Galactic Gathering At The UFO Festival Cardwell was transformed into an intergalactic hotspot from 8 to 10 August 2025 as the Australian UFO Festival returned for its fourth year, attracting visitors from across the country. After a year’s absence in 2024, anticipation had been building for months, and the festival did not disappoint, offering three days packed with cosmic conversation, community fun, and unforgettable experiences. The action began on Friday with free community events
Read the full storyTec-NQ House grade 11 boarding student Max has his boots firmly planted in two very different worlds: the rugged, hands‑on life of a central Queensland cattle station, and the bustling day‑to‑day routine of boarding school in Townsville. “I live on a station north of Clermont called Mazeppa,” Max explained. “When I’m not here at school, I live there with my family.” Home for Max is anything but quiet. Mazeppa Station is a working property that runs both cattle and crops, keeping everyone on th
Read the full storyWhether you’re settling into a new home, revamping your garden, or simply refreshing your living space, the way we shape our surroundings has a powerful impact on how we feel. A well-loved home doesn’t have to be perfect – it just needs to reflect your personality, support your lifestyle, and offer a sense of comfort. In recent years, we’ve seen a growing trend towards practical and sustainable design choices in both homes and gardens. People are making the most of indoor-outdoor flow, bringing
Read the full storyBy Victoria Velton At Palm Creek, it was a bright and fresh morning for our 20 parkrunners, with a gentle breeze making the course all the more enjoyable. Welcoming three newcomers to the Palm Creek track, two from Team Veteran, four PBs were recorded, including the Fastest timer. Down on the foreshore, 22 parkrunners took to the scenic path under cool, clear skies. Joined by a great mix of locals and visitors, no doubt in town for the UFO festival, with six newcomers stepping onto the course f
Read the full storyHinchinbrook Shire Council has taken a bold step forward in its commitment to protecting the region’s environment with the launch of the 2024-2026 Prevention and Control Program. This new initiative is designed to tackle the growing threat of invasive species, helping to preserve the Shire's unique biodiversity and ensuring the long-term health of its ecosystems.
This program marks a significant step forward in safeguarding our environment and protecting our way of life.
The biennial program will focus on preventing the entry, establishment, and spread of invasive species that pose a significant biosecurity risk throughout the Shire.
As part of this program, Council officers will provide ongoing support and expert guidance to landholders, offering advice on best practices for biosecurity management. Educational initiatives, workshops, and resources will be available to ensure everyone understands their role in managing biosecurity risks and how they can contribute to the health and resilience of the local environment.
As a community, we are committed to maintaining the unique beauty and biodiversity of our Shire. The 2024-2026 Prevention and Control Program will run until 30 September 2026.
To view the program, please visit Council’s website, Land and Pest Management page.
For further information or clarification concerning this matter, please contact Council’s Natural Assets Team on 4776 4740.
Did you know?
Singapore Daisy is a restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014.
It has the ability to quickly invade drainage systems, lawns and the natural environment, destroying its biodiversity by smothering native vegetation and pasture.