Nestled within Hinchinbrook Island National Park, Deluge Inlet is a pristine estuary teeming with life. Protected by National Park, World Heritage, and Wild Rivers legislation, this untouched haven boasts mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and thriving marine life.

A vital nursery for countless species, its waters are home to dolphins, sea turtles, and abundant fish. Whether you're a wildlife lover or nature seeker, Deluge Inlet offers an unforgettable escape.

Explore its tranquil waters, embrace the serenity, and witness the wonders of an unspoiled ecosystem. To keep it pristine, tread lightly and respect its delicate balance.

Experience Deluge Inlet—where nature thrives, and adventure awaits.

The Vinnies store in Ingham is offering flood recovery grants to assist residents impacted by recent flooding. However, volunteers are concerned that many people believe the store is completely closed due to its current appearance. They are urging the community to reach out for assistance, as help is still available for those in need.

While the store is closed for regular retail operations, it remains open for flood relief services. Residents who require financial assistance can schedule an appointment by calling 1800 846 643. Volunteers at Vinnies are available to guide applicants through the process and help them access the support they need.

The official government flood relief grants closed last Friday, but Vinnies will continue to offer aid for as long as funds remain available. The organisation is committed to ensuring that no one in the community is left without essential support during this challenging time.

Vinnies provides assistance in two ways, Financial Relief Through Grants and Essential Aid. While Vinnies does not provide direct cash payments, it ensures that assistance reaches those who need it in practical and meaningful ways.

Vinnies is encouraging anyone who is struggling to reach out and apply for assistance. Their dedicated team is on hand to help residents navigate the application process, ensuring that they receive the aid they are entitled to.

To schedule an appointment, call the Vinnies disaster relief call centre at 1800 846 643. The volunteers in Ingham are ready to assist with applications and provide guidance on the available support options.

As flood-affected residents work to rebuild their lives, Vinnies remains dedicated in its mission to support the community. The organisation has a long history of helping Australians in times of crisis, and their efforts will continue for as long as there is a need.

Local volunteers are working tirelessly to ensure that aid reaches those who require it most, but they stress that many people are unaware that assistance is still available. They encourage anyone in need, whether they have sought help before or not, to make a quick phone call and arrange an appointment.

In times of disaster, community support is vital. Vinnies urges everyone to share this information with friends, family, and neighbours who may be struggling in the aftermath of the floods.

For assistance, call 1800 846 643 today to make an appointment and access available support.

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As I write this week’s Councillor Column, I do so as your community Councillor and the Chair of the Human and Social Subgroup for the Master Recovery Group.

Our district’s recovery is progressing well, with a strong focus on housing, mental health, donations, youth, seniors, and supporting local organisations and clubs.

Support is available for farmers—please reach out to your local farming representatives or agricultural organisations for assistance. QRIDA is also available to provide financial assistance and recovery support.

While we continue rebuilding, it’s equally important to prioritise our health and wellbeing.

Community Updates:
• Halifax Sub-Branch Library is open (please see public notices for operating hours);
• Hinchinbrook Shire Library remains closed until further notice;
• TYTO Conference and Events Centre - Office one, Jacana, Whistler, and Monarch rooms are available to
hire;
• Morning Melodies and performances continue at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall; and
• Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre is bustling with children back at swimming lessons—a fantastic way to stay
active!

Most sporting clubs have commenced their season, providing great opportunities for fitness, social connection, and community spirit.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre on McIlwraith Street can connect you with the right referral services—judgment-free.

Physical activity is a great stress reliever! Whether it’s joining a local sport, going for a walk, or enjoying a swim, movement benefits both body and mind.

Rest and self care are just as important as physical health. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to local health services.

For newcomers needing help finding businesses or services, feel free to visit or call Council, our friendly staff are happy to assist.

Hinchinbrook is strong, and together we will rebuild, recover, and thrive.

Take care and stay well.

Cheapa Auto Spares have a new location at 104 Cartwright Street, offering customers a bigger store with an expanded range of products and improved service. The move allows the business to hold more stock and provide an even better shopping experience for the community.

The store prides itself on being a one-stop shop for all automotive needs, offering a variety of spare parts, tools, and accessories similar to those found at major retailers. With the expansion, customers can expect a greater selection and improved availability of stock.

Cheapa Auto Spares offers an extensive product range, including service parts, suspension components, cooling systems, brake and clutch parts, engine components, ignition parts, driveline components, performance accessories, car care products, electrical items, and tools. The company's knowledgeable staff, many with automotive trade backgrounds, are well-equipped to provide expert advice to customers, ensuring they find the right products for their vehicles.

The official move took place early last week, with the team already operating from the new location. Customers are encouraged to visit the new premises and take advantage of the expanded offerings, which promise greater accessibility and convenience for all automotive enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Cheapa Auto Spares owner Phil Thompson expressed his gratitude to the Ingham community for their support over the years, acknowledging that their loyalty and patronage have made the transition to a larger store possible.

"We want to thank the whole of the Ingham District for their support over the years,” he said.

He added that thanks to them, they were able to move to this new, bigger location and continue offering the best service and products possible.

With a commitment to quality products, expert service, and a customer-first approach, Cheapa Auto Spares is excited about this new chapter. The business looks forward to continuing to serve the community from its new and improved location, ensuring that all automotive needs are met efficiently and affordably.

For more information about available products and services, customers can visit the store.

CANEGROWERS welcomes the Federal Government’s commitment to Feeding Australia, a national food security strategy that aligns with the long-standing calls from Australian farmers to strengthen our agricultural supply chains.

However, the sugarcane industry urges the Government to go beyond studies and deliver a clear national feedstock strategy – led by both the Queensland and Australian Governments – to unlock the potential of biofuels and position Australia as a leader in sustainable energy.

“The Government’s recognition of the need to examine a biofuels feedstock industry is a step in the right direction, but we need action, not just another study,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.

Speaking today from Bioenergy Australia’s Renewable Fuels Week in Sydney, Mr Galligan highlighted the crucial role of the sugarcane industry in Australia’s transition to low-carbon liquid fuels.

“Sugarcane is a proven, sustainable feedstock with the potential to power Australia’s biofuels industry - supporting emissions reduction, fuel security, and regional job creation,” he said.

A report released this week by Bioenergy Australia revealed that 80% of Australia’s liquid fuel is imported, exposing the country to energy security risks.

With the right policies, Australia could produce up to 546 million litres of biofuels annually, reducing our reliance on overseas supply.

“Governments need to commit to a national feedstock strategy that provides the policy certainty and investment signals to drive domestic biofuels production,” Mr Galligan said.

“The sugarcane industry is ready to be part of the solution. Now we need leadership from government to turn potential into reality.”

North Queensland farmers have secured a long-fought victory, with the Federal and Queensland governments approving an increase in disaster recovery funding to $75,000 for primary producers. The announcement, made on March 12 by Senator Nita Green and Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter, marks a major step in supporting communities devastated by recent flooding.

After weeks of relentless advocacy from local farmers, industry groups, and community leaders, the Category D funding has finally been activated under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). The boost also includes increases for small businesses and not-for-profits, now eligible for grants of up to $50,000.

“This wasn’t handed down from the heavens—it was won by the fighters on the ground who never backed down,” said Mr Katter.

By Amanda Wright

Flooded Farms, Fierce Advocacy
The Fight That Paid Off

For many in the sugarcane industry, this decision brings both financial relief and renewed hope, with CANEGROWERS and QCAR hailing it as a long-overdue acknowledgment of the devastation growers have faced.

“This increase reflects the rising costs of recovery and the immense challenges our farmers are dealing with,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said. “It’s a crucial step forward, but the road to full recovery will be long.”

QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella agreed, saying, “This funding is not just about rebuilding farms—it’s about restoring livelihoods and communities that have been hit hard.”

While this funding is a critical step forward, industry advocates are pushing for further support to ensure long-term recovery, including additional assistance for replanting and infrastructure repairs.

Tears of relief replaced weeks of frustration for North Queensland’s flood-affected farmers as the Federal and Queensland governments approved an increase in disaster funding, boosting grants for primary producers to $75,000.

The announcement, delivered by Senator Nita Green and Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter on March 12, comes after weeks of intense advocacy from industry leaders, local politicians, and the farming community. The decision also increases funding for small businesses and not-for-profits to $50,000.

The announcement was made at the farm of CANEGROWERS members Michael and Zenan Reinaudo, whose family property suffered severe flood damage. Their experience mirrors that of many other farmers across the region.

Bob Katter, who has been at the forefront of the push for Category D funding, credited the win to relentless efforts from agricultural organisations and local representatives.

“This funding wasn’t handed down from the heavens—it was won by the fighters on the ground who never backed down,” Mr Katter said.

He singled out CANEGROWERS’ Leah Russo, AgForce Queensland’s Shane McCarthy, and QCAR’s Lawrence Di Bella for their unwavering efforts.

“Yes, we thank the PM and the Minister, but it’s because of this group of people with a tiger in their tank that the grants have finally been activated,” he said.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan welcomed the increased support, emphasising that the original $25,000 grant was nowhere near enough to help growers rebuild.

“This increase reflects the rising costs of recovery for growers who have been hit hard by recent flooding,” Mr Galligan said.

“We’ve been clear from the beginning that the original amount was simply inadequate. This boost will make a real difference for those struggling to rebuild.”

QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella described the funding boost as a step in the right direction, though challenges remain.

“This is a really positive step—it will rebuild our industry. Some of the damage is greater than $75,000, so we’ll still be looking for additional funding, but this is a great start,” Mr Di Bella said.

“The money that a farmer produces goes around our community multiple times. This is about rebuilding our entire community, not just individual farms.”

Mr Di Bella spoke of the sheer devastation farmers have faced.

“There were craters the size of swimming pools, tonnes of trash dumped on newly planted sugarcane, headlands washed away, trees uprooted, new creeks carved through fields, dead calves littering paddocks—the list goes on,” he said.

“Now there will be tears of relief with the release of Category D grants.”

AgForce Queensland General President Shane McCarthy agreed, calling the announcement a lifeline.

“This goes a long way to getting farmers back up and producing, which is what they need to do,” Mr McCarthy said.

“It’s not just this flood—it’s the accumulation of a few tough seasons. We need to get our producers back up and doing what they do best.”

Funding Secured, But The Recovery Battle Continues

Despite the funding win, industry leaders stress that further work is needed to ensure all farmers receive fair support.

QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan noted that current eligibility rules could leave some struggling farmers behind.

“We must now make sure the funding is fair and reaches those who need it,” Mr Ryan said.

He cited the case of Ingham sugarcane farmer Luke Roveda, who also runs a harvesting business and works as a glazier with his father. Under current rules, he could be deemed ineligible because less than 51% of his gross income comes from sugarcane.

“These rules don’t reflect the reality of modern farming. Many producers diversify their income to survive, and they shouldn’t be penalised for it,” Mr Ryan said.

Another issue is funding for replanting crops, which remains restricted to plant cane rather than ratoon crops, despite ratoon cane making up about 84% of the Herbert’s sugarcane.

“This exemption makes no sense,” Mr Di Bella said. “If we’re serious about recovery, we need to ensure farmers can replant properly.”

QCAR is also pushing for additional funds to repair creek banks and drainage systems, support local businesses, restore the rail network for this year’s crushing season, and improve mental health services for impacted farmers.

Senator Nita Green reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting North Queensland’s recovery.

“This is all part of a bigger disaster recovery response from our two governments,” Senator Green said.

“We will continue to work with people on the ground to identify areas where funding or criteria can be improved.”

She acknowledged the vital role farmers and industry groups played in securing the funding.

“Thank you to the primary producers who welcomed this announcement with me today. North Queensland, we’ve got your back,” she said.

In addition to the increased grants, more than $50 million in extraordinary disaster assistance is now available to support North Queensland’s long-term recovery, including:
$30 million for sport and recreation community facilities
$20 million for community and recreational asset recovery
Extended disaster assistance for more councils across North and Far North Queensland

For farmers like Michael and Zenan Reinaudo, the funding boost brings hope after weeks of uncertainty. However, as industry leaders continue to advocate for further changes, the focus remains on ensuring all affected growers receive the support they need to recover and rebuild.

“This isn’t just about fixing damage—it’s about restoring livelihoods,” Mr Galligan said.

“Our growers have fought hard for this, and we’ll keep fighting to ensure they get the support they deserve.”

My Beauty Spot is set to open its new location at Beauty on Lannercost at 12 Lannercost Street. Owner Rebecca Weston said her dedication to getting to know the community has paid off, and her first week is already booked solid.

At the new location, Rebecca said clients can enjoy a wide range of treatments, including relax facials, skin concerns such as pigmentation, acne, anti-aging, and rosacea, and massage, waxing, and tinting.

“I love facials, but I love everything, I love body waxing, seeing the before and after is great,” she said.

Before moving to Ingham, Rebecca lived in Emu Park and had her own beauty salon there. She values the relationships she builds through her work, forming lasting friendships with clients.

“Even in Emu Park, I still keep in touch with former clients, and in Ingham, it's been really lovely to get to know the locals. I've got clients that I have here now that I see in the streets and say hello to.

Although Rebecca’s journey has taken many turns, including four years in the Navy and stints in hospitality and fashion, her heart has always been in beauty. Now, with her new salon set to open, she is eager to continue providing top-tier services to the Ingham community.

With extensive industry experience and a strong local focus, Ingham’s newest beauty salon is set to become a go-to destination for expert treatments in a welcoming space.

The Hinchinbrook Chamber held the first Coffee Connections session on Tuesday 11 March at JK’s Delicatessen between 7:30am and 9:00am.  This event was very well attended by local business owners, with a guest speaker for the morning being Charlotte Johansson, a wellness coach with Rural Financial Counselling Services NQ.

Chamber had planned to reintroduce these casual coffee catchups again in 2025, as a way for local business owners, employees and other agencies to come together in a relaxed environment and share experiences and connections.  Unfortunately the February flood event delayed the start of these gatherings for the year, however moving forward, Chamber intends to continue with these events at differing locations around the community.

During the morning, Charlotte took some time to explain her role and the importance of seeking support and mentorship if you are a business owner, especially in light of recent events. There was great discussion and Charlotte was able to answer many questions provide information in relation to how anyone could connect to arrange future individual appointments.

Since the flood event the Rural Financial Services Counselling team have been in the community providing opportunity for free support and arranging individual appointments, with business owners who may wish to engage additional support, during this challenging time of recovery.

The local response has been so significant, Charlotte has arranged for a local “pop up” office and is now scheduling appointments.

Overall, it was very informative and uplifting and Chamber is sincerely grateful to Karen and the JK’s Delicatessen team for hosting the first Coffee Connections for 2025. They also expressed a special thanks to Charlotte Johansson for being the first guest speaker of the year and to all who took the time to join the morning.

Plans are already underway for Chamber's April event, stay tuned on Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce social media pages and website for more details.

Contributed with thanks to Chamber President Mary Brown

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After many years of closure, Lucinda Store has once again opened its doors. Owners Fortini and Waldon officially reopened the store on the 14th of December 2022, much to the delight of locals and visitors alike.

Trading seven days a week, the newly refurbished convenience store and café offer an array of everyday essentials alongside a tempting selection of freshly prepared meals. Customers can enjoy fresh fish and chips, breakfast cooked daily, indulgent homemade treats, and delicious pizzas. The store also boasts a relaxing alfresco outdoor dining area, providing a perfect setting to sit back and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Fabia Fortini said "The store is on the beachfront, creating a beautiful setting and a relaxed and welcoming vibe," she said.

The outdoor dining area is one of the store’s standout features, offering a cool ocean breeze and breathtaking views of the islands and the iconic Lucinda Jetty. As the longest service jetty in the southern hemisphere, it serves as a popular tourist destination whilst travelling through the Hinchinbrook Shire.

The store’s owners are committed to providing high-quality products and a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere. Fresh seafood is sourced from local professional fishermen, ensuring customers receive the best and freshest options available. This focus on quality and local sourcing has helped the store build a reputation for excellence in both service and product offerings.

Since reopening, the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Residents and seasonal tourists have warmly welcomed the return of Lucinda Store, with many expressing relief at having a local spot once again available for food, drinks, and grocery needs. The convenience of a local store, combined with its high standard of food and service, has quickly made it a favourite among regulars.

With its prime location, delicious food, and friendly service, Lucinda Store is once again a cherished part of the community. Whether it’s for a quick coffee, a relaxed meal, or a takeaway to enjoy by the beach, the store has successfully reestablished itself as a must-visit destination. Fortini and Waldon’s dedication to quality and customer satisfaction ensures that Lucinda Store will continue to thrive for years to come.

Did You Know
The Big Jetty Burger is a local favourite, popular for its home-made patty, enormous size and flavours

Mick’s Bread Kitchen has expressed a heartfelt thank you to the many individuals and organisations that stepped up to support them during the recent floods.

The Mick’s Bread Kitchen team were truly humbled by everyone that helped out during the floods and took to Facebook to broadcast their thanks.

Among those who provided crucial assistance was JW Org, which generously donated flour to keep the bakery in operation. Coffee Presto also stepped in, supplying coffee and syrups to help the team stay energised.

The importance of cold storage was addressed by Meals on Wheels crew, with Keith and Rita Phillips offering the use of their cold room, while the Lions Club provided a mobile cold room. Lahtinen Electrical also played a key role in getting the business back up and running with prompt and professional service.

Local generosity extended beyond the bakery doors, with Holly Sheahan bringing paying it forward coffee. Tropical VW Air Townsville Volkfest provided bread vouchers for the public. Meanwhile, Jess Gilmour and Chris DeLuca assisted with errands and groceries, ensuring the team could continue their work.

Outside of the bakery, Eryn McCulloch took on the responsibility of caring for Mick’s Bread Kitchen owners’ horses while they were cut off due to floodwaters.

Mick’s Bread Kitchen also added a thank you to their loyal customers and they feel grateful to be in this Hinchinbrook community.

If you’re an avid reader of Hinchinbrook Life, you might not have seen my byline too often—but I’ve been here since the beginning. While Rachael steers the ship and Daniel is our man on the ground, I’ve been working behind the scenes covering rural affairs. And as the federal election race heats up, you’ll be seeing more from me outside the rural pages, too.

Politics has always fascinated me—not just the policies, but the passion. I love a good debate, the fiery exchanges, and watching our politicians go to battle for their local regions. With an election on the horizon, expect plenty of political coverage alongside my usual dive into all things agriculture.

A bit about me: I’m Amanda, the newspaper’s rural journalist, and if there’s one thing I love, it’s getting to the heart of a good story—whether that’s in the paddock, Parliament, or somewhere in between. When I’m not chasing down stories, I’m chasing down my almost-two-year-old, who has the energy of a category-five cyclone and a talent for making me question why I buy him toys, when he gets as much delight from rocks from the garden or a cardboard box.

Last year threw a challenge my way in the form of bowel cancer, but after eight rounds of chemo, I got to ring the bell just before Christmas to celebrate being in remission. A quick PSA—do those bowel screen tests, even if you think you’re ‘too young.’ I was 43 when diagnosed with stage 3B colon cancer, and I’m beyond grateful that we caught it when we did.

I moved from New Zealand to Queensland 13 years ago, and while I’ll always have a soft spot for an All Blacks v Wallabies clash, these days, you’ll find me watching more rugby league than union. (Queensland loyalty might be rubbing off on me.)

While my home is in the rural pages, you’ll start seeing more of my work in the lead-up to the election across Hinchinbrook Life, and our sister publiations; Burdekin Life, and Mackay Life. So, if you’re passionate about agriculture, politics, or just want to argue footy codes—let’s talk.

Looking forward to bringing you more of the stories that shape our region.

Amanda

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As many of you may already be aware,  Moduline is proposing to redevelop land owned by its directors in Herbert Street for the purpose of accommodating new manufacturing and retail facilities. An application for development permit has been lodged with Council.

Several residents have contacted the Council, expressing concerns that they were not given the opportunity to provide input, as they believe details of the development were not made public. To address these concerns and dispel any misinformation, I wanted to take a moment to clarify the development application process.

Developments in Queensland must be applied for and assessed in compliance with the Planning Act 2016.  All development applications go through a standard assessment process in compliance with the Development Assessment Rules to make sure they are assessed equitably. There are five parts to the formal Development Assessment

1. Application:  When lodging a development application the applicant must meet certain criteria to ensure it is properly made.
2. Referral:  In some circumstances a development application may require additional assessment by other agencies in addition to Council such as the Department of Transport and Main Roads and the application must first be referred to such agencies for review.
3. Information Request:  The assessment manager – Council and any referral agency have the opportunity to ask the applicant for more information if they so need.
4. Public notification:  During the public notification period, the community can make submissions about a development application to the assessment manager who will consider these when making a decision.
5. Decision:  The assessment manager makes the decision on the development application to either approve, approve in part, approve with conditions or refuse.

After a development application has been decided, the Planning Act specifies certain instances where the applicant or another party who has made submissions can appeal the decision.

It is the responsibility of the applicant to undertake public notification when that stage is reached. There are certain requirements that must be met including placing a public notice on the premises;  giving notice to owners of lots adjoining the premises; publishing a public notice in a newspaper circulated locally. The Development Assessment rules outline the time of when public notification starts and finishes and the public notice requirements including the size and content of the sign and notices.

Contrary to rumour, Council is yet to decide the application and as at the time of writing (15/03/25), the public notification period had not yet commenced. Happy to clarify the process further if anyone requires. Have a good week all.

An Ingham couple has turned tragedy into positivity by initiating a project to bring much needed seating to Ingham’s Apex Park in memory of their late daughter, Lucy.

When Lucy Margaret Campbell was born on 16 February 2024, joy was quickly followed by confusion and fear. Complications during the birth resulted in admission to NICU at the Townsville University Hospital, where it was confirmed that Lucy had suffered severe brain damage, incompatible with life. On 24 February 2024, Lucy peacefully died in her parents’ arms in the hospital’s Federation Gardens.

Following Lucy’s death, parents Alex Meehan and Alex Campbell searched for meaning in her short life, and like many bereaved parents, a way to remember her.

“We would often see kids playing in the park near our house, where parents would sit on the edge of the soft-fall area surrounding the playground equipment with nowhere more comfortable to sit, eat or just watch their kids. It seemed wrong that this beautiful park didn’t have somewhere for people to sit comfortably,” Lucy’s father, Alex Campbell, said.

Lucy’s mother, Alex Meehan, agreed, “We would have taken Lucy to the park and enjoyed watching her play, and we thought other parents might be encouraged to take their children there, if there was somewhere nice to sit down.”

The couple contacted their local council to seek support for some new seating at the site.  As with all things involving government departments, there is a process that needs to be followed, but after jumping through a few hoops, Council executives were briefed with all the relevant details and in-principle support provided by Council.

Hinchinbrook Shire Councillor Donna Marbelli warmly welcomed the project, highlighting its positive impact on the community.

“Council is proud to support projects like this that enhance our public spaces and provide meaningful benefits to our community. The new seating at Apex Park not only offers a practical improvement for families but also serves as a touching tribute to Lucy’s memory. This project is a testament to the strength and generosity of the Hinchinbrook community, and we are grateful to have been part of it.”

The Apex Club of Herbert River became aware of the project and was keen for the Apex Club to be involved since the park in question is named in honour of Apex.  Apex Club president, Michael Nash said, “The Apex club is always looking for worthy causes to support locally, and given this would benefit young families within the Herbert River District, we were only too happy to help out by sponsoring the picnic table and shelter.”

Following further public consultation with councillors and the community, Hinchinbrook Shire Council approved the project via Council resolution and the Council’s Parks and Gardens team installed the picnic table and shelter on behalf of the community.

“Lucy’s name means 'bringer of light', so it was only fitting that the shelter was a bright, beautiful yellow,” Alex Meehan remarked.

Alex and Alex also contributed funds to supply the memorial plaque, which includes a quote from Kay Redfield Jamison:

“Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.”

“Play is such an important part of a child’s development growing, and we wanted parents to be encouraged and remember that when life gets busy, to take a moment and just enjoy watching their children explore and grow through play,” Alex Meehan said.

“That’s how we keep Lucy’s memory alive, through other children enjoying their childhood and having space and facilities to play. It’s our hope that the new seating and table in Apex Park allows families to enjoy just one of the many beautiful parks in the region even more,” explained Alex Campbell.

Woolworths North Queensland Operations Manager said Woolworths has always supported The Salvation Army and during the flooding they continued their efforts.

“In the height of it, we donated nine or 10 pallets of basic foods and water, which we flew in by Chinook through the government ADF, purely for the Salvation Army to then distribute out to their centres,” he said.

“Interestingly, driving up from Townsville this morning, sort of thinking about, we’ve already reached a couple of simple visions that we live by, one is to make a little difference to somebody everyday and we work better together.”

Andrew Cripps was present on behalf of Minister for Community Recovery Ann Leahy MP to witness the donation and to thank the Woolworths workers for their efforts.

“I know that they are invested in the welfare and circumstances of the people who they serve every week and so when we have an event like this, they're the same people in the aisles, and they're the same people at the checkout counter,” he said.

“There's a genuine relationship between our local staff at Woolworths and the people who are coming in with difficult circumstances because they've been cut off during the event.

“Thank you to the local Woolworths team I know and saw how hard you were working to keep the shelves stacked and to keep the services supplied to the people who unfortunately had to go through that event over the last couple of weeks.”

Ingham Woolworths Store Manager Julie Buckley said she is proud to be able to service the community and that although it will be a long road to recover, they will be there at locals' time of need.

Mayor Ramon Jayo also expressed his praise for the team at Woolworths and explained when Woolworths opened their doors there was still water in the street.

“We brought Julie through flood waters and thank you very much, because if you wouldn't have done that, everything else would have failed, he said.

“At that point in time, we had no food, we didn't have a food outlet. We had nothing in this town.

“We had no power, no one was here, and Juliet coming through the flood waters, she opened the door.”

Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto MP also thanked the staff for their hard work.

“From the bottom of our hearts, from the whole Hinchinbrook Shire and the greater Hinchinbrook electorate we want to thank all the staff and Woolworths for doing everything they could to make sure that once those doors were open that the shelves were stocked, food was coming in, and workin, with the local disaster management group and those state agencies to ensure that we're able to start feeding people in Ingham and the outskirts again,” said Nick Dametto MP.

“Without the dedication from the Woolworth staff, I don't think we would have come through this disaster scenario the way we did.

“People went above and beyond, left their own families, their own homes behind, and came out here to help and serve the community.”

What better way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day than with a rich, indulgent Irish stout pudding? We've got the ultimate recipe to make your celebration even more delicious!

Ingredients

• 6 ounces unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup Guinness Stout
• 1 Tablespoon molasses
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 3 large eggs
• pinch kosher salt
• 6 ounces dark chocolate chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and butter 5-7 ramekins (I used ½ cup ramekins and got 7 pudding cakes; if using larger ramekins, you'll have fewer). Arrange the ramekins on a baking sheet.
2. In a small saucepan, combine butter and molasses. Melt the butter over low heat, stirring until fully melted.
3. Bring the Guinness to a boil over medium heat and simmer until reduced to ⅓ cup, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Add the chocolate, sugar, vanilla, and salt to the melted butter, stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Gradually mix in the chocolate mixture and stir until fully combined. Then, add the reduced Guinness and mix.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the ramekins and place them on the middle rack of the oven.
7. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the edges begin to crack, while the center remains soft and shiny.
8. Serve warm with whipped cream, ice cream, or caramel sauce.
9. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little fleur de sel on top if desired.

Happy St Patricks Day!

Recipe credit: whatagirleats.com/