They say politics hardens you – and in some ways, that's true. But for me, it's never been about the politics. It's about the people. What keeps me going is what's always kept me going – a deep, stubborn love for North Queensland and a refusal to accept second best for the communities that call it home.

Take Hinchinbrook, for example. Whether it's fighting for phone coverage, medical services, roads or flood recovery, we deserve what Brisbane gets and what all Australians deserve – the basics done right, and the backing of government that actually cares.

Late last year, we saw the completion of the Telstra tower at Forrest Beach – something locals had been fighting for – for many years. It was a hard slog, but we got there together. That tower might look like steel and wires to some, but to the people of Forrest Beach, it's safety, connection, and inclusion in the modern world. Thanks must go to Nick Dametto and the community, who fought every step of the way and made it happen.

In Cardwell, we went toe-to-toe with health ministers to ensure the local GP didn't close its doors. When others gave up, we kept going. And thanks to the tireless efforts of people like Julie McKay and Carmen Edmondson – two of the most unrelenting tigers I've ever met – we kept vital healthcare in the region.

When the rains hit in February this year, we stood shoulder-to-shoulder with farmers, small business owners, and the community. After relentless pressure, we secured expanded Category D disaster grants – up to $75,000 – a critical lifeline. But our fight isn't over. Businesses that suffered devastating losses but weren't directly inundated, are still being left out. That's not good enough, and I'll keep pressing until that's fixed.

I've also fought hard to ensure our infrastructure is up to scratch. The Ollera Creek Bridge rebuild didn't just happen – it came after we got the PM and Premier to visit the site and get the works done. And just over two months ago, I secured the final 11kms of bitumen for the Kennedy Development Road inland from Hughenden. It might seem far away to some, but it's a game-changer for the North – offering a vital inland escape route when floods cut us off along the coast.

I know what it takes to get things done. I've got wisdom, mongrel, and patriot to keep fighting – because the North deserves nothing less.

Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism has been progressively increasing the support it offers its members and local business, over the past nine months, following the engagement of a part time marketing and administrative support officer. Having the skills and resources to provide this support, has enabled Chamber to deliver numerous targeted campaigns that has enabled local businesses to participate and grow their marketing reach. Whilst Chamber has very limited financial resources to dedicate to marketing, they use a strategic approach of combining print, radio and online platforms to achieve their promotional objectives.
During 2024, Chamber worked closely Life Publishing Group to assist in providing networks and supporting the return a local newspaper to the region. Following the launch of the hugely successful Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, Chamber has continued to provide a weekly update on the current issues that are impacting the business community.
In the online arena, Chamber has been strategic in targeting the audience, relative to the campaigns developed. These have included a very strong “Shop Local - The Hinchinbrook Way – Buy Local: Shop Local: Support Local” campaign which was launched in August 2024 and has been building momentum since that time. The November to Christmas period saw the very successful “Shop & Win – The Hinchinbrook Way” promotion rolled out, which saw many local businesses participate and gain an increased exposure during this period.
Moving into the New Year saw Chamber embark on a promotion of local employment opportunities and then support a recovery campaign, showcasing local businesses and tourism operators, as they were able to resume trading. Chamber has also focussed on a tourist visitation promotion leading into school holidays and the Easter period, reminding tourists the Shire is “open for business”. Many local businesses have capitalised on these campaigns showcasing the shire and services provided, to embrace the opportunity to raise their individual business profile.

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Cr Marbelli and I had the privilege of attending the Herbert River Museum and Gallery Annual General Meeting last Friday. It was great to see the good turnout of members and the number of volunteers prepared to join the committee of this amazing group that present, maintain and showcase a wealth of memorabilia portraying our district’s rich history and heritage since establishment in the 1800's. The museum, situated in Macrossan Street Halifax, would not be what it is without these dedicated volunteers who all work countless hours to ensure a memorable visitor experience for all. This year has been all the more intense for the volunteers who have had to deal with flooding of the premises and extensive clean up operations due to mould affecting much of the display. But the committee has persevered and the museum is back in operation in time for our winter visitors. Returning members of the executive committee are President Coral Gard, Secretary & Grants Officer Janet Astorquia and Treasurer Therese Mitchell. Thank you for all that you do on behalf of our community.

With Easter fast approaching, Council staff and contractors have been focussing on restoring access to our well known camping hotspots including Wallaman Falls and Jourama. Wallaman Falls in particular has proved quite a challenge with around thirty landslip affected areas assessed and short term hazard mitigation measures to support ongoing access and safety work undertaken. With emergent works now undertaken, Council is working in coordination with state agencies to meet the requirements of the disaster relief funding arrangements and Wet Tropics Management Authority guidelines to ensure permanent remediation works are undertaken as soon as possible.

The Mount Fox range has also proven very challenging due to the tremendous rain experienced over the past three months. Significant work has been performed to ensure temporary safety measures to allow access for our residents at the top of the range. Risk assessments and engineering evaluations are ongoing with the design phase for permanent slope stabilisation now initiated. I would like to remind all that the road remains under load restriction, due to continuing wet subgrade and road surrounds, and that extreme care continues to be needed whilst travelling on the road, particularly at night.

Happy Easter everyone, travel safely and have an enjoyable break with family and friends.

A heartwarming new initiative in North Queensland has already begun changing lives, giving young people in Townsville and the Hinchinbrook Shire the support they need to build bright futures. Set to Succeed, a Townsville-based not-for-profit, has launched a life-changing pilot program that not only helps young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people kick-start their careers in automotive, construction, and energy - but also ensures they have a safe and supportive place to call home.

The program has been made possible through partnerships with Mike Carney Toyota, AMA Group, and the Rotary Club of Thuringowa Central and aims to remove the housing barriers that often deter young people from staying within the Hinchinbrook region to peruse employment opportunities. Two houses have been provided to offer safe and supportive accommodation for five young people, along with a live-in support coordinator who will provide mentorship, life skills, and daily assistance.

Local businesses and community organisations have rallied behind the project in recognition of the urgent need for housing solutions to complement the region’s growing job market.

“Housing, Life Skills, Financial Literacy and Wellbeing are key challenges facing young people who want to continue their employment and training in Townsville (and Hinchinbrook),” shared Chris Carney of Mike Carney Group.

Antonio Winterstein founded Set to Succeed to further support the professional development and training of North Queensland’s future leaders, and he hopes the program will continue to flourish in the coming years.

“I founded Set to Succeed alongside others that have a drive to change the future of young people in North Queensland,” shared Antonio.

“We are so grateful to our industry and community supporters who understand our vision and want to be part of the solution.”

The pilot program will serve as a stepping stone for a larger, purpose-built facility in the future. With strong community and industry backing, Set to Succeed is paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for young people in North Queensland.

To learn more or support the initiative, visit www.settosucceed.com.au.

Although your bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in your home, the space still deserves as much love as any other! Whether you’re a novice decorator looking for quick fixes or a DIY enthusiast ready to tackle a project, there are plenty of ways to refresh your space without breaking the bank.

Simple Updates for Instant Impact

• Swap Out Accessories: One of the easiest ways to give your bathroom a fresh feel is by changing out the little details. Pop in a new candle, handwash dispenser, toothbrush holder or decorative tray for your toiletries to instantly elevate the space.
• Update Hardware: If your vanity is looking a little tired, bust out the screwdriver and quickly replace a couple of drawer handles and cabinet knobs with modern or stylish alternatives.
• Introduce Greenery: A small indoor plant, such as a fern or peace lily, can breathe life into your bathroom and improve air quality.
• Fresh Linens and a Shower Curtain: A new bathmat, plush towels, or a bold-patterned shower curtain can go a long way in adding colour and personality to the space.

**For the DIY Go-Getters

• Repaint or Refresh Your Walls: A fresh coat of paint in a soft neutral or a bold accent colour can transform the mood of your bathroom. For a stylish upgrade, consider adding peel-and-stick wallpaper for a statement wall.
• Upgrade Your Mirror: Instead of a plain mirror, opt for a framed one or add a DIY frame to your existing mirror for a high-end look on a budget.
• Install Open Shelving: Floating shelves can add both storage and style. Use them to display candles, neatly folded towels, or small decorative pieces.
• Replace Your Vanity or Sink: If you’re ready for a more hands-on project, swapping out an outdated vanity for a more modern version can dramatically change the feel of your bathroom.

Whether you’re making small changes or taking on a full-scale DIY project, these ideas will help you create a bathroom that feels fresh, stylish, and welcoming without the need for a full renovation!

With the Easter school holidays underway, Far North Queensland Police Services are ramping up their efforts on both land and sea to ensure locals and visitors stay safe throughout the busy holiday period.

From now until the 21st of April, drivers and boaters alike can expect to see a higher police presence as part of high-visibility operations across the region.

Cairns Water Police Officer in Charge, Sergeant Andrew Ibell, reminded locals to be prepared before hitting the water.

“It’s important to keep an eye on the weather conditions, and make sure you pack safety equipment including lifejackets and an EPRIB and always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return,” Sergeant Ibell said.

“Alerting family or friends or reporting your trip to the local Volunteer Marine Rescue group or Coast Guard could help save your life in the event of an emergency.”

His warning follows a recent rescue off the coast of Hope Vale, where three men were left stranded overnight on Boulder Reef after the propeller on their tinny fell into the water. The men were eventually located on a sand cay at around 2am by the Rescue 510 helicopter and taken to Cooktown for treatment.

“Fortunately, no one was seriously injured in this incident, but it highlights the importance of having safety equipment when venturing out to the reef,” Sergeant Ibell said.

The Queensland Police Service continues to stress the vast majority of serious crashes are avoidable and by being mindful of the Fatal Five, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death.

For more tips on staying safe this school holiday season, visit: www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads.

Mental health is a crucial component to a healthy, happy and productive life. For better or for worse we can never escape our own minds and as most readers probably know, the little voice in our heads is constantly speaking to us and sometimes the voice does not say nice things. For this reason it is important to talk about the inner workings of our minds as the little voice is not always right. So it is essential to normalise conversations surrounding mental well- being, share personal experiences when comfortable and acknowledge emotions openly.

Authentic and genuine conversation nurture connections, reduce isolations and build strong and supportive community relationships. Therefore it is helpful to share our thoughts and feelings with someone, a family member, friend or mental health professional as they can provide valuable insights, insights which may be difficult to see when we are limited to the vantage point that is the inside of our heads.

A stigma surrounds the topic of mental health, especially in regional areas such as Hinchinbrook, and dispelling this stigma begins with open, honest and frank conversations. Although there has been improvement in recent years, conversations surrounding mental health still carry with them a shadow of shame and misunderstanding.

Another key element is education. Inform yourself and help inform others of mental health conditions, treatments and resources. Arming ourselves with knowledge helps us dispel the myths and encourages informed and supportive conversations.

Lastly, engage in active listening. When people share their struggles, give them your attention and spare them your judgment. Often people simply need to be heard and validated. With the power of open dialogue regarding mental health we can foster empathy, reduce shame and create happier and healthier communities.

Tips on Breaking the Stigma: How to Talk About Mental Health Openly:

Start the Conversation Early
Don’t wait for a crisis. Begin talking about mental health in everyday conversations, just like you would any other health issue. Normalise the topic by casually bringing it up in social settings.

Be Honest and Vulnerable
Share your own experiences, struggles, or mental health journeys, if comfortable. When people see others being open, they feel encouraged to do the same and are less likely to feel ashamed or isolated.

Use Positive Language
Avoid using judgmental or stigmatising terms like "crazy" or "weak." Instead, use respectful language that focuses on mental health as an important part of overall well-being. For example, "I’ve been struggling with anxiety, and I’m seeking support."

Listen Without Judgment
When someone opens up about their mental health, be an active listener. Avoid offering solutions unless asked. Instead, offer empathy and let them know you’re there to support them, not to judge.

Encourage Professional Help
Talking openly about the importance of therapy, counselling, or other mental health services helps reduce the stigma around seeking professional support. Normalise the idea that seeing a therapist is as common and important as seeing a doctor for physical health concerns.

Educate Yourself and Others
Learn about mental health conditions and share what you’ve learned with others. Understanding the facts can help dispel myths and misconceptions, which are often the root cause of stigma.

Respect Privacy and Boundaries
Recognise that everyone has different comfort levels when it comes to sharing their mental health experiences. Respect boundaries and don’t pressure someone to talk if they’re not ready.

Use Your Platform for Advocacy
If you’re in a position to do so (whether through social media, your job, or community involvement), advocate for mental health awareness and resources. Sharing articles, personal stories, or positive messages about mental health can help normalise the conversation.

Encourage Open Dialogue in the Workplace or School
Advocate for mental health resources at work or school and create an open, non-judgmental environment where discussing mental health is welcomed. Encourage regular check-ins and support for mental well-being.

Show Empathy, Not Sympathy
Mental health struggles are not a pity party. Instead of offering sympathy, show empathy by acknowledging the person’s feelings and validating their experiences. Say things like, "I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but I’m here for you."

Growing your own herbs at home is an easy and rewarding way to elevate your meals while also enhancing your living space. Whether you have a garden, a windowsill, or even a small balcony, there’s always room to grow fresh herbs.

Top Tips:

Choose the Right Herbs for a tropical climate

The warm, humid environment means herbs that thrive in heat and moisture will do best. Some great options for our region include basil, mint, oregano, lemongrass, and coriander. Herbs like rosemary and thyme, which prefer drier conditions, may not thrive as well in the humid climate but can still grow with extra care in drier, well-drained soils.

Sunlight Considerations

While most herbs need plenty of sunlight, North QLD's intense sun can sometimes be too harsh, especially during summer months. You may need to provide some afternoon shade for your herbs to prevent them from getting scorched.

Watering

Due to the region's humidity and rain, overwatering can be a risk. Make sure your pots or garden beds have excellent drainage to avoid waterlogging. Be cautious about watering too frequently during the wet season, as the natural rainfall might provide sufficient moisture.

Protect from Pests

Tropical climates can attract various pests, so keep an eye on your herbs and use organic deterrents or barriers to protect them.

On Sunday 6 April 2025, I had the pleasure of attending the Ingham Region Catholic Parish celebrations of the Jubilee for the World of Volunteers, an occasion to honour and show our appreciation to all the valued volunteers working in our district.

It was an opportunity to express our community’s gratitude and appreciation to the many people who stepped forward and volunteered to assist during the recent flood event, and an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the incredible selflessness and dedication of so many in our community that help throughout the year in our district in so many different vocations.

We must rightly recognise and formally thank the army of dedicated people who devote significant time and effort to assisting our community such as the State Emergency Service volunteers, the Salvation Army, Red Cross and Rural Fire Services.

We also have our volunteer community organisations such as Lions International and Rotary. We have organisations such as Meals on Wheels that could not function without their valued delivery drivers, and sporting fixtures for the juniors of our community would not exist but for the generosity of many who give their time so selflessly every week to make sure that grounds are prepared and matches organised.

Council's very own TYTO operations would not be supported to the current level of activity but for the tremendous volunteer support it receives, and these examples are but just a few of the areas that immediately come to mind where volunteers are assisting and making a substantial difference in all walks of life in our community.

I would also like to acknowledge the many members of our community who simply hooked in and helped where they thought help was needed as our recent flood crisis unfolded.

Whether it was manning a boat and helping with evacuations, providing shelter, cooking, sharing or distributing food and supplies, helping to clean up or moving equipment or furnishings, or simply offering emotional support, efforts no matter how small or trivial that you think they were, was nothing short of heroic to others impacted by the event, to some who lost a lot or everything.

These ordinary everyday citizens from all walks of life, including many from our various sporting clubs as well, showed the true sense of community, the caring neighbourly principle and the power of community — how together, we can face challenges and overcome adversity.

You put aside your own needs, your own safety, and your own comfort to help those in need in a manner that clearly evidenced that spirit and compassion for others still exists in our community.

Volunteers like you remind us that in times of crisis, there is always hope, because of people like you who dedicate their time and energy to making our community a better place.

On behalf of Council and our Hinchinbrook community, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our volunteers and we want you to know that your efforts on our behalf are truly appreciated and make a distinct difference in our community.

Thank you everyone.

The Dalrymple Gap walking track follows the route of a road built in the 1860s, that in turn roughly followed the route taken by Aboriginal people across the Cardwell Range.

Teamsters used his trail to take supplies from Cardwell to Valley of Lagoons and other inland stations. Later this trail was used as a stock route; and cattle fattened on the Mount Fox tablelands were taken to the coast.

Near the top of Dalrymple Gap, on the coastal side, is an historic brick-lined bridge.

The bricks were brought from Scotland and the bridge has an interesting stone-pitched face.

The Dalrymple Gap walking track allows visitors to experience some of the beauty and diversity of Girringun National Park.

The RV Park in Forrest Beach is open again following its forced closure during the recent widespread flooding event. On Tuesday 1 April the popular camping spot was reopened for travellers.

Under the new lease passed by council the RV park will be open until the midnight Friday 31 October.

The Forrest Beach Progress Association are caretakers of the park, on behalf of council, and they are looking forward to another busy season.

The caravan park primarily caters to travellers escaping the colder southern climates, with peak occupancy occurring between late June and early August.

The Forrest Beach Progress Association provide essential information to new arrivals about local attractions, encouraging extended visits and return trips. Many travellers revisit the area on their journey home, further boosting local businesses.

For the 2025 season a change has been made to the parks requirements. Previously visitors had to be fully self-contained, including their own water supply. But this year they don’t. Travellers with roof-top tents are able to use the park, this adjustment expands accessibility while maintaining order within the limited space available.

As the season progresses, The Forrest Beach Progress Association expect a gradual increase in visitors, with peak occupancy in mid-year. The caravan park remains a vital asset to the local economy, providing a welcoming stop for travellers while supporting businesses and jobs within the shire.

The Herbert River Museum is open again, and operating under usual hours, 9am – 12pm Tuesday to Saturday.

Fortunately, the museum sustained minimal flood damage, and all of their rooms are open now including the major room, tools and office supply room, hospital room, barracks room, parlour or lounge room, and the military room.

The museum is currently preparing for its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on April 11. The meeting is set to commence at 10am and all community members, whether volunteers or not, are encouraged to attend and participate.

"We’ll start with the AGM, followed by our regular meeting and a morning tea. Everyone is welcome to join," said Herbert River Museum President Coral Guard.

One of the key issues on the agenda is funding, as the museum has struggled financially due to reduced visitor numbers and the closure of a nearby service station, which previously brought in foot traffic. Despite these challenges, volunteers remain committed to keeping the museum running and are actively seeking new members.

"We've had no income since last December, apart from a $5 donation when someone mistook us for being open while we were cleaning," Coral shared.

"With fewer volunteers, we need all the help we can get, even just a few hours a month makes a big difference.

“We are always looking for volunteers.”

The Herbert River Museum will also be open for Anzac Day commemorations. On April 25, visitors will be welcomed with tea, coffee, and homemade Anzac biscuits. The museum will also showcase a special window display and new flags ordered from overseas.

"Our windows will be decorated, and we’ll have flags flying, bunting, and plenty of poppies, many of which were crocheted by local aged care residents. We may also have rosemary available for visitors to take as a symbol of remembrance."

Museum representatives are also encouraging the public to visit and explore their exhibits, particularly the military room, which will be a focal point for Anzac Day.

The museum remains dedicated to preserving local history and honouring those who served. Community members interested in volunteering or attending the AGM are encouraged to come along and support this valuable local institution.

Preparations are well underway for this year’s highly anticipated Ingham Show. Organisers are working hard to finalise attractions, entertainment, and logistics to ensure another successful event.

This years show will be held on Thursday 26th & Friday 27th of June and as always, the show will feature popular competitions and displays, including horse jumping, cattle judging, wood chopping, poultry exhibitions, caged birds, and dog events. A family favourite, the animal nursery, will also return, giving children the chance to interact with a variety of friendly farm animals.

While many of the traditional events will be back, organisers are still in the process of securing additional entertainment.

“We will have a new source of entertainment. We try to get something different each year for centre ring,” said Ingham Show Secretary Sharan Kelley.

“We don't want the same thing year after year, a lot of people like motorbikes, but we try to get something different.”

One of the biggest challenges in putting together the event is securing enough volunteers.

The show committee is calling on community members to lend a hand in the week leading up to the event to help with setup, including preparing school displays, mounting photography exhibitions, and assisting with various needs.

Volunteers are also needed during the show to help with cattle and horse events, as well as general operations.

Those who volunteer will be rewarded with free entry to the show and provided with meals while they work.

Despite the challenges, organisers remain optimistic about the show’s success. After last year’s difficulties with wet weather and ground conditions, they are hopeful for smoother preparations this time around.

“We are looking forward to this years show,” said President Wayne Fordin.

“It's always hard, but then once things start to come together, it just flows on.”

With just three months remaining, plenty of work still lies ahead, including fencing repairs, setting up power and water, and preparing the grounds to be in top shape.

However, as everything starts to come together, the reward is seeing the community come together to enjoy the show.

The committee welcomes anyone interested in joining as a volunteer or committee member. Monthly meetings provide an opportunity to contribute ideas and help plan the event, with fresh perspectives always encouraged.

Community involvement is key to keeping this tradition alive, and those passionate about the show are encouraged to get involved. To learn more or lend a hand, reach out to the show committee or attend the next planning meeting.

NQ Travel & Cruise had its official opening last week on Wednesday 2 April and it was well attended.

Mayor Ramon Jayo, Deputy Mayor Mary Brown, and Councillor Patrick Lynch attended to offer congratulations to NQ Travel & Cruise on their opening.

NQ Travel & Cruise owner Kathleen Lynch said she is very excited to have opened her doors.

“It's a wonderful feeling. I'm very happy with everything. My office space is beautiful and I’m ready to welcome wonderful clients through the doors,” she said.

“I will be able to focus my time on planning the best holidays for people and making their bucket list, dreams come true.”

Kathleen has lots of favourite travel destinations but she said the Cook Islands has stood out to her as an island getaway. She loves the beautiful scenery, people and relaxed nature.

Following the extreme weather events that have impacted the Hinchinbrook Shire and other parts of the State of Queensland over past several months, the focus of Council has moved from response to recovery.

Immediately following the flooding, the Recovery Group and sub groups of Infrastructure, Environment, Human and Social and Environment, commenced engagement with local groups to gain an understanding of what the impacts of the event on the community have been and also plan for what actions need to be implemented, to support the transition of the community to reinstate their lives and lifestyles.

The recovery process has now been underway for almost two months and has already seen some pleasing progress made, however we know this will be a marathon journey and are putting the framework in place to ensure capacity to provide the support required to assist the community transition to their new normal.

The 2025 Community Recovery Plan is progressing very well and it is hoped will be in a position to be formally adopted in the coming weeks.

One of the transition actions has seen the Community Recovery Hub previously located in the TAFE building has now relocated to 73-81 Lannercost Street, Ingham. Any locals seeking assistance with grants, providing follow up information for earlier applications or any general assistance requests, of any kind, can visit the Community Information and Referral Centre, which has now opened.

Currently there are representatives from Community Recovery, Lifeline and Department of Housing present at this property. As opportunity allows, there will be other agencies available for referrals or to schedule appointments with representatives. Private consulting rooms and office space will also be available for confidential and discreet appointments and it is planned to also host workshops and information sessions, at this centre.