Isaac Henry was among the earliest pioneers along the Tully River. Entrepreneur James Tyson selected a large acreage stretching from the Tully to the Murray River. Isaac Henry, who married Tyson's niece, Barbara, secured a large portion on the north side of the river. The family remained in the area after Tyson abandoned his own project. Isaac served on the Cardwell Shire Council for a number of years between 1903 and 1917 including as Shire Chairman