5000 TONES & I FANS ROCK INGHAM

HINCHINBROOK STRIKES THE RIGHT TONES AS 5,000 FANS TURN OUT IN FORCE Hinchinbrook rallied with passion and creativity as shopfronts were transformed, murals appeared across the district, social media lit up with messages of support, and locals shared stories of what makes their region unique. Love shared from world class fishing and thriving birdlife to its proud sugar industry heritage. That groundswell of community spirit ultimately secured Ingham as the chosen destination. Ahead of the show, Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Cr Ramon Jayo — a proud Macknade cane farmer with more than 30 years of experience in local government — officially welcomed Tones and I to the region. In a gesture reflecting Hinchinbrook’s deep agricultural roots, he presented her with a cane knife, symbolic of farming families who have shaped the district. Mayor Jayo said the event was a significant moment for Hinchinbrook. “When an artist like Tones and I comes to Ingham, it’s a big deal for a town like ours,” Mayor Jayo said. “We’re a hardworking community built on agriculture and small business, and nights like this give people a chance to come together and enjoy something special close to home. “Seeing families out, kids having fun and local businesses busy — that’s what it’s all about.” The impact was felt well beyond the stage. Local eateries, cafés and accommodation providers reported strong trade with some experiencing their busiest night in years. It’s estimated that one Friday night will add an estimated $221,000 to the local Hinchinbrook economy, through increased spend on hospitality, retail, accommodation and event suppliers. Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism President Mary Brown said the event demonstrated the shire’s capability and potential. “To host an event of this scale with such a short turnaround — and still achieve the attendance we did — has clearly shown performers what Hinchinbrook is capable of,” Ms Brown said. “It proves that our shire has the capacity and potential to host and accommodate events of this size well into the future.” She said the experience had been uplifting for local businesses and the broader community. “The excitement and enthusiasm we’ve witnessed throughout this process has been an incredible morale booster,” she said. “This time of year is traditionally commercially slow, the mood can be sombre and negative sentiment often rises. This event has given our community something positive to rally around, and that has been just as valuable as the concert itself.” Mayor Jayo also extended his gratitude to the wider community and acknowledged the community effort that helped secure the concert. “When the challenge was put forward, our community didn’t hesitate and a big thank you to Justine Stoddart for kicking it off,” he said. “Businesses, families, community groups and volunteers all stepped up. That collective effort is what brought Tones and I to Ingham, and it’s something we should be incredibly proud of.” On behalf of the community, Council extends its thanks to Tones and I, her team, event partners, local businesses, schools, community organisations and every community member who helped bring the night to life.