Sugar cane growers in North Queensland are grappling with the dual challenges of rising electricity costs and restricted access to peak-time energy. According to irrigation specialist Chris Doblo of Farmacist Pty Ltd, the solution lies in smarter, more efficient practices. Drawing on his extensive experience, Mr Doblo shares practical strategies for growers to future-proof their operations and adapt to these mounting pressures.
Rethinking Irrigation Efficiency
One of the most critical steps for growers, Mr Doblo advises, is to evaluate their current irrigation systems. With potential restrictions cutting irrigation time by 20 per cent, it is essential to optimise systems to deliver more water in less time.
Enhancing pumping infrastructure and performing regular maintenance can ensure consistent performance. Trials conducted in North Queensland have shown that higher inflow rates not only save time but also improve water distribution, leading to additional irrigation benefits and reduced wastage.
Automating for Success
Automation offers significant opportunities for growers to optimise their irrigation processes. With limited irrigation hours and ongoing labour shortages, automated systems can provide precise control over water application, ensuring efficiency and consistency.
“Automation has become more accessible and affordable,” Mr Doblo explains, “and it’s an effective option for growers to overcome resource and time constraints.” Features like automated scheduling and real-time monitoring allow water to be applied during off-peak energy periods, maximising cost savings.
Harnessing Solar Power
Solar energy continues to be one of the most practical investments for sugar cane growers. For pumps of 18.5 kW or larger, installing a solar array can significantly reduce reliance on grid electricity, particularly during daylight hours when energy demand is highest.
Mr Doblo highlights that solar offers more than just cost reductions. “As the industry moves towards energy storage solutions like batteries, growers who have already adopted solar power will be better prepared for future changes,” he says.
Planning for Off-Peak Energy
Aligning irrigation schedules with off-peak energy tariffs, such as Tariff 34, offers growers immediate savings of up to 30 per cent. While these tariffs may face additional restrictions in the future, Mr Doblo emphasises their current value in reducing operational costs.
However, he warns growers to prepare for potential interruptions, as off-peak energy may eventually become a “switchable load” during peak demand periods. Diversifying energy sources and improving irrigation efficiency are essential to navigating these changes.
The Road Ahead
Adapting to rising electricity prices and shifting energy regulations is no easy task, but the solutions are within reach for North Queensland’s sugar cane growers. As Mr Doblo explains, “Investments in infrastructure, automation, and solar energy are not just beneficial—they are essential for the future of our industry.”
By adopting these strategies and embracing innovation, growers can overcome energy constraints and maintain sustainability.

On December 23, 2024, Syngenta Australia Pty Ltd (ACN 002 933 717) initiated a voluntary recall for specific batches of GRAMOXONE® 360 PRO Herbicide, sold by agricultural retailers between October 1 and December 20, 2024. The recall was made under Section 106 of the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code, as part of the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code Act 1994.
Reason for Recall: The recall concerns the 20L containers from batches 389865 and 389866, which were found to have not met the required durability specifications. These containers may not be sufficiently robust for handling and use, leading to a potential safety hazard.
Hazard: The affected 20L containers of GRAMOXONE® 360 PRO Herbicide have been identified as having reduced strength. Under certain stress conditions encountered during storage, transport, and use, there is an increased risk that the containers may rupture, posing a hazard to individuals handling the product.
What to Do: If you possess 20L containers from batches 389865 or 389866, it is essential that you do not use the product. These containers should be quarantined in a locked, bunded pesticide storage area to prevent access. Affected customers should contact Syngenta Customer Service for further instructions on the collection and refund process.
For Further Information: If you have any questions or require further details regarding this voluntary recall, Syngenta urges customers to contact their Customer Service team at 1800 022 035.

Tina Knight, the new owner of the Cardwell Beachcomber Restaurant, has quickly made her mark since taking over on 20th December, with early signs pointing to a successful venture.
After dedicating 25 years to teaching, Tina spent the past year yearning for a fresh challenge. A visit to family in Cardwell set the wheels in motion when she discovered the Beachcomber’s Restaurant. She was instantly captivated, not only by the charm of the restaurant but also by its breathtaking ocean views—her favourite feature of the establishment.
Tina’s transition from the classroom to the culinary world has already begun to pay off, with her passion and dedication shining through.
Tina said she has always wanted to retire in far-north Queensland and when the restaurant came up for sale, she jumped at the opportunity.

“It's always been somewhere we came for holidays, and it's just got everything: the rainforest, the beach and the reef,” Tina said.

She had been an English teacher for a while but stepping into restaurant ownership wasn’t particularly new to her, as she has been around restaurants and businesses her entire life.

Restaurants and businesses are also in her blood.

“My mum is a retired chef, and my dad owns a lot of businesses; we are a business-orientated family, mainly in the restaurant area, so I have got a lot of support from them,” said Tina.

Tina has also been getting a lot of support from the local community.

“The community is amazing here, I have never ever seen so much support,” exclaimed Tina.

“I'm taken aback. I've never lived in tiny towns, but if I had known this was what it was like, I probably would have done it sooner.”

The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with State Library of Queensland, The Queensland Government and Hinchinbrook Shire Council, to bring you this free two-part Workshop.
 
Digital Content Creation allows you to learn the art of digital storytelling using your smartphone. Level up or build new skills to transform your ideas into captivating content that connects and inspires!
 
During this hands-on workshop you’ll learn how to:
   • Craft compelling stories using video, photos and audio content,
   • Learn more about your phone’s features and apps,
   • Use budget-friendly gear,
   • Get tips on editing and effects, and
   • Post and share your finished work online.
  
This workshop is targeted towards business owners but is open to everybody wanting to fine tune their skills or learn something new.

Tickets are free and you must attend both sessions.

All you need to bring is your smartphone and an attitude eager to learn.

Event Details
When: Wednesday 19 February & Tuesday 25 February 2025
Where: TYTO Conference and Events Centre, Ingham
Time: 5:15pm – 7:45pm
RSVP: 17 February 2025
Cost: FREE
Tickets: Follow the QR Code on the attached flyer
 
**BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL! – LIMITED SPACES SO GET IN QUICK**

When it comes to keeping homes and businesses pest-free, Michael Slater is the local expert you can count on. With 22 years of experience in the pest control industry, Michael has built a reputation for tackling everything from termites to birds while providing friendly and professional service.

Michael began his career alongside his parents, Edd and Julie Slater, under the Flick brand. While Edd and Julie have since retired, Michael’s passion for pest control led him to continue the family legacy with his own business, aptly named The Pest Control Guy.

Operating the only local pest control service in the area, Michael covers an impressive stretch from Ingham to Cardwell and beyond. His business handles a wide variety of pests, offering tailored solutions for every challenge.

Behind the scenes, Julie remains involved in The Pest Control Guy by managing bookings and paperwork. She wants the community to know that despite their retirement from Flick, local pest control is alive and well.

“There’s been some confusion,” Julie said, “but we’re still here, and Michael’s always ready to help.”

Michael’s dedication goes beyond extermination.

Michael loves the variety, and he loves meeting people,

“Every day and every job is a different experience, and he thrives on that.”

Flexibility is a cornerstone of The Pest Control Guy. Michael is available six days a week and works around his clients’ schedules to ensure convenience.

Whether you’ve got spiders in the shed or birds causing a bother, you can trust The Pest Control Guy to have your back—and your home pest-free.

Michael Slater is ready to make your home pest-free.

The Hinchinbrook Shire Council has recently shared an important reminder to beachgoers, highlighting that reckless behaviour when accessing the region’s coastal reserves will not be tolerated.

Despite previous warnings, there are still reports of recreational vehicles driving over foreshore vegetation, causing damage to the environment. Additionally, both Council and the Queensland Police are continuing to receive complaints about illegal driving, unregistered vehicles, speeding, littering, and overall disregard for these sensitive natural areas. Such actions contribute to sand dune instability, leading to coastal erosion and the destruction of vital habitats for nesting shorebirds, sea turtles, and other wildlife.

To minimise environmental impact and ensure safety, Council urges all beach users to access beaches only via designated entry points. It is recommended to travel along beaches during the two hours around low tide when the sand is firmer between the waterline and the high tide mark.

Beachgoers should avoid high tide periods and the intertidal zone, drive cautiously to avoid destabilising the sand, and show consideration for other beach users and wildlife.
Queensland Police and Council Officers are authorised to enforce these rules and violators can face fines under normal road rules.

Please remember to:
   • Travel at a maximum of 50 km/hr, with a recommended speed of 20 km/hr
   • Reduce tire pressure when driving on sand, following manufacturer guidelines
   • Be respectful of others using the beach
   • Leave only footprints, and enjoy responsibly

Do not:
   • Drive on sand dunes or over vegetation
   • Disturb wildlife
   • Neglect these rules and spoil the experience for others

Beach users can report violations to Council or the Queensland Police either by phone or through the online portal at forms.police.qld.gov.au/launch/Hooning.

The Hinchinbrook Shire Council appreciates the community's cooperation in protecting and preserving the natural environment.

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In 2025, the Ingham Coast Guard will transition to the newly established Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ), in line with the Queensland government’s restructuring. As part of this change, theflotilla will adopt the new name MRQ Lucinda, effective February 1st.This marks a new chapter for the service after 52 years of dedicated operation, and is part of a state-wide effort to streamline marine rescue operations for better coordination and support.

The Ingham Coast Guard has long been a vital part of the local community, covering avast area from the northern tip of Hinchinbrook Island to Palm Island, and out to the surrounding reef. Their dedicated team of volunteers has provided rescue and safety services to boaters and maritime users across one of Queensland's most rugged and scenic coastal regions. The shift to MRQ Lucinda signals both a continuation of this proud legacy and an exciting new chapter for those who depend on their expertise and support.

A Legacy Of Marine Excellence

The Ingham Coast Guard have been operational for 52 years from Lucinda and they cover a broad area, from all the way to the top of Hinchinbrook Island and down to Palm Island, plus out to the reef in that enclosed area.

The Ingham Coast Guard are equipped with two boats, one for smaller tides and lower crews and another larger boat, for rescues far out to the reef.

Both boats are equipped with Forward-looking infrared (FLIR) and Commander Steve Whipps said it is vital for night time dispatches.

“If someone is in the water, you can spot them by heat sensing. It's also got night vision on it and that helps us find things in the dark,” said Steve.

At the Ingham Coast Guard they do lots of training, to ensure that all volunteers are fit, able and qualified to conduct rescues.

They have some young volunteers but due to work, and other commitments it is hard for them to volunteer their time, that is why the Ingham Coast Guard are majority retirees and the average age is an impressive 72!

Steve said they are always looking for more people to help out.

“We need more people, we are always looking for new recruits around the 65 to 70 mark,” said Steve.

“We need that age group who've got the time and still got the fitness to do the job.

“If someone wants to come and join up, the first thing I say to them is that, if I ring you at three o'clock on a winter's night, are you going to get out of bed and come and do the job?”

Ingham Coast Guard also offer courses for people wishing to complete certifications.

They offer first-aid courses and certification renewal, a marine radio license course, and navigation courses.

Ingham Coast Guard To Become MRQ Lucinda

In a move aligned with Queensland’s government restructuring, the Ingham Coast Guard is transitioning to the newly established Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) in 2025. As part of this change, the flotilla will adopt the new name MRQ Lucinda - effective on the 1st of February.

This change is being made to better align with marine navigation charts, which prominently feature Lucinda, reducing confusion among boating and yachting enthusiasts who frequently navigate the Hinchinbrook coastline. Currently, Ingham is not listed on marine charts, which can lead to complications for watercraft operators.

Since its formation in 1961, the Ingham Coast Guard has been supported by the local community, and that support remains unwavering. The name may be changing, but the Coast Guard’s core mission - ensuring the safety of lives on the water - will remain unchanged. The hardworking volunteers, who have always been a vital part of the team, look forward to this exciting new chapter and will continue to be there when needed.

Although the name change is a significant milestone, the commitment to safety, service, and community remains at the heart of everything the Coast Guard does. The team thanks the Ingham and surrounding communities for their ongoing support and looks forward to continuing to serve as MRQ Lucinda.

Contributed with thanks to Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14, MRQ Lucinda.

Many members of the Hinchinbrook community were left both puzzled and concerned when a local beach goer captured and shared a photo of a dozen deceased fish washed up along the shoreline of Taylor’s Beach.

Observed as Spotted Grunter, Mullet, Flathead, and Archer Fish, similar instances occurred upstream at Victoria Creek in early December of 2024. It’s believed the changing weather conditions are to blame, resulting in low dissolved oxygen levels in area’s waterways.

“Fresh water, hot weather, and small tides make for low oxygen levels in the creeks which isn’t good for the fish population,” shared fisherman, Brett Gossner.

Lynda Kelley had previously come across news of the unusual occurrence online, and once she saw the shoreline firsthand, she felt the need to alert the community to her Christmas Day discovery.

“I posted so people would be aware and maybe not go swimming for a couple of days,” explained Lynda.

“I don’t know more than what people have said about too much fresh water trapped by inactive tides - there were fish on the tide line, and out on the sandbars.”

As outlined by the Australian Government Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder, low-oxygen water presents a great risk to aquatic ecosystems, and commonly occurs following recent flooding, or as a result of congested waterways due to a build up of sticks, grass or crops. Although worrying, the natural occurrence is not permanent, and oxygen levels will return to normal within days or sometimes weeks.

Further information surrounding the impacts of low oxygen water can be found online at www.dcceew.gov.au.

Hi Everyone,

Happy New Year!

I hope everyone had a wonderful time over Christmas.

Before the New Year, I was living in both the Whitsundays and in Hinchinbrook but now I am up here in Hinchinbrook all the time. No more 10 hours of driving every single week, and I think it will be for the better!

Over the Christmas period I travelled to Adelaide where my family live and it was really nice to see them and also have some time catching up with friends too (maybe too much fun!) So much fun in fact I will be doing Dry January.

Over the weekend I enjoyed some time down in Townsville, I went to the cinema to watch Nosferatu and Paddington in Peru. I used to love visiting the cinema back in Adelaide but since moving up to regional Queensland I hadn’t been to the cinema in months. I decided to watch two movies in one day because both films interested me and I really enjoyed it. I liked Nosferatu for its creepy atmosphere, dark lighting and great acting, and Paddington was good for its light heartedness.

Townsville is quite a big drive for a cinema trip, so I am looking forward to the JL Kelly Theatre showing of Heretic later this month. My parents have seen it and they say I will enjoy it, so I’m looking forward to that one!

Going into the New Year, I look forward to continuing to serve the community with this free newspaper and I hope we all have a great 2025.

Quote of the week

‘If we’re kind and polite the world will be right’ - Paddington

Many members of the Ingham community were left stunned when the smell of smoke and the sound of nearby sirens filled the air just after 5pm on Thursday the 2nd of January.

The Queensland Fire Department were called to a two-storey house located on the corner of Ardrossan and Yeldham Streets at 5.20pm, with a spokesperson adding that the blaze was quickly contained at 5.45pm.

Three Queensland Fire Department crews attended the scene as well as paramedics with a Queensland Ambulance Service spokesperson confirming the building was empty at the time of the fire.

A Queensland Police Service spokeswoman has confirmed police are not treating the fire suspicious, outlining the Queensland Fire Department have confirmed the cause of the fire was an electrical fault within the fridge with damage contained to the fridge and a nearby cupboard.

Since its establishment in 2009, the Ingham Palliative Carers Committee has been dedicated to supporting the community and helping those in need of navigating ongoing health issues.

Recently, the committee was able to drive their level of assistance even further when Brian and Theresa Hurley bequeathed an incredible $203,000 to the non-profit organisation.

After careful consideration, the committee decided to use the donation to purchase a vehicle, which they named "The Hurley Bus" in honour of the couple's generosity.

‘The Hurley Bus’ has already begun to transport frail and palliative patients in Ingham to and from medical appointments, and any other outings that passengers may like.

Currently the bus has done three trips, all have been medical but current President of Ingham Palliative Carers Committee Judy Cardillo wants the people of Ingham to know they offer more.

“We'll try to accommodate any plans anyone's got. That's what we're hoping to do. It's not just for trips to Townsville,” said Judy.

Judy is hoping that ‘The Hurley Bus’ makes it easier for people in Ingham to have access to transport.

Judy hopes to make frail, aged and palliative people gain access to more accessible transport and also aims to make the journey as pleasant as possible.

Every journey has a driver and an assistant who is there to ensure everyone has the best possible day. They have lots of volunteers for ‘The Hurley Bus’ and most are awaiting their first trip.

If you or anyone you know needs access to a vehicle, ‘The Hurley Bus’ is available for you, contact Judy Cardillo 0428 921 822.

With the New Year underway, I hope everyone enjoyed a well-deserved break and is feeling refreshed for the year ahead. This time of year is a great chance to reflect, recharge, and gear up for what the next 12 months will bring. For Hinchinbrook, there is plenty of work to be done in 2025, and I’m ready to hit the ground running. This year my focus will be on pushing ahead with our major road and marine infrastructure projects
that are critical to the future and growth of our region.

In the northern part of the electorate, I look forward to seeing the detailed design finalised for the Gairloch project. This project also includes the Seymour River stretch where far too many accidents have occurred in recent times. The Dallachy Road project near Tully is due to commence construction at the end of the wet season and it will be great to finally see some concrete and steel coming out of the ground and work commencing to flood mitigate the southern approach to Tully.

In Townsville, the Woolcock Street corridor, running through Burdell, Deeragun, and Mount Low, will be a major priority as the need to alleviate congestion during peak times grows by the day. This problem must be rectified so that more housing options can be unlocked in Townsville’s north.

In the new year we are expecting to see progress with the rock wall and dredging project at Dungeness and in Port Hinchinbrook it appears the State is set to continue the process of acquiring the remaining properties under liquidation. Another major focus of mine is getting the Cassady Creek boat ramp moved closed to the mouth of the creek. These facilities are not only important for locals, but they also play a major role in
attracting visitors to our region.

While it’s still early days, the government has shown encouraging support for the key projects that matter to Hinchinbrook. I’m optimistic that as we head into the New Year, we’ll be in a strong position to push forward and deliver the projects our Hinchinbrook community truly deserves.

I hope you all are enjoying what remains of the New Year break and here’s to a successful and productive year ahead!

Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook

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Queensland’s weather can change in an instant, and December’s flooding across the Hinchinbrook Shire and surrounding areas may be a sign of what’s to come this disaster season. While we can’t prevent floods, we can take steps to be better prepared and reduce their impact on our lives through understanding flood risks, warning systems, and implementing preparedness plans.
The impacts of floods vary, from positive effects like replenishing ecosystems during droughts to devastating consequences, including loss of life, property damage, and long-term recovery challenges.
In Queensland, three types of flooding occur: riverine, flash, and storm surge. Riverine flooding happens from prolonged rainfall, causing rivers to overflow, flash flooding is a rapid occurrence due to heavy rainfall in a short period, while storm surges happen when sea water is pushed inland during a cyclone.
In preparation for predicted flooding, the Hinchinbrook community can access the Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Emergency Disaster Dashboard via disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au to understand the flood risks in the area. Along with updates concerning the immediate Hinchinbrook region, locals are also able to register for alerts via the Bureau of Meteorology to be notified of up-to-date warnings.
Some useful preparation steps include creating an emergency plan, ensuring flood insurance, maintaining your property, and packing an evacuation kit. Understanding the risks and taking proactive measures can reduce the impact of floods on your family and property this disaster season.

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Queensland has experienced its deadliest year on the roads in 15 years, with 302 lives lost in 2024. This marks a tragic 25-person increase over 2023 and a 33-person rise compared to the five-year average. The state’s worst road toll since 2009 has prompted calls for drivers to be more vigilant, especially as the summer holiday period brings increased traffic.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads, The Honourable Brent Mickelberg, emphasised the need for caution.

“At this time of year, we know people typically spend more time on the road than usual,” Mr Mickelberg said.

“There is still no excuse to speed, lose focus, not wear a seat belt properly, or drive when you’re affected by drugs or alcohol – it’s just not worth the risk.”

The major contributing factors to road fatalities remain the Fatal Five: speeding, fatigue, distraction (including mobile phone use), incorrect seatbelt use, and drink and drug driving. Speeding continues to rise as a key factor, particularly among motorcyclists, who made up 77 of the fatalities, a 25.5% increase from the five-year average.

Young drivers aged 16 to 24, who make up 13% of the state’s licence holders, were involved in almost 30% of fatal crashes, while senior drivers accounted for 98 deaths, a 32% increase from previous years.

Regional Queensland, particularly the Southern region and North Coast, saw the highest number of fatalities, with more than 60% of the state’s fatal crashes occurring outside urban areas.

Minister Mickelberg also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve road safety, including advocating for increased federal funding to upgrade the Bruce Highway.

To access more information on road safety, visit https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/.

Hinchinbrook’s smallest and rarest tern, the Little Tern, has made its seasonal return to Lucinda to raise its young, with the birds expected to stay until late January.

With only around 1,200 of these tiny terns breeding along the entire eastern seaboard, the discovery of ten nests on Lucinda Spit has captured the attention of several local and regional groups, including Birdlife Australia, Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Mungalla Rangers, and the Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation. In response, a temporary fence has been erected around the nests, which will remain in place for about three to four weeks to protect the fragile young.

These delicate birds, weighing only about an eighth of a seagull’s weight, are nesting on the sand and among spinifex plants near the water's edge. Their eggs are cleverly camouflaged in the sand, shells, and coral rubble - an effective natural defence against predators. However, this camouflage also makes it easy for vehicles, dogs, or even walkers to accidentally crush the eggs and chicks.

Lucinda's Little Terns faced a setback last year, losing all their nests to high tides during Christmas 2022 and to Cyclone Jasper in December. However, this year, hope is high as two chicks, born in late November, have already reached the flying age and can be seen on the water's edge, under the watchful care of their parents and other adult terns.

Contributed with thanks to Wetland and Coastal Birds Coordinator for Birdlife Australia, Simon Kennedy.