TOP NEWS

WE STAND TO REMEMBER Community Gathers To Commemorate ANZAC Day

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

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Catching Up With Allan

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

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Chamber Coffee April Connect Update

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

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Ingham's Kennel Club Barks Up The Showgrounds

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

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Forrest Beach Stinger Net Removed For Cleaning Amid Safety Concerns

January 21, 2025

Forrest Beach’s stinger net enclosure has been temporarily taken out of the water for cleaning due to an accumulation of seaweed and debris, raising concerns about safety risks for swimmers. The move comes after several box jellyfish were found washed up against the outside of the net, heightening the urgency to maintain the barrier that protects beachgoers during stinger season.

Forrest Beach Surf Club Director of Lifesaving, Lenny Chiesa, emphasised the importance of safety measures, urging swimmers to adhere to safety signs, especially while the net was out of the water and the beach was closed for swimming. He also stressed the importance of wearing protective clothing, such as lycra stinger suits, while swimming inside the net.

"While the net does a great job of protecting swimmers, we know there is a risk of tentacles breaking off inside the net. We strongly advise swimmers to add the extra layer of protection," Mr Chiesa said.

Mr Chiesa also issued a warning to those fishing or boating, urging extra caution as conditions are ideal for box jellyfish who frequent shallow waters in search of baitfish.

"Even wading in the water presents a potential risk," he cautioned. "It's important to be vigilant, not just for swimmers but for anyone interacting with the water."

The stinger net, which provides a vital safety measure during the stinger season from November to May, was removed on Sunday with the help of Uni Net representatives from Cairns and local lifesavers. The process of taking the net out for cleaning is a labour-intensive task, involving high pressure cleaning to ensure the enclosure remains effective in preventing dangerous jellyfish encounters.

"We are fortunate to have a swimming enclosure at Forrest Beach," Mr Chiesa added, acknowledging the crucial role the net plays in allowing locals and visitors to safely enjoy the water during the peak stinger season. While the net is being cleaned, swimmers are reminded to stay vigilant and follow all safety guidelines.

The stinger net will be returned to the water later in the week ensuring that Forrest Beach remains a safe destination for beachgoers during the remainder of the season.

Forrest Beach lifesavers patrol Saturdays 1pm to 6pm and Sundays and Public Holidays 9am to 6pm.

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Hinchinbrook Shire To Gain 27 New Social & Affordable Homes
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Carmela & Giuseppe Celebrate 60 Years of Love and Family in Ingham
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Making Way For EKKA Amanda Way Triumphs in Sub-Chamber Finals
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Making Mum Feel Special On Mother's Day Unique Ways to Show Your Love
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Event Guide | 29th April
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