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 storyAllan 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 storyHinchinbrook 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 storyOver 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 storySocial media has transformed the way we explore and share the natural world, but it has also had unintended consequences. Studies show that the rise of social media has contributed to habitat disturbances, impacting native species. Popular wildlife spots often experience increased visitor numbers, which can lead to habitat abandonment, changes in usage patterns, reduced breeding success, and altered feeding behaviours.
If you’re planning to photograph wildlife and share it online, here are some tips to ensure your actions contribute positively to conservation efforts:
Respect Your Surroundings
Be mindful of your environment. Avoid trampling sensitive vegetation or disrupting animals in their natural habitats. Every small action matters when it comes to preserving delicate ecosystems.
Say No to Flash Photography
When photographing nocturnal animals, avoid using flash. The sudden burst of light can startle them, disrupt their behaviours, or even lead to stress, which can have long-term impacts.
Maintain a Safe Distance
Keeping an appropriate distance from wildlife is essential to prevent causing stress or prompting animals to abandon their habitat. Use zoom lenses or binoculars to observe and capture them without interference.
Avoid Playback of Animal Calls
While it might seem like a harmless way to attract wildlife for the perfect shot, playing recorded animal calls can confuse or distress creatures. This can cause them to leave their nests or aggressively defend territory, putting them at risk.
Follow Local Regulations
Abide by local rules, including restricted access areas and opening hours. These guidelines are in place to protect both visitors and wildlife, ensuring a safe coexistence.
Queensland’s unique flora and fauna are worth celebrating, but it’s crucial to do so responsibly.
By being mindful of our actions, we can help ensure these precious environments thrive for future generations to admire.