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/

Get ready for a mouthwatering adventure at the 22nd annual Feast of the Senses, returning this March! From fruity trivia to vibrant food trails, tropical tastes, and lively entertainment, this four-day festival has something for everyone. Kick off the fun on Thursday, March 27th, and explore the best local flavors and experiences from food trails, market stalls, and a riverfront celebration. With activities for all ages, the Feast of the Senses is the perfect way to savor the tropics—don’t miss out!

A Feast For All The Senses

The Feast of the Senses returns this month for its 22nd annual festival and everyone in the community is invited to come along!

This four-day event kicks off on Thursday 27th March with some fun and fruity trivia at the Innisfail RSL Club with the Gone Troppo Trivia Night, followed by the Northern and Southern food trails during the day on Friday and Saturday, and delicious tropical food events at the RSL and Brothers Leagues Club Bistro in the evenings.

Tickets for the food trails are now on sale and places are filling fast, with a notable increase in out of town, southern and international visitors.

“Our food trails are eagerly awaited every year,” said President and volunteer Festival Manager, Rosi Jensen.

“We have some terrific venues to visit on both food trails. It’s a great day out and a unique experience of the tropics for locals and visitors alike.”

The Innisfail riverfront and Canecutter Court come alive on Sunday 30th March with music and entertainment all day, along with a huge variety of market stalls, food vans and taste sensations.

Don’t miss the Cassowary Coast Rare Fruits Association amazing display and free fruit tastings in their marquee on the river, with the fruit auction later in the day.
Families with children can enjoy the free and ticketed activities in the Feast of Fun Kid Zone all day while adults can linger at the cooking stage for recipe ideas, demonstrations and free tastings in Canecutter Court.

Sunday’s River Feast, from 9am to 3pm, is a great day out for the family and people of all ages. Queensland’s premier fruit festival is right on your door-step so don’t miss it!

You can check the Feast of the Senses website and Facebook page for all details, book tickets, register to go on the email list to get festival news direct to your inbox, or book your stall to be part of this great event at www.feastofthesenses.com.au

WHAT: Feast of the Senses
WHERE: Innisfail
WHEN: 27th - 30th March

Upon entering Fiori With Love, you are enveloped in a harmonious blend of sight and scent, enhancing the dining experience with both visual beauty and aromatic warmth.

What started as a florist on Cartwright Street by owner Louise Zaghini and her husband, has blossomed into a fusion of rich coffee aroma mingled with the delicate fragrance of flowers, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a bright summer morning.

As you wait for your coffee, you can wander through the thoughtfully curated selection of flowers and homewares, adding to the charm of this cosy space.

A favorite spot for birthday celebrations, customers often place fresh flowers on their tables as they enjoy their morning brew or indulge in delicious breakfast and lunch offerings.

What makes Fiori With Love's food so special is the fact it is all homemade, while they don't have a huge menu, everything is really fresh and popular with customers, even growing their own herbs to garnish their delicious options.

Owner, Louise Zaghini, explained how one of her items that is popular with locals is the fresh pumpkin scones with jam and cream.

"We also do lots of fresh juices, smoothies, and milkshakes," Louise added.

When asked to describe Fiori With Love in three words, Louise stated the cafe is

"Relaxing, fulfilling, and yummy!"

"Everyone just comments on how lovely and fresh the food is, and how yummy!"

After 10 incredible years of Fiori With Love, Louise wants to share the bittersweet news that she has decided to put the business up for sale. While it wasn’t an easy decision, she is excited about the fresh energy and creativity new owners will bring.

"We hope to pass it on to someone who will continue to nurture and grow it — perhaps a mother and daughter, two friends, or simply someone with a true passion for creativity."

"It will break my heart to say goodbye, but there comes a time when you have to step back. This will also give us the chance to spend more time with our grandkids!"

If you or someone you know is looking for the opportunity to take over a much-loved creative business, take a look at Fiori With Love — you could be the perfect second owners to continue its story.

Start your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations on a fresh and festive note with a vibrant green smoothie! This delightful drink isn’t just a fun way to embrace the holiday spirit — it’s also a delicious and nourishing way to fuel your body and start your day on the right foot.

With only four simple ingredients, this smoothie comes together in just five minutes, making it the perfect choice for a quick, easy, and wholesome breakfast or snack. Despite its simplicity, it’s packed with fresh flavours, natural goodness, and a boost of nutrients to keep you feeling energised throughout the day.

Whether you’re gearing up for a full day of St. Patrick’s Day festivities or simply looking for a refreshing and healthy treat, this smoothie is sure to satisfy. Its vibrant green colour makes it a fun addition to any celebration, while its light and invigorating taste will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on whatever the day has in store.

Ingredients

1. 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk
2. 2 cups spinach frozen
3. 1 medium banana frozen
4. ½ cup frozen mango and ½ cup frozen pineapple, but feel free to use your favourite fruits.
5. Optional add ins: protein powder bee pollen, collagen, etc.

Instructions

• Put ingredients into the container of a Vitamix blender in the order listed.
• Start blending on low speed and increase to high.
• Blend on high speed for 50-60 seconds until mixture is smooth.
• Pour into glasses and enjoy!

Recipe credit: /joyfoodsunshine.com

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Every year, Australians gather in unity to honor the fallen Anzac soldiers. This heartfelt tradition is observed at Anzac memorial services, where individuals take a moment to reflect on and remember the courageous Australian and New Zealander soldiers who fought in numerous wars and conflicts throughout history.

These services not only provide an opportunity to commemorate the lives of those who gave everything for their country but also serve as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom and peace. It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and respect as we recognise the selflessness of these heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of their nation and values.

For those wishing to honour and pay their respects, the following nearby services are scheduled:

Dawn Parade - Fall in at Mafeking Tree at 4.15am (in front of Ingham Police Station), march to cenotaph for service.

Forrest Beach – parade to commence at 7.00am from Corbett Park near Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club march to the memorial.

Halifax - parade to commence at 8.00am, march to Lions Clock and back to cenotaph.

Ingham – parade to commence at 9.30am, march from Rotary Park to cenotaph.

Last week, the Queensland Small Business Commissioner Dominique Lamb was in Ingham and addressed several small businesses.

She indicated that she’d been out to visit a number of small local businesses that were reporting mounting pressures as a result of the floods, including lost income and damage to property. She was able to provide information about some of the resources and services offered by the department, including small business financial counsellors, wellness coaches, and disaster funding, including QRIDA loans.

Chair of Recovery Mary Brown was happy Queensland Small Business Commissioner Dominique Lamb was present, and said it’s important people in this community understand that they are not alone.

“We do have support agencies at other levels of government who have reached out and are working with us to try and find solutions to some of the challenges we're having now,” she said.

“There are no guarantees. We know that, but bringing in those support services into the community is a stepping stone to try and help.

“Each and every business will have different challenges and different impacts, whether they were insured, whether they weren't insured, whether they have a lot of financial commitments prior to this event, whether they're well-placed cash flow wise, every single business is so different.

“So, we're not going to be a solution for everyone, but I think we have a common interest to our community, in that we all have had some impact.”

For many business owners flood recovery will be a very challenging time mentally, and for those businesses it’s important that they know help is available in region.

Wellness Coach Charlotte Johansson from Rural Financial Counselling Service North Queensland is in the region at the Recovery Centre, and is about to start one-on-one appointments with clients.

“I help business owners look after their mental and emotional wellness and that can be from a personal perspective, but it can also be from a business perspective. So, we can talk business strategies, so we can look at basic foundations of your business that might work or might not work, or that might be stressful,” explained Charlotte.

“One of the things that we do in terms of assisting people with business, is ownership challenges that they might have. It could be things such as staffing issues, we can work with managing material, how to manage, and how to work with the dynamic in your business.

“We can also work with things such as your personal wellness, you might have family members working in your business, and it can be challenging. So we can work on that dynamic, and we can work on things that people are struggling with at the moment.”

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) is back to business after being severely impacted by last month's devastating flood. Volunteers and staff have worked tirelessly to ensure all services are up and running.  Despite the flood wiping out the Centre building on Townsville Road, the Social Enterprise Maintenance shed and the loss of several vehicles, HCSC was able to bounce back ensuring minimal disruption to our programs and services.

All services are being delivered from the HUB and, thanks to the generous support from SES, the Social Enterprise boys have moved back into their shed after an enormous clean up.

At its core, HCSC offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to uplift and support the community. Among the key services are:
• Domestic and Family Violence
• Youth Service
• Community Support Service
• Community Grants Officer
• Community Recovery
• Housing & Homelessness Service
• Emergency Relief Program
• Home & Yard Maintenance Service

The Hinchinbrook Community Support centre offers opportunity for connections through a range of activities and volunteering. It’s a place where lifelong friendships are formed and where a sense of community thrives.  They value the generosity of their volunteers, local businesses, and the community. For more information, please call 4776 1822 or visit their website www.hcsc.org.au.  Keep up with activities and programs on their Facebook.

Contributed with thanks to Carmon Martin

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A long-running NRL tipping competition in Ingham is celebrating its 25th year. Originally founded in 2000 by local businessmen George Croton and Grant Cartwright, the competition has evolved from a manual system reliant on paper entries and faxes to a modern, app-based format.

The competition, now known as IGC NRL Tipping, has continued to thrive under the stewardship of its current organiser, Geoff Gianotti, who took over four years ago. The transition to the NRL app has made the process more efficient. Despite the shift in format, the competition remains as strong as ever, including 59 participants this year.

Since it is the 25th anniversary, Geoff approached the North Queensland Cowboys, who have provided promotional packs containing merchandise such as footballs, caps, and jerseys. These items will be used as prizes.

One of the highlights of this milestone year is a special competition within the main event, titled ‘Simply the Best.’ This contest brings together 14 previous winners, in a unique challenge to determine the best of the best. The organiser hopes to secure a special prize from the Cowboys for this competition.

Another notable addition of this year's event is a charity raffle for a framed, signed ‘Maroon Commanders’ photograph featuring Queensland Origin legends, valued at $750. The raffle is open exclusively to competition participants, and all proceeds will be donated to a local charity, Meals on Wheels. The donation will be presented during the competition’s presentation night on September 13 at the Ingham RSL, where ticket sales will also take place.

Anyone can enter this competition and Geoff said someone that enters today can still win. This year, three young football enthusiasts have joined, with their grandfather proudly registering them.

The tipping competition, which costs $65 to join, is a non-profit initiative, with all funds going towards food, drinks, prizes, and a courtesy bus to ensure participants can enjoy the event safely. Each week, participants receive an email filled with witty commentary on team performances, adding an element of fun to the experience.

With strong community support and ongoing partnerships, the IGC NRL Tipping competition continues to bring locals together through their shared passion for rugby league, ensuring its legacy well beyond this milestone year.

Almost a decade has passed since Chris Holland and Craig Menegon took ownership of
Terry White Chemmart on July 1, 2015. In that time, the business has undergone significant changes, not only in its physical appearance but also in the services it provides to the community.

One of the biggest shifts in the pharmacy industry has been the expansion of services, particularly in vaccinations. Craig said almost all vaccinations can be done inside Terry White Chemist by the pharmacy team. He added that it has been a catalyst for further growth and increasing more services within the pharmacy.

Since taking over the pharmacy, the owners have also undertaken a rebranding. In September 2021, they transitioned to the current brand, which provided access to a wider range of products while also modernising the store’s appearance.

Both co-owners have long-standing ties to the pharmacy, having worked under the previous owner, which Craig said allowed himself and Chris to maintain the relationships they had built with customers,

Customer service remains at the heart of the business. Before Chris and Craig owned the chemist they worked under the slogan ‘Personal Service, Professional Care’, which is now echoed in Terry White Chemmart’s slogan ‘Dedicated to Care’.

The two of them learned that customers service is the most important part of the business, and they strive to maintain those strong relationships.

Craig said that moving to employee to ownership was a big change, they are still learning everyday, and its challenging but satisfying to be both a business owner and a pharmacist at the same time.

As flu season approaches, the pharmacy is preparing to meet the demand for vaccinations. The vaccines have arrived and they are ready to be distributed, by scanning the QR code on this page you can schedule your spot.

The business has also faced challenges, including operating through a power outage during a major flood event.

"We were fortunate that we didn’t have floodwater enter the store, but we had no power for a week," Craig recalled.

With nearly ten years in business, the pharmacy continues to evolve, ensuring it remains a trusted healthcare provider for the community. Craig said the best part of the job is having relationships with customers, and moving forward, he is looking forward to offering even more care to the people of the region.

My Katter’s Australian Party colleague Shane Knuth MP recently introduced a Crocodile Management Bill into Queensland Parliament, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. With the recent floods, crocs are turning up in places they weren’t before, making our waterways even more dangerous. For too long, we’ve been losing our pristine swimming holes and favourite recreational spots to these apex predators whose population goes completely uncontrolled.

Here in Hinchinbrook, we love fishing and the outdoors. It’s frustrating to be constantly told to be “croc wise” and to watch our behaviour. It feels like the government is more concerned with managing humans than managing crocs. That’s why I strongly support Shane Knuth’s bill. It puts the safety of humans first by calling for practical measures to reduce crocodile numbers in populated areas.

Crocodile control isn’t about wiping them out, it’s about restoring balance. The bill proposes targeted removals and common-sense management strategies that protect our right to safely enjoy our waterways. This includes the establishment of the Queensland Crocodile Authority, a local body based in Cairns, which would take full responsibility for crocodile management across the state.

I’d like to see the State Government get behind this bill and start listening to the communities that live with this problem every day. It’s easy when a majority of our politicians live in the south-east to ignore important issues like this in the North. It’s not an unreasonable request to just want the freedom to swim, fish, and relax without constantly looking over our shoulders.

Submissions on the bill are currently open until the 3rd of April 2025. For anyone wishing to make a submission, you can do so through the Queensland Parliament website. A public briefing will be held on the 2nd of April in Brisbane with a public hearing to follow on the 21st of May 2025.

Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook

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Since the flooding event, the Herbert River Improvement Trust has been dealing with increasing expectations from landowners and community while facing difficulties in securing adequate funding to carry out essential works.

With limited annual budget allocations and a reliance on grant funding, the Trust is struggling to meet demand for riverbank stabilisation, flood mitigation, and infrastructure protection.

The Trust's primary funding comes from an annual budget of approximately $280,000, supplemented by grants. However, securing grant funding has become increasingly difficult, as competition with other organisations intensifies.

In an effort to stretch resources, the Herbert River Improvement Trust follows a cost-sharing model with landowners, typically requiring a 50-50 financial contribution. However, when projects are funded through government grants, often under disaster recovery programs, landowners are not required to contribute.

Since the flood, the Trust is seeing a surge in requests from landowners, but the reality is they cannot fix everything immediately, and some landowners are unaware of the 50/50 contribution needed.

The prioritisation of projects is based on multiple factors, including financial contributions from landowners. Those willing to invest in their own properties often receive higher priority in the Trust's work program. Essential infrastructure projects, such as those that benefit entire communities, also take priority.

Securing government grants is a complex process, involving negotiations with multiple levels of government. More recently, a state grant of $400,000 helped raise the levee in Halifax, preventing severe flooding in the area. While such funding is vital, it is not guaranteed, and the Trust must continually push for financial support.

Getting a grant can take a serious amount of time which can in turn make landowners frustrated, but despite this, the Herbert River Improvement Trust is positive that they will see government grant support to help in this region.

Beaumont Tiles and Bathroomware in Ingham has been a cornerstone of the local building and renovation and building repair industry, providing expert advice, quality products, and unwavering community support. Owned and operated by Helen and Eric Shoubridge, this family business is more than just a tile and bathroom ware supplier, it is a trusted resource for homeowners and builders alike.

The store serves both residential and commercial customers, providing tiles and flooring, walls, kitchens, and bathrooms and assisting in designing and creating beautiful bathrooms and laundries with fixtures and fittings.

Helen emphasises that tiles are more than just a functional product, they can also be a statement piece in home design.

“Tiles are not just a barrier product, they are pieces of art and it comes down to the skill and design,” she said.

A significant part of their work involves collaborating with homeowners, contractors, and insurance companies to ensure seamless renovations.

People go into Beaumont Tiles with plans, and they can recommend tiles to work within different price ranges, all whilst finding what the customer had envisioned.

Helen and Eric moved to the district in 2004 to become motel owners and operators, and the experience they have gained since living in the region has allowed them to prepare for future disasters.

They have faced significant flooding and cyclone events whilst living in Ingham, and they quickly learnt the importance of quality materials and expert advice. This understanding led them to join Beaumont Tiles, a company known for its extensive range and reliable supply chain.

“We’ve been through these challenges ourselves,” Helen explained.

“Every flood has taught us something valuable, and that knowledge allows us to guide our customers on how to make the best choices for their homes and businesses.”

The recent floods brought unexpected challenges, with the store’s warehouse experiencing flooding for the first time. Despite taking precautions by storing materials on pallets, some stock was damaged. However, due to Beaumont Tiles being Australia-wide with locations throughout the country, they were able to work successfully to fulfil orders.

Helen said that Beaumont Tiles was and continues to be incredibly supportive, assisting in the recovery process and ensuring that supply remains consistent despite logistical difficulties.

Community support remains at the heart of Helen and Eric’s business philosophy.

“One of the reasons we chose to stay in Ingham was the incredible community spirit,” Helen said.

“When we first moved here, people would come by and ask if we needed help after a flood.”

Helen continues to thank everyone for their support in the early years by actively volunteering with Life Long Supports and The Abergowrie Long Pocket QCWA.

While Beaumont Tiles does not handle installations directly, Eric and Helen provide customers with the names of local businesses and assist customers in navigating current building challenges in the area.

As design trends evolve, the store ensures that customers have access to the latest styles and materials.

“We are always removing a certain style and putting in a new one,” said Helen.

“It’s quite exciting to collaborate with people to make their flooring, bathrooms, kitchens and laundries satisfying.”

Helen and Eric’s commitment to the community, combined with their deep industry knowledge has made Beaumont Tiles in Ingham an invaluable resource for homeowners and businesses alike.

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Forrest Beach is open again!

On Thursday 6th March, the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) stinger net was returned to the water, opening the beach to swimmers.

Member of the Forrest Beach SLSC and stinger net supervisor, Bill Johnson said the beach had been cleaned up since the flood. Bill acknowledged that the conditions were good, and quickly seized the opportunity to reinstall the net.

Bill advises to swim in the early morning or late afternoon for the best tide and water temperature.

Swimmers are advised to stay within the safety of the stinger net and between the red and yellow flags at all times. For added protection, wearing a lycra stinger suit is recommended.

“This weekend will see big tides at 6-7 o’clock in the morning, so this weekend will be absolutely beautiful for swimming,” said Bill.

The lifesavers patrol the beach, Saturdays - 1.00-5:00pm and Sundays & Public Holidays - 9:00am-5:00pm.

The stinger net has been out for at least a month, and now is a great time to get back in the water.

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An Australian-first initiative to improve fatigue management on farms has heard directly from busy primary producers about how they prioritise rest, safety and productivity.

CQUniversity researchers are compiling the practical advice for farmers, with farmers – with input from across dairy, cotton, eggs and grains sectors.

Now the project is creating useful guides to highlight causes, impacts and management strategies for fatigue on farms – and launching a new survey to grow understanding of farmers’ experiences.

Fatigue on-farm has been identified as an industry-wide priority for the Rural Safety & Health Alliance (RSHA), a collaborative partnership between AgriFutures Australia, Australian Eggs, Australian Wool Innovation, Australian Pork Ltd, Cotton Research and Development Corporation, Dairy Australia and Grains Research and Development Corporation.

In collaboration with the RSHA, the Farming and Fatigue: Growing Sensible Solutions project aims to help industry measure and manage fatigue on-farm.

Amy Cosby is part of the project team from CQUniversity’s Agri-tech Education and Extension team as well as a dairy farmer and busy mum.

She says the research is a first for the Australian agriculture sector, and importantly works with farmers to highlight effective habits for rest and wellbeing.

“What farmers have told us so far is that managing fatigue on farms is about more than hours in bed – it’s impacted by stress, and seasons, and weather, and of course the huge workloads involved with life on the land,” she said.

“But what we’ve also found, and what is certainly my personal experience, is that farmers also consider what they eat, how they exercise, how they schedule employee shifts, and even how they socialise, to try to get better rest, balance their life and avoid fatigue.

“We want producers to have a clear understanding of how their current working patterns can be tweaked to better manage the real risks of fatigue on farms,” Amy said.

Farmers can learn more about the Farming and Fatigue project and complete the anonymous survey online: https://bit.ly/FarmingFatigueSurvey

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