Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
More than 20 local artists and artisans came together at Bingil Bay Cafe for the opening of Mission Beach All Stars, celebrating the depth of creativity across the Mission Beach community. While wet weather kept the opening-night crowd a little smaller than usual, curator and organiser Bernard KC said the cafe’s exhibitions had developed a loyal following. “The locals are always completely supportive,” Bernard said. “We’ve got proper regulars now.” The exhibition brings together artists at different stages of their practice, continuing the cafe’s focus on giving local creatives a welcoming place to show their work. “It’s our chance to let everyone have a go,” Bernard said. He added that Mission Beach itself played a big part in nurturing such a strong creative community. “It’s more of a village, more natural — it’s a perfect spot for artists. There’s so much to be inspired by,” he shared. The opening night also featured live music and door prizes donated by local businesses, including Massage by Yoko and the brand-new Bingil Bay Distillery. Mission Beach All Stars will remain on display at Bingil Bay Cafe until October 30. 1: Angelika Jakob, Donna Spratling, Eb Harper and Bernard KC 2: Donna, Geoff and the BBC team 3: Jenn Payne Tropical Paradise Art 4: Judy Brady 5: Sally Moroney Photo credit: Imogen Kars
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Seabreeze Cafe Lounge is soon to celebrate its ninth birthday, marking almost a decade as a familiar part of the Hinchinbrook and Cardwell community. While the business has spent the past nine years serving locals as a cafe, the team has recently taken Seabreeze in a new direction, introducing an evening dining experience featuring à la carte meals and tapas. The new restaurant offering gives locals another option for dining out in the area, with a relaxed atmosphere, creative dishes and the added appeal of BYO. The evening menu has already been attracting attention from locals, with diners enjoying the opportunity to try the chef's changing creations and share a selection of dishes with friends and family. Recent specials have included the Fresh Off the Boat Open Fish Pie, which proved popular enough to make a return to the menu two weeks in a row. The dish features pan-fried Nanygai (Saddle Tail Snapper), fennel and bacon cream sauce, garlic mash and a golden pastry top, showcasing the fresh and creative approach being brought to the new evening dining experience. For Seabreeze, the move from a traditional cafe into evening dining marks an exciting new chapter as the business approaches its ninth birthday. After almost a decade in the local community, the team is continuing to focus on good food, relaxed dining and creating a place where locals can enjoy something different without having to travel further afield. With its combination of cafe favourites during the day, specialised evening dining, tapas and BYO, Seabreeze is building on what customers already love while offering locals something new to enjoy. The new direction is helping the business carve out a fresh place in the local dining scene as it celebrates the milestone that started it all almost nine years ago. Caption: The menu sees fresh ingredients transformed into dishes of class. Photo sourced: Seabreeze Cafe Lounge
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The Cassowary Coast has been identified as one of North Queensland’s most prospective areas for future plantation expansion, putting the region in a potentially strong position to benefit from a new $150 million federal forestry funding program. Research undertaken for the North Queensland Regional Forestry Hub found significant areas of land across the Cassowary Coast could potentially support commercial forestry under the right market and policy conditions. Timber Queensland Acting CEO Clarissa Brandt said significant areas of land could potentially support commercial forestry, although establishing new plantations remained a long-term investment decision. “Interest from landholders tends to depend on factors such as profitability, market certainty, access to processing facilities and the availability of complementary revenue streams such as carbon projects,” Ms Brandt said. “The funding may help improve the investment environment, but it is unlikely to result in large-scale plantation expansion overnight.” The comments follow the Federal Government’s announcement of $150 million in grants and initiatives through its Forestry Growth Fund, including up to $15 million to support plantation establishment. Up to $85 million will target modern wood-product processing, value-adding and manufacturing, while $30 million will support industry innovation and $15 million will focus on workforce capacity and regional career pathways. The first grant opportunities are expected to open in coming months. Ms Brandt said forestry investment could generate employment throughout the supply chain, including plantation management, harvesting, haulage, equipment operation, sawmilling, manufacturing, transport and maintenance. North Queensland’s forestry and wood-products sector already supports around 1,500 direct and indirect jobs. “While it would be unrealistic to suggest North Queensland will receive a large share of the national funding, any successful local projects could support additional employment and help strengthen existing businesses,” Ms Brandt said. However, securing investment remains a challenge. Ms Brandt said North Queensland’s relatively small forestry footprint could make it more difficult to attract investment, training providers and processing infrastructure, while workforce shortages, freight costs, limited local training, investment uncertainty and timber supply were also constraining growth. Despite those hurdles, she said the new national fund presented an opportunity for the region to build on work already undertaken through the North Queensland Regional Forestry Hub. “Recent Hub research has highlighted opportunities to expand future timber supply, strengthen workforce capability, grow local processing and increase the use of locally sourced timber products,” Ms Brandt said. With applications yet to open and projects set to compete for funding nationally, how much investment ultimately reaches the Cassowary Coast remains to be seen. But with the region already identified for its plantation potential, the coming funding rounds could provide an opportunity to turn that potential into further local investment, industry growth and jobs. CAPTION: The Cassowary Coast has been identified as one of North Queensland’s most prospective areas for future plantation expansion. Photo supplied
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A new group of students is preparing to step up and represent Tully State High School, with the school announcing its 2027 student leadership team. Jackson and Jordyn have been named School Captains for 2027, leading a team of students recognised for their commitment, leadership and willingness to contribute to the school community. Joining them will be Annie as Sports Captain, while Jesse will serve as President of the Student Leadership Team alongside Vice President Corrinne. Breanna has been selected as the school’s Indigenous Leader. Leadership roles have also been announced across Tully State High School’s sporting houses. Isaak and Aiden will lead Walter Hill, Hannah and Makayla have been named Tyson House Captains, Riley and Logan will lead Mackay, and Lee and Charlie will take on the roles for Kirrama. The school congratulated its incoming leaders following the announcement and said it looked forward to seeing the students lead, inspire others and make a positive difference throughout 2027. While the announcement looks ahead to a new year of student leadership, Tully State High School also took the opportunity to recognise those preparing to hand over the reins. The school thanked its outgoing 2026 student leaders for their dedication, enthusiasm and service throughout the year, acknowledging the contribution they have made to the wider school community. The newly announced team will officially take on their leadership roles in 2027, representing their fellow students across school activities, sporting events and the wider Tully community.
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Women’s essentials donated to the Tully Support Centre. Photo credit: Office of Councillor Trudy Tschui
The generosity of the Tully community has once again shown how much can be achieved when locals come together, with essential items recently donated to the Tully Support Centre through the Share the Dignity campaign.
Councillor Trudy Tschui thanked everyone who contributed to the August campaign, with the donations helping provide essential products to women and girls supported by the Tully Support Centre.
The centre also provides emergency relief to community members experiencing a crisis, offering assistance such as food, fuel and pharmacy vouchers, as well as help with school fees and supplies where funding allows.
The program is funded entirely through community donations, fundraising and support from Angelcare Tully, allowing the centre to provide practical assistance to local people when they need it most.
With Christmas approaching, the Tully Support Centre is now inviting local businesses to help make the festive season a little brighter for families doing it tough.
Businesses can support the centre by donating suitable non-perishable food items to its food pantry, helping ensure local families have access to essential groceries and a little extra support at Christmas.
Whether it is a box of pantry staples, a product or monetary collection from staff or a larger business donation, every contribution can help put food on the table for a local family during what can be a particularly difficult time of year.
The Tully Support Centre is encouraging local businesses to get involved and help spread some Christmas generosity throughout the community.
Businesses wanting to contribute to the Christmas food pantry are encouraged to contact the Tully Support Centre to find out how they can help.
Cassowary Coast Council’s Cr Jeff Baines recently celebrated a decade of serving the community as a Division 5 Councillor.
His proudest achievements during that time include bringing funds from the federal government to protect the Great Barrier Reef as Chair of Reef Guardian Councils, as well as seeing the local projects like the Innisfail CBD Masterplan and Warrina Lakes Masterplan progress and bring benefits to the community.
“I’ve been very fortunate to live in this beautiful town for twenty five years,” Cr Baines said.
“My wife’s family are from here, my kids are 5th generation… I feel like I’m part of this community, this is my family.”
Throughout his time as a councillor, Cr Baines has highlighted the importance of looking after the environment, for the future generations as well as the wider community.
“Protecting our national assets is really important,” he said.
“We live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world…”
“[Protecting the environment is] something we should all think about but we can do it in practical ways that have value for everyone including the community, including agriculture, including industry.”
As for the most challenging part of the last decade? Cr Baines cited transitioning from a small business background and “learning patience, learning process, learning government skills.”
“You can’t just make things happen.” He explained.
“We have to think about decisions we make, what’s going to be happening in 10, 20 30 years that may come out of those decisions.
“What keeps me motivated is when we get projects on the ground and the community can see them happening and the great benefits that come out of that.”
When asked what message he has for the community, Cr Baines said:
“It’s been an honour to serve the last ten years. It will continue to be an honour for the next ten years and I would like to continue my work into the future- I’m not done yet, there’s plenty for us to do.”
World Cassowary Day will be celebrated on Saturday 26th September, shining a spotlight on one of North Queensland’s most iconic residents. Photo source: Shutterstock
Later this month, locals are being encouraged to celebrate one of the region’s most iconic residents for World Cassowary Day.
The awareness day falls on Saturday, 26th September, recognising the remarkable bird and calling for its conservation.
Mission Beach has been recognised as having the highest density of cassowaries in Australia, with locals accustomed to sharing their backyards, roads and rainforest with cassowaries. The birds play an important role in maintaining the tropical landscape that makes the Cassowary Coast unique.
Often described as rainforest gardeners, cassowaries disperse the seeds of rainforest plants as they move through their habitat, helping support forest regeneration.
This year, NQ Dry Tropics is inviting North Queenslanders to mark World Cassowary Day with a special event focusing on the world’s southernmost wild cassowary population at the Paluma Range and Crystal Creek.
Held at Outer Limits, 37 Daly Road, Mutarnee, the morning will give attendees the chance to hear the latest updates from local cassowary researchers, enjoy morning tea and take part in a guided birdwatching walk. Participants will also be able to take home a free native plant.
Tully State High School Year 12 student Emily has been named a finalist in the 2026 Brett Moller Legal Studies Award. Photo supplied
By Chelsea Ravizza
A strong passion for law and an impressive academic record have earned Tully State High School’s School Captain, Emily Pietrobon a place among the finalists in the 2026 Brett Moller Legal Studies Award.
Annually attracting applicates from over 37 schools, the highly respected award recognises and supports outstanding Year 12 students from across Far North Queensland who demonstrate both an aptitude for Legal Studies and a genuine interest in pursuing a future career in law or legal services.
Emily was initially shortlisted after submitting an application alongside her academic record and a 400–600-word essay exploring what she believes is the most pressing legal issue facing the country’s society and the importance of law. Now progressing to the finalist stage, Emily’s in contention to be named among the award’s top three recipients, which will be announced at the Business Liaison Association Awards in Cairns on Thursday 17th September.
Judges Shannean Moncrieff and Brett Moller praised Emily’s academic achievements, maturity and commitment to her community, describing her as an excellent ambassador for both her school and the wider region.
“Emily was poised, mature, articulate and an excellent ambassador for her school and region. Her academic record was exemplary and bodes well for her tertiary studies,” said Shannean and Brett.
“Emily had a well-balanced and thoughtful understanding of legal principles and philosophy which will see her adapt to a law degree very well.”
The judges also noted Emily’s application was particularly persuasive given she does not currently undertake any legal subjects at school.
With the final announcement now approaching, Emily’s overjoyed to have been recognised among talented students from across Far North Queensland, saying being shortlisted feels to be an achievement in itself.
Tully State High School Principal Ms Helen Carne congratulated Emily on the achievement, describing her progression to the finalist stage as a reflection of her hard work, dedication and passion for Legal Studies.
“An outstanding student leader, Emily has demonstrated exceptional commitment to both the school and the wider student body through her role as School Captain. She consistently represents students with integrity, maturity and empathy, ensuring that the voices and perspectives of her peers are heard and valued,” said Ms Carne.
“Alongside Emily’s outstanding leadership qualities, Emily has demonstrated a strong interest and commitment to Law in her future studies. Emily’s leadership, academic achievement and commitment to others makes her a highly deserving nominee for the 2026 Brett Moller Legal Studies Award.
“As Principal of Tully State High School, I am extremely proud of all student achievements and successes.”
The Innisfail Rescue was christened with champagne as part of the celebrations. Photo credit: Office of Councillor Trudy Tuschi
Innisfail QF-15 Coast Guard has officially commissioned its new vessel, the Innisfail Rescue, surrounded by members, families, supporters and guests from across the North Queensland Coast Guard community.
“Congratulations to Innisfail Q15 Coastguard who commissioned their new vessel Innisfail Rescue. Wishing for fair winds and following seas for all who board the boat,” said Councillor Trudy Tschui.
The vessel was christened with a traditional champagne ceremony as part of the celebrations, with AVCGA National Board members, NQ Squadron Commanders and members, and local Innisfail residents among those attending.
Photo source: Shutterstock
A splash of colour is helping start an important conversation across the Cassowary Coast this September, with the Tully Support Centre throwing its support behind Liptember!
Over the course of the month, staff will be wearing bright lipstick or colourful socks to raise awareness and funds every Wednesday for women’s mental health, while encouraging the wider community to get involved.
Tully Support Centre’s Clinical Governance Manager, Megan Johnson said the simple gesture is designed to get people talking about women’s mental health and encourage conversations around making positive choices for mental wellbeing.
“We want to encourage and support conversations, that reduce stigma and support women to reach and succeed in all they choose to do, empowering women in life,” she said.
“We see the impacts of DFV as a specialist DFV service, every day on women and children, and we assist to support and walk along side to move from surviving to thriving. We recognize that raising awareness of women's mental health supports better health outcomes for women and girls, particularly in our regional and rural communities.
“Small conversations can make a big difference.”
Liptember is an annual campaign dedicated to raising funds and awareness for women’s mental health, with the Tully Support Centre using this year’s campaign to bring the conversation directly into the local community.
The Centre is encouraging women from all backgrounds and cultures across the Cassowary Coast to take part and help add a little colour to Wednesdays throughout September. Locals can also share photographs of themselves getting involved using #LiptemberCassowaryCoast and help spread the message further.
Whether it is a bold red lip, a bright pink or a colourful pair of socks, the campaign is a simple way for residents to show their support while helping make conversations about mental health a little easier to start.
Come on down to Cowley Beach this Saturday for the next beach clean-up. Photo supplied: Cassowary Coast Regional Council
More than 30 volunteers rolled up their sleeves at the recent Kurrimine Beach clean-up, removing an incredible 518 kilograms of rubbish and marine debris from the beach.
With turtles and birds among the local wildlife recently injured by marine debris, organisers say there is still plenty to be done.
Residents are now being urged to lend a hand at this Saturday’s Cowley Beach Clean Up and help protect local wildlife. The clean-up begins at 8.30am at the Cowley Beach boat ramp, followed by a BBQ lunch. Everyone is welcome to take part.
By Victoria Velton
Three dead sea turtles washed ashore. A bird left helplessly hanging from a tree after becoming tangled in kite string. In the space of just one month, Mission Beach Wildcare Inc has responded to a troubling series of wildlife incidents along the coast.
Among the most recent cases were two immature green sea turtles found washed ashore within a week of each other, both showing signs consistent with Floaters Syndrome.
One turtle showed obvious signs of starvation, while the other was covered in moss, suggesting it had been floating helplessly for some time.
A separate turtle found off Dunk Island was described as extremely thin, with a long tail indicating its age and moss covering its shell. Mission Beach Wildcare said the turtle appeared to have been starving for some time and may also have ingested foreign material.
The wildlife group also recently came to the aid of a Metallic Starling found entangled high in a tree by what appeared to be kite string, with the kite handle still attached.
While rescuers were initially unable to reach the bird, local wildlife supporter Mark Gough assisted with the rescue effort, highlighting the importance of community members stepping in when wildlife is in trouble.
Mission Beach Wildcare has urged residents and visitors to think carefully about what they buy, how they use it and, most importantly, how they dispose of it.
Vigilance is particularly important along the coast, where rubbish can travel through waterways and onto beaches where it becomes a hazard for marine life and birds.
Recent clean-up efforts also show what can be achieved when the community comes together.
More than 30 volunteers took part in the annual Kurrimine Beach Clean Up, removing an incredible 518 kilograms of marine debris and rubbish from the beach and surrounding areas.
Residents are now invited to do their bit at the upcoming Cowley Beach clean-up, with Cassowary Coast Regional Council teaming up with Tangaroa Blue, Mandubarra Aboriginal Land & Sea Inc and Parley Australia to remove marine debris from the Cowley coastline.
The clean-up will begin at 8:30am on Saturday 19th September, at the Cowley Beach boat ramp, followed by a BBQ lunch.
Everyone is welcome to take part. Bring a hat, enclosed shoes and a water bottle, and help remove rubbish before it can cause another wildlife emergency.
Register for the cleanup: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HB6PXTM
Recent incidents along the coast are emphasizing the importance of keeping rubbish off the beach.
As Queensland’s shorebird nesting season gets underway, beachgoers are being reminded to give coastal birds plenty of space as they raise their young.
For ground-nesting birds, a peaceful stretch of sand can be the difference between a successful nesting attempt and a disturbed one. Nests and chicks can be difficult to spot due to camouflage.
Dogs, people and vehicles moving too close to the birds can cause them to leave their nests and leave vulnerable chicks unprotected. Visitors should watch where they walk, avoid known roosting and nesting areas and keep dogs on a lead where required.
Local beaches and wetlands are home to shorebirds such as beach stone-curlews, pied oystercatchers, and the endangered little terns. If you spot birds nesting or young chicks on the sand, give them plenty of space and avoid walking or driving through the area.
A simple way to help is to give birds a wide berth. If a bird becomes agitated or flies away as you approach, take that as a sign you are too close and move further back.
The warmer months also bring an opportunity for Queenslanders to take a closer look at the birds sharing their local environment as the Aussie Bird Count returns.
The Aussie Bird Count will run from the 19th to 25th October, giving bird lovers and curious locals the chance to spend just 20 minutes counting the birds around them.
Now in its 13th year, the national citizen science event is open to everyone, with counts able to be completed in backyards, parks, schoolyards, beaches or even from a window.
Last year, a record 64,000 Australians counted more than five million birds, with the information helping BirdLife Australia build a better picture of Australia's bird populations.
You don't need to be a bird expert to take part as the free Aussie Bird Count app includes a bird finder to help identify unfamiliar species, and every count contributes to Australia's growing citizen-science dataset.
This October will be a great chance to look a little closer at the wildlife around you and help the birds.
WHAT: Aussie Bird Count 2026
WHEN: October 19th–25th
WHERE: Anywhere you can spot birds
Helmsperson Coral and Skipper Graham at the helm. Photo supplied: Steve Whipps
The Lucinda Coast Guard QF-14 has welcomed new communication headsets for its volunteers, thanks to a grant from the Port of Townsville Authority.
Lucinda Coast Guard President Steve Whipps said the headsets would make communication between crew members significantly clearer while the vessel was underway.
“These headsets provide clear and audible speech despite the noise from our twin 300 HP motors and the sound of the waves striking the vessel at speed,” President Whipps said.
He said the improved communication would help ensure important instructions were heard clearly by all crew members while out on missions.
“This ability greatly improves communication between the Skipper, the Navigator, the Helmsperson and the deck crew, preventing missed instructions and misheard directions,” he said.
“Our thanks go to the Port of Townsville Authority for their great contribution to our on-board safety,” he said.
Rubbish and plastics can range from the tinies coil of nylon fishing line to the metres of thick marine rope. This pile of rubbish was found on Forrest Beach by residents. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Forrest Beach locals are doing their bit to keep the popular coastline clean, with a recent online conversation highlighting how many beachcombers are now regularly picking up plastic and other rubbish washed in by the tide.
For some, it has become part of their regular beach walk, with one local saying they often fill a pocket with pieces of plastic they find along the sand.
“I quite often go for the little, tiny pieces as they are easily swallowed by our marine life, but also pick up the chunky bits,” one resident commented.
Others shared their own experiences of helping to keep Forrest Beach clean, with another resident remembering the old saying, “three for the sea”, an initiative asking beachgoers to collect and dispose of at least three items of trash whenever they leave the shore.
“These days it is more like 30,” the resident said.
The problem is not limited to the obvious rubbish. Though larger pieces pose a danger through choking, entanglement and restricting movement, smaller plastics can build up in animals over time.
Locals have pointed to tiny fragments, some no bigger than grains of salt, which can be easily swallowed by marine wildlife.
One local said the ongoing challenge of plastic washed in with the tide makes beach clean-up a “never-ending job”.
Forrest Beach residents are encouraging others to pick up what they can when they are at the beach or along any waterway, whether it is one piece or a pocketful, and help keep the coastline beautiful for both the community and its wildlife.
On Friday, 19th September 1879, the first annual meeting of the Herbert River Jockey Club (Kennedy District) was held.
Introducing the charming and mature Rex, a delightful Chihuahua cross whose friendly nature is simply irresistible. At 10 years young, Rex exudes a warmth and affection that will immediately endear him to anyone lucky enough to meet him. He's a true gem and an absolute love bug who is ready to bring joy and companionship to his new family.
Rex has recently undergone a complete veterinary check-up and his health is in top condition. As one of the most amiable little fellows around, Rex would thrive in a home where he can enjoy companionship and care.
If you're looking for an affectionate, easy-going pup to share your days with, Rex is more than ready to be that special friend. Give Rex the loving home he deserves, and in return, he'll shower you with endless affection and wagging-tail excitement.
Included in adoption fee of $350 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated & and on PROHEART. Enquire at Angelpaws.com.au/dogs
Sex: Male
Breed: Chihuahua X
Colour: Caramel
DOB: 23/04/2016
Cat Friendly: No
Dog Friendly: Yes
Kid Friendly: Yes
‘As a parent, you know your child better than anyone.’ Photo supplied: Naturally Kids
Contributed with thanks by Naturally Kids Allied Health
Every child develops at their own pace, but as a parent, you know your child better than anyone. Sometimes it’s the little things that make you wonder.
Maybe getting dressed each morning is a struggle. Your child might avoid certain foods, sounds or textures, have difficulty with handwriting or using scissors, find it hard to concentrate at school, or become overwhelmed by everyday routines and changes.
Perhaps they’re finding friendships challenging, struggling to regulate big emotions, or having difficulty developing skills that seem to come more easily to other children.
These challenges don’t automatically mean something is wrong. However, when they begin affecting your child’s confidence, independence, learning, friendships or family life, it may be worthwhile seeking extra support.
Occupational therapy can help children develop practical skills for everyday life, including fine and gross motor skills, self-care, school participation, emotional regulation, sensory processing, confidence and independence.
At Naturally Kids Allied Health, supporting your child also means supporting you. We help give you the understanding, practical strategies and confidence to support your child beyond therapy sessions and in everyday life. Support can help you understand what your child needs and what you can do to help.
Families can access Naturally Kids through a GP referral, Paediatrician referral or by self-referring directly. Naturally Kids welcomes private-paying and NDIS-funded clients who are self-managed or plan-managed. Regular outreach services are available in the Hinchinbrook region, helping families access support closer to home.
Sometimes the first step is simply asking, “Could my child benefit from some extra support?”
Starting that conversation early can help families understand their child’s needs and find ways to help them thrive.
Cr Donna Marbelli, Sharyn Steele, Rhonda Horton, David Horsley and Cr Kate Milton. Photo supplied: Cr Donna Marbelli
By Victoria Velton
For nine decades, the Ingham Kennel & Obedience Club has brought together generations of dog lovers, exhibitors and volunteers; a proud legacy celebrated at the club’s 90th Anniversary Weekend of Shows last weekend at the Ingham Showgrounds.
The club was founded on 21st May 1936 as the Herbert River Kennel Association, holding its first dog show on Saturday 25th July that year. Since then, the club has continued to support the advancement and promotion of purebred dogs under the guidance and affiliation of Dogs Queensland. The weekend was a celebration of the club’s history, and an opportunity to recognise the people who have helped shape it.
Three club life members, Sharyn Steele, Rhonda Horton and David Horsley, were recognised during the celebrations and honoured by cutting the club’s 90th Anniversary Cake.
Hinchinbrook Shire Councillors Donna Marbelli and Kate Milton also attended the milestone celebrations, with Cr Marbelli congratulating the volunteers, committee members, judges, sponsors, supporters and families who have contributed to the club over the years.
“Community clubs are such an important part of our Shire,” Cr Marbelli said.
"The Ingham Kennel & Obedience club brings people together through friendship, participation and the shared love of dogs."
As part of proceedings, a perpetual trophy once used for Best in Show was returned to the spotlight after being carefully restored by Kenny Fraser, son of former club patron Mary Fraser.
The 90th Anniversary Weekend also featured a 1930s, 1940s and 1950s fancy dress competition, while the club’s exhibitors competed across the weekend’s shows.
Club representatives thanked the many judges and ring stewards who travelled from New South Wales to participate, along with sponsors EAC Animal Care, Plush Puppy, CEN and Nana Chelle’s Glass Studio.
The club also recognised the contribution of its volunteers, including canteen volunteers and Rhonda Horton, described by the club as an “anchor” who has played an important role in keeping the club running.
From its beginnings in 1936 to its 90th anniversary in 2026, the Ingham Kennel & Obedience Club has built a proud history around their passions for dogs, a legacy celebrated throughout the Kennel Club community that anniversary weekend.
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Year 4 students discovered that great stories began with an idea, and that they could be authors too! Photos supplied: Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School
Contributed with thanks by Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School
What a wonderful way to begin Book Week at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School!
Our Year 4 students were delighted to welcome Fiona Carmelito, a valued member of our school community and a published author, who shared her love of writing and her journey to becoming an author.
Fiona spoke with the students about the writing process, from developing an initial idea through to seeing a story become a published book. She generously shared her own experiences and answered the many questions students had about what it was really like to write and publish a book.
Fiona’s visit provided the perfect introduction to an exciting week of writing for our Year 4 students. Inspired by her story, the students embarked on their own journey through the writing process, working through the stages of planning, drafting, revising, editing and publishing.
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By the end of the week, every student had created their own published piece of writing. Together, these works formed a very special Year 4 collection, showcasing the informative, imaginative and entertaining writing of our students. The collection was intended to become a treasured addition to our school library, available for students and families to borrow and enjoy.
Most importantly, Fiona’s visit helped our students see that being an author wasn’t something that only happened to other people. They could be writers. They could be storytellers. And their ideas were worth sharing.
A very big thank you went to Fiona for generously giving her time to inspire our Year 4 students and for sharing her experiences as a published author. We were also thrilled to receive signed copies of both of Fiona’s books, which were proudly kept in our Year 4 classroom.
It was a wonderful reminder that every great book began with an idea and every author began with the courage to put pen to paper.
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