Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Ingham Theatre Group launched their latest theatre restaurant production this week, with the remaining shows of Cruise Club selling out following a laughter-filled opening weekend.
Two packed performances saw audiences swept onto the Costa Lotta cruise ship’s chaotic voyage, complete with suspicious characters, a twisting murder mystery and plenty of opportunities for audience interaction.
By Victoria Velton
The Costa Lotta has officially left the dock, and if opening weekend was anything to go by, passengers aboard the Ingham Theatre Group’s latest theatre restaurant production are in for a wonderfully chaotic cruise.
After two packed Friday and Saturday performances the Cruise Club is looking forward to more electric evenings, as all upcoming shows are officially sold out.
Steven Veltmeyer, Director of the Cruise Club, said the opening weekend set a high bar.
“Opening weekend was everything live theatre should be — great fun, lots of laughs and even a few exciting opening-night teething issues, which our cast and crew handled with absolute skill and professionalism. I’m incredibly proud of how everyone pulled together and kept the show rolling.”
“Cruise Club is a wonderfully funny, slightly crazy night out, and judging by the laughter and reaction from our first audiences, they certainly enjoyed the voyage with us.”
Councillor of Community and Cultural Services Donna Marbelli also praised the local talent behind the production.
“The talent, energy and effort that went into the production was outstanding, and it was wonderful to see such a great night enjoyed by the community. Congratulations to all our talented locals involved in putting together such an enjoyable evening.”
For those lucky enough to have secured tickets to the upcoming performances, it is time to pack that suitcase, dig out a jazzy shirt – there's a prize for the best dressed holidayer – and prepare for an interactive cruise through Florida, the Bahamas and back again.
Even the play’s author Lianne Mills, will be making the special voyage up to Ingham to join the local crowd on the final weekend of the show.
Fill your plates at the 7pm midnight buffet, enjoy a cheeky cocktail, and set sail with the Ingham Theatre Group as they bring on the next round of Costa Lotta’s holiday cruises - just make sure you look out for pirates!
Members of the Girringun community, pictured in 2022, have been part of an organisation that has helped strengthen culture, Country and community across the region for three decades. Photo supplied
Three decades of culture, leadership and connection to Country have been celebrated in Cardwell, as Girringun Aboriginal Corporation marks 30 years since its establishment.
The milestone was commemorated through a three-day celebration from Friday 14th to Sunday 16th August, bringing together Traditional Owners, Elders, youth, partners and the wider community to reflect on Girringun’s journey and look towards its future.
Girringun was established in Cardwell in 1996 as a united voice for nine Traditional Owner groups and has since grown into a significant Indigenous-led organisation working across cultural heritage, Caring for Country and land and sea management.
2026’s 30-year celebration held over the weekend centred on the theme “Our People, Our Country, Our Voice”, with Girringun Aboriginal Corporation describing the milestone as an opportunity to acknowledge those who have walked before, celebrate achievements and recognise the next generation carrying the work forward.
Attendees from several communities in North Queensland enjoyed storytelling, cultural activities, community connection, music, cultural dance, markets, workshops, an art exhibition, children’s activities and lighting installations over the weekend, as well as a formal Gala Dinner held on the evening of Friday 14th August.
Hinchinbrook Shire Councillor Donna Marbelli attended the dinner on behalf of Hinchinbrook Shire Council, describing it as an honour to celebrate 30 years of “culture, connection, community and creating opportunities for people and families across the region”.
“The evening was a beautiful celebration of Girringun’s history, strength and vision for the future, with a Smoking Ceremony, Welcome to Country, cultural dance, music, inspiring stories and wonderful guest speakers sharing their knowledge and experiences,” Cr Marbelli said.
“It was particularly special to hear the Creation Story and to reflect on the generations of knowledge, culture and connection that continue to be shared and passed on.”
The milestone also comes during a significant year for Girringun, which has been recognised nationally for its Indigenous-led approach to Caring for Country and culture. Girringun was named a finalist in the 2026 National NAIDOC Caring for Country and Culture Award category.
As the organisation looks towards the next 30 years, its celebration has provided an opportunity to honour the past while continuing to strengthen culture, Country and community for future generations.
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