
By Victoria Velton Seventy-five years of history and service were commemorated in Ingham last Saturday, as the 103 Squadron of the Australian Air Force Cadets celebrated its three-quarter-century anniversary with a special dinner at the Herbert River RSL, bringing together generations of cadets and supporters. The 75th Anniversary Dinner was a significant occasion for the squadron, welcoming current cadets and their families alongside former cadets, past members and special guests who travelled to Ingham to mark the occasion. Among the guests were visiting representatives from the Australian Army and Royal Australian Navy, adding to the significance of the celebration and highlighting the strong connections the Australian Air Force Cadets share with the wider Australian Defence Force. For the current generation of cadets, the evening provided an opportunity to meet people who have served in uniform and hear from those who have been part of the squadron and its history over the decades. Just as importantly, former cadets returned to support the young people who are now following in their footsteps. Instructors, volunteers, parents and supporters were all recognised. Event organiser Simone Lennox said the celebration was the culmination of several weeks of planning, organising, printing and chasing up the many details needed to bring such a significant event together. “There were plenty of late nights, last-minute changes and stressful moments, but we did it,” Simone said. For a youth organisation with such a long history in the community, the presence of ex-cadets was particularly meaningful, demonstrating the endurance of friendships, experiences and lessons gained through the program. The evening also featured displays and memorabilia reflecting the squadron’s history, helping to bring together stories from its past with the work being carried out by its current members. Special commemorative pieces were also created for the occasion, with current Cadet Unit Officer Saxon Crabb and former CUO/LAC Corey Crabb working together to create 75th Anniversary 3D-printed pieces giving guests a unique reminder of the milestone. Simone thanked Erin and Sandra for their work in helping organise the celebration, as well as the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL for hosting the event. Bec from Budget Colour Copies was also recognised for her help with the extensive printing, scanning and last-minute jobs required in the lead-up to the dinner. “Seeing everyone there, catching up, sharing stories and enjoying the night made all the work worthwhile,” Simone said. After 75 years, the anniversary was a celebration of the people who have been part of 103 Squadron, the memories created along the way and the young cadets who are now carrying that tradition into the future. Caption: Photo credits: Victoria Velton Generations of 103 Squadron members, ex-103 cadets and visiting officials and representatives gathered at the Herbert River RSL for the 75th celebration. The current Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. Current 103 Squadron leaders, ex-103 cadets, alongside visiting officials and representatives from the broader Australian Defence Force. The current members and leaders of the Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. All attendees enjoying their time at the 75th celebration. Extras to put online: Extra 1. The current Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets and family table. Extra 2. The Ex-Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets and family table. Extra 3. The visiting dignitaries and officials table.
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Ingham’s own Mick’s Bread Kitchen has cooked up a spectacular result on the national stage, taking home two gold medals at the 2026 Official Great Aussie Pie Competition. The bakery’s Smoked Brisket Pie and Pork Pie both claimed gold, with the brisket creation developed by Mick’s daughter, Monique Toichev. The bakery entered four pies in the prestigious competition, with its Ned Kelly Pie also taking silver and its Plain Pie earning bronze. The four-medal haul has given the local team plenty to celebrate, with Monique saying the recognition was the result of hard work and a commitment to perfecting every part of the pie.
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By Sian Bantock One of Mission Beach’s signature endurance events took place on Sunday 6th September as Cassowary Coast Multisport Club (CCMC)’s Ona Mission challenged competitors across three disciplines: paddling, running and cycling. The event drew competitors of all ages and abilities, each pushing themselves past their limits to complete the course. Participants tackled the event individually or in teams, beginning with a 4km paddle-over to the iconic Dunk Island, before a 6km trail run and 30km cycle, finishing with a 6km run along the region's tropical beaches. Calm seas made for great paddling conditions, though rising temperatures ensured the athletes were working hard under the tropical sun. CCMC Club President Richard Blanchette was overjoyed with the turnout. “Wow Mission Beach! Superb day for Ona Mission 2026 with participants paddling, riding and running along the beach,” he said.
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Locals are being encouraged to grab their rods and help tackle one of the region’s invasive pests when the annual Tilapia Tournament returns to Warrina Lakes during the October school holidays. Cassowary Coast Regional Council will host the free, family-friendly fishing competition from Thursday 1st October to Saturday 3rd October, combining a day out for the community with an important effort to protect local waterways and native aquatic life. The tournament challenges participants to catch and remove Tilapia, an invasive pest fish capable of rapidly establishing large populations and outcompeting native species. Tilapia feed on plants, insects and small native fish and can produce hundreds of young in a single season. Their nesting behaviour can also stir up mud and damage important habitat for native fish and other aquatic species. Fortunately for competitors, the pest fish are relatively easy to catch and will take a variety of bait, including corn, bread, worms and pellets. Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said every fish removed during the tournament would contribute to improving the health of the local ecosystem. “The Tilapia Tournament is a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors to get involved in protecting our waterways while enjoying a free, family-friendly event during the school holidays,” Cr Millwood said. “Every Tilapia removed from Warrina Lakes helps reduce the pressure on our native species and improves the health of our local ecosystem. I encourage everyone to come along, register and be part of this important community effort.” The tournament is open to all ages, although children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing gear, hat, sunscreen, water bottle and camping chair, with prizes also up for grabs throughout the event. Entry is free, however registration is essential. Further information and registration details are available through the Cassowary Coast Regional Council website. CAPTION: The annual Tilapia Tournament will return to Warrina Lakes this October. Photo supplied by Cassowary Coast Regional Council
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Community groups across the Cassowary Coast are invited to apply for grants of up to $5000 through the CleanCo Queensland Community Futures Fund. Photo supplied
Community groups across the Cassowary Coast are being encouraged to put their projects forward for a share of up to $5000 through CleanCo Queensland’s Community Futures Fund.
Applications are now open for the annual funding round, with not-for-profit organisations, community services, First Nations initiatives, educational institutions and environmental associations eligible to apply. CleanCo Queensland’s Community Futures Fund provides sponsorships of up to $5000 for projects that contribute to the wellbeing of local communities, with applications closing at 5pm on Monday 7th September.
As part of 2026’s program, CleanCo Queensland are particularly seeking projects that strengthen community identity and belonging, promote inclusion and equality, support local prosperity, improve community infrastructure and services, or protect and enhance the local environment. Projects that provide an ongoing benefit to the community or environment, while helping communities move towards a net-zero future, are also preferred.
One of six eligible local government areas across the state, alongside Cairns, Tablelands, Mareeba, Ipswich and Somerset, the Cassowary Coast is being encouraged to put forward local projects that could benefit from the funding.
A CleanCo Queensland spokesperson said the region held a particular connection to the organisation through its Kareeya Power Station.
“The Cassowary Coast region is home to CleanCo's Kareeya Power Station, which has been part of the Tully community for almost 70 years,” the spokesperson said.
“Through the Community Futures Fund, we encourage applications that respond to what matters most locally and strengthen the local communities we operate in. This includes First Nations initiatives, community services organisations, sporting clubs, arts and culture, education or environmental projects.
“We’re keen to hear directly from local groups about practical ideas that can make a meaningful difference in their community.”
CleanCo Queensland encourages those interested to learn more about the program via cleancoqueensland.com.au/community/futuresfund or email her directly via community@cleancoqld.com.au.

Locals are being encouraged to lend a hand in protecting the Cassowary Coast’s turtles and shorebirds through a new community monitoring program. Photo supplied
Volunteers Wanted to Help Protect Cassowary Coast Wildlife
The Cassowary Coast’s beaches are home to some very special residents, and locals are being invited to lend a hand in protecting them.
With shorebird nesting season approaching, Cassowary Coast Regional Council is trialling seasonal closures at known nesting areas at Wongaling Beach, Coconuts, Tully Heads and Hull Heads from 1st September 2026 to 1st March 2027.
The closures follow reports of dogs and vehicles disturbing nesting sites and are designed to give vulnerable birds, including little terns and red-capped plovers, a safer place to raise their young.
Council is also looking for community members to become part of a new shorebird and sea turtle monitoring volunteer program! No wildlife expertise is required, with training and resources provided. Volunteers will help observe nesting activity, record sightings and report signs of disturbance, helping build a clearer picture of how turtles and shorebirds use the region’s coastline.
The program will bring together volunteers, Traditional Owners, rangers, Council staff and partner organisations to create a coordinated local monitoring network. Importantly, volunteers won’t be expected to handle wildlife or nests. Their role will focus on observing and reporting safely and consistently.
With coastal wildlife facing pressures from human activity, extreme weather and changing coastal conditions, the community can play an important role in helping protect these species for years to come. To register your interest, email shorebirdseaturtle@ccrc.qld.gov.au or call 1300 763 903.

Cassowary Coast residents are being encouraged to roll up their sleeves, join forces and help keep Kurrimine Beach a beautiful and clean place to visit and enjoy at a community clean-up this Saturday 22nd August.
Held in partnership with Tangaroa Blue, Mandubarra Rangers, Kurrimine Beach Fishing Club Inc and Kurrimine Beach Progress Association, the 2026 Kurrimine Beach Clean-Up will bring together local residents, community groups and organisations to work along the length of the coastline and remove rubbish from the beach
Volunteers will meet at Taifalos Park on Saturday at 8:30am before getting to work on the beach, with all participants invited to enjoy a well-earned barbecue lunch together to conclude the morning and celebrate their efforts.
Attendees are asked to register individually via www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZRQYSQJ, provide any dietary requirements when registering so catering can be arranged, and come prepared with enclosed shoes, a hat and water bottle. Participants under the age of 16 must have a parent or guardian present.
Residents of all ages are encouraged to take part in the free family-friendly event, contribute to the care of the local environment, and take advantage of the opportunity to work closely with one another to protect one of the region’s much-loved coastal areas.

Want to get active this October while doing some good for those living in rural and remote communities? The Royal Flying Doctor Service’s Oceans to Outback challenge is calling on residents across the state to walk, run or ride their way through the month while raising funds to help keep the Flying Doctor flying.
Participants can choose from 42km, 87km (represents the number of RFDS aircraft across the country) or 98km challenges, or set their own distance, with activities able to be completed at their own pace throughout October.
Registration is free, and participants who fundraise will receive a free T-shirt.
Whether you tackle the challenge solo, round up a group of friends or get your workplace involved, every kilometre and dollar raised helps the RFDS deliver vital healthcare to people who may live hundreds of kilometres from the nearest major medical service.
Since the challenge’s inception five years ago, its already made a significant impact, with more than $13.9 million raised to help support patients transported, medical chests and remote telehealth consultations.
So, lace up your shoes, dust off the bike or gather your walking crew and get moving for a cause that reaches far beyond the finish line!
Registrations are FREE and can be made via www.oceanstooutback.org.au.

Mamma Mia shop reading ‘Make me Smile’ to young children. Photo Supplied
By Sian Bantock
Children taking part in Read to Me Day flocked to the heart of Tully on Tuesday 11th August, dressed as their favourite book characters for a day of celebrating the joy of reading.
The 2026, theme this year, ’Wild About Books!”, encouraged local children to immerse themselves in stories while promoting literacy.
The event was a colourful success thanks to the enthusiastic support of Tully’s business community. Many owners embraced the spirit of the day by dressing in costume, creating interactive displays and performing engaging reads for eager students.
Organised by the Tully Chamber of Commerce, Read to Me Day has become a cherished community tradition, running for over a decade.

Chamber President Evelyn Watson understands the positive impact the event has on the young community.
“It’s amazing how excited the children get; for the children it’s nice when there’s something to break up the monotony of school,” Evelyn said.

“The business loves to have them there, it’s something nice that brings the young kids with older generation and bridges that gap.”
In 2025 the future of the Chamber was uncertain, with potential dissolution putting beloved community events such as ‘Read to me Day’ and ‘ Xmas on the Street’ at risk.

Recognising the important role the Chamber plays within the community, current President Evelyn Watson and Treasurer Abigail Webster and former Chamber Treasurer Jene Valaris fought to continue its long-standing legacy.
The Tully & District Chamber of Commerce recognize that the success of ‘Read to me Day’ is made possible through the ongoing support from the local businesses.

“The Tully & District Chamber of Commerce would like to thank everyone who participated in this year's Read to Me day earlier this week! Whether you read a story, heard a story read, or just appreciated the beautiful weather, we want to thank the community for coming together to celebrate the love of books with our young ones,” a spokesperson shared.

“A special thank you to all the schools and businesses that made this day possible - we wouldn't have been able to do it without you! A further thank you goes to the Tully Rotary Club for putting on the sausage sizzle that kept everyone fed and happy throughout the morning - your ongoing support and collaboration is greatly appreciated! We are so glad everyone could participate, and look forward to next year's event!”

The Tully & District Chamber of Commerce’s next community event will be Xmas on the street; they welcome volunteers to get in touch via email: tullychamber4854@gmail.com


A 14-year-old boy has been charged following an alleged armed robbery at a Goondi Bend business, while Queensland Police Service (QPS) officials continue to seek information about a number of stolen vehicles across the Far North.
Innisfail Police allege the teenager entered a business on Palmerston Drive at about 12:30pm on Thursday 6th August, and threatened staff with a knife before stealing cash. No one was physically injured during the incident.
The boy was arrested a short time later, with Child Protection Investigation Unit detectives charging him with one count each of robbery with violence and stealing. He appeared in the Innisfail Children’s Court on Monday 17th August.
Meanwhile, police are seeking public assistance to locate vehicles stolen across the Far North in recent weeks.
Among those reported stolen are a black 2021 MG ZST taken from Cairns North, a white 2011 Mitsubishi Pajero stolen from Edmonton, a red 2003 Hino FC Series tip truck taken from Mareeba and a green 2008 Subaru Forester stolen from Earlville.
QPS said 31 vehicles had been reported stolen in the month, bringing the 2026 total to 491. In 2025, 808 vehicles were reported stolen. QPS are reminding motorists to lock their vehicles, remove valuables, secure spare keys and ensure homes and vehicles are kept secure.
Anyone with information about the alleged robbery or stolen vehicles is urged to contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 1800 333 000 or reporting online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
Victoria proudly displaying her Aussie heritage with handmade costume - Photo Supplied
By Sian Bantock
Victoria Letheby, a Mission Beach local has claimed a major international title after impressing judges at a prestigious American pageant.
The Coast to Coast Pageant, now in its 27th year, traditionally only accepts American entrants but opened its doors to international competitors for the first time last year.
Victoria was one of six Australians who made the long journey to New Jersey to compete alongside 325 candidates in the four-day event.
Throughout the weekend constants hoped to secure a place in the Supreme Ceremony which has just 30 coveted spots. Victoria not only made the cut - she won ‘Ms Division Supreme’ for the 30-39 age group.
Reflecting on her win, Victoria said the result was unexpected especially as it was her first American pageant.
“I was over the moon, I wasn’t expecting anything; when they called the names out I was crying my eyes out. It was also special having Team Aussie cheering me on,” Victoria said.
Her favourite section was ‘National Wear’ where she showcased her love of sewing and embody in a handmade costume celebrating her Australian Heritage. The leotard featured 90,000 gemstones, and the blue satin inside was fitted with lights to resemble the Milky Way, as well as images of Uluru, Soldiers from WW1 and a nod to her home town of Mission Beach with the Cassowary and the Ulysses Butterfly.
“I’m proud to be an Aussie and to be in America wearing our national flag and wearing the things that make us us. I’m the proudest Aussie you’ll meet,” Victoria said.
Victoria has been entering pageants since she was 18 but one of her most notable achievements was the Miss World Charity Queen title in 2025.
“I’ve tried to do pageants that help communities, fundraising for charities by doing fun runs,” Victoria said.
“I belong to the United Heroes of the world and so I cosplay as Wonder Woman, and I’ll be running in the Dream Land fun run at the end of the month.”
Victoria will hold her Coast to Coast title for the next year before handing over the crown to the 2027 winner. Follow her journey as Ms Division Supreme on Instagram at @miss_curly_sue_coast2coast
Accolades from the Pageant:
Winner - International Ms Division Supreme Coast to Coast 2026
Lauren’s Legacy Honouree
Divisional Runway Winner
3rd Runner- Up Top Model
1st Runner-Up Photogenic
1st Runner -Up Print Model
1st Runner- Up Spokesmodel
People’s Choice Recognition

Tully Support Centre’s Stacy, Chris, Lana, Max, Jude, Abbie, Christy and Ross all threw on a flanno last Friday in support of Flanno for a Farmer. Photo supplied
Tully Support Centre has joined communities across Australia in showing their support for the farmers who help keep the country going, taking part in Flanno for a Farmer on Friday 14th August.
The annual initiative provides a simple way for Australians to stand behind farming families facing tough times, while raising funds to support those who need it. For Tully Support Centre Community Development Worker and Centrelink Agent Maxine Britton, getting involved was a natural fit for an organisation committed to supporting the local community.
“Our community is built on farming, and our farmers are an important part of the Cassowary Coast. Getting behind Flanno for a Farmer is simply one way of showing that we care, that we recognise the challenges many farming families face, and that no one should have to go through difficult times alone,” she said.
“We believe everyone deserves support, respect, and a sense of belonging, and that's what community is all about.”
Ms Britton said the challenges facing farming families could often go unseen, with work continuing despite the pressures behind the scenes.
“Machinery still runs. Crops are still planted. Work continues, day after day. But behind the scenes, many farming families are adjusting, stretching, and carrying more than they should have to,” she said.
For the Tully Support Centre, wearing a flanno was a small gesture with a bigger message: farmers are seen, valued and not alone. To learn more about Flanno for a Farmer or make a donation, visit flannoforafarmer.com.au

Xand is a fun-loving, playful dog who’s always ready for his next adventure. Whether it’s exploring new places, heading out for a walk, or enjoying a trip to the dog park, he’s happiest when he’s out and about having fun.
Xand would thrive in a home with another friendly dog to play with and learn from. When meeting new people, Xand can be a little nervous at first. He likes to take his time to warm up to new people. With a little patience and kindness, you'll find he’s an absolute charmer.
Included in adoption fee of $545 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated and on PROHEART. Enquire about Xand at angelpaws.com.au
DOB: 13/03/2026
Sex: Male
Breed: Staffy X
Colour: Brindle
Cat Friendly: Unsure
Dog Friendly: Yes
Kid Friendly: Yes

Linda McClelland, Wayde Chiesa MP, Chantelle Previtera and Alexandria Pitt, the Homelessness Support Team. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
For people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, finding the right support can be just as difficult as knowing it exists. A range of local services came together in Ingham last week to help bridge that gap, bringing practical assistance and information directly to the community.
The Homelessness Expo, held at the HUB, offered visitors the chance to speak face-to-face with organisations covering housing, income support, disability services, advocacy, health and community support. With 16 organisations taking part, the event highlighted the breadth of assistance available locally and the importance of making those connections easier to access.

Mark Bishop, and his work: A Sweeping Shadow, winner of the Sculptural Form category at the 2026 Hinchinbrook Birdlife Awards. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
A few pieces of steel, a welder and an idea was all Mark Bishop needed to create the sculpture that took out the Sculptural Form Award at the recent Hinchinbrook Birdlife Awards. The winning work depicts a bird soaring above its audience.
The sculpture was made entirely from steel, with copper incorporated into part of the work, and took just over a fortnight to complete.
For Mark, working with metal is as much about the process as the finished piece. His sculptures are created through welding rather than casting or smelting, with different metals requiring different approaches and techniques. His choice of materials is also practical. Living close to the coast means durability is an important consideration.
“Because of the climate, we're close to salt water, so I wanted something that was durable and could withstand the test of time,” he said.
Mark has been creating sculptural work for around three years, although the desire to make art has been with him for much longer.
“It was something that I've always wanted to do when I was younger, but never really got the opportunity to,” he said.
“I make the artwork so that people can enjoy it."
Winning the Sculptural Form Award has also given Mark greater confidence to continue pushing his work.
“It gives me more confidence to do other things, and it's nice to know that people actually recognise the amount of time and effort that goes into doing something like that,” he said.
Mark credits the support of the local community, particularly TYTO Art Gallery, with encouraging him to keep creating and entering his work. That encouragement is especially meaningful to him in an industry where much creative work is now being produced through computer-controlled machinery.
“To do something that's totally free, where you can just do it in your own mind, is much more satisfying,” Mark said.
Mark's work can be found through local markets, TYTO Art Gallery and a small gallery at his home, where visitors can see some of the metal birds that have become a feature of his artistic practice.
With the award, Mark is continuing to chase the opportunity to turn his ideas into something beautifully tangible.

Hinchinbrook Birdlife Youth Award category Winner, Hamish Darveniza: Wompoo. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
A Wompoo Pigeon's vivid plumage provided the inspiration for Hamish's winning entry in the Youth Award at the recent Hinchinbrook Birdlife Awards.
“I live in a tropical area, and I like tropical birds.” Hamish said.
“The Wompoo Pigeon caught my eye because of the beautiful colours and its really unique look.”
However, it was the young artist's treatment of the subject that made the painting stand out.
Hamish created a blurred background using circles of different colours, which brings full focus to the bird’s colours and allows it to emerge sharply from its surroundings.
“I made different colours and then sort of just placed them in circles around the canvas, and it made the effect of blurriness,” Hamish explained.
“It's something new that I've tried, and I'd like to experiment with it more.”
The finished work came together quickly with Hamish completing the painting over two days. Hamish hopes the award will be another step towards building a career in art.
While he has painted at school, much of Hamish's artistic development has happened at home, making him largely self-taught.
“I haven't gone to any actual courses or anything, or had any proper sort of teaching,” he said.
“I feel like it's what I'm meant to do. I've been painting since I was a kid, and I really enjoy it. It's my passion,” he said.
“I'd love to keep entering competitions and growing my name, and hopefully eventually have exhibitions around Australia.”
“I was really grateful to receive the award,” Hamish said, “It showed that people liked my artwork, and it's going to keep pushing me to keep creating.”
Animals and landscapes remain his favourite subjects, particularly when he can draw inspiration from his experiences travelling around Australia.
His artwork is already finding an audience online, with more than 80,000 followers on Instagram. Hamish said social media had opened up new opportunities, including an upcoming collection of his work.
For those wanting to follow his artistic journey, Hamish shares his finished works and painting process on Instagram at @hgd.creates.

Paul Tabone performing in The Phantom of the Opera in London’s West End. Photo supplied
International tenor Paul Ettore Tabone will bring his acclaimed tribute to Andrea Bocelli to Ingham this September, with two performances at Ingham Shire Hall.
Described by the BBC as “Australia’s own Bocelli”, Tabone will perform favourites from Bocelli’s repertoire including The Prayer, Time to Say Goodbye, Canto della Terra and Besame Mucho.
The concert draws on Tabone’s remarkable international career, including sharing the stage with Bocelli at Verona’s Arena in 2016 before an audience of 20,000.
Tabone has performed across some of the world’s major stages, including London’s West End, Broadway, the Sydney Opera House and Teatro Carlo Felice in Italy. He also completed a record-breaking 1,800 performances in The Phantom of the Opera in London.
His journey from a North Queensland sugar cane farm to the international stage adds a local connection to the Ingham performances.
Audiences will be treated to a mix of opera, classical crossover and musical theatre, with Tabone joined by a live pianist and local guest performers Amber Meeson, John Scanlan and Mark Connors.
Each performance will bring a different combination of Tabone’s powerful vocals, theatrical storytelling and the sweeping arrangements associated with Bocelli’s music.
The tribute also reflects Tabone’s own connection to his musical hero, with his 2016 appearance alongside Bocelli at the Arena di Verona providing the inspiration for the concert.
For lovers of classical music, musical theatre or simply a powerful live performance, the Ingham shows offer an opportunity to hear an internationally accomplished Australian tenor perform some of the world’s most recognisable classical crossover songs.
Tickets are available on www.paultabone.com and hinchinbrooktickets.com.au
WHAT: Paul Tabone Salutes Andrea Bocelli – Morning Melodies
WHEN: Wednesday, September 16, 2026
WHERE: Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, Ingham
WHAT: Paul Tabone Salutes Andrea Bocelli – Evening Performance
WHEN: Saturday, September 19, 2026
WHERE: Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, Ingham

Former students, teachers, staff, P&C members, tuckshop ladies, gymkhana workers and anyone who has shared a connection with Trebonne State School are invited to come together for an afternoon of reminiscing and catching up.
The gathering began as a get-together for former P&C and auxiliary members, including those who helped raise money for the school through making peach blossoms, but has grown to welcome anyone who has had a relationship with the school over the years.
Families and friends are also warmly invited to attend.
Anyone who would like to bring along a plate to share encouraged to do so. For further information, and to RSVP please contact Rhonda Skinner at 04 188 0871
WHAT: Trebonne State School Community Get-Together
WHEN: 2:00pm, Saturday, 29th August 2026
WHERE: Trebonne State School

Linda McClelland, Wayde Chiesa MP, Chantelle Previtera and Alexandria Pitt, the Homelessness support team Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
A steady stream of locals made their way through The HUB in Ingham on August 6th as 16 organisations came together for a Homelessness Expo aimed at connecting people with the services and support available in the community.
Hosted by the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, the expo brought together organisations including Services Australia, the Department of Housing, selectability, Queensland Police and a range of advocacy and disability support services.
A free barbecue provided an opportunity for visitors to sit down, grab a sausage or cupcake made by the men's group, and speak with service providers in a relaxed environment.
Member for Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa said the event was an important opportunity to make sure people knew where they could turn for help.
“This is really important to make sure people are aware of the services that are available,” he said.

“They’ve done a wonderful job bringing people together and the services together, so people can explore in an open environment, and seek the services they need.”
Mr. Chiesa said the expo had seen a steady flow of people throughout the day and praised the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre for bringing the various organisations together.
“It’s credit to the organisation, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, for actually organising something like this and bringing organisations like selectability, the police, and housing help. These sorts of events bring people together to get the support and services they need,” he said.
For Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre CEO Linda McClelland, the expo was about taking the conversation around homelessness into the wider community while making practical assistance more accessible.

“The concept is that we’re wanting to get out to the community as much as possible that there is a homelessness crisis right throughout Australia,” she said.
Linda said the event also aimed to show the community how they could support people experiencing homelessness while connecting those people with services that could assist them through their circumstances.
One of the practical challenges facing people without a fixed address is maintaining access to government services. Services Australia was available at the expo to assist people with Centrelink-related issues, while the Department of Housing helped attendees understand the process of getting onto the social housing waiting list.
“That’s one of the issues for homeless people, is that they do find it difficult having no fixed address to maintain their Centrelink payments,” Linda said.
The Department of Housing was also helping people establish their names on the housing wait list, giving them the opportunity to be considered when suitable accommodation becomes available.

Other organisations provided advocacy and disability support, while police were also present given their role in supporting and keeping safe people experiencing homelessness in the community.
Linda encouraged anyone who missed the expo but needs assistance to visit The HUB in Ingham.
“Come to the HUB and ask for one of our workers, and we’ll support as best we can,” she said.
The team can then help connect people with the appropriate services and support available locally.
Among the services attending was the Disaster Recovery Team from Queensland Health, which is continuing to support people affected by last year’s natural disaster.
Jenna Noy said the timing of the service was deliberate, as the effects of a disaster can continue long after the initial response and funding has wound down.

“It’s quite a while after the disaster, but that’s quite purposeful because the year after the disaster happens, a lot of funding goes, but that doesn’t mean people aren’t still struggling,” she said.
The team provides short-term mental health support for people across the lifespan who may still be struggling to return to their normal lives following the flood.
Jenna said the impacts can present in a range of ways, including relationship difficulties, changes in substance use, low mood or heightened stress responses when rain occurs.

Homelessness or housing instability can also become an additional source of stress for people who have not been able to return to their homes following a disaster.
The team attended the expo to ensure people knew the service remained available and could access support if needed.
Also attending was the Wellways team, providing two programs designed to support people following a suicidal crisis.
Sandra Wilson explained that the Universal Aftercare program supports people aged 15 and over who have recently experienced a suicide attempt or suicidal crisis. In the Townsville region, the service is accessed through referral from the Townsville Hospital and Health Service.
The program provides approximately 12 weeks of free, non-clinical psychosocial support.
“We can link them in with Centrelink, job network providers, mental health professionals,” Wilson said.

The team can also assist people navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme, including connecting them with providers such as Feros Care.
Wellways describes Universal Aftercare as a service that can help people adjust after leaving hospital, rebuild relationships, develop a safety plan and connect with housing, income, family, employment and other community supports.
Alongside Universal Aftercare is Ways Forward, a free, peer-led service for people aged 18 and over who are caring for someone at risk of suicide.
Sandra said the program is designed for people with lived experience who are supporting somebody who has been through, or is currently going through, a suicidal crisis.
Unlike Universal Aftercare, Ways Forward is specifically focused on carers, family members and other people supporting someone at risk of suicide. The service provides one-on-one peer support, connection groups, education and referrals to additional services.

“Our program’s for 12 months. It’s for free,” Sandra said.
She said people can self-refer to Ways Forward, without needing to go through a hospital.
The Wellways team services a broad area, with Sandra describing its coverage as extending from Cardwell down to Home Hill, across to Palm Island and as far west as Richmond.
The programs also cater to different age groups, with Universal Aftercare supporting people aged 15 and over, while Ways Forward is available to carers aged 18 and over.