Councillor Column Councillor Kate Milton

Ingham residents are some of the most resilient and strong willed people I know. We support each other, step up when needed, and look out for our community. While we may get a bit wet at times, our beautiful home remains paradise in so many ways.

Council has been actively working in the recovery space, identifying issues and implementing actions. I am Chair of the Environment Recovery Sub Group, one of four key groups—Infrastructure, Human and Social, Economic and Environment. These groups include representatives from relevant organisations, including Government, working together to support our community.

Following an event like this, biosecurity becomes a major concern. With numerous washouts across the region, large amounts of fill will be required. It's crucial to ensure machinery is properly cleaned between sites to prevent the spread of seeds and contaminants within the fill itself.

Many gardens have been lost, and residents may seek replacement plants from areas like Townsville or Cairns. However, these regions have known infestations of Yellow Crazy Ants, which local councils are actively managing. These invasive pests can spread through soil, building materials, and other transported items. Additionally, the Herbert River can carry weed species like Siam weed and there’s a risk of Gamba grass seed coming from infestations in the Tablelands Regional Council area.

Knowledge and early detection remain our best tools. Council’s Biosecurity Officers are available to assist with identification and control measures.

For those in the cattle industry, a reminder that the Grazing Connect workshop—originally postponed in February—will now be held on Friday 4 April and Saturday 5 April 2025 at the Longpocket CWA Hall. If you're interested in attending, please RSVP to either myself or Lawrence DiBella with any dietary requirements by Friday 28 March 2025.