The Hinchinbrook by-election is set to be a hot contest after Nick Dametto’s unexpected resignation earlier this month. The candidates are now confirmed ahead of the fast-approaching vote. Katter’s Australian Party has nominated Mark Molachino, former Townsville Deputy Mayor and councillor, who brings years of local government experience. His recent switch from the Labor Party has attracted attention. The LNP’s pick is Wayde Chiesa, a local former Regional Development Australia CEO. Premier David Crisafulli praised Chiesa’s commitment to tackling crime, flood recovery, and supporting local agriculture. One Nation’s candidate is Lisa Buchtmann, a Cardwell small business owner and ex-army truck driver, focused on youth crime, tourism infrastructure, and housing affordability. Labor confirmed it will run a candidate but has not yet made an official announcement. As campaigning ramps up, voters will be closely watching these candidates and their policies ahead of the by-election. Read more about the candidates on p.3. **p.3 ** TITLE: Candidates announced for Hinchinbrook by-election after Dametto’s shock exit Following Nick Dametto’s shock announcement that he will step down from the seat of Hinchinbrook to pursue the Mayoralty of Townsville, the candidates for the upcoming by-election have now been revealed, with the election fast approaching. Mark Molachino Representing Katter’s Australian Party in the Hinchinbrook by-election is Mark Molachino, the former Deputy Mayor of Townsville. Mr Molachino served as the councillor for Division 4 from 2016 until he lost his seat in the 2024 local government elections. Throughout his time on council, he was involved in a range of infrastructure, planning, and community initiatives across the city. Prior to joining Katter’s Australian Party, Mr Molachino was previously affiliated with the Labor Party, a detail that has drawn attention in the lead-up to the by-election. His candidacy brings both experience and a notable shift in political alignment. Wayde Chiesa Wayde Chiesa has been announced as the LNP candidate for the Hinchinbrook by-election, launched by Premier David Crisafulli in Ingham. A former RDA CEO, Mr Chiesa grew up locally and said he’s “passionate about delivering for this region.” Premier Crisafulli, who’s known him for decades, said Chiesa is “made of the right stuff” and “will do a great job.” Mr Chiesa identified crime, flood recovery, and agriculture as key issues. “I will fight 24/7 to make our community safer,” he said, backing new CCTV under the Secure Communities program. “I’m getting off the bench and on the field,” he added. Lisa Buchtmann Former army truck driver and small business owner Lisa Buchtmann will stand as One Nation’s candidate for the Hinchinbrook by-election. Based in Cardwell, the 40-year-old is focused on tourism infrastructure, youth crime, housing affordability, and cost of living. “I’m a mother with a teenage son and I’m very concerned about his future in our community, and the future for all kids in Hinchinbrook,” Ms Buchtmann said. She pointed to the Bruce Highway’s poor condition and backed One Nation’s plans to “slash immigration,” dismantle “net zero policies,” and reduce youth crime through programs like “Operation Hard Yakka” and a judicial accountability panel. Labor Party The Labor Party has confirmed it will contest the by-election, although a formal announcement of its candidate is yet to be made. As the political arena heats up, more information on each candidate will be shared to help inform your vote - you can read more in our 'Meet the Candidates' special in the paper next week.
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The February 2025 floods left an undeniable mark on Hinchinbrook Shire, affecting every corner of the community and testing resilience like never before. In response, Hinchinbrook Shire Council is introducing a new category in the 2026 Australia Day Awards — the Flood Hero Recognition — to honour the countless individuals who selflessly stood up to support their neighbours and help rebuild our community. Mayor Ramon Jayo said the overwhelming spirit shown during those difficult days. “These floods impacted us all, and throughout the crisis, ordinary people showed extraordinary kindness and courage,” Mayor Jayo said. “They didn’t seek recognition; they acted out of love and a deep sense of responsibility to their community. “This award is about recognising their quiet heroism and the strength they gave us when we needed it most. “This is the community’s chance to thank those who gave so much without expecting anything in return.” The Flood Hero Recognition category is unique. It’s not about a single winner but about honouring the many hands that held us together. Council invites the community to nominate anyone who inspired them from volunteers to emergency responders to neighbours who simply helped in small but meaningful ways. From celebrating outstanding citizens of all ages, to recognising cultural and sporting achievements, community events, and acts of heroism during the 2025 floods — there’s a category for every kind of contribution. Judges may reassign nominations to ensure they’re recognised in the most fitting category. Nominations across all categories are now open and will close at 5.00pm on Monday 15 December 2025. Visit www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/community-environment/australia-day-celebrations/how-to-nominate/ for more information, visit the Council office at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham or call 4774 4600. Award recipients will be celebrated at the Australia Day event on 26 January 2026 at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall.
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Warrina Lakes came alive from 2–4 October as families and anglers of all ages gathered for the annual Tilapia Tournament — a much-loved Cassowary Coast tradition that unites the community while protecting the local environment. A record 710 participants took part in this year’s event, reeling in 604 tilapia, an invasive pest fish species that threatens native aquatic habitats. Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood said removing tilapia from local waterways plays an important role in restoring the health of Warrina Lakes and protecting native species. All fish caught were deep-buried on site to ensure safe disposal. “The Tilapia Tournament shows how local events like this can have a real impact, not just by removing tilapia from our waterways, but by bringing people together to learn, work as a team and care for our rivers and lakes for years to come,” Mayor Millwood said. Mayor Millwood and Councillors Nick Pervan, Renee McLeod and Jeff Baines joined participants throughout the event, encouraging catch efforts and discussing future opportunities for Warrina Lakes. Warrina Lakes is a great open space, and once you have been there you can’t wait to return,” Councillor Pervan said. “Seeing families, including mums, dads, aunties, uncles, and grandparents down there and catching fish shows how much the community and in particular the kids love attending each year,” he said Travelling families from Brisbane, Tully and Mission Beach also joined in, highlighting the event’s regional appeal. Councillor Baines presented 32 prizes across 18 categories, recognising the skills and enthusiasm of the region’s most dedicated young anglers. The tournament’s success was made possible through 32 local sponsors, who contributed over $9,600 in prizes and helped run activities such as face painting and a sausage sizzle. Special thanks were extended to Bek & Joe’s Donuts, Innisfail Mini Rail, and Goodstart Early Learning for helping create a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. As the last fish were measured and buried, one message was clear: that events like the Tilapia Tournament not only bring people together but help safeguard the Cassowary Coast’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
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Our Lady of Lourdes students have once again demonstrated their outstanding public speaking skills at the annual Frank Fraser Lecturette District Final, held on 16 October and hosted by Ingham State School. Sponsored by Rotary, the event brought together talented young speakers from across the district to showcase their confidence, preparation, and creativity. Representing Our Lady of Lourdes were Asha Goldfinch, Ruby Gori and Cianne Lyons, who each delivered carefully crafted speeches that reflected their strong communication skills and thoughtful perspectives. The judges faced a difficult task, with every student presenting their work to an exceptionally high standard. In a proud moment for the school, Cianne was announced as the 2026 Frank Fraser Lecturette Competition winner for her inspiring speech titled “The Power of Positive Thinking.” Her performance captivated both the audience and the judging panel, earning well-deserved praise. Staff and families played an important role in supporting the students’ success, with special thanks extended to Ms Phillips, Mr Cianciullo, and Mrs Quabba for their guidance and encouragement throughout the preparation process. The school congratulates all three students on their dedication, confidence, and success in representing Our Lady of Lourdes with pride and excellence.
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The months prior to the Coral Sea Battle, Japan entered the war on December 7, 1941 with a plan for supremacy in South East Asia, Philippines and the Dutch East Indies. From pre-war documentation seized by the US Forces after Japan's surrender, historians know Japan planned to invade Australia.
Most Australians felt invasion was getting closer each day and repeated media reports and idle gossip did nothing to calm their fears. Reports of what Australia would be like under Japanese rule gave the grimmest accounts. Japanese servicemen were prepared to fight to win or die.
For some time Japanese spotter planes were seen around the Pacific Islands, New Guinea and Australia, and 1942 newspapers carried stories of the capture of an enemy plane carrying photos of major military installations, civilian factories and ports. The Herbert River Express carried reports of 40 enemy planes sighted in the north but the editor, Charles Cockrell played the incidents down as rumours.
Singapore fell to the Japanese on February 18, 1942 and 14,000 Australians were prisoners. The Philippines had also fallen to the Japanese and they invaded New Guinea early in 1942. The AIF were recalled from Europe to reinforce the AMF in Milne Bay and the Owen Stanley Ranges.
There was great concern when the Government drew the Brisbane Line, an imaginary line dividing the country in two, the most important area being a coastal strip taking in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne where the majority of troops were to be based. It was felt the Japanese could have the rest of Australia. Australians felt more secure when General Douglas MacArthur arrived on March 18, 1942. He felt strongly against the Brisbane Line Plan and told the Government his troops would halt the Japanese invasion in New Guinea.
The Japanese invasion force was approaching Port Moresby via the Coral Sea and the US Navy acting on intelligence reports, despatched the carriers USS Yorktown and USS Lexington to the area on May 1, 1942. The HMAS Australia and HMAS Hobart joined the Allied fleet in the Coral Sea.
By May 7, 1942 the carrier battle began with the first casualties being a tanker USS Neosho and destroyer USS Sims, sunk by aircraft from "Soho" and a number of Japanese and United States aircraft. At 0900 on May 8, both sides located each other simultaneously and at 1100 the Japanese carrier Shokaku was damaged, the US carrier Lexington was hit by two torpedoes and at least two bombs, and by late afternoon Lexington was abandoned and sunk. After the battle the Japanese claimed a tactical victory and the Allies claimed a strategic victory by preventing the assault on Port Moresby.
Today historians know the Battle of the Coral Sea did not prevent Australia from Japanese invasion, nor save Port Moresby from Japanese occupation, but the Allied forces inflicted significant losses to the Japanese Invasion Force. Forced them to enter battles ill-equipped and undermanned, and re-assess their plan of ultimate supremacy in the Pacific Region.
Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch. From the Cardwell 1993 booklet 'Coral Sea Battle Memorial: 1942 the experiences and memories of World War II, through the eyes of the local residents.
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