Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
When the North Queensland heat turns up, staying hydrated becomes more important than ever. Whether you're working outdoors, heading out for a long walk, spending the day at the beach or keeping up with your exercise routine, replacing fluids lost through sweat is an important part of looking after your body. While drinking plenty of water is essential, electrolytes also play a role in maintaining the body's fluid balance. Sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium are lost through sweat and help support normal muscle function, nerve signalling and hydration. During prolonged physical activity, particularly in hot conditions, an electrolyte drink can help replenish these important minerals. PURE Sports Nutrition's Electrolyte Hydration range offers a convenient way to support hydration during extended exercise and high-intensity activity. The Superfruits flavour combines real freeze-dried fruit powders with carbohydrates and four key electrolytes: sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium. Designed as a natural isotonic sports drink, the formula contains five per cent carbohydrates to help provide energy during exercise. It is also free from artificial colours and preservatives, vegan friendly and formulated to be easy on the stomach without an overly sweet taste. This summer, make hydration part of your routine. Drink water regularly, plan ahead when spending time in the heat and consider electrolyte support during longer or more strenuous activities. Beat the Hinchinbrook heat with PURE Sports Nutrition electrolytes, on sale at Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy until 17th November – the summer companion to help keep you hydrated!
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With North Queensland’s sunshine comes the reminder to protect your skin. Whether you're spending the day at the beach, working outdoors, enjoying the backyard or keeping the kids entertained during the holidays, sun protection should be part of your routine. La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios range offers SPF 50+ options to help protect the whole family against harmful UVA and UVB rays, with lightweight formulas designed for different needs and activities. For everyday facial protection, the Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Ultra Invisible Fluid SPF 50+ features a lightweight, non-greasy texture with an invisible finish and no white cast. Formulated for sensitive skin, it is designed to sit comfortably under makeup, making it an easy addition to your morning skincare routine. For days spent swimming or enjoying the water, Anthelios Wet Skin Sunscreen SPF 50+ features specialised Wet Skin Technology, allowing it to be applied directly to wet skin while providing four hours of water resistance. It is suitable for sensitive skin and children. The Anthelios Invisible Spray SPF 50+ offers a convenient face and body option, with a lightweight, fragrance-free formula and easy application. Little ones are also catered for with the UVMUNE 400 Ultra Invisible Kids Fluid SPF 50+, developed for children's sensitive skin. Remember to apply sunscreen 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, as well as after swimming, towelling or perspiring. Pair sunscreen with protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses and shade. Discover the La Roche-Posay Anthelios range, available at TerryWhite Chemmart Ingham. Caption: La Roche-Posay Anthelios range available at TerryWhite Chemmart Ingham, Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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The summer sun is starting to turn up the heat across Hinchinbrook, and while a day outdoors is part of the Queensland lifestyle, forgetting sun protection can leave a lasting mark on your skin. With temperatures climbing and UV levels reaching extreme readings, locals are being reminded to make sun safety part of their everyday routine. Whether you're working in the paddock, fishing, heading to the beach, watching weekend sport or enjoying a backyard barbecue, protecting your skin needs to be on the agenda. The tricky thing about ultraviolet (UV) radiation is that you cannot see it or feel it. Unlike sunlight, which we can see, or infrared radiation, which gives us that familiar warmth, UV can damage skin without any obvious warning. A cloudy morning or a cooler breeze does not necessarily mean you're safe from exposure. The Bureau of Meteorology's Hinchinbrook forecast is already highlighting the need for caution, with UV levels recently reaching extreme levels from just the second week of November. Cancer Council recommends following the five SunSmart steps whenever the UV Index reaches three or above. Slip on protective clothing, choosing long sleeves and fabrics that cover as much skin as possible. Slop on SPF50 or SPF50+ broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. Apply it generously before heading outdoors and reapply every two hours, particularly after swimming, sweating or towel-drying. Slap on a broad-brimmed hat to protect your face, ears and neck. Seek shade wherever possible, especially during the middle of the day when UV levels are generally strongest. Slide on sunglasses that meet Australian standards to protect your eyes. Sunscreen should not be treated as a suit of armour or a reason to spend longer in the sun. It works best alongside clothing, a hat, shade and sunglasses. UV exposure also builds up over time, so even days without sunburn can contribute to skin damage. And remember, burning isn't good for toast, and it's even worse for your skin. A tan is also a sign of UV damage, not a healthy souvenir of a day outdoors. Before heading out, check the UV forecast for Hinchinbrook through the Bureau of Meteorology and plan your day around the sun protection times. A few simple habits can help keep your skin safer throughout the summer and well beyond. Check the forecast and stay sun safe: www.bom.gov.au/places/qld/hinchinbrook/forecast/ ‘Slide on sunglasses that meet Australian standards to protect your eyes.’ Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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The McHappiest Time of the Year is back! McHappy Day returns on Wednesday 14 November, rallying Aussies to give back to Ronald McDonald House Australia through fun, fashion, and spreading joy. The fundraising starts now, with a fresh line-up of NEW limited-edition McHappy Day merch has already dropped! From Wednesday 14 October until midnight on McHappy Day (14 November), locals across Queensland can step up for a good cause with this year's Silly Socks ($6.50), featuring fan-favourite characters Grimace and Hamburglar, or top off their look with all-new stonewash Cool Caps ($9.95). Best of all, 100% of profits from merchandise sales go directly to Ronald McDonald House Australia, helping support families when they need it most. Whether you're rocking your Silly Socks for good or sporting a Cool Cap that gives back, every purchase helps raise vital funds for Ronald McDonald House Australia, supporting essential services that provide comfort, care and connection for families with children who are ill or injured, helping them stay together when it matters most. Looking for even more ways to support McHappy Day? Aussies can also: Lend a hand – Purchase a Helping Hand for $2, $10 or $50 and add your support to the thousands of Aussies backing Ronald McDonald House Australia. Click, tap & donate – Head to mchappyday.org.au/donate and help support families with children who are ill or injured, wherever you are. Buy a Big Mac with a BIGGER purpose – On McHappy Day, $2 from every Big Mac sold, whether purchased on its own or as part of a meal, will be donated to Ronald McDonald House® Australia. "Every year we're inspired by the generosity of our customers and communities. McHappy Day shows that when lots of people do something small, the collective impact can be extraordinary," said Tamika Wood, Regional Director for McDonald’s North Region. "Whether it’s picking up a pair of Silly Socks or a Cool Cap, purchasing a Helping Hand during McHappy Time, or coming in to grab a Big Mac on McHappy Day, there are so many simple ways for locals to get involved. “Every contribution helps Ronald McDonald House continue their incredible work supporting families and keeping them together during some of life's most challenging moments. “We can't wait to see our community come together once again and help make this year's McHappy Day one to remember." Barbara Ryan, Chief Executive Officer for Ronald McDonald House Australia, said: “McHappy Day is one of the most important fundraising campaigns of the year for Ronald McDonald House in Australia, and we're incredibly grateful to everyone who gets involved. "By purchasing a pair of Silly Socks, popping on a Cool Cap or making a donation, Australians are helping support families with children who are ill or injured when they need it most. "The launch of this year's McHappy Day merchandise is the perfect opportunity to get involved early and show your support. McHappy Day is a great chance to make a small purchase that makes a big difference for Aussie families". Organised by McDonald's Australia, McHappy Day brings communities together each year to support the largest annual fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House Australia. Since 1991, Australians have helped raise more than $83 million through McHappy Day, enabling Ronald McDonald House across Australia to continue providing essential services and support to over 89,000 families annually. Funds raised through McHappy Day help Ronald McDonald House across Australia provide a range of Programs to meet families’ needs, including Ronald McDonald Houses, Family Accommodation, Family Rooms, Family Hubs, Family Retreats, Hospitality Carts and the Learning Program. Together, these services provide comfort, care and connection when families need it most. From Wednesday 14th October, McHappy Day Silly Socks and stonewash Cool Caps are available at Macca's restaurants nationwide via drive thru, kiosk, front counter, the MyMacca’s app and McDelivery, while stocks last. Locals can get behind the cause at McDonald's Ingham, with the restaurant joining the nationwide McHappy Day campaign. The community is encouraged to get involved by picking up this year's limited-edition merchandise, purchasing a Helping Hand or donating at the drive thru, before they enjoy a Big Mac that supports families in need. Councillor Donna Marbelli and Sherie Hensler-Adams of Life Publishing Group raising funds in the Ingham McDonald’s drive thru on McHappy Day, 2025. Photo credit: Victoria Velton The Ingham Maccas team sporting outfits for their McHappy Day ‘Wonderland’ theme in 2025. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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A cold one is waiting for you at the Forrest Beach Seaside Resort. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
New owners, a new name and a fresh facelift has been given to the former Forrest Beach Hotel, newly launched as Forrest Beach Seaside Resort (FBSR), following big plans to bring back the family heart and become the evening go-to spot at 'the Beach'.
A fresh coat of blue paint and new signage are the first signs of things to come, as the resort slowly transforms to meet the vision of its new owners. The old girl has plenty of life left in her yet, with a revamped bar, refurbished accommodation and plans for a swimming pool already approved.
The rooms have been given a fresh, clean look, so guests can wake up to a beach view from their king-sized bed or enjoy watching the kids play on the lawn. And while the transformation from hotel to resort is well underway, the promised pool is just one of the ideas in the works.
The owners say they're not going anywhere, with a five-year plan already in motion to make FBR a place where patrons want to spend their time. Think friends, family, good food, entertainment and a cold one on tap. Soon enough, there'll be a pool to dip into as well!
And there's an extra reason to head down and celebrate, with Forrest Beach Seaside Resort hosting a big Saturday night on 14th November.
Local duo Escape Goats will bring the live entertainment, promising big guitar sounds, powerful vocals, modern rock classics and old favourites with a fresh twist. These two pack the sound and energy of a full band, ready to turn an ordinary Saturday night into a proper pub-rock party.
There's also a birthday to celebrate, with the occasion marking the owner's special day. So, round up your mates, check out the new bar and settle in for a night of live music in good company.
The old Forrest Beach Hotel is starting to find its feet again, and if the owners' plans are anything to go by, there's plenty more to come. The Beach might just have its favourite local gathering spot back.
At just over four years old, Shadow has gracefully matured into a calm and soulful companion, with plenty of love and companionship still to give. This lovely Domestic Short Hair girl thrives in a quieter, peaceful setting where she can enjoy being the centre of attention.
Shadow comes from a home where she was deeply cherished, and she's now looking for someone who appreciates her gentle temperament and can provide a tranquil environment. She would prefer to be the only feline in the household, where she can soak up all the affection for herself. While her compatibility with other cats and children is unknown, she has been listed as dog-friendly.
Shadow is now ready for the next chapter of her life, hoping to find a loving home where she can settle in and share her affection with one special person or family. Whether it's a peaceful routine or a quiet evening curled up by your side, Shadow is sure to bring comfort and companionship to her new home.
Included in adoption fee of $225 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated. Enquire today at angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/cats/
Sex: Female
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Colour: Black
DOB: 08/08/2022
Cat Friendly: Unsure
Dog Friendly: Yes
Kid Friendly: Unsure
Rebecca Zaghini, of Wild Local, Ingham. Image supplied
By Victoria Velton
For Ingham family business Wild Local, a reliable internet connection is essential to keeping the doors open; beyond convenience, it serves to support customers and the local fishing families behind its fresh seafood.
After 18 years in business, Rebecca Zaghini has seen Wild Local grow from a fresh fish and prawn shop into a fish and chip shop, café and pantry. But as the business expanded, so too did its reliance on technology.
The need for a stronger connection became impossible to ignore in December 2025, when the internet dropped out just as the business was heading into its busiest trading period.
“With locals, holidaymakers and travellers all coming through, we simply couldn't afford to have our internet fail then,” Rebecca said.
“Online orders, card payments, stock and supplier communication all depend on it. That outage was the wake-up call.”
The business made the move to full fibre, a decision Rebecca said has already made a noticeable difference to daily operations.
Online orders now come through without delays, EFTPOS is faster and more reliable, and staff can manage stock and communicate with fishers and suppliers without waiting on a slow connection.
“When you're dealing with fresh, wild-caught seafood, timing is everything, so being able to respond quickly to customers and suppliers really matters,” she said.
The improved connection has also helped streamline the customer experience, with faster and more accurate orders, less waiting at the counter and fewer missed calls during busy periods.
Wild Local has also introduced an AI ordering system, helping take pressure off staff during peak times so they can concentrate on cooking and looking after customers in the shop.
Rebecca said the technology relies on a fast, stable connection, with full fibre providing the infrastructure to support it.
With almost every part of the business now depending on internet access, from orders and payments to tour group bookings and social media, Rebecca said reliable connectivity was no longer a luxury.
That reliability is particularly important as the region approaches another wet season.
During the February 2025 floods, Wild Local was forced to close for seven days. Once power was restored, the business reopened to feed SES workers and locals.
“That experience showed us how much the community relies on us when things go wrong, and we never want to be shut for that long again,” Rebecca said.
Since then, the business has invested in solar, battery storage and a backup generator, alongside its full fibre connection, to improve its ability to keep operating through difficult conditions.
Being connected also means Wild Local can keep customers informed when roads close or weather affects deliveries, sharing updates through social media and staying in touch with fishers about catches and supply.
Rebecca believes regional businesses can underestimate how important telecommunications infrastructure is until they experience an outage themselves.
“In regional areas, where we're more exposed to severe weather and isolation, reliable telecommunications should be treated as essential infrastructure, just like power and roads,” she said.
"Don't wait for something to go wrong. Look at how much of your business depends on the internet. It's usually more than you think.
“Investing in a reliable connection is investing in your customers, your staff and your ability to keep trading when things get tough.”
Rebecca sees this improved connectivity opening up new opportunities for Wild Local and other regional businesses, from expanding online orders and using technology more effectively to promoting Hinchinbrook's wild-caught seafood to customers across Australia and overseas.
Wayde Chiesa MP (Centre), with the 2025 (Outside edge) & 2026 (Inside, besides Wayde) Maraka Queens, backstage after the crowning ceremony. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
During the Hinchinbrook by-election, I made a commitment to fight for stronger bail laws and put an end to the revolving door of repeat offenders being released on bail and going on to commit more serious crimes.
Last week, we delivered on that commitment.
The Queensland Parliament passed the Crisafulli Government's Breach Bail, Go to Jail legislation, an important milestone for our community and one I am particularly proud to have helped deliver.
Throughout the by-election and since being elected, I heard from countless people who wanted stronger consequences for serious repeat offenders.
To everyone who shared their experiences, completed my survey or made a submission to the parliamentary committee, thank you. Your voices were heard and helped drive these reforms.
The new laws, due to commence on 30th November, introduce stronger consequences for serious offending while on bail and tougher requirements when bail is being considered.
There is always more work to do when it comes to community safety, but this is an important step towards putting victims first and making our communities safer.
Back home, it was fantastic to see Ingham come alive for this year's Maraka Festival.
From the mardi gras in the park, the colourful floats to the crowning of the Maraka Queen, it was a wonderful celebration of our community.
I particularly enjoyed catching up with so many familiar faces, helping host the festivities alongside Carley and judging the colouring competition.
Events like Maraka don't happen without an enormous amount of work behind the scenes.
A big thank you to the Maraka committee, volunteers, sponsors, participating schools, local businesses and everyone who helped make this year's festival such a success. It's events like these that bring our community together and remind us ofwhat makes our district such a special place.
Finally, as we approach the end of another Herbert crushing season, I want to acknowledge our growers, harvesting contractors, mill workers and everyone involved in getting the crop away.
It has been a challenging season, with wet weather, rising costs and interruptions affecting different parts of the district.
I hope the remaining weeks bring favourable conditions and that every grower has the opportunity to get their crop harvested.
Whether it's delivering stronger laws, supporting our local industries or getting out and celebrating the communities we call home, I'll continue listening, working hard and delivering for Hinchinbrook.
I recently attended the Queensland Local Government Annual Conference held in Cairns, a conference where all 77 Queensland councils come together for the purpose of discussing and determining policy and position on matters of interest to our collective communities. This year saw a total of 133 motions debated, ranging from the need to secure better funding from upper levels of government for road network improvements through to State law changes in animal, planning and building issues, to name a few.
Queensland local governments endeavour to make our communities great places to live and work for a good and sustainable future. That is why a lot of advocacy goes on with upper levels of government when we in local government think we are being shortchanged on many issues, including adequate resourcing. For instance, local government is once again at odds with the Australian Federal Government over the proposed Working Holiday Maker Programme second and third year caps due solely to the potential consequences for our North Queensland and Far North Queensland communities.
We are asking the Federal Government to carefully assess rural consequences before implementing nationally determined restrictions on Working Holiday Maker visas, particularly in regions where these workers support seasonal industries, tourism and local communities such as ours. The science is telling us that the numbers will drop because of the cap, making our businesses struggle for staff to service the communities.
What many do not realise is that the Working Holiday Maker program not only provides a mobile workforce for industries with seasonal or variable demand but also generates visitor spending within the communities, as it is well known the visitors do play within the communities in which they are situated for work, albeit for short periods of time.
This advocacy follows closely behind the campaign recently waged by local government over proposed funding cutbacks to disaster recovery arrangements in Queensland. Thankfully, the Federal Government finally acknowledged our concerns and withdrew the proposed changes.
And finally, it is very pleasing to see our Works for Queensland construction projects getting underway after what seems a very lengthy planning and procurement process. As many of you would be aware, securing skilled workers and essential construction materials is, for whatever reason, taking longer and becoming more difficult in the current environment we live in.
First cab off the rank is the Lynch Street pump track and half basketball court and I see that, as well as construction, the works are causing quite some discussion within the community as to location. The location was chosen due to flood resilience. Costs to repair or reinstate damaged community assets due to regular flooding are becoming unsustainable. Just like your own household insurance, Council is also experiencing rises in premiums that must be paid for through your rates. To mitigate against continuing increases, we must think smarter and establish future infrastructure in a more resilient manner into the future where possible.
The land adjacent to the Lynch Street development, previously owned by Queensland Rail, is and has always been zoned for recreational purposes and the establishment of the park for children's activities and sport is consistent with that zoning.
Stay tuned for more project releases coming out soon.
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Hello Hinchinbrook,
Snap Send Solve is a free app that lets you report a problem to your local Council using an iPhone or Android device. You can also make a general request or provide feedback. Snap Send Solve allows you to quickly and easily capture and report common issues such as illegal rubbish dumping or a street sign needing repair.
How Snap Send Solve works: Snap Send Solve determines your local Council using your smartphone’s GPS location. It then provides your Council’s contact information, location and email address. When you use Snap Send Solve, your request is sent from the app using your email address and phone number so that Hinchinbrook Shire Council can communicate directly with you to fix the issue. You know what’s happening in your neighbourhood, so if you notice something that’s not right, report it. Council can monitor the problem, get it fixed or clean it up, but we need your help to let us know what’s wrong.
Report if you see:
Download the App – Snap, Send, Solve, take a photo and send it.
Free to download from the App Store and Google Play, and available online, Snap Send Solve eliminates the complexity of knowing where and how to report incidents on the spot by enabling users to capture and send photos of issues that need attention, from cracked pavements and dumped rubbish to water faults, to councils and a range of other authorities. Snap Send Solve makes it easy and therefore encourages communities to report incidents, making it easier and more efficient for local councils and other responsible authorities to act on reports.
Also, the Customer Service Centre, located at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham, offers a wide variety of services to the residents of the Hinchinbrook Shire, including:
To request a service, make an enquiry or report an issue, please use the web forms under Customer Service on the Hinchinbrook Shire Council website: www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/
If the matter requires urgent attention, please call Council on (07) 4776 4600. Once again, it is great to be able to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read through what has been happening and what will be happening throughout our Shire.
The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc has successfully secured joint Australian and Queensland government grant funding to deliver an exciting new initiative aimed at strengthening, supporting and building resilience within the region’s business community.
Funded through the Business Resilience Partnership Program, the Building Business Resilience in Hinchinbrook project represents a significant opportunity for the Chamber to work alongside local businesses, better understand the challenges they face and develop practical strategies to support a stronger, more connected business community.
The successful funding application is a positive outcome for the Chamber and the wider Hinchinbrook region, providing valuable resources to deliver a series of targeted engagement activities, networking opportunities and business support initiatives, focussing on recovery and resilience.
Importantly, the project will place local business owners and operators at the centre of the conversation, ensuring future recovery and resilience priorities are shaped by those who know the region and its challenges best and are engaged to undertake those activities when the time comes.
Chamber President Mary Brown welcomed the funding success, highlighting the importance of securing opportunities that deliver meaningful benefits for the local business community.
“This funding is a fantastic outcome for Hinchinbrook and provides us with an opportunity to really connect with our business community, understand their needs and identify where we can make a meaningful difference.
“Our local businesses are the backbone of our community, and building their resilience is critical to the long-term strength and sustainability of our region.
“We want this project to be driven by local voices, real experiences and practical solutions that will deliver lasting benefits.”
To support the delivery of the initiative, the Chamber has partnered with experienced community leader Margie Ryder, who will coordinate the project under the Chamber banner.
Based in Townsville, Margie brings extensive experience across community engagement, business and local government, having previously served as a local government councillor and currently holding the position of Secretary of Volunteering North Queensland.
Chamber President Mary Brown welcomed the funding announcement and said Margie’s experience in bringing people together and facilitating meaningful conversations would be invaluable to the project.
“Margie brings a wealth of experience across business, community and local government, and we are delighted to have her working alongside the Chamber to help deliver this initiative.
The Business Resilience Partnership Program is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and administered by the Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business.
The message is simple: local businesses know their challenges best, and their voices will help shape the solutions.
Where The Hell Are We? Networking Breakfast
Bookings are essential. Local business owners and operators are encouraged to register early and be part of the conversation.
Register for the Networking Breakfast
From the main streets of Ingham to the pocket-sized shops of Halifax, roadside stalls and food trucks dotted throughout the region, small businesses are at the heart of the Hinchinbrook community.
But with an increase in reported shoplifting and stock theft across Hinchinbrook and surrounding areas, business owners are being encouraged to take steps to protect their premises, equipment and livelihoods.
The Queensland government is offering eligible small businesses grants of up to $20,000 to help strengthen their security, with applications now open through the Small Business Security Grants program.
Funding can be used towards a range of improvements, including alarm systems, security cameras, access controls, security lighting and physical security upgrades. Support is also available for mobile businesses seeking security improvements for vehicles and trailers.
The grant covers 50 per cent of eligible project costs up to $20,000, excluding GST.
To qualify, businesses must have 19 or fewer employees and an annual turnover of $10 million or less in the 2025–26 financial year. Applicants must also hold an active Australian Business Number (ABN), be registered for GST, have their headquarters in Queensland and have been trading for at least 12 months.
Applications close at 5pm on April 23rd 2027, unless available funding is exhausted earlier.
Review the full eligibility criteria, funding thresholds and application requirements before applying, at business.qld.gov.au
The Herbert River RSL came alive with 155 patrons for their Melbourne Cup celebration. Photos sourced: Herbert River RSL
Herbert River RSL was filled with excitement and community spirit for this year’s Melbourne Cup Day celebrations, welcoming approximately 155 people for an afternoon of racing in good company.
The event brought locals together to enjoy the race that stops the nation, with plenty of conversation, laughter and anticipation as guests watched the horses race their way around the track.
Organisers thanked everyone who attended and helped make the day such a success, with the celebrations offering another opportunity for the community to come together while supporting an important local cause.
A special mention was made of Tammy Collins and her dedicated team of volunteers, whose hard work, time and commitment helped bring the event to life.
Their efforts were greatly appreciated, with all money raised from the event going towards Ingham Palliative Care. Herbert River RSL also made an additional donation based on the number of people in attendance, providing further support to the local palliative care unit.
The generosity of attendees, volunteers and organisers helped make the day about more than just the racing, with the event highlighting the community spirit behind fundraising efforts that support local services.
Herbert River RSL thanked everyone who attended, volunteered, donated and supported the day, and looks forward to welcoming the community to future events.
The Herbert River RSL will join the community in commemorating Remembrance Day on Wednesday 11th November, with a service to be held at the Ingham Cenotaph.
Community members are invited to arrive by 10.40am, ahead of the service commencing at 10.50am. The service will run until approximately 11.30am, providing an opportunity to pause and remember the servicemen and women who have served and sacrificed in conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
Following the service, attendees are welcome to join RSL members for light refreshments at the Herbert River RSL.
Members of the Ingham Lions Club gathered at the park before the Ingham ANZAC Day march in 2025. Photo source: Ingham Lions Club
Ingham residents are invited to line the streets and show their support as Lions Clubs from across the region gather for the 2026 201Q2 District Convention.
The parade will take place on Saturday 14th November, beginning at 8am along Lannercost Street.
Participants will assemble outside Hinchinbrook Shire Hall before making their way along the main street, starting in front of Lee’s Hotel and finishing outside the Shire Hall.
The parade of flags will bring together visiting Lions members, celebrating the organisation's service, community connections and commitment to helping others.
Community members are encouraged to come along, watch the parade and welcome the visiting delegates to Hinchinbrook.
The convention will run from Friday 13th November, to Sunday 15th November, with Lions members taking part in meetings, presentations, guest speakers, workshops and fellowship activities throughout the weekend.
The Lions Club of Ingham is looking forward to welcoming delegates and visitors to the district and showcasing the Hinchinbrook community.
The Reader of the Week is Mae Rawson, the newest addition to the Life Publishing journalism team!
Mae grew up in the Northern Rivers near Byron Bay, where she loved going to the local beaches and markets, as well as competing in school sports.
Mae moved to Sydney to study before moving up to Airlie Beach to start her journalism Cadetship with the Life Publishing group.
She is excited to explore the beaches and nature that North Queensland has to offer, whilst writing stories for newspapers from Mackay to the Cassowary Coast.
Mission Beach Cricket Club celebrates under water hoses. Photo supplied: Mission Beach Cricket Club
Temperatures at Mission Beach Cricket Club hit a high of 31 degrees at midday on Saturday, with the sun beating down on the young cricketers.
While the local team secured a hard-fought home-ground victory over the Innisfail Monsoons, their game day elations were no match for hot and humid conditions.
Fortunately, Mission Beach Fire Station crews came to the rescue, with firefighters Leith and Lucy, pulling in to provide a quick hose down.
Within minutes the young sportsters swapped stumps and bats for a refreshing dip under the cool waters of the fire truck’s hose.
“Thank you to Firefighter Leith and Lucy from Mission Beach Fire Station for helping us cool off after the game,” Mission Beach Cricket Club stated via Facebook.
While fire trucks are essential for emergency situations, the community work they do is also important. From attending school fairs to community events – and even the odd sporting game – these everyday heroes deserve a shout out this week.
Thanks for all you do, both on and off the cricket pitch!
Planning into the Final Months of the Year
With the announcement of the end of 2026 harvest season on Wednesday 11 November 2026, now being confirmed, the very busy time of the year for the sugar industry and many of the support services who contribute to a successful harvest, is nearing completion.
Once again, the 2026 season has not been without challenges that have often test all participants, yet the commitment and determination of those involved in the industry, to harvest and crush the crop, has once again been evident across the community. Heartfelt thanks once again go out to all involved in this very important industry sector, for our community and economy.
My personal belief is that every employee, business owner and supporting family member makes a contribution in their own way to the success of this industry and it is important to once again recognise, acknowledge and thank them for their role in this year’s crop production and harvest. As the harvest season comes to a close, we turn our mind to end of year celebrations, leading into special Christmas times with family and loved ones.
This year, Hinchinbrook Shire Council will launch the Christmas in Hinchinbrook series of celebrations, with the Late Night Shopping and Markets at 5.00pm on Thursday, 26th November, 2026. This extremely popular event has over the past several years, seen large number of locals and visitors enjoy the opportunity to prepare for Christmas, enjoy a wonderful evening of socialising and renewing friendships, at this very relaxed and entertaining event.
The other events included in the Christmas in Hinchinbrook campaign are Seniors Morning Tea, Christmas Carols at many locations across the district and the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal. These are all wonderful social events that provide an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the wonderful Hinchinbrook community.
Please visit Council’s website, Events Calendar page or Hinchinbrook Life, for all the event details.
Whether you’re craving a classic pub favourite or something a little more loaded, Lee’s Hotel in Ingham has plenty to tempt your tastebuds on your next night out.
Parmi lovers are spoilt for choice, with a range of loaded chicken parmigianas featuring toppings to suit just about every craving. From the classic Parmigiana to Meatlovers, Hawaiian, Spanish and Italian varieties, there’s a parmi for every appetite. The hardest part might just be deciding which one to order!
If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s also something a little different to try. Lee’s crocodile spring rolls offer a twist on a familiar favourite, served crispy and deep-fried with lemon myrtle aioli. It’s a distinctly Australian flavour combination that’sworth adding to your must-try list.
Pair your meal with a crisp pint, your mates, and some live music or the footy, and you’ve got the makings of a great evening out.
And there’s no need to worry about getting home afterwards. Lee’s Hotel offers a free courtesy bus every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 5pm, making it easier to enjoy dinner and drinks without having to drive yourself.
Have you tried every topping on the parmi menu? Lee’s has you spoilt for choice.
Bookings are recommended for your table and courtesy bus pick-up, so organise your evening ahead of time. To book, call (07) 4776 1577 and ask about arranging your courtesy bus pick-up.
Explore the menu and find out more at leeshotelingham.com.au
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Lee Porter, Don Porter and Allison Chellingworth. Photo Credit: Meals on Wheels
Cardwell Meals on Wheels Inc. held its 45th Annual General Meeting and Dinner at the Cardwell RSL on 16th October.
During the meeting, the committee for 2026/2027 was elected, with all key roles reinstated from the previous year.
Don Porter (President), Allison Chellingworth (Treasurer), Lee Porter (Secretary), Lynn Crawford (Assistant Secretary) and Sue Hart, Katrina O’Brien, Peta Johnson, Carol Palmer, Mandy McGree, Caroline Dyer, and Arlie Robinson (Committee Members).
The annual meeting honours the legacy of the Cardwell Meals on Wheels, paying respect to the past leadership committees of the corporation.
Cardwell Meal on Wheels will continue to support those in need, working together in an already established working dynamic.
The Annual General Meeting was celebrated with volunteers, clients, guests and kitchen staff from Churches of Christ.
As the night progressed past the official segment, the evening was filled with events like a quiz competition and spot raffle.
The food was provided by Terry and Mamiko and was well loved by all of the guests.
Anyone interested in volunteering for our organisation, please contact our Convenor, Lisa Cartwright, on 0428980104, or email cardwellmow@hotmail.com
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