Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
‘Slide on sunglasses that meet Australian standards to protect your eyes.’ Photo credit: Victoria Velton
The summer sun is starting to turn up the heat across Hinchinbrook, and while a day outdoors is part of the Queensland lifestyle, forgetting sun protection can leave a lasting mark on your skin.
With temperatures climbing and UV levels reaching extreme readings, locals are being reminded to make sun safety part of their everyday routine. Whether you're working in the paddock, fishing, heading to the beach, watching weekend sport or enjoying a backyard barbecue, protecting your skin needs to be on the agenda.
The tricky thing about ultraviolet (UV) radiation is that you cannot see it or feel it. Unlike sunlight, which we can see, or infrared radiation, which gives us that familiar warmth, UV can damage skin without any obvious warning. A cloudy morning or a cooler breeze does not necessarily mean you're safe from exposure.
The Bureau of Meteorology's Hinchinbrook forecast is already highlighting the need for caution, with UV levels recently reaching extreme levels from just the second week of November.
Cancer Council recommends following the five SunSmart steps whenever the UV Index reaches three or above.
Slip on protective clothing, choosing long sleeves and fabrics that cover as much skin as possible.
Slop on SPF50 or SPF50+ broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. Apply it generously before heading outdoors and reapply every two hours, particularly after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
Slap on a broad-brimmed hat to protect your face, ears and neck.
Seek shade wherever possible, especially during the middle of the day when UV levels are generally strongest.
Slide on sunglasses that meet Australian standards to protect your eyes.
Sunscreen should not be treated as a suit of armour or a reason to spend longer in the sun. It works best alongside clothing, a hat, shade and sunglasses. UV exposure also builds up over time, so even days without sunburn can contribute to skin damage.
And remember, burning isn't good for toast, and it's even worse for your skin. A tan is also a sign of UV damage, not a healthy souvenir of a day outdoors.
Before heading out, check the UV forecast for Hinchinbrook through the Bureau of Meteorology and plan your day around the sun protection times. A few simple habits can help keep your skin safer throughout the summer and well beyond.
Check the forecast and stay sun safe: www.bom.gov.au/places/qld/hinchinbrook/forecast/
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to 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, Life 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 Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Ltd.
