Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
There are some places that will always hold a special place in your heart, and for me, Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club is one of them. It is the club I grew up in, and over the weekend it was wonderful to return for the annual surf lifesaving carnival and catch up with so many familiar faces.
On Saturday, I was pleased to support the club's Life Members function, recognising the people who have dedicated so much of their lives to surf lifesaving and our local community.
These clubs are built on generations of volunteers, families and members who give their time to keep our beaches safe and create opportunities for young people. Forrest Beach is a wonderful example of that community spirit.
Sunday morning was particularly special, as we gathered with family, friends and club members to remember former Patron and Life Member Kauko Kaurila, following his recent passing.
Kauk was a remarkable man whose contribution to surf lifesaving spanned generations. He became a Life Member in 1955–56, served as Patron for 70 years and was an accomplished champion in surf and belt swimming.
In 1954, he also won the inaugural Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim.
It was a privilege to join his family and the club in laying a wreath into the ocean he loved so much. People like Kauk helped build the club I was fortunate enough to grow up in, and his legacy will live on through the generations who follow.
My thoughts remain with his family and everyone at Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club.
There has also been encouraging progress on another important commitment for our region, the revitalisation of Port Hinchinbrook.
The latest update confirms that the assessment of dredging tenders has progressed, site preparation is underway and environmental approval processes continue.
There is still plenty of work ahead, but each step brings us closer to restoring this important asset and unlocking new opportunities for Cardwell and the broader region.
This week, I am back in Brisbane for Parliament, continuing to raise the issues that matter to our communities.
Whether it is community safety, supporting our local industries, improving infrastructure or delivering on commitments like Port Hinchinbrook, I remain focused on making sure Hinchinbrook's voice is heard.
And weekends like the one at Forrest Beach are a reminder of exactly why that work matters - our people, our communities and the generations who have helped make Hinchinbrook such a special place to call home.
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