Council Connections - 15 August 2024

Guardian Disaster Management User Group Conference Set to Take Place in Ingham

9^th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards Winners Announced

On Friday 2 August 2024, the 9^th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards Exhibition Opening Night took place at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery.

These prestigious awards recognised outstanding artistic achievements across various media, providing a valuable platform for emerging and established artists to display their creative talents.

The opening night drew a significant crowd, and we extend our gratitude to all participants for their unwavering commitment and effort in submitting a total of 77 remarkable artworks for judging.

Below are the category winners:

• Open Award (sponsored by Powerlink Queensland) – Entrant 32 “Father” by Annette Crisafulli;
• Local Artist Award (sponsored by Guido’s Panel and Paint) – Entrant 40 “Rainbow Lorikeet” by Layla Gibbs;
• Youth Award (sponsored by Ingham Real Estate) – Entrant 25 “Nature’s Palette” by Hamish Darveniza;
• Section 1: Painting (sponsored by Windlab) – Entrant 16 “Pale Headed Rosella” by Alice Fellows;
• Section 2: Watercolour (sponsored by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables) – Entrant 26 “In the Midst of an Argument” by Joanne Bingham;
• Section 3: Mixed Media (sponsored by Paronella Park) – Entrant 42 “Sailing the Channel” by Lisa Jordan;
• Section 4: Digital Art (sponsored by Windlab) – Entrant 47 “A Stitch of Stills” by Sharon Cislowski;
• Section 5: Works on Paper (sponsored by Jenark Business Solutions) – Entrant 55 “Crown Cockatoo” by Kutz Ali;
• Section 6: Photography (sponsored by Hinchinbrook Electorate Office) – Entrant 59 “Brolgas in the Grass” by Mark Stark;
• Section 7: Ceramics – Entrant 65 “Mistletoe bird” by Aisha Kennett; and
• Section 8: Sculptural Form – Entrant 74 “The Kookaburra’s Feast” by Mark Bishop.

Thank you to the sponsors and businesses who contributed towards the 9^th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards.      

Voting for the People’s Choice Award will remain open until the close of the exhibition with the winner of this category announced the following week. To vote, please visit the TYTO Regional Art Gallery.

The 9^th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards will be on display daily from 10.00am to 4.00pm until Saturday 31 August 2024. 

Guardian Disaster Management User Group Conference Set to Take Place in Ingham

Hinchinbrook Shire is proud to host QIT Plus’ Guardian Disaster Management User Group Conference, which will convene in our picturesque town of Ingham.

This highly anticipated event, scheduled from Tuesday 20 August to Thursday 22 August 2024, will bring together disaster management professionals from across Queensland, drawing a large contingent of experts dedicated to enhancing disaster preparedness and response.

Chris Madsen, CEO of QIT Plus explains, “The conference will provide an invaluable opportunity for disaster managers from Local Councils around Queensland, emergency services personnel, and other stakeholders to engage in robust discussions, share best practices, and gain insights into the latest advancements in disaster management technology. Attendees will have the chance to participate in a series of workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions designed to foster collaboration and innovation in the field of disaster management.”

The Guardian Disaster Management User Group Conference is proud to have attracted a wide array of participants from various sectors, all committed to improving disaster response and resilience in Queensland.

The presence of so many dedicated professionals underscores the importance of collaboration and continuous learning in the ever evolving field of disaster management.

The Guardian Disaster Management User Group Conference will also feature an in depth review of past disasters in the Hinchinbrook region, providing a critical opportunity for attendees to analyse and learn from these events.

Hinchinbrook has experienced a range of natural disasters, including severe flooding and cyclones, which have tested the resilience and response strategies of local authorities.

By examining these incidents, conference participants will gain valuable insights into effective disaster management practices and the unique challenges faced by the Hinchinbrook community.

This review will foster a deeper understanding of the practical applications of disaster management theories and technologies, ultimately contributing to more robust preparedness and response plans for future emergencies across Queensland.

QIT Plus is a leading provider of comprehensive solutions designed to enhance emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.

The Guardian platform integrates cutting edge technology with practical insights to support disaster managers in protecting communities and saving lives.

We look forward to welcoming all attendees to Ingham for a productive and inspiring conference.

Gawara Baya Community Benefit Fund – Application Now Open

Windlab’s $200,000 Community Benefit Fund will be available each year, for the life of the project.

Applications are now being accepted from communities within the Shire.

If you represent a local community group or organisation and are interested in sponsorship, donations or funding, you can apply for one of the following funding streams:

• Community Enrichment Program supports sponsorship, donations and funding for initiatives under $10,000; and
• Futures Fund Program for initiatives seeking more than $10,000 that have a greater impact on the community.

Focus areas for funding include:

• Health and community wellbeing;
• Liveability;
• Economic development and tourism;
• Environmental initiatives; and
• Renewable energy/recycling.

To take advantage of the Community Benefit Fund, please email GawaraBaya@windlab.com or call the Community Engagement team on 1800 676 864.

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COUNCIL CONNECTION - 15 August 2024