This year's ANZAC Day saw hundreds turn out to remember the efforts of Australia and New Zealand's great service men and women. Veterans, schools, clubs and businesses poured into the streets to march in grand parades, and packed in close to attend services held across the Hinchinbrook Shire. Beautiful wreaths were lain and the bugles mournful tones echoed across respectful silences as flags were lowered to half mast. A gunfire breakfast, coffee and traditional ANZAC biscuits kept everyone going
Read the full story
Allan Colquhoun grew up in Sydney, but his life has taken him far beyond the city limits. In his youth, he worked with a station owner named Bob, whose property combined dairy and sheep farming with a focus on Jersey bulls and cows. One vivid memory that’s stayed with him is of Bob chasing down a bull meant for butchering on his stock horse —a beast that, to Allan’s amazement, climbed over the holding fence one hoof at a time to escape. Allan spent most of his working life as a coastal travelle
Read the full story
Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism held their monthly Coffee Connect last week, being hosted by local business Wild Local. There was a very strong attendance at this event, with Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter and KAP Senate candidate, Robbie Lyon. Rebecca and Dom Zaghini provided a delicious light snacks and gave the audience an overview of their business journey from inception to their current location, the diverse range of products they provide and some insight into t
Read the full story
Over the weekend, the Ingham Kennel Club hosted six rounds of dog shows, featuring judges from across Australia who rotated to ensure fair and balanced competition. Dogs were entered into one of seven group categories, with the Toy Group attracting the largest number of entries. Sunday's shows saw the Italian Greyhound emerge as a standout, making up 20 of the 170 total entries across the weekend. Unique and rarely seen breeds like the Xoloitzcuintli and Briard added excitement to the event, of
Read the full storyQueensland’s waterways are home to one of nature’s most formidable predators: the crocodile. Since gaining protection in 1971, crocodile populations have steadily increased, making these prehistoric creatures a vital part of the ecosystem. However, they also pose risks to residents and visitors, especially in areas like Hinchinbrook.
Crocodiles are an iconic part of Far North Queensland's identity, but their presence often sparks divisive debates. Sightings along the coast highlight the challenge of balancing coexistence with managing their potential dangers. Federal Member for Kennedy, Bob Katter MP, has advocated for crocodile culls, arguing that rising populations put human lives at risk. Others stress education and responsible behaviour, noting that some attacks may be caused by human actions, such as feeding crocodiles or getting too close to the water’s edge.
Regardless of one’s stance on crocodile culling, statistics show a growing number of crocodile sightings across Queensland.
Hinchinbrook, renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, is no stranger to the challenges posed by crocodiles. As a popular destination for fishing, camping, and eco-tourism, the region requires heightened awareness and vigilance.
Recent reports from the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science, and Innovation highlight the urgent need for both residents and visitors to stay cautious and follow safety guidelines.
In Hinchinbrook alone, eight sightings have been reported recently, while Cairns and Townsville recorded 43 and 31 sightings, respectively, in the past 30 days, according to the crocodile sighting dashboard.
Stay Croc-safe
The Queensland Government’s "Be Croc-wise" initiative provides important guidelines to reduce the risk of crocodile attacks:
• Stay at least five meters from the water’s edge and use barriers like logs or eskies if needed.
• Properly dispose of food scraps and bait to avoid attracting crocodiles.
• Keep pets on a leash and away from the water.
• Avoid small watercraft in crocodile-prone areas.
• Swim only at patrolled beaches where crocodiles are less likely.
Crocodiles can be found in all waterways and oceans in Croc country and just because you can’t see it, it doesn’t mean there isn’t one nearby and it can’t see you.
With the right education and knowledge, Croc country is still a wonder and a great place for adventuring.
To report a sighting, use the QWildlife app, visit the website, or call 1300 130 372. In emergencies, dial 000 or 112. Your vigilance can contribute to the safe management of crocodile populations.
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.
