Flags Raised In NAIDOC Tribute On 22 July 2025, a flag-raising ceremony marked a meaningful NAIDOC Week in Hinchinbrook. Community members gathered at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall in Ingham, led by Deputy Mayor Mary Brown and Traditional Owners, together, they proudly raised the flags in recognition of the Warrgamay, Nywaigi and Bandjin peoples — Traditional Custodians of the Hinchinbrook region. With around 70 people in attendance, the event offered a moment to reflect on this year’s NAID
Read the full story
A peloton of dedicated cyclists rode through the Hinchinbrook Shire last week as part of the mighty Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride; an initiative established to make a difference in the lives of children affected by cancer. Held annually, the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride raises both valuable awareness and funds for the Children’s Cancer Institute to support comprehensive efforts focused on preventing and treating childhood cancer. The Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride was founded in 1999 by Sel
Read the full story
On Saturday, the 26th of July, the Junior division of the Ingham Theatre Group debut in their first matinee. After 10 weeks of work-shopping improvisations, theatre sports, performance technique, stage craft, and most importantly fun and friendship, the Juniors stepped up and performed the wondrous adventure that was 'Princesses of a Feather'. Together, the cursed princesses-turned-birds, defeated the evil knight Sir Glimmerpants with the help of Charlie Cowgirl Cat In A Cape, while t
Read the full story
On Thursday 10 July, the Cardwell RSL became a vital hub of information and support as more than 35 residents and service representatives gathered for the Cardwell Community Rebuild Info Session. Organised by Centacare FNQ, the evening brought together key organisations supporting North Queenslanders affected by the 2025 floods and now in the rebuilding phase. The session was hosted in partnership with Centacare’s Disaster Recovery and Resilience Hub, the Queensland Building and Construction Co
Read the full storySince 2009 Kim Burnell has been the Macknade Disaster Warden, and this seasoned flood expert says that this flood was the highest she has ever seen.
When the flooding hit Macknade, Kim and her husband Shane took charge, ensuring their town’s safety amid devastating floods.
Their garage became a vital supply hub, where they distributed food, nappies, toiletries, and other essentials. Community members showed remarkable generosity, taking only what they needed and returning extras for others in need.
Their efforts didn’t stop at distribution, Kim’s expert knowledge of the area and surroundings helped Swift Water Rescuers navigate hazardous areas safely. She also worked with emergency services to ensure critical medical supplies and prescriptions reached those in need.
Shane and Kim collaborated with locals to secure high-ground parking, store emergency fuel, and utilise a helipad for supply drops. When power outages hit, they provided charging stations and emergency solar power, ensuring people stayed connected and informed.
Their resilience stems from years of dealing with extreme weather, always thinking ahead to prepare their community. "This is just what we do," Kim said.
Their actions highlight the spirit of true community heroes, everyday people stepping up when it matters most, proving that courage and kindness can make all the difference in a crisis.
Like many areas in our region, Macknade faced severe flooding and was cut off from Ingham and surrounding areas for more than a week.
Town new comer, Owen Mills, was faced many challenges during the floods but thanks to Shane and Kim's generosity, he managed to get through his first North Queensland disaster.
"I would like to personally thank you for everything that you did. The Aussie spirit lives!," expressed Owen.
"Thank you Shane and Kim, from all of the locals.
"Shane is a hard worker, Shane works for Zanghi Earthmoving. Michael and Sam run the company and the company donated a front-end loader to help the Macknade Community in this disaster.
"When rescuing somebody, Shane bogged it! But he did not get the sack. Unreal! Great boss!
"Shane’s wife Kim has a heart of gold, I wish them all the best."
To show his gratitude Owen also went around Macknade and asked locals if they would like to sign a card of thanks. He gifted Shane and Kim the card and some chocolates.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Life Publishing Group Ltd.
.jpg)
.jpg)
