The birds play an important role in maintaining the tropical landscape that makes the Cassowary Coast unique.
Often described as rainforest gardeners, cassowaries disperse the seeds of rainforest plants as they move through their habitat, helping support forest regeneration.
This year, NQ Dry Tropics is inviting North Queenslanders to mark World Cassowary Day with a special event focusing on the world’s southernmost wild cassowary population at the Paluma Range and Crystal Creek.
Held at Outer Limits, 37 Daly Road, Mutarnee, the morning will give attendees the chance to hear the latest updates from local cassowary researchers, enjoy morning tea and take part in a guided birdwatching walk. Participants will also be able to take home a free native plant.
Tully State High School Year 12 student Emily has been named a finalist in the 2026 Brett Moller Legal Studies Award. Photo supplied
By Chelsea Ravizza
A strong passion for law and an impressive academic record have earned Tully State High School’s School Captain, Emily Pietrobon a place among the finalists in the 2026 Brett Moller Legal Studies Award.
Annually attracting applicates from over 37 schools, the highly respected award recognises and supports outstanding Year 12 students from across Far North Queensland who demonstrate both an aptitude for Legal Studies and a genuine interest in pursuing a future career in law or legal services.
Emily was initially shortlisted after submitting an application alongside her academic record and a 400–600-word essay exploring what she believes is the most pressing legal issue facing the country’s society and the importance of law. Now progressing to the finalist stage, Emily’s in contention to be named among the award’s top three recipients, which will be announced at the Business Liaison Association Awards in Cairns on Thursday 17th September.
Judges Shannean Moncrieff and Brett Moller praised Emily’s academic achievements, maturity and commitment to her community, describing her as an excellent ambassador for both her school and the wider region.
“Emily was poised, mature, articulate and an excellent ambassador for her school and region. Her academic record was exemplary and bodes well for her tertiary studies,” said Shannean and Brett.
“Emily had a well-balanced and thoughtful understanding of legal principles and philosophy which will see her adapt to a law degree very well.”
The judges also noted Emily’s application was particularly persuasive given she does not currently undertake any legal subjects at school.
With the final announcement now approaching, Emily’s overjoyed to have been recognised among talented students from across Far North Queensland, saying being shortlisted feels to be an achievement in itself.
Tully State High School Principal Ms Helen Carne congratulated Emily on the achievement, describing her progression to the finalist stage as a reflection of her hard work, dedication and passion for Legal Studies.
“An outstanding student leader, Emily has demonstrated exceptional commitment to both the school and the wider student body through her role as School Captain. She consistently represents students with integrity, maturity and empathy, ensuring that the voices and perspectives of her peers are heard and valued,” said Ms Carne.
“Alongside Emily’s outstanding leadership qualities, Emily has demonstrated a strong interest and commitment to Law in her future studies. Emily’s leadership, academic achievement and commitment to others makes her a highly deserving nominee for the 2026 Brett Moller Legal Studies Award.
“As Principal of Tully State High School, I am extremely proud of all student achievements and successes.”
The Innisfail Rescue was christened with champagne as part of the celebrations. Photo credit: Office of Councillor Trudy Tuschi
Innisfail QF-15 Coast Guard has officially commissioned its new vessel, the Innisfail Rescue, surrounded by members, families, supporters and guests from across the North Queensland Coast Guard community.
“Congratulations to Innisfail Q15 Coastguard who commissioned their new vessel Innisfail Rescue. Wishing for fair winds and following seas for all who board the boat,” said Councillor Trudy Tschui.
The vessel was christened with a traditional champagne ceremony as part of the celebrations, with AVCGA National Board members, NQ Squadron Commanders and members, and local Innisfail residents among those attending.
Photo source: Shutterstock
A splash of colour is helping start an important conversation across the Cassowary Coast this September, with the Tully Support Centre throwing its support behind Liptember!
Over the course of the month, staff will be wearing bright lipstick or colourful socks to raise awareness and funds every Wednesday for women’s mental health, while encouraging the wider community to get involved.
Tully Support Centre’s Clinical Governance Manager, Megan Johnson said the simple gesture is designed to get people talking about women’s mental health and encourage conversations around making positive choices for mental wellbeing.
“We want to encourage and support conversations, that reduce stigma and support women to reach and succeed in all they choose to do, empowering women in life,” she said.
“We see the impacts of DFV as a specialist DFV service, every day on women and children, and we assist to support and walk along side to move from surviving to thriving. We recognize that raising awareness of women's mental health supports better health outcomes for women and girls, particularly in our regional and rural communities.
“Small conversations can make a big difference.”
Liptember is an annual campaign dedicated to raising funds and awareness for women’s mental health, with the Tully Support Centre using this year’s campaign to bring the conversation directly into the local community.
The Centre is encouraging women from all backgrounds and cultures across the Cassowary Coast to take part and help add a little colour to Wednesdays throughout September. Locals can also share photographs of themselves getting involved using #LiptemberCassowaryCoast and help spread the message further.
Whether it is a bold red lip, a bright pink or a colourful pair of socks, the campaign is a simple way for residents to show their support while helping make conversations about mental health a little easier to start.
Come on down to Cowley Beach this Saturday for the next beach clean-up. Photo supplied: Cassowary Coast Regional Council
More than 30 volunteers rolled up their sleeves at the recent Kurrimine Beach clean-up, removing an incredible 518 kilograms of rubbish and marine debris from the beach.
With turtles and birds among the local wildlife recently injured by marine debris, organisers say there is still plenty to be done.
Residents are now being urged to lend a hand at this Saturday’s Cowley Beach Clean Up and help protect local wildlife. The clean-up begins at 8.30am at the Cowley Beach boat ramp, followed by a BBQ lunch. Everyone is welcome to take part.
By Victoria Velton
Three dead sea turtles washed ashore. A bird left helplessly hanging from a tree after becoming tangled in kite string. In the space of just one month, Mission Beach Wildcare Inc has responded to a troubling series of wildlife incidents along the coast.
Among the most recent cases were two immature green sea turtles found washed ashore within a week of each other, both showing signs consistent with Floaters Syndrome.
One turtle showed obvious signs of starvation, while the other was covered in moss, suggesting it had been floating helplessly for some time.
A separate turtle found off Dunk Island was described as extremely thin, with a long tail indicating its age and moss covering its shell. Mission Beach Wildcare said the turtle appeared to have been starving for some time and may also have ingested foreign material.
The wildlife group also recently came to the aid of a Metallic Starling found entangled high in a tree by what appeared to be kite string, with the kite handle still attached.
While rescuers were initially unable to reach the bird, local wildlife supporter Mark Gough assisted with the rescue effort, highlighting the importance of community members stepping in when wildlife is in trouble.
Mission Beach Wildcare has urged residents and visitors to think carefully about what they buy, how they use it and, most importantly, how they dispose of it.
Vigilance is particularly important along the coast, where rubbish can travel through waterways and onto beaches where it becomes a hazard for marine life and birds.
Recent clean-up efforts also show what can be achieved when the community comes together.
More than 30 volunteers took part in the annual Kurrimine Beach Clean Up, removing an incredible 518 kilograms of marine debris and rubbish from the beach and surrounding areas.
Residents are now invited to do their bit at the upcoming Cowley Beach clean-up, with Cassowary Coast Regional Council teaming up with Tangaroa Blue, Mandubarra Aboriginal Land & Sea Inc and Parley Australia to remove marine debris from the Cowley coastline.
The clean-up will begin at 8:30am on Saturday 19th September, at the Cowley Beach boat ramp, followed by a BBQ lunch.
Everyone is welcome to take part. Bring a hat, enclosed shoes and a water bottle, and help remove rubbish before it can cause another wildlife emergency.
Register for the cleanup: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HB6PXTM
Recent incidents along the coast are emphasizing the importance of keeping rubbish off the beach.
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