Hinchinbrook Shire Council has officially adopted its new Corporate Plan for 2025–2030 – and it’s one that’s proudly shaped by our community, for our community.

Called Shaping the Hinchinbrook Way, this plan sets out a clear path for the next five years, focused on what matters most to locals: stronger services, more local jobs, improved infrastructure, and protecting the lifestyle we all love.

More than 2,000 people from across the Shire had their say through the Liveability 2035 Strategy, making this one of the biggest conversations we’ve ever had with our community. What you told us helped lay the foundation for this plan, and now, we’re getting on with making it happen.

Mayor Ramon Jayo said the plan is all about action and opportunity.

“We’ve heard loud and clear what our community wants, and this plan is our commitment to delivering on that,” Mayor Jayo said. “It’s a practical, forward-looking approach that reflects the energy, identity, and aspirations of our Shire.”

Built around four big themes – Connected, Resilient, Authentic, and Aspirational – the plan lays out key projects and actions Council will deliver in partnership with government, industry, and of course, you – our community.

From boosting flood resilience and housing supply, to creating more open spaces and improving digital access, the Plan is designed to make Hinchinbrook an even better place to live, work, and visit.

Council CEO Mary-Anne Uren said it’s also a message to potential investors and partners.

“This Plan shows we’re a region with direction, ambition, and a strong community behind us,” she said.

“Our Council team is ready to deliver, and we’re excited about what’s ahead. It’s a roadmap for the future – one built on local voices, local pride, and a shared vision for where we’re going.

“On behalf of Council, thank you to everyone who took the time to get involved and help shape the future of our beautiful Hinchinbrook.”

The new Corporate Plan will start guiding Council’s budgets and priorities from 1 July 2025. Visit hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/corporate-publications-and-reports/corporate-plan to view the plan on Council’s website.

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https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/corporate-publications-and-reports/corporate-plan/

Established by Johno and Bobbie in 1993, J&B Marine has thrived under their leadership for over three decades. Their passion for marine engines and commitment to the community have been central to the company's success. As they prepare to pass the reins to their son, Luke, and his partner Chloe, the focus remains on providing exceptional service and top-quality products. Their goal is to continue the legacy while expanding the business into new opportunities, including enhanced online services and broader product offerings

For over three decades, J & B Marine has been a trusted name in the Hinchinbrook region and beyond, known for its dependable service, deep industry expertise and strong connection to the local community. The business has built its reputation on quality marine servicing and top-of-the-line products, including their long-standing relationship with Mercury outboards.

Now entering a new chapter, J & B Marine is in the capable hands of the next generation. Luke, who completed his apprenticeship with the company, and his partner Chloe are leading the charge forward while continuing the proud legacy laid down by Luke’s parents.

Based in a well-established location, the premises feature a large yard perfect for displaying new and used boats, plus a fully equipped workshop. With a team of six, the business is both personal and professional. “Everyone who works at J & B Marine is mostly family,” Chloe says, “however, everyone is welcomed and treated as if they were family.”

J & B Marine is known for the sale and servicing of Mercury Marine engines, along with popular brands like Stessl and Polycraft boats. They also stock and service Toro outdoor equipment, including mowers and battery-powered gear, and handle most trailer repairs. "We offer mobile servicing to customers. We cater for all, from recreational to commercial,” says Chloe.

But Chloe and Luke are also looking to the future. With more engagement with clients when they’re in the market for new boating needs or even for upgrading, they hope to continue expanding their services while maintaining the personal, knowledgeable approach customers have come to expect.

J & B Marine also gives back to the community in a big way. “We are major sponsors of both fishing competitions that take place within the shire. We also offer sponsorship to the local council and many local events.”

With its unmistakable big red signage, welcoming atmosphere, and dedication to service, J & B Marine remains a steady fixture in the marine industry. A big thank you to Johno and Bobbie for their commitment over the past 30 years. As they step into retirement, Chloe and Luke wish them well and now carry on the legacy, helping locals get back on the water and explore new adventures.

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council has adopted its 2025–2026 Budget, shaped by the realities of recovery and the need to build stronger foundations for the future.

The $55.1 million Budget, handed down at Lannercost Street in Ingham, prioritises rebuilding critical infrastructure, renewing core services, and investing in the capacity to deliver for the Hinchinbrook community, both now and in years to come.

Mayor Ramon Jayo said Council is very aware that residents and businesses are doing it tough right now, and that’s been front of mind throughout the process.

“The reality is — costs are rising, infrastructure is ageing, and the pressure on councils is increasing. But we’re stepping up,” Mayor Jayo said.

“We’ve worked hard to keep rates affordable while still delivering what’s needed — from roads and drainage to parks, waste services, and disaster response.”

The overall increase in Council’s rates, charges and utility revenue will be 4.79%. On average, it’s about a $4.10 rise per week across general rates and utility charges combined. For around 79% of residential ratepayers, the general rates part of that works out to about $1.32 extra a week.

To ease cost-of-living pressure, Council is offering:

· $323,000 in rates discounts for not-for-profit organisations
· Continuation of the 20% pensioner rebate (up to $200), alongside the State Government concession
· A 10% rates cap for residential and farming properties

The Budget also includes a $7.4 million Capital Works Program featuring 50 projects, including $1.5 million in joint funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments.

Council is also renewing its fleet and plant, including equipment for open space maintenance, road and drainage works, and essential machinery and vehicles that enable more reliable service delivery across the region.

“The February flood event was a stark reminder that we must build resilience,, not just recover, but be better prepared for what comes next,” Mayor Jayo said.

“Much of our infrastructure is aged and in urgent need of attention. This Budget is honest about those realities — and focused on practical, long-term solutions.”

Visit hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/corporate-publications-and-reports for more information.

Last week while I was in Queensland Parliament, the Crisafulli Government handed down the 2025-26 State Budget. This being their first budget since taking office, it mainly focused on delivering election commitments. The Brisbane Olympics, First Home Buyers and those who rely on the State’s Health Service can be considered winners out of this year’s budget while crime prevention and policing also received a well-needed boost.

Continued funding for local roads and money to progress the Gairloch washaway project have been allocated for the Hinchinbrook Shire, as well as funding for several projects that will directly improve the liveability and recreational appeal of our district.

The Hinchinbrook Shire Council has been successful in receiving funding under the Works for Queensland Program for the following projects:
• $200,000 for shade cover installation at the Taylors Beach playground;
• $200,000 to expand the Forrest Beach foreshore walking trail, enhancing pedestrian access between the hotel and boat ramp; and
• $50,000 for planning and design works at Borello Park in Lucinda, aimed at upgrading the playground and protecting the area against future sea level rise.

The Ingham Tennis Club has had a promised $973,000 budgeted to deliver their desperately needed Stage One court refurbishment.

Port Hinchinbrook was also given a line item in the budget which states that ‘the government is: providing centrally held funding to enable delivery of options for the ongoing sustainable use of the Port Hinchinbrook Marina Site.’ After a conversation with the Deputy Premier I am confident this means a solution is being worked through that will benefit all seeking a resolution to the ongoing dredging issue.

We had hoped for a greater investment in some of our bigger priority items such as upgrading marine infrastructure at Dungeness and Forrest Beach however, that has not come to fruition this round.

Despite missing out on some crucial funding for some of the projects on our wish list, I remain confident that more funding will be made available throughout the year in the way of grants and funding opportunities for our community. The fight for Hinchinbrook’s fair share continues.

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The commencement of a new financial year is often seen as an opportunity in both government and commercial sectors — a time when review, planning, and preparation for the future reach their peak in the annual cycle, and the focus shifts to the implementation of goals.

With the 2025–2026 Council Budget and Operational Plan, along with the Corporate Plan and Liveability Strategy now formally adopted, our community has a clear framework outlining Council’s vision, focus, and priorities for the year ahead — and well into the future.

This year, the longstanding priorities of this Council will continue: a strong focus on the fundamentals of community service delivery and infrastructure renewal, while also striving for economic and population growth for the Shire.

Recognising the challenges the Shire has faced in the early part of the year — and acknowledging that the impacts will continue to be felt — a renewed emphasis on community recovery has now been embedded in Council’s planning.

The first half of 2025 has indeed been a difficult time for the Shire.

To support the community's transition through the recovery phase and toward a “new normal,” Council has adopted the 2025 Hinchinbrook Recovery Plan.

This plan was developed through extensive engagement with stakeholder groups across the Shire and outlines short-, medium-, and long-term actions to be delivered over the next 18 months.

Preparing and developing these strategic documents is a significant undertaking that demands tireless dedication and a heightened workload for many within the Council team.

I would like to acknowledge and thank all those who contributed in any way to the development of these important plans. Your commitment and dedication have ensured that we have a strong and visionary framework to guide Council's efforts well into the future.

By Owen Menkens, CANEGROWERS Chairman

Cairns took on a sweet international flavour last week, with grower representatives, policymakers and sugar industry experts from across the globe touching down for a major international conference.

It was the first time in almost two decades that Australia had hosted the World Association of Beet and Cane Growers (WABCG), so it was more than just a feather in the cap – it was a rare chance to put Queensland cane on the world stage.

Over three days, delegates delved into the big topics – trade, climate, bioenergy, and the future of farming.

And while cane and beet are very different crops, grown in different conditions, the challenges and ambitions of growers around the world proved surprisingly similar – including grappling with government regulations and navigating international markets.

But it wasn’t all meeting rooms and keynote speeches. Delegates also headed out to the paddock to see firsthand how cane is grown in the far north – where GPS tech, efficient irrigation and reef-safe practices are just part of the job. For many, it was a real eye-opener.

And the timing couldn’t have been better. Here in Queensland, there’s fresh energy behind the idea that cane can power more than just our mills.

The Crisafulli Government recently announced a parliamentary inquiry into how sugarcane could drive a new wave of clean energy – think electricity from bagasse and biofuels made from juice and molasses, including the kind of aviation fuel global airlines are crying out for.

These aren’t just concepts on a whiteboard. They’re proven technologies. What’s needed now are the right policy settings to scale them up and give investors the confidence to back them.

There’s a lot at stake – but also a lot to be excited about. A strong, modern cane industry means regional jobs, export income, and solutions to some of the world’s biggest energy problems.

The WABCG conference may have wrapped up, but the ideas and connections forged in Cairns could help shape what comes next.

Let’s hope the right people were paying attention.

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The countdown is officially on for the biggest race day in the Herbert River as the 2025 Ingham Gold Cup is set to thunder into 69 Marina Parade track on Saturday, the 12th of July!

This popular 18+ event promises a full day of local racing action, fashion, food, and fun. With only a few days to go, preparations are in full swing, and the weather has been picture-perfect, setting the stage for another fantastic Ingham Gold Cup.

Gates open at 11am, and racegoers are encouraged to pre-purchase entry tickets online via www.trybooking.com/DCHZT for just $20 per person. Tickets will also be available at the gate on race day.

For those wanting to secure a premium viewing spot, tables can be reserved online only for $120 each (10 seats per table) but get in early because tables sell fast!

The track will host five exciting local races, with local and southern bookmakers, Sky Racing coverage, and an ATM on site, however, please note that no on-course TAB will be available.

When the last horse crosses the finish line, the festivities will officially kick off with live music by Anthony John set to keep the energy high into the evening.

And of course, the ever-popular Fashions on the Field competition will return, celebrating style and creativity with categories including:

• Contemporary Lady of the Track
• Classic Lady of the Track
• Best Dressed Man of the Track
• Millinery
• Spotter’s Choice

Hungry racegoers will be spoilt for choice with delicious food available at the fully stocked canteen, proudly provided by Marian & Piera Catering, and a licensed bar operating throughout the event.

Please remember this is a strictly 18+ event, photo ID must be presented on request, and for safety and comfort, eskies, glass, tables, or chairs will not be permitted through the gate and there's no BYO or containers of liquid allowed, and bags will be searched on entry.

Get ready to dust off your fascinators and gather your crew for a day of colour, competition, and country racing at its finest!

Book now and don’t miss your spot at this year’s Ingham Gold Cup – a highlight on the Hinchinbrook events calendar!

Mount Fox is one of Australia’s youngest mainland volcanoes!

Located 50km west of Ingham, Mount Fox (also known as Mount Yellerai) is a 560,000-year-old cinder cone volcano formed by a violent eruption around 100,000 years ago. Standing 810 metres above sea level, it features a shallow crater and a lava flow extending from its southern base.

The surrounding landscape is a mix of eucalypt woodlands and rugged volcanic rock, sitting atop 23-million-year-old basalt flows. Today, the crater is covered with sparse grasses and twisted trees, a stark contrast to its explosive origin.  Mount Fox remains a striking relic of Hinchinbrook’s volcanic past, a natural wonder worth exploring.

Most of us have heard the phrase, “Live in the moment,” and brushed it off without much thought. But paying closer attention to the present isn’t just feel good advice it can genuinely support your mental and physical health.

This idea is rooted in mindfulness—an age-old practice focused on being fully aware of what’s happening right now. It’s about tuning in to your thoughts, feelings and surroundings, rather than going through life on autopilot. By paying attention to the present, you’re more likely to notice what you need, respond calmly to challenges and connect more deeply with your experiences.

Research shows that many of us go through life without truly being present, but mindfulness offers a way to change that. It’s a simple practice that most people can learn, and the benefits are wide-ranging. Mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress, ease symptoms of anxiety and depression, and support those living with chronic health conditions. People who practise it regularly often say they feel calmer, more positive and more in control of their lives.

Scientific studies have also found that regular mindfulness can lead to changes in the brain linked to memory, emotion and learning. For young people in particular, it’s been shown to ease tension and improve relationships. It can also support healthy habits—like eating with more awareness, which helps you notice when you’re full and genuinely enjoy your food.

Although our busy culture doesn’t always make space for stillness, mindfulness can be built into daily life. Whether you’re stuck in traffic or making a cup of tea, being present is always possible.

Reef fish exhibit a wide array of mating strategies, from harems to life-long couples to gender switching to pregnant males. Let’s look some of the more unusual strategies.

The parrotfish is often seen in large schools of rather bland coloured fish accompanied by one or two brightly coloured fish. The brightly coloured fish are the males, but they were not always males.

Most parrotfish are born females but depending on environmental and social pressures may transition to male. This is known as protogyny. This transition is often accompanied by a dramatic change in coloration.

This is not random. Protogyny is common in the fish world and provides some significant advantages when it comes to survival. The more females, the more eggs. The eggs are broadcast over the bottom substrate and are then fertilized by the single male. Very efficient.

If the male dies, one of the many females will transition to male and life goes on.

The very popular clownfish is a different story. Clownfish start life as a male (the Movie Finding Nemo was not entirely accurate). For those that have seen clownfish on the Reef, living within their anemone, you probably noticed one large and very dominant clownfish and a few smaller clownfish.

The large clownfish is the female and the smaller clownfish are males. All clownfish are born male. However, at some point, a male clownfish will transition to female. This is known as protandry. The transition is accompanied by an increase in size and dominance.

The strategy here is, in small groups of fish, it is beneficial for the female to be the largest to lay more eggs, resulting in greater reproductive success. Regarding the smaller males, one of the males will be slightly larger than the others. This is the dominant male and will breed.

At some point, the female will die and the largest male will transition to female and take over the group.

Probably one of the most unique mating strategy is that of the seahorse (yes, a seahorse is a fish). The males get pregnant! A female seahorse deposits her eggs inside the male’s egg pouch. The male delivers live young, and they’re basically miniature versions of adults.

Most seahorse species are monogamous, often forming lasting bonds with their mates. Every day, male and female seahorses perform elaborate courtship displays that involve circling each other, changing colour, and even holding tails. That’s decidedly civilized for a fish.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.

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Scary But Necessary

Plunging into the ocean’s depths, you might be fortunate enough to encounter a Moray Eel. Known for their fierce appearance and impressive diversity, these fascinating creatures captivate divers and marine enthusiasts alike.

Beyond their striking looks, Moray Eels play a vital role as apex predators in coral reef ecosystems. Inhabiting warm, reef-rich waters, they help maintain ecological balance by preying on fish, crabs, shrimp, squid, octopuses, and even scavenging weakened or dead organisms.

Moray eels are as remarkable as their hunting technique. Expertly camouflaged within the reef, they lie in wait before launching a swift ambush. Equipped with specialised jaws and razor-sharp teeth, they can tear into prey or crush it with ease. While not typically dangerous to humans, they do pack a nasty bite. Their presence even influences the distribution of other reef species, including sharks, underscoring the intricate dynamics of marine food webs.

Although not currently classified as threatened, Moray Eels face growing risks from human activities. Conservation initiatives, such as marine protected areas and sustainable fishing practices, are crucial to safeguarding their habitats and ensuring their populations thrive for generations to come.

Fast Fact: Moray Eels can grow up to a staggering 1.5 metres

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Hey all, I’m putting my editorial writing skills to the test today, so please forgive any typos Ruth and Daniel haven’t caught!

As I wrap up my time with Life Publishing Group, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to all the incredible clients, business owners, and community members I’ve had the pleasure of working with. From sales and social media to weekly chats with advertisers, unforgettable events, and Core Magazine photoshoots, this journey has been one I’ll always cherish.

To the amazing Life Publishing team, thank you for the laughter, support, and constant inspiration. It’s been an honour to work alongside such a passionate and creative group. A special shoutout to Crissy, the admin and production queen, being your right-hand girl has been an absolute highlight. And to Ruth, thank you for becoming such a special part of both mine and Koa’s life. You’re officially Koa’s aunty now whether you like it or not!

Now, Koa and I are off on a new adventure as I step into a career in support work, something I’ve always felt drawn to. A move to Melbourne may also be on the cards, but no matter where we end up, the connections and memories made here will always stay close to our hearts.

If you see us out and about, don’t hesitate to say hi, we’re always up for a chat (especially Koa).

With love and gratitude, Ruby & Koa.

First Deaths to Johnstone Division

Records show that the first death in Cardwell was on 7th March 1864, and the first burial in the cemetery was that of a six-month-old female child later in 1864. The first European baby born in Cardwell was George Cardwell Peters, on October 9th 1864, and in 1866 the Province of Cardwell was proclaimed. The telegraph line reached Cardwell in December 1869 after five men lost their lives from Jungle Fever during its construction from Townsville. Cardwell’s first school opened in 1870 with 16 students, with Miss Marion D’Arcy serving as the first teacher. In 1872, the first jetty was built and two large creeks on Hinchinbrook Island were named after HMS ships Paluma and Gayundah.

In 1873, George Dalrymple led an expedition charting coastal areas from Cardwell to Cooktown, later taking charge of Somerset, Cape York in 1874 before his death in Scotland in 1876. In 1875, Cardwell Shire had a population of 150 residents, and its jurisdiction spanned an area from Mourilyan Harbour to Charters Towers – approximately 7,000 square miles. The region suffered maritime tragedies as well; in 1876, the steamer Banshee was wrecked on Cape Sandwich with the loss of 21 lives, and another incident involved the ship Merchant, loaded with fragrant Daintree cedar cargo, which went aground on Kennedy Shoal. Although she was repaired in Cardwell and left the day before a cyclone struck, the ship, its cargo of timber and all its crew were lost.

The cultural heritage of the region is reflected in several ancient sites. At the Haven on Hinchinbrook Island, the remains of Aboriginal fish traps have been found. Additional fish trap sites are located on the western shore of Missionary Bay and on Goold Island, while middens have been discovered in Ramsey Bay.

The regional balance shifted in 1880 when Townsville overtook Cardwell as the main port in North Queensland. In the early 1880s, a sawmill was established on the north-west part of Hinchinbrook by Page, Lovell & Company, and Thomas Page, the manager of the sawmill, resided there with his family and employees. In 1884, the Johnstone Division severed from the Cardwell Division, and in the same year the Cardwell Divisional Board was formed. The inaugural meeting of the Board was held in the Court House – now part of the current museum complex on Victoria Street – and the Board initially comprised six members and two divisions with James Thorn Senior serving as its first Chairman. By 1889, there were 103 rateable dwellings and 262 rate payers, with general rates set at one shilling in the pound.

Sugar cane remains Hinchinbrook’s main industry and a vital source of income for many locals. Economists estimate that every dollar generated locally from sugar is circulated around six times. In places like Ingham this means the local hairdresser, butcher, and dress store benefit on every stick of sugar cane produced and milled in the Herbert.

The Crisafulli Government recently announced that the Primary Industries and Resources Committee will conduct a Parliamentary Inquiry into the sugar cane industry. The Inquiry will explore value-adding opportunities and seek to overcome regulatory barriers currently holding growers back.

I firmly believe we should be doing more with our raw sugar product. While sugar is Queensland’s top agricultural export, it has far more potential than just being a food product. Multiple sources of income can come from a stick of sugar cane, but there is very little incentive for growers to become excited about this with the way farmers are currently paid for their crop and a lack of off take for some of these products.

Back in 2022, I introduced the KAP's Liquid Fuel Supply (Minimum Biobased Petrol Content) Amendment Bill 2022 which aimed to address issues that existed with the operation of Queensland’s bio-based petrol mandate, which despite in operation since 2017, has failed to drive a biofuels market. The Bill wasn’t supported by the government or the opposition at the time.

The sugar industry has already invested heavily in planning for biofuels production. Projects like the North Queensland Bio Energy Project in Hinchinbrook, the Pentland Bioenergy Project, and Burdekin’s Auscane Energy have all been proposed but gained no traction under the previous Labor Government.

The opportunity to turn cane into energy that powers everything from homes, cars and planes could mean more jobs in our regional towns, add value to our existing mills, and, most importantly, provide greater energy independence for Queensland.

The Committee is expected to hand down an interim issues paper within six months, and a final report is due to be tabled within a year. I look forward to following and contributing to the Inquiry to ensure Hinchinbrook has a strong voice at the table.

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‘Early Start, Early Finish’

‘Early start, early finish’ for the harvest season is advocated for by Queensland Cane and Renewables (QCAR), and it is the only way to avoid harvesting in December and in some years, January. Longer crushes are stifling industry growth and significantly limiting cane productivity, while decreasing profits across the value chain and the wider community.

Contributing to the reduced throughputs at mills and extending the seasons are a multitude of factors, including the weather, factory reliability, shorter maintenance seasons, labour issues and high extraneous matter lowering bin weights in green cane harvested areas.

In some cane growing regions, there has been a reluctance to start the crush due to historical norms and arrangements, making it nearly impossible to harvest crops in a timely and profit-inducive manner.

Every sector of the sugarcane industry must take a cold, hard look at this situation, so collectively we can address the critical issues driving down our productivity and profitability; especially as profit margins get tighter.

As an obvious starting point, we must stop ignoring the sound, science-based knowledge base built up over the past 50 years from both Australian and overseas studies, about harvest scheduling and its effects on the sucrose and subsequent ratooning of a crop.

We know across most Australian sugar growing districts that high November and December rainfall (as was the case in 2024) causes havoc with getting the crops to the mills and adversely impacts crop productivity in the ensuing season.

We also know the disadvantages of starting the crush earlier far outweigh the disadvantages of finishing the harvest late because of loss of sugar yield, loss of cane yields in the subsequent ratoons, and the possibility of premature ploughing out of the crop due to ratoon failure.

QCAR Herbert Committee Chair- Matthew Pappin said, “we can’t control the weather, but we can ensure that we can do our best to get crops off as early as possible.”

He said QCAR had been in discussions for quite some time with Wilmar about turning the industry around by adopting the ‘Early start, early finish’ approach to getting the crop off in a timely manner.

“The 2025 Herbert harvest season commenced on 10 June, two weeks earlier than the previous year; this is a positive step in the right direction.

“An ‘Early start, early finish’ to the harvest season is a win-win for the whole industry and the wider community,” Mr Pappin said.