We’re excited to welcome Max Lenoy as our special guest for the first Green Drinks of 2026.

Max is widely known for his work in Indigenous education and cultural advocacy. He holds a Bachelor of Education (Primary) from JCU and a Master of Education from Harvard University, with a focus on technology and innovation in education.

But Max is much more than his qualifications. He is deeply embedded in the Queensland community – serving on various boards and committees, including the North Queensland Employment Service (Deputy Chair), Queensland Youth Services (Chair) and Yumba Meta Ltd. He has previously served as a non-executive Director of the State Library of Queensland and chaired its First Nations Advisory Committee.

He’s also a creative and cultural contributor – performing in theatre productions, featuring in the TheatreiNQ PlayGround Writers Festival, and delivering a powerful TEDxTownsville talk, “Connecting with Country,” exploring how connection to land shapes identity and belonging.

Max joined the NQCC Management Committee at the 2025 AGM, and we’re thrilled to have him share his perspective as an educator, community leader, artist and change maker.

Green Drinks is a relaxed, informal space to connect with others who care about the environmental future of our region. No membership necessary, no pressure – just good conversations about what matters.

Come along, bring a friend, and help us kick off 2026 together. Please RSVP, to make venue booking easier. 

Five years ago, an independent review of Australia's federal nature laws found that they were failing. This week, the EPBC Act has finally been overhauled, after negotiations between the Labor Government and the Greens resulted in changes that have been labelled "transformative" and "historic". There is still work to be done, but a sigh of relief right now is justified.

While history is being made in federal politics, in the Hinchinbrook Channel, history is set to repeat itself.

Long-term NQCC members might remember the courageous yet ultimately unsuccessful fight against the development of Port Hinchinbrook. Decades of environmental disturbance and decay have ensued. Now, the State Government is looking to revitalise the area and dredge up the past. That can't happen on our watch. Making a submission takes a few minutes, but could make a world of difference. 

Thank you for your support throughout this massive month! It's been exciting, and we love sharing it with you.

- Crystal, NQCC Coordinator

As I write this, I am humbled by the donations that continue to roll in for our EOFY Appeal, which this year has been doubled by a generous matched donor. At this rate, we're on track to hit our $4000 goal, which will become $8000 towards our ambitious plans for the future. I know times are tough, so if you have managed to chip in this year, please know it means the world to us!

As you'll see, June has been an exciting, fast-paced month, where volunteers have contributed more than 250 hours combined! Luna and I are so grateful to the people around us who truly bring our organisation to life. 

Please enjoy this edition of Paperbark and keep doing the great things you do for nature and your community, whatever that may be.