The Tyto Conference Centre was filled with joy, pride, and absolute cuteness overload on Saturday May 17, as Hinchinbrook celebrated its annual Baby Welcome Ceremony. Held in the beautiful wetlands, the event marked a record turnout, with 50 newborns officially welcomed into the community. Mayor of Hinchinbrook, Ramon Jayo, expressed his delight at the overwhelming participation, saying, "It's amazing to see, we normally have in 30-40 but today we have 50 babies to welcome. We are very pleased
Read the full storyby Victoria Velton Harry Berger and Stephanie Hubinger’s lives are deeply intertwined with their hometown. From their humble beginnings to their impactful roles in the region, their story is one of dedication, resilience, and community spirit. Harry Berger, originally from Western Australia, arrived in the area in 1959 as part of his military service with the Army’s Survey Corps. His work in surveying and mapping was vital for opening up the region. Harry’s team played a pivotal role in recordi
Read the full storyLucinda recently found itself in the national spotlight as the Today Show rolled into town as part of their regional roadshow. Host Tim Davies and his crew brought a vibrant energy to the community, showcasing the unique charm and warmth that Lucinda and the surrounding areas have to offer. For Tim Davies, it was a welcome return to a place he holds dear. "It's my second time here, and it's been so good to come back and experience the lifestyle here," he said. "It's been great being in the regi
Read the full storyThe 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
Read the full storyHinchinbrook’s Kylee Frankee has been awarded the Exceptional Tradeswoman, Technician, and Operator Award at the 2025 BMA Mitsubishi Alliance Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) Awards. With 16 years of experience as an Electrical and Instrument Technician, Kylee has earned a reputation for her expertise, leadership, and dedication to supporting apprentices and advocating for mental health in the workplace. A passionate mentor, she also champions programs for women and Indigenous youth in the resources sector. Proudly representing Hinchinbrook, Kylee’s achievement highlights the power of small communities producing big talent.
Hinchinbrook was proudly represented at the 2025 BMA Mitsubishi Alliance Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) Awards, as Ingham local Kylee Frankee was honoured for her outstanding contribution to the resources sector.
Kylee took home the Exceptional Tradeswoman, Technician, and Operator Award, standing out in a wide field of nominees. With 16 years of industry experience, she has built a strong reputation as a highly skilled Electrical and Instrument Technician, as well as a respected mentor and leader in her field.
Her influence goes well beyond her technical expertise. Kylee is a passionate advocate for mental health in the workplace, supports apprentices through hands-on training and personal development, and actively promotes leadership among her peers. She is also a proud supporter of programs like the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) and the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation, helping to inspire and guide the next generation of tradespeople, particularly women and Indigenous youth, toward rewarding careers in the resources sector.
Member for Hinchinbrook, Nick Dametto MP, praised Kylee’s achievement, describing it as a strong reflection of the region’s values.
“As the State Member for Hinchinbrook, I speak on behalf of the entire electorate when I say we are incredibly proud of Kylee,” Mr Dametto said.
“It was an honour to attend the event, witness Kylee’s passion and professionalism firsthand, and meet so many other inspiring women who are driving change and innovation in the industry.”
Miss Frankee said she felt truly humbled to be recognised.
“If you’d told my younger self this was possible, I’m not sure she would’ve believed it,” she said.
“I’m proud of my journey with South32, and prouder still to represent the Hinchinbrook Shire. It’s a reminder that big things can come from small places. Growing up in a small regional town shaped who I am, and I hope this moment shows other young girls from communities like ours that they can build strong, successful careers in these industries.’”