Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.
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There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.
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Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.
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The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."
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By Joyce Finocchiaro
Ingham's Namesake
Born 4-6-1850 Black Hall, Yorkshire, England
Died 28-11-1878 New Guinea
He was handsome, he was charming,
From the landed English gentry,
An adventurer and a dreamer was he.
He was brave and self-reliant,
With a Cambridge education,
He left the Royal Navy aged twenty-three.
Adventure lured him to the colonies,
With sixty pounds at his disposal,
He sailed to a far off destination.
Via Tasmania and New South Wales
He came to the Herbert River Valley,
Bought and named Ings Plantation.
He acquired a steamboat, cleared his land,
Had Kanakas plant sugarcane,
And machinery for a sugar-mill be bought.
Low sugar prices and rust disease
Forced him to abandon his plantation,
And the dream in the fortune he had sought.
He headed north on the 'LOUISA'
Freighting cargo unsuccessfully,
But his sawmill turned out a good investment.
He surveyed the Barron River,
Moved to Port Moresby in New Guinea,
And became an agent for the Queensland Government.
He met with his untimely end
Along with six others of his crew,
On the Louisade Archipelago at Opening Bay,
Where by natives he was killed,
In a cannibalistic ritual he was eaten,
On that fateful, twenty-eight September day.
He was handsome, he was charming,
From the landed English gentry,
An adventurer and a dreamer was he.
He was brave and self-reliant,
With a Cambridge education,
William Bairstow Ingham was he.
Author’s Note:
The town of Ingham was gazetted and named in 1874. Prior to this the settlement was known by the Irish name Siligo. Ingham's relatives and the townsfolk installed three stained glass windows in the Anglican Church of the Holy Trinity as a further memorial to this young man whose name will forever live in Ingham's history.
Since launching its Container Refund Point in 2018, MAMS Group has transformed recycling in Ingham, processing over 40 million drink containers and returning a staggering $4 million to local residents. This family-owned North Queensland business has become a cornerstone of community sustainability, economic growth, and job creation.
As part of Queensland’s Containers for Change initiative, MAMS Group contributes to a statewide mission that has already kept more than 600,000 tonnes of waste out of landfill. In Ingham, the refund point is more than a drop-off site, it’s a community hub where recycling pays off, both environmentally and financially.
In a major development earlier this year, MAMS Group secured two key logistics contracts under the Containers for Change program. These contracts cover the Far North and North Regions—from Bowen to Mossman—expanding the company’s footprint and reinforcing its commitment to a cleaner, greener future for North Queensland.
“Our success in Ingham shows what can be achieved when business, community, and environmental goals align,” said Josh Lannen, General Manager of MAMS Group. “We’re proud to contribute to the region’s prosperity while keeping millions of containers out of landfill.”
With a proven track record and growing influence in Queensland’s recycling network, MAMS Group is showing how local businesses can lead the way in environmental innovation and community impact.
Drop off your eligible 10-cent containers at 21 Challands St, Ingham, and be part of the change.
Looking for the perfect Christmas gifts this year? NewsExtra Ingham has everything you need to make your festive season extra special.
Step into the store and explore a wide range of giftware and thoughtful presents for both men and women. From photo frames to capture life’s special moments, to greeting cards for every occasion, not just Christmas, you’ll find something to suit everyone on your list. There’s also a great range of novelty items and small gifts that are perfect for those “just because” moments.
Make your house smell great this Christmas with some beautiful diffusers and candles from Home Fragrances. We also have perfumes and colognes from many big-name brands, making it easy to find that perfect, personalised gift.
Don’t forget to check out our Christmas Scratchie tree, with treat-filled stockings and baubles, plus a full selection of lottery tickets and scratchies for a little Nextra luck this festive season.
There's also a selection of Christmas decorations in store too. Beautiful ornaments and snowglobes that are perfect for perching on the mantle or gracing the centre of the dining table at your Christmas dinner.
Keep up with all our latest arrivals, special promotions, and gift ideas by following us on Facebook at NexsExtraIngham. Make this Christmas memorable and support your local community by shopping local at NewsExtra Ingham!
Looking to make your Christmas and Boxing Day celebrations extra special? Halifax Meats has you covered, with everything from mains to sides, snacks, and spreads, all made fresh at Halifax.
Start with our famous cabanas, beer sticks, salamis, and hand-made bacon. They're perfect for platters, table spreads, or simply to snack on while celebrating. Our wood-smoked hams are fan favourites and are keeping 16 years of tradition alive and getting better every year.
With everything handmade in store, they also offer a wide variety of roasts from duck to beef, and stuffed meats, catering to all tastes. Popular stuffing flavours include sun-dried tomato, baby spinach and feta, camembert and asparagus, cranberry and pistachio, as well as simpler options like garlic and parsley.
To complement your feast, they also stock jams, chutneys, hand-glazes, and sauces, along with Lions Club Christmas cakes. Whether it’s your main course, sides, or everything in between, Halifax Meats has all you need to make your Christmas table unforgettable.
Whole turkeys and tur-duck-ens are available, as well as pork and chicken balls, marinated fillets, chicken wings, pork ribs, belly bites, and rolled loins, absolutely perfect for a family BBQ or for accompanying your glorious, central Christmas ham.
The last day for pre-Christmas shopping in store will be Wednesday, 24 December, and we’ll reopen on Monday, 29 December. Orders have been open since March, and we’ll continue taking them right up until early Christmas week to make sure everyone gets their festive favourites.
"Celebrate with family, eat, drink, and be merry", says the team of amazing butchers at Halifax Meats.
Halifax Meats has everything you need to make this Christmas deliciously memorable. Come in and see their mouthwatering selection today at 25 MacRossan St, Halifax. Or call (07) 4777 7711 and order ahead!
Children across the country were up before sunrise this week, eagerly lining up at public phones as Telstra’s beloved Free Calls to Santa hotline officially switched on for 2025.
The festive tradition, now in its fifth year, allows young callers to dial #HOHOHO (#464646) for free from any of Telstra’s 14,000-plus public payphones to share their Christmas wishes directly with Santa at the North Pole. The hotline will remain open daily from 13 November until Christmas Eve.
What began in 2021 as a simple way to teach kids how to use a public phone has quickly grown into one of Australia’s most cherished Christmas rituals. More than 1.5 million calls have been made to Santa since the hotline’s launch, with almost 100,000 children phoning his out-of-office line over the past year alone while waiting for the service to reopen.
This year, pint-sized callers will again be treated to the popular kid-sized Telstra payphones, specially designed to make it easier for younger children to reach the handset. These miniature phones will be available in select Telstra stores in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane right up until Christmas Eve.
Telstra’s call data reveals some quirky trends behind the thousands of kids phoning the North Pole each year. Around 60 per cent of calls come from phones located near beaches and waterfronts, while a quarter originate from city centres and busy shopping precincts. Regional towns also play their part, with one of the most remote calls made from Anmatjere (Pmara Jutjunta), a First Nations community in the Northern Territory.
Meanwhile, Melbourne’s Bourke Street Mall holds the title for the nation’s busiest Santa payphone, logging nearly 10,000 calls to Santa since the program began.
The hotline serves a practical purpose too, helping children learn how to locate and use a public phone, an important life skill in an emergency.
Since Telstra made all standard calls from payphones free in 2021, the use of public phones has tripled nationwide. Last year alone, more than 25 million free calls were made, including over 300,000 to emergency services. Over 4,000 of the payphones also provide free Wi-Fi, with more locations set to follow.
Families can locate their nearest participating phone through Telstra’s Payphone Finder or through Google Maps. All Telstra retail stores will also feature special Santa Phones from 3 December, allowing families to make their call while doing their Christmas shopping.
With thousands of excited children already lining up across Australia, it’s clear that Free Calls to Santa has secured its place as a truly modern Australian Christmas tradition - connecting communities, spreading festive joy, and keeping the magic of the season alive.
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Looking to get your boat ready for summer or find the perfect gift for the boating enthusiast in your life? J&B Marine has you covered with incredible pre-Christmas deals and expert service.
If you haven’t booked your boat service yet, now is the time. Schedule in before all our spots fill up and get your vessel ready for a season of adventure on the water.
Mercury Outboard Savings – 2.5–30HP
Mercury is offering up to $700 off their 2.5–30HP FourStroke outboards (inc. GST), delivering unmatched performance, efficiency, and reliability. Perfect for inflatables, tinnies, or small fishing rigs, these lightweight engines provide smooth handling, easy portability, and trusted Mercury engineering. Offer ends 23 January 2026 – terms and conditions apply.
Mercury Outboard Savings – 60–150HP
For those looking to upgrade to more power, Mercury’s 60–150HP FourStroke outboards are built to deliver performance, efficiency, and reliability for offshore thrills or confident cruising. From 20 October to 15 December 2025, you can save up to $1500 (inc. GST) and enjoy Mercury Finance at a 3.99% comparison rate.
Whether it’s for a gift or your own adventure, there’s no better time to get more value, performance, and enjoyment from your boating season.
Visit jandbmarine.com or stop by in store at J&B Marine on 102 Cartwright Street, your local Mercury Dealer. Get that boatie in your life one of these limited-time offer outboards, seriously built to perform.
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This gorgeous girl has a heart of gold, and there is nothing she loves more than curling up on her foster mum's bed for a snooze in her favourite sleeping position - belly up with her paws in the air!
Heidi loves her pats, especially under her chin and behind her ears. She has such a sweet nature and is very polite, she even knows to sit patiently and wait while her dinner is being prepared.
Her favourite game to play with her foster dad is hide and seek… probably because she always wins! Heidi can be a little nervous at first, but if you have a bit of patience and a lot of love, she will be your best friend in no time.
Does Heidi sound like your perfect match? Come see for yourself! To meet Heidi, fill in an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html
Included in the adoption fee of $210: DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated.
DOB: 1/03/24
Sex: Female
Breed: DSH
Kid friendly: Soft Hands
Cat Friendly: Untested
Dog Friendly: Untested
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors
BIN: BIN0000268254643
FRONT COVER
The State Government has kickstarted a long-awaited revitalisation of Port Hinchinbrook. The plan includes works to reinstate all-tide and Coast Guard access and resolve long-running legal issues. A Provisional Priority Development Area will be established to transform the precinct into a thriving tourism, economic, and residential hub. This initiative is part of the Government’s commitment to delivering a fresh start for Queensland and regional communities. Port Hinchinbrook will become the first-ever Provisional Priority Development Area, unlocking its full potential. The Queensland-first declaration marks a historic step and addresses long-standing issues that were neglected during the previous decade. Read on page 6
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Premier Announces Port Hinchinbrook Revitilisation Plan
Economic Development Queensland will lead the initiative in partnership with Cassowary Coast Regional Council, industry, the community, and other key stakeholders.
Prior to the formalisation of the Provisional Priority Development Area, Economic Development Queensland will secure all final approvals for infrastructure works, including the dredging at Port Hinchinbrook.
The declaration enables the State Government to begin transforming the Port and surrounding areas by:
The Government will also acquire selected land parcels within the 140-hectare Provisional Priority Development Area – with no impact on private residential properties – to address economic and environmental issues.
The conformed deed over the property will be extinguished.
Residents are encouraged to provide feedback before the formalisation of the Provisional Priority Development Area in January 2026. Enabling works will follow, with dredging scheduled to commence in the second half of 2026.
Premier David Crisafulli said the Government was delivering a fresh start for Port Hinchinbrook.
"We've only been in office for a short period of time, but I think most people realise that you've got a government that understands that Queensland is a little bigger than Brisbane, and that's what this is about."
“Port Hinchinbrook has been neglected for far too long and today marks the beginning of a new chapter for this proud North Queensland community,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“This historic declaration is the first step towards unlocking the Port’s economic and tourism potential and finally fixing the issues that have held this community back for a decade.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the people of Port Hinchinbrook deserved a fast-tracked solution to a complex issue – one that had remained unresolved for far too long.
"Local tourism stalled and the community was repeatedly left without answers."
He said they were, "restoring Port Hinchinbrook to its rightful place as a thriving tourism and lifestyle hub for North Queensland.”
Mayor of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, Teresa Millwood, said the project means more to the people of the area as "It's about bringing Port Hinchinbrook back to its former life. The dredging is only one part of it, but it'll mean the world to not only Port Hinchinbrook, but the whole township of Cardwell and the whole of the Cassowary Coast. You heard them talking about the jewel in the crown. This is the southern gateway. So it's going to be unbelievable."
Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!
With Remembrance Day and Plant A Tree Day, I can’t help but reflect on what I can do to make a difference through my own small actions. On 11 November, I remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice and consider how we might live up, even in a small way, to the service they gave for our country.
That’s why events like Plant A Tree Day are so important. You are literally planting a better future. By helping in small ways, such as planting a few trees, I can do my part to protect and nurture the environment. I hear about the destruction of our green spaces from disasters and pests almost every day, so I donned my gloves and planted my share of trees.
After speaking with the organisers, I learned that the area we planted was another link in a chain that will become a wildlife corridor for our native fauna, now that the patch of invasive parra grass had been killed back. Hopefully, the trees we planted will grow strong and healthy, providing a thriving ecosystem for many years to come.
Victoria
Quotes: 'That is why young men die in battle for their country’s sake and why old men plant trees they will never sit under.' - from 1955, Essays in The Public Philosophy by Walter Lippmann. 'The best time to plant a tree was 30 years ago, the second best time is now.' - popular saying.
The stinger net enclosure has been reinstalled at Forrest Beach just in time for stinger season, ensuring swimmers can enjoy the water safely during the warmer months.
Beachgoers are reminded to always swim inside the stinger net and between the red and yellow flags. Protective clothing, such as a lycra stinger suit, is recommended, and visitors should avoid hanging off the floating pontoon or venturing near the edges of the net. Fishers are also urged to take care when launching boats.
Box jellyfish are commonly found in calm, shallow waters and thrive in hot conditions, so vigilance is essential. Lifesavers are on patrol at the following times:
Saturday: 1pm–5pm
Sunday: 9am–5pm
Public holidays: 9am–5pm
Vinegar stations are available at the top of the beach and near the boat ramp to treat stings if they occur. Visitors with questions are encouraged to speak with the lifesavers on duty.
With the stinger net in place, Forrest Beach is ready for a safe and enjoyable summer in the water.
With nominations closing today, 11 November, there has been considerable shuffling among the minor parties, while the major parties have their campaigns in full swing.
Pauline Hanson’s One Nation Queensland (One Nation) party saw Lisa Buchtmann withdraw due to personal health issues, while the Labor, Greens, and Family First parties only recently announced their nominations.
Joining major party contenders Mark Molachino for Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) and Wayde Chiesa for the Liberal National Party of Queensland (LNP) are the following candidates:
As campaigning ramps up, questions remain: Will KAP hold the seat without its long-serving local MP? Can the LNP or Labor make enough inroads to close the gap and potentially claim victory?
This by-election offers a snapshot of shifting political dynamics in regional Queensland, particularly in a seat long held by KAP. In the 2024 general election, Nick Dametto secured 46.42 per cent of the primary vote for KAP, with the LNP on 28.22 per cent and Labor on 14.03 per cent.
With Dametto’s departure and a new slate of candidates, the vote could swing. If the LNP or Labor achieve strong gains, it could indicate broader changes in how regional electorates respond to both major and minor parties alike.
Next week, we’ll be publishing a special Q&A with the candidates — comparing apples with apples on their policies, plans, and visions for how they aim to improve the region if elected.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council is calling on all by-election candidates to back a bold vision for the future with $26.75 million in strategic investment across three interconnected projects.
Hinchinbrook is proud to be a vital contributor to North Queensland’s economy, offering world-class fishing, thriving agriculture, and a lifestyle that attracts visitors from across Australia.
With continued investment, the region can build on its strengths — delivering better connectivity, stronger resilience, and a sustainable future.
Mayor Ramon Jayo said Hinchinbrook works hard not just for itself, but for the broader regional Queensland community.
“From reef to rainforest, Hinchinbrook is a region of opportunity. These investments will deliver better connectivity, stronger resilience, and a more sustainable future for our community,” Mayor Jayo said.
Council’s priorities include:
Marine Access at Forrest Beach
Forrest Beach is Hinchinbrook’s premier lifestyle destination, but reliable marine access remains a challenge. Council is seeking $4 million to upgrade the Cassady Creek boat ramp and $750,000 to prepare a business case for new ramp and jetty facilities. Mayor Jayo said reliable marine access isn’t just about convenience — it’s about unlocking opportunity for tourism, emergency response, and community growth.
Lucinda Sewage Infrastructure
Lucinda is a coastal gem and gateway to world-class fishing, but growth needs a foundation. Council is calling for $18 million to upgrade trunk infrastructure and treatment facilities, enabling housing development, tourism expansion, and FIFO/DIDO attraction. Mayor Jayo said upgrading Lucinda’s sewage network is the key to housing, tourism, and attracting workers who want to live where the reef meets the rainforest.
Recycling Waste Facility
Council is committed to a sustainable future through a $4 million Recycling Waste Facility at Warrens Hill. The project will maximise recycling, extend landfill life, and create five direct jobs. Mayor Jayo said a modern recycling facility will cut landfill waste, create jobs, and position Hinchinbrook as a leader in the circular economy.
The Hinchinbrook state by-election will be held on Saturday, 29 November 2025. For more information about voting, visit https://www.ecq.qld.gov.au/elections/election-events/hinchinbrook-by-election on the Electoral Commission Queensland website
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I thought I would like to give an update on the Hinchinbrook Drainage Advisory Group.
As a result of the February flooding events, the Council Disaster Recovery Groups were activated. From these initial meetings, stakeholders put forward the idea of forming a group to create a forum to look at drainage throughout the Hinchinbrook Shire. Hence, the Hinchinbrook Drainage Advisory Group was formed.
Some of the stakeholders in the group are:
HSC – Hinchinbrook Shire Council
HRIT – Herbert River Improvement Trust
LHWMA – Lower Herbert Water Management Authority
HRCG – Herbert River Catchment Group
QCAR – Queensland Cane Action Reserve
WILMAR – Wilmar Sugar Australia
DTMR – Department of Transport and Main Roads
QR – Queensland Rail
DPI – Department of Primary Industries
DETSI – Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation
SARA – State Assessment and Referral Agency
One of, but definitely not the only, areas of concern was blockages of mangrove drains and the inability to maintain these vital and fragile areas back to functioning waterways.
The group has held monthly meetings and onsite visits to examples of these areas. From these visits, it helped the government departments gain a better understanding of the matters relating to mangrove maintenance works required in the Lower Herbert Catchment.
The group has identified four trial sites, which involve Queensland Government department tenure, landholder onsite drains, as well as HRIT and LHWMA infrastructure. All of these sites require maintenance in the mangrove areas.
Recently, the group was successful in gaining support from the DPI to conduct well-overdue maintenance at these four trial sites. Works will still require a development application submitted through the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA).
Once the sites have received maintenance and been rehabilitated, they will serve as an example of a workable process that can be used throughout our Shire to deliver consistent and sustainable results.
Once again, it is great to be able to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read through what will be happening throughout our Shire. Thank you for the opportunity once again.
Sugarcane has been the backbone of Hinchinbrook’s economy for generations, and today it offers even greater potential through its versatility.
It produces not only sugar but also bioenergy, bioplastics, and other innovative products that can drive a sustainable future.
Global sugar prices fluctuate, and when they fall, the impact on our community is immediate.
That’s why the future lies in diversification — transforming sugarcane into more than sugar.
Sugarcane is a powerhouse crop with enormous potential beyond traditional production.
It can help power Queensland’s clean energy future through bioenergy, including renewable electricity, biofuels, and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
Bagasse, the fibre left after crushing cane, already generates electricity for the grid.
With the right investment and policy support, we can expand this capability and create new industries that deliver jobs, innovation, and resilience for our region.
Townsville Enterprise, which advocates on behalf of Hinchinbrook Shire to state and federal political entities, lodged a submission to the Queensland Government’s Inquiry into Sugarcane Bioenergy Opportunities, highlighting the significant potential of this industry.
A report by Licella found that Queensland’s sugarcane biofuel sector alone could create 8,000 new full-time jobs and 1,000 construction jobs, deliver $10 billion in new investment, add $5 billion to Queensland’s GDP, and meet more than 10% of Australia’s aviation fuel needs through SAF.
These figures demonstrate that bioenergy is not just an environmental solution — it is an economic game-changer.
The Burdekin and Hinchinbrook regions already produce over 11 million tonnes of sugarcane annually.
With coordinated policy and investment, these regions can lead Queensland’s renewable transition.
Opportunities to use leftover cane fibre for electricity or refine cane into fuel for cars and planes will only grow, but decisive action is needed now.
This is why Hinchinbrook Shire Council is calling on all candidates in the Hinchinbrook by-election to commit to supporting this vision.
It is not just about sugar; it is about securing jobs, attracting investment, and building national fuel security. If Brazil, India, and Thailand can do it, how come the Smart State of Queensland can’t?
Sugar has served us well, but its future lies in complementing traditional production with new, sustainable industries.
This is our opportunity to turn Hinchinbrook into a hub for bioenergy innovation, an opportunity that has been waiting far too long. To make it happen, we need every single level of government on board.
The Island That Forgot It Was An Island
It’s hard to believe that Hinchinbrook Island — one of Australia’s most pristine wilderness escapes — wasn’t always recognised as an island. For years, it was thought to be part of the mainland until surveyors in 1843 discovered the narrow channel separating it.
Today, that very gap known as the Hinchinbrook Channel is a natural maze of mangroves and crocodile country, beloved by kayakers and nature photographers. The island itself is a sanctuary of misty peaks, rainforest, and waterfalls — and it gave the Shire its name.
So next time you look across from Lucinda or Cardwell, remember: the mighty island that defines Hinchinbrook’s identity once hid in plain sight. Turns out even nature plays a cheeky game of “who moved my cheese.”
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