Tasman Turtle Picnic Day Shire Success Scores of locals and travellers flocked to TYTO Wetlands as Tasman Turtle returned with craft, food, activities, and family fun. With a rock climbing wall, circus acts, laser tag, pony rides, and a petting zoo, there was something for everyone. Music filled the air, even getting Tasman dancing, and the park buzzed from start to finish. Faces were covered with ice cream and fairy floss, but most importantly big smiles. Deputy Mayor Mary Brown happily remark
Read the full storyTwo respected members of the Hinchinbrook region have been named in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours, receiving national recognition for their dedication to the community and their service over many years. Patrick Brown, Officer in Charge at the Ingham Ambulance Station, has been awarded the Ambulance Service Medal, one of the highest honours available to an Australian paramedic. With 46 years of experience, most of it in rural and regional Queensland, Mr Brown has long been regarded as a stea
Read the full storyBy Victoria Velton In the quiet coastal town of Taylor’s Beach, Jayden McNeill is solving more than just colorful puzzles; he’s solved his way to global recognition. A Rubik’s Cube champion with international acclaim, McNeill’s story is one of perseverance, precision, and passion. It all started when a seven-year-old Jayden received a Rubik’s Cube for Christmas. Like many, he shelved it after failing to solve it. But years later, inspired by classmates in high school, he revisited the cube and
Read the full storyA Tool For Real-World Readiness When most people hear “LARPing” (Live Action Role-Playing), images of medieval knights and fantasy creatures might spring to mind. But for a growing community in Townsville, LARPing has evolved far beyond weekend cosplay, it’s becoming a valuable tool for real-world training and personal growth. The newly launched Townsville chapter of Swordcraft, Australia’s largest medieval battle and role-playing game, brings enthusiasts together every fortnight. What began as
Read the full storySince 1925 Canegrowers Herbert River has long been the cornerstone of support for sugarcane farmers in the Herbert River district. Their unwavering commitment to advocating for and assisting their members has made them an essential partner in navigating the challenges of modern farming. Offering a range of services, from advocacy and policy influence to essential services such as payroll, Canegrowers Herbert River ensures that local growers have the resources they need to thrive.
One of the most significant contributions Canegrowers Herbert River provides is its robust advocacy for growers' interests. Sugarcane farming faces numerous pressures—fluctuating market prices, environmental regulations, and the ever-changing climate. Canegrowers Herbert River plays an active role in representing its members at local, state, and federal levels. Through strong advocacy, they ensure that growers' voices are heard on critical issues.
Their work with various government bodies helps shape policies that protect the interests of cane farmers, ensuring the sustainability of the industry in the Herbert River region. This kind of representation is invaluable to growers who might not have the time or resources to engage in these important discussions directly.
The organisation is deeply engaged with local issues, working closely with farmers to understand their specific challenges and helping to find practical solutions. Whether it's dealing with infrastructure concerns, road safety or transport, Canegrowers Herbert River plays a vital role in addressing these issues and working toward positive outcomes. By collaborating with local councils, government bodies, and industry partners, they ensure that farmers’ concerns are heard and resolved in ways that benefit both growers and the wider community.
This season alone Canegrowers Herbert River has assisted members and the local sugar industry with transport issues including permitting and regulation, providing guidance with BMP, compliance audits, permit and notification requirements, drainage, CCS and cut to crush discrepancies, siding issues, cane supply agreement matters, mill negotiations and many more pertinent issues.
Contributed with thanks to Canegrowers Herbert River.
Leah Russo, Zenan Reinaudo, Paul Marbelli, Deputy Chair Steven Marbelli, Chairman Chris Bosworth, Manager Frank Scardamaglia, Sam Torrisi, Terry Motti
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie