TOP NEWS

Major Military Exercise Takes Place In Region

Over 3,000 soldiers have flocked to the Hinchinbrook region to engage in one of Australia’s largest war-fighting exercises, second only to Exercise Talisman Sabre. The major event, titled the North Queensland Warfighter and Exercise Southern Jackaroo, will host soldiers and equipment from Army’s 3rd Brigade, the United States, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia and Papua New Guinea. Continued on page 4. **Thousands Of Troops Descend On Hinchinbrook Continued from page 1. Commander 3rd B

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ONE WEEK TO GO! The Canegrowers Herbert River Link2Country Expo

The countdown is on! The highly anticipated Link2Country Expo, presented by CANEGROWERS, is just around the corner, making its debut on May 23rd and 24th at the Ingham Showgrounds. This action-packed, two-day event is set to bring the agricultural sector to life, connecting local communities to hands-on experiences, career opportunities, and much more. With just a week to go, excitement is building as preparations for the event come to a close. The expo will feature trade stalls hosted by indus

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Meet Sue and Douglas Barrie

by Victoria Velton For nearly four decades, Sue and Douglas Barrie have been the heart and soul of the Seymour Hotel, dedicating themselves to preserving its rich heritage while creating a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike. Sue and Douglas’s journey to owning the Seymour Hotel began with family. Originally from Victoria, the couple eventually settled in Townsville. Sue explains, "We came to Townsville because that's where the kids were, and we looked at what we would do in Townsville

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A Fond Farewell From The Paper Shop

It is with mixed emotions of excitement, sadness, nervousness, and anticipation that we announce the closing of The Paper Shop. While it’s hard to say goodbye, we are excited to continue serving you at Forrest Beach News, and our paper delivery service will remain unchanged. Our story began on April 7th, 1986, when Brian and Jenny Olivero took over The Paper Shop Newsagency at 84 Cartwright Street. Formerly a chemist, post office, and newsagency and at the time, we lived at the back of the shop

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Embrace Nature Based Play!

May 13, 2025

In today’s digital age, children are spending more time indoors than ever before. However, there are countless benefits to getting children outdoors and engaging them in nature-based activities, especially in the Hinchinbrook region, where the environment is brimming with opportunities for exploration. Playing outside in nature is crucial for a child’s physical, mental, and emotional development.

Nature-based play promotes physical health by encouraging exercise, which is vital for muscle development, coordination, and overall fitness. It also supports cognitive development, as children learn to problem-solve, use their imagination, and experience the world through their senses. Emotional well-being also improves when children are outdoors, with research showing that time in nature reduces stress and anxiety while boosting mood and concentration.

In addition, outdoor play fosters a connection with the environment, encouraging children to develop an appreciation for nature. In regions like Hinchinbrook, which is rich in biodiversity and natural beauty, these experiences can cultivate a sense of responsibility for the planet’s future.

Here are five top nature-based activities to enjoy with children in the Hinchinbrook region:

Explore the Tyto Wetlands

Take a walk through the Tyto Wetlands, where children can discover a variety of wildlife, including bird species, frogs, and reptiles. It’s a fantastic opportunity to teach them about ecosystems and the importance of conservation.

Beachcombing at Lucinda Beach

The stunning beaches of Lucinda are perfect for a day of exploration. Children can search for seashells, build sandcastles, or spot marine life in the shallows. It’s a fun way to learn about the coastal environment.

Hinchinbrook Island Day Trip

For an adventurous outing, take a boat trip to Hinchinbrook Island. With its tropical rainforest, stunning beaches, and abundant wildlife, it’s a perfect place for children to experience nature up close.

Nature Craft with Leaves and Flowers

Collect leaves, flowers, and twigs from your backyard or a nearby park and get creative. Children can make nature-inspired art, helping them learn about local flora while developing fine motor skills.

Bushwalking at Cardwell Range

Take a family bushwalk through the Cardwell Range, where children can enjoy the beauty of the rainforest and learn about the area’s unique plant and animal life. It’s an excellent way to combine physical activity with environmental education.

Encouraging children to spend time outdoors in the Hinchinbrook region not only benefits their health and well-being but also fosters a deep connection with the natural world that can last a lifetime.

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