The Hinchinbrook by-election is set to be a hot contest after Nick Dametto’s unexpected resignation earlier this month. The candidates are now confirmed ahead of the fast-approaching vote. Katter’s Australian Party has nominated Mark Molachino, former Townsville Deputy Mayor and councillor, who brings years of local government experience. His recent switch from the Labor Party has attracted attention. The LNP’s pick is Wayde Chiesa, a local former Regional Development Australia CEO. Premier David Crisafulli praised Chiesa’s commitment to tackling crime, flood recovery, and supporting local agriculture. One Nation’s candidate is Lisa Buchtmann, a Cardwell small business owner and ex-army truck driver, focused on youth crime, tourism infrastructure, and housing affordability. Labor confirmed it will run a candidate but has not yet made an official announcement. As campaigning ramps up, voters will be closely watching these candidates and their policies ahead of the by-election. Read more about the candidates on p.3. **p.3 ** TITLE: Candidates announced for Hinchinbrook by-election after Dametto’s shock exit Following Nick Dametto’s shock announcement that he will step down from the seat of Hinchinbrook to pursue the Mayoralty of Townsville, the candidates for the upcoming by-election have now been revealed, with the election fast approaching. Mark Molachino Representing Katter’s Australian Party in the Hinchinbrook by-election is Mark Molachino, the former Deputy Mayor of Townsville. Mr Molachino served as the councillor for Division 4 from 2016 until he lost his seat in the 2024 local government elections. Throughout his time on council, he was involved in a range of infrastructure, planning, and community initiatives across the city. Prior to joining Katter’s Australian Party, Mr Molachino was previously affiliated with the Labor Party, a detail that has drawn attention in the lead-up to the by-election. His candidacy brings both experience and a notable shift in political alignment. Wayde Chiesa Wayde Chiesa has been announced as the LNP candidate for the Hinchinbrook by-election, launched by Premier David Crisafulli in Ingham. A former RDA CEO, Mr Chiesa grew up locally and said he’s “passionate about delivering for this region.” Premier Crisafulli, who’s known him for decades, said Chiesa is “made of the right stuff” and “will do a great job.” Mr Chiesa identified crime, flood recovery, and agriculture as key issues. “I will fight 24/7 to make our community safer,” he said, backing new CCTV under the Secure Communities program. “I’m getting off the bench and on the field,” he added. Lisa Buchtmann Former army truck driver and small business owner Lisa Buchtmann will stand as One Nation’s candidate for the Hinchinbrook by-election. Based in Cardwell, the 40-year-old is focused on tourism infrastructure, youth crime, housing affordability, and cost of living. “I’m a mother with a teenage son and I’m very concerned about his future in our community, and the future for all kids in Hinchinbrook,” Ms Buchtmann said. She pointed to the Bruce Highway’s poor condition and backed One Nation’s plans to “slash immigration,” dismantle “net zero policies,” and reduce youth crime through programs like “Operation Hard Yakka” and a judicial accountability panel. Labor Party The Labor Party has confirmed it will contest the by-election, although a formal announcement of its candidate is yet to be made. As the political arena heats up, more information on each candidate will be shared to help inform your vote - you can read more in our 'Meet the Candidates' special in the paper next week.
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The February 2025 floods left an undeniable mark on Hinchinbrook Shire, affecting every corner of the community and testing resilience like never before. In response, Hinchinbrook Shire Council is introducing a new category in the 2026 Australia Day Awards — the Flood Hero Recognition — to honour the countless individuals who selflessly stood up to support their neighbours and help rebuild our community. Mayor Ramon Jayo said the overwhelming spirit shown during those difficult days. “These floods impacted us all, and throughout the crisis, ordinary people showed extraordinary kindness and courage,” Mayor Jayo said. “They didn’t seek recognition; they acted out of love and a deep sense of responsibility to their community. “This award is about recognising their quiet heroism and the strength they gave us when we needed it most. “This is the community’s chance to thank those who gave so much without expecting anything in return.” The Flood Hero Recognition category is unique. It’s not about a single winner but about honouring the many hands that held us together. Council invites the community to nominate anyone who inspired them from volunteers to emergency responders to neighbours who simply helped in small but meaningful ways. From celebrating outstanding citizens of all ages, to recognising cultural and sporting achievements, community events, and acts of heroism during the 2025 floods — there’s a category for every kind of contribution. Judges may reassign nominations to ensure they’re recognised in the most fitting category. Nominations across all categories are now open and will close at 5.00pm on Monday 15 December 2025. Visit www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/community-environment/australia-day-celebrations/how-to-nominate/ for more information, visit the Council office at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham or call 4774 4600. Award recipients will be celebrated at the Australia Day event on 26 January 2026 at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall.
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Warrina Lakes came alive from 2–4 October as families and anglers of all ages gathered for the annual Tilapia Tournament — a much-loved Cassowary Coast tradition that unites the community while protecting the local environment. A record 710 participants took part in this year’s event, reeling in 604 tilapia, an invasive pest fish species that threatens native aquatic habitats. Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood said removing tilapia from local waterways plays an important role in restoring the health of Warrina Lakes and protecting native species. All fish caught were deep-buried on site to ensure safe disposal. “The Tilapia Tournament shows how local events like this can have a real impact, not just by removing tilapia from our waterways, but by bringing people together to learn, work as a team and care for our rivers and lakes for years to come,” Mayor Millwood said. Mayor Millwood and Councillors Nick Pervan, Renee McLeod and Jeff Baines joined participants throughout the event, encouraging catch efforts and discussing future opportunities for Warrina Lakes. Warrina Lakes is a great open space, and once you have been there you can’t wait to return,” Councillor Pervan said. “Seeing families, including mums, dads, aunties, uncles, and grandparents down there and catching fish shows how much the community and in particular the kids love attending each year,” he said Travelling families from Brisbane, Tully and Mission Beach also joined in, highlighting the event’s regional appeal. Councillor Baines presented 32 prizes across 18 categories, recognising the skills and enthusiasm of the region’s most dedicated young anglers. The tournament’s success was made possible through 32 local sponsors, who contributed over $9,600 in prizes and helped run activities such as face painting and a sausage sizzle. Special thanks were extended to Bek & Joe’s Donuts, Innisfail Mini Rail, and Goodstart Early Learning for helping create a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. As the last fish were measured and buried, one message was clear: that events like the Tilapia Tournament not only bring people together but help safeguard the Cassowary Coast’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
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Our Lady of Lourdes students have once again demonstrated their outstanding public speaking skills at the annual Frank Fraser Lecturette District Final, held on 16 October and hosted by Ingham State School. Sponsored by Rotary, the event brought together talented young speakers from across the district to showcase their confidence, preparation, and creativity. Representing Our Lady of Lourdes were Asha Goldfinch, Ruby Gori and Cianne Lyons, who each delivered carefully crafted speeches that reflected their strong communication skills and thoughtful perspectives. The judges faced a difficult task, with every student presenting their work to an exceptionally high standard. In a proud moment for the school, Cianne was announced as the 2026 Frank Fraser Lecturette Competition winner for her inspiring speech titled “The Power of Positive Thinking.” Her performance captivated both the audience and the judging panel, earning well-deserved praise. Staff and families played an important role in supporting the students’ success, with special thanks extended to Ms Phillips, Mr Cianciullo, and Mrs Quabba for their guidance and encouragement throughout the preparation process. The school congratulates all three students on their dedication, confidence, and success in representing Our Lady of Lourdes with pride and excellence.
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After three decades of tireless advocacy, a breakthrough has finally arrived for Dungeness. With State Government approval now secured, a long-dreamed marine access project is one step closer to reality. Promising nearly all-tidal access, restored infrastructure, and a major boost for Hinchinbrook’s tourism and marine industries. Local leaders are calling it a "game-changer" but the fight isn’t over just yet. What exactly does this mean for the region, how soon could shovels hit the ground and what’s next for the Dungeness Breakwater and Dredging Project? Nick Dametto MP shares his journey with the now confirmed Dungeness all-tidal access project.
The tides are finally turning for Dungeness as during last week’s parliamentary sitting, Hinchinbrook MP, Nick Dametto, announced that State Government approval had been secured for the Dungeness, Lucinda near all-tidal access project. At the last council meeting, all councillors including Mayor Ramon Jayo celebrated that the approval had finally gone through after a gruelling, 30-year long battle.
The project involves dredging the existing Enterprise Channel to improve marine access to Dungeness, and to construct a rock wall, to reinstate the sea wall which was previously destroyed in weather events including Cyclone Yasi. Mr Dametto said having nearly all tidal access at Dungeness is something many boating locals have been dreaming about for generations.
“This means that we will finally have the access necessary to unlock marine tourism in Hinchinbrook while also providing the Coastguard with safe passage to improve their emergency response capabilities,” Mr. Dametto said.
“Hinchinbrook is the gateway to not only the Great Barrier Reef but also Hinchinbrook Island, the Hinchinbrook Channel and the Palm Island group. We are lucky enough to have Hinchinbrook Island’s famous Thorsborne Trail right on our doorstep. This marine infrastructure project will help open new tourism business opportunities that will boost our local economy.
“I must acknowledge the hard work of the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Mayor Ramon Jayo and council staff. Mayor Jayo has been working on this project for over nine years. During this time, we’ve worked together to secure financial support from the previous State Government ($400,000) to complete the final sand movement studies necessary for the environmental approvals.
“Improving access to Enterprise Channel has been 30 years in the making. I’d like to personally thank the Environment Minister, Andrew Powell, and his departmental staff for advancing this on his watch. I have been impressed with the incoming Government’s willingness to progress good projects.
“Now that we have the environmental green light to commence, our focus must shift to lobbying for the funding to build the rock wall and dredge Enterprise Channel. I have written to the State Treasurer calling for the $12 million necessary to complete this project, to be included in this year’s State Budget.
“Thank you to Member for Kennedy Hon. Bob Katter for his commitment to fight for federal funding, the Lucinda Progress Association for their continued lobbing to improve the region, and everyone who has been supportive of this project.
“This is a big win for Hinchinbrook.”
Federal Member for Kennedy, Bob Katter applauds final approvals for Dungeness Breakwater and Dredging Project with "This is a win for the people of Hinchinbrook. Mayor Jayo and Nick Dametto have fought like hell – like true tiger fighters – to keep this project alive and on the agenda – and now the approvals are finally in hand,"
"We've seen what all-weather access can do for small communities at Mission Beach. It has been life-changing for those businesses that use the waterways for their livelihood or lifestyle." Katter concluded, "The people of Hinchinbrook deserve nothing less than the same infrastructure."
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