Link2Country Expo and Find Your Future in Hinchinbrook
What a massive weekend just gone. Many events were hosted and there definitely was something for people of all ages to participate in and enjoy. The inaugural Link2Country Expo at the Ingham Showgrounds was brilliant with trade displays, machinery, markets and entertainment galore. Friday was exceptional for the students of our district, with great interest in the Find Your Future programs, and interaction with the many tradies and other business people on site willing to share their knowledge on career and employment opportunities and pathways right here in our district for our future development. Congratulations to Nicole Chiesa and her team for putting on such an inspiring exposition of our district. Well done girls.

Weekend Activities
The beaches and water ways of our district were also very busy over the weekend with two classic fishing competitions running hot. The annual Taylors Beach Family Fishing Tournament was again an outstanding success, with around 285 competitors registered and enjoying a truly family orientated classic that saw the young ones this year show the oldies what fishing was all about. Congratulations to the Taylors Beach Progress Association on yet another fantastic event. Over in the Channel Country, the more serious Annual Hinchinbrook Catch and Release Tournament hosted by the Ingham Rod and Reel Association saw 98 competitors compete for the title of Champion Angler. This year the winning combination was Brody Lamb and Dion Darr. The two day contest saw 305 barra boated.

Congratulations to the organisers of the competitions for putting on such great events, bringing much enjoyment and opportunity of fellowship to our community.

To round the weekend off, we had Junior Rugby League at the Crushers on Saturday and Ingham Soccer Club hosting the regional competition on Friday night. Throw in the old time dancing at Stone River Hall on Saturday night, and you will see that there truly was something for everyone to enjoy.

A big thank you to the committees and organisers of all events. Without you and your drive to support our communities, things would simply not happen.

Commencement of Crushing Season
Just a reminder to all that the sugar cane season is upon us with a scheduled commencement of crushing announced for 10 June 2025. For anyone new to our district, this means increased traffic activity on our local roads with cane haul outs and harvesters travelling about getting cane from paddock to rail and cane trains crossing roads at established intersections throughout the district. Wilmar has indicated that cane train movements can be expected well before the tenth, due to logistical and training reasons, so be on the lookout for them now.

What a weekend, what an amazing showcase of local industry and talent! The Link2Country Expo was jam-packed with informative booths, sweet treats, giant agriculture equipment, trade experiences and even mock cattle auctions and just plain ol' whip-cracking fun.

So many schools turned out to see what their future could hold, and their arms - filled with goody bags - as the children tried out activities like honey-spinning and tractor pulling. Huge thank you to the organisers, sponsors, and all those who bought a ticket and enjoyed all the Expo had to offer, cant wait for next year!

Link2Country Expo Unites Community & Celebrates Agricultural Future

The inaugural Link2Country Expo made a vibrant debut at the Ingham Showgrounds on 23 and 24 May, drawing crowds from across the Hinchinbrook region and beyond. Hosted by CANEGROWERS Herbert River in partnership with Hinchinbrook Shire Council and the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism, the two-day event proved a roaring success, shining a spotlight on agriculture, careers, and community spirit.

Festivities kicked off Friday morning, setting the tone for a weekend rich in energy, education, and inspiration. Over 500 students and general public explored hands-on agri-skills, cutting-edge technology like drones and VR.

Attendees connected directly with industry leaders offering career pathways across agriculture, trades, health, tourism, and more. The evening also held an official welcome by the Mayor of Hinchinbrook Ramon Jayo and the lovely ladies, Hannah and Nicole who organised the event, followed by live music and an open bar.

The Find Your Future in Hinchinbrook initiative, integrated into the Expo for the first time, was a standout feature that was offering job seekers live vacancies and application support. From excavator demonstrations and cattle handling to helicopter fly-ins and comedic performances from the beloved CrackUp Sisters, every corner of the showgrounds buzzed with opportunity and entertainment.

The Expo embodied the region’s commitment to building a resilient and locally supported workforce. As organisers and community groups reflect on the event’s success, it's clear that Link2Country has planted seeds of inspiration that will grow well beyond the weekend.

With strong community backing and regional participation, the future of agriculture and local industry is looking brighter than ever, see the expo in the Photo gallery here:

Hello Hinchinbrook,

I thought I would mention a few areas in the Infrastructure Portfolio.

Stormwater is the run-off from rain that falls on a roof or paved area like a driveway, road or footpath that flows into a stormwater drain. Council maintains a complex stormwater drainage network which includes many different types of drainage structures such as: Unlined drains (including natural waterways) and concrete lined open drains, Underground pipes and culverts, grates and other inlet or outlet structures.

A drainage easement is a portion of land that a property owner has granted to Council to enable the carriage of stormwater through to the main drainage system.

Illegal dumping of green waste and household rubbish in waterways, easements and drains increases the risk of flooding to properties and costs millions of dollars in property damage across the region.

Under the conditions attached to an easement, detailed on a current title search, a property owner must not obstruct the free flow of water along the drainage pathway.

Dumping waste, planting garden beds or building fences across the flow path are all examples of activities that can obstruct stormwater flow.

Council is also responsible for maintaining approximately 9 kilometres of footpaths (not including parks) and numerous boardwalks and off-road recreational walking tracks. Most paths are concrete however, some may be other finishes such as pavers, asphalt, timber or compacted rock such as crusher dust.

All paths are shared facilities for pedestrians and cyclists unless signed otherwise.

Council allocates an annual budget for repairing existing paths and for construction of new paths. Repairs are programmed following annual footpath inspection results however, if other issues are reported, they are treated as a priority. Footpath maintenance activities include concrete patches and repairs, paver re-laying and repairs, pressure cleaning and chewing gum removal and sweeping.

To request a service, make an enquiry or report an issue, please visit Council’s website, Make a Request page https://bit.ly/3HqpQeP.

Once again it is great to be able to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read through what has been and what will be happening throughout our Shire. Thank you for the opportunity once again.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is proud to be a Diamond Sponsor of the 2025 Link2Country Expo, an exciting new community event designed to educate, entertain and encourage the next generation. Taking place on Friday 23 May and Saturday 24 May 2025 at the Ingham Showgrounds, the Expo is a celebration of rural life, innovation and future opportunity.

This year’s event proudly features the return of Council’s flagship careers initiative, the Find Your Future in Hinchinbrook careers event, now integrated into the broader Expo format. Traditionally held at the TYTO Conference and Events Centre, this relocation to the bustling Expo site elevates the experience, bringing even greater value to students, families and local industry.

Free to attend for all students in Years 6 to 12, the program is offered across both days. Students attending with their schools on Friday can explore in groups, while those unable to attend on the school day are welcome on Saturday 24 May 2025.

Registrations are open now at https://form.jotform.com/251130623637854.

At Location 8, the Find Your Future in Hinchinbrook event will bring together representatives from sectors such as agriculture, health, tourism, trades, education and more. This year’s highlights include a Live Job Noticeboard with real time vacancies, on the spot application opportunities and career support services. Job seekers can even gain points toward Centrelink requirements simply by attending.

Across the rest of the Expo site, 19 other interactive locations will keep students engaged with full day and half day sessions featuring:

• Live cattle handling and working dog demonstrations;
• Excavator operation with Hastings Deering;
• Hands on agri-skills from fencing and plastic welding to suturing and tyre changing;
• Drone and VR technology showcasing the future of farming;
• Fire safety demonstrations with a live bushfire simulator; and
• Horse handling basics, leather stamping, beekeeping and more.

A special treat on Friday morning will be the arrival of Townsville Helicopters at Location 14, an unforgettable introduction to careers in aviation.

As a Diamond Sponsor, Hinchinbrook Shire Council is committed to fostering youth opportunity, supporting regional industry and building a stronger local workforce. The Link2Country Expo is a bold step forward in connecting our young people with the vibrant possibilities available right here in our region.

Don’t miss out on this inspiring two day event! Follow @link2country on all platforms or contact jmacpherson@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au for more details or exhibitor enquiries.

Ingham Showgrounds will come alive this Friday and Saturday with the hosting of the Inaugural “Link 2 Country Expo", an industry event designed at showcasing the abundance of opportunity for work and career pathways that exist in rural communities such as Hinchinbrook.

You will wander through many trade stands offering great deals on matters of interest to you, such as trade tools, boating and other everyday life accessories, and take part in live demonstrations on basic matters such as how to change a tyre, right up to flying drones, as an emerging career opportunity.

The career opportunities are immense, and you will see it all clearly displayed through "Find Your Future in Hinchinbrook" that is on show at this tremendous event.

Want to learn line dancing or maybe whip cracking? Then classes are available for that too. There will be a lot of entertainment for the kids as well, including a kids pedal tractor pull event, and rides for the children’s pleasure.

And don't forget the little farmers fancy dress competition! Prizes will be awarded for the most creative "farm inspired costumes" so let’s see what you’ve got!

There is much to see and do over the two day event and on behalf of our community, I must congratulate Nicole Chiesa and her associates on pulling such a tremendous event together.

The work that has gone into the planning and preparations to make the event as socially and recreationally interactive, with plenty of business networking opportunity, is inspiring and the public looking to the future will benefit from the wares on offer throughout both days.

The expo commences 9am Friday 23 May 2025. The program for the two days is available at www.link2country.com.au and tickets may also be purchased through this website.

We truly have a lot to offer in this district and this expo will bring it all out. So, let’s hook in and support the event and showcase our work and lifestyle to the world. I look forward to seeing you there.

With Deputy Mayor Mary Brown

Following the weather events of February and March, support for community members impacted and looking for assistance is still available at the Hinchinbrook Information and Referral Centre at 73-81 Lannercost Street, Ingham.

Representatives from Community Recovery and Lifeline are available at the Centre Monday to Friday, with other government agency representatives having a presence there on a periodic basis. The community are encouraged to visit the Centre if they are still seeking assistance with matters such as assistance to complete Government Grant applications. This includes Support for Business, financial counselling, wellness coach, GIVIT assistance, Legal Aid, enquiries relating to rebuilding guidelines or any assistance relating to how the recovery process in the Hinchinbrook Shire can support local residents.

As the weeks are passing and the weather improves, preparation for the cane harvest, event and tourist visitation season is well underway. This increased activity in the farming, milling, sporting and hospitality sectors will assist the community in continuing the recovery journey back to the “new normal” of life post event.

Showcasing all the wonderful attractions on offer in the Shire, through several national television shows that have filmed and live broadcast from around the district, facilitates communications to the wider national audience, reminding them Hinchinbrook is ready and excited to again welcome visitors back for another year.

It is indeed encouraging to witness the return of sporting and social competitions, art and culture and the start of the major event season. These social outings provide the community with opportunities to reconnect, share experiences and enjoy more optimistic occasions with each other.

These progressions by no means suggest that the community has overcome all the challenges they have been facing during and since the weather event.  However, as we navigate the pathway to full recovery, it is important to acknowledge what has been experienced, plan what can be improved and essential to have a positive vision for the future that can be worked toward achieving.

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The Halifax branch of the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) will join forces with the Ingham Leukaemia Foundation to host a fun-filled afternoon of Hoy and Cent Sale fundraising on Saturday the 24th of May.

Held at the Halifax CWA Hall, the event will begin with a 12:30pm arrival for a 1:30pm start and locals are encouraged to come along for an afternoon of laughter, prizes, and connection all for a great cause.

Attendees can look forward to a variety of activities including lucky door prizes, raffles, hoy games, and a cent sale, with plenty of exciting items up for grabs, and to sweeten the deal, guests will also be treated to a delicious afternoon tea.

The event will raise vital funds for the Ingham Leukaemia Foundation to support local individuals and families affected by leukaemia and other blood cancers and exists as one of the several Halifax QCWA run fundraising events on the 2025 calendar.

Whether you're a card shark or just in it for the cake, everyone is welcome to come along and support this heartfelt community initiative. For more information, please contact the Halifax QCWA branch on 07 3026 1219.

WHAT: Hoy & Cent Sale for the Leukaemia Foundation.
WHEN: Saturday, May 24th from 12:30.
WHERE: Halifax CWA Hall, 6-8 Rupp St, Halifax.

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Entries Now Open For 10th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards

TYTO Regional Art Gallery annually celebrates the outstanding talents of artists through several showcases and award presentations where local and travelling artists work is spotlighted for the community to enjoy.

One of the Gallery’s most prestigious awards will celebrate a decade of excellence as the Opening Night of the 10th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards is set for Friday, the 1st of August.

The Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards is a lively, annual showcase that captures the beauty of birds through artistic expression. Open to artists of all skill levels from across the country, the event highlights imaginative works inspired by the diverse birdlife found throughout the Hinchinbrook Shire.

Entries to be part of the 10th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards are open now and will close at 4pm on Monday the 23rd of June and all forms are available for download online at www.gallery.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au. A locally treasured niche, all artwork entered must feature birds from TYTO Regional Art Gallery’s approved list which can also be found on the Gallery’s official website.

Artists may enter in the following sections; Painting (2D), Water Colour, Mixed Media, Digital Media, Works on Paper, Photography, Ceramics, and Sculptural Form. Along with awards presented to the best piece in each section, an Open Award, Local Artist Award, People’s Choice Award and Youth Award will also be celebrated at August’s Opening Night where winning artists will also be awarded a share in over $3,000 in prize money.

All artworks entered will be showcased to the public in a General Display Exhibition at TYTO from Saturday the 2nd of August until Saturday the 30th of August from 10am to 4pm daily.

For all additional inquiries, call 07 4776 4725.

Recently CANEGROWERS Herbert River conducted a four-day Haul Out Training Course aimed at equipping local jobseekers—along with a few participants who travelled from interstate—with the practical skills required for the upcoming sugarcane harvest. Hosted at Reinaudo’s farm in Ingham, the course trained 11 enthusiastic participants eager to kick-start their careers in the sugarcane industry.

Led by Mackay CANEGROWERS experienced head trainer Ronald Gurnnett, with support from CANEGROWERS Herbert River assistant trainers Steven Marbelli and Terry Motti, the training covered key competencies. These included workplace health and safety, pre-start machinery checks and inspections, haul-out vehicle operation, driving alongside harvesters, and the simulated filling of bins at the nearby siding.

CANEGROWERS Herbert River Chairman, Steven Marbelli, highlighted the course’s practical focus. “The emphasis was on giving participants as much hands-on experience as possible, so they could develop confidence behind the wheel of a haul-out vehicle,” he said.

Frank Scardamaglia, Manager of CANEGROWERS Herbert River, stressed the value of the initiative. “Courses like this are vital for the future of our local industry,” he said. “Attracting new workers is essential, and it’s encouraging to see that most of the participants have already secured employment within the district as a result of this program.”

Mr Scardamaglia also extended thanks to the Reinaudo family for generously providing the venue and machinery. “Their property was ideal for running the course—it had everything we needed.”

This initiative is part of a wider push across Queensland to tackle labour shortages in agriculture. The success of the Herbert River program demonstrates the impact of locally driven training in developing a skilled and job-ready workforce. CANEGROWERS Herbert River remains committed to supporting regional employment and strengthening the long-term sustainability of the sugarcane sector.

For information about future training opportunities, contact CANEGROWERS Herbert River on (07) 4776 5350 or email hroffice@canegrowers.com.au.

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At 21 years old, Cooper has been named the Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year (MAOTY) for the QLD/NT Zone, an award that reflects his commitment to mastering the craft of motorcycle mechanics.

Cooper’s journey into the world of motorcycles was practically predestined. Growing up in a family immersed in the trade, his father was a motorcycle mechanic who owned a local shop. This early exposure to bikes sparked a passion that evolved into a career. “Growing up, my dad was a motorcycle mechanic, so I was always around motorbikes,” Cooper shared. “And then I went for work experience at Dad's shop.”

What set Cooper apart from his peers was his hands-on experience, particularly when Cooper found himself running the workshop independently for part of his apprenticeship. “I was working alone, without a tradesman, because he unfortunately had an accident. He had to stand aside, so I was pretty much running the workshop. I got a better a feel for the industry and all aspects of it,” he explained. This experience honed his problem-solving skills and developed his ability to maintain consistent quality, a trait that impressed the MAOTY judges.

“You have to work to a certain quality because you're working on people's equipment. But to do that consistently can be hard,” he shared. Despite the challenges, Cooper believes his ability to adapt and maintain quality set him apart from the other contenders.

Recalling his old mentor, William Cross, Cooper credits with shaping his professional mindset. “Willie, my old tradesman, he's great in teaching the trade. Always saying, ‘There's never such thing as a dumb question,’ always helping me to work the situation out."

With his apprenticeship now complete, Cooper plans to continue working in the trade, driven by a love for motorcycles and a commitment to excellence. Hoping one day for the opportunity to work on his dream bike – the Kawasaki Ninja H2 – Cooper says, "It's the cream of the crop, fastest sports bike ever. It'd be pretty awesome to work on one."

The months prior to the Coral Sea Battle, Japan entered the war on December 7, 1941 with a plan for supremacy in South East Asia, Philippines and the Dutch East Indies. From pre-war documentation seized by the US Forces after Japan's surrender, historians know Japan planned to invade Australia.

Most Australians felt invasion was getting closer each day and repeated media reports and idle gossip did nothing to calm their fears. Reports of what Australia would be like under Japanese rule gave the grimmest accounts. Japanese servicemen were prepared to fight to win or die.

For some time Japanese spotter planes were seen around the Pacific Islands, New Guinea and Australia, and 1942 newspapers carried stories of the capture of an enemy plane carrying photos of major military installations, civilian factories and ports. The Herbert River Express carried reports of 40 enemy planes sighted in the north but the editor, Charles Cockrell played the incidents down as rumours.

Singapore fell to the Japanese on February 18, 1942 and 14,000 Australians were prisoners. The Philippines had also fallen to the Japanese and they invaded New Guinea early in 1942. The AIF were recalled from Europe to reinforce the AMF in Milne Bay and the Owen Stanley Ranges.

There was great concern when the Government drew the Brisbane Line, an imaginary line dividing the country in two, the most important area being a coastal strip taking in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne where the majority of troops were to be based. It was felt the Japanese could have the rest of Australia. Australians felt more secure when General Douglas MacArthur arrived on March 18, 1942. He felt strongly against the Brisbane Line Plan and told the Government his troops would halt the Japanese invasion in New Guinea.

The Japanese invasion force was approaching Port Moresby via the Coral Sea and the US Navy acting on intelligence reports, despatched the carriers USS Yorktown and USS Lexington to the area on May 1, 1942. The HMAS Australia and HMAS Hobart joined the Allied fleet in the Coral Sea.

By May 7, 1942 the carrier battle began with the first casualties being a tanker USS Neosho and destroyer USS Sims, sunk by aircraft from "Soho" and a number of Japanese and United States aircraft. At 0900 on May 8, both sides located each other simultaneously and at 1100 the Japanese carrier Shokaku was damaged, the US carrier Lexington was hit by two torpedoes and at least two bombs, and by late afternoon Lexington was abandoned and sunk. After the battle the Japanese claimed a tactical victory and the Allies claimed a strategic victory by preventing the assault on Port Moresby.

Today historians know the Battle of the Coral Sea did not prevent Australia from Japanese invasion, nor save Port Moresby from Japanese occupation, but the Allied forces inflicted significant losses to the Japanese Invasion Force. Forced them to enter battles ill-equipped and undermanned, and re-assess their plan of ultimate supremacy in the Pacific Region.

Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch. From the Cardwell 1993 booklet 'Coral Sea Battle Memorial: 1942 the experiences and memories of World War II, through the eyes of the local residents.

After enduring the devastating floods the Brothers Sports and Community Club is making a remarkable comeback. Thanks to the tireless efforts of dedicated committee members, the club is steadily returning to full operation with countless hours invested in restoring and upgrading the facility.

A key milestone in the club’s recovery is the return of Brothers Bingo on Wednesday, May 21st, at 9:30 am. Bingo has been a cherished tradition at the club since 1967, fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that has been integral to its enduring success.

Ingham Social Darts has already been back for five weeks, with players embracing the new upstairs location and amenities. Social darts are held every Wednesday, with check-in required before 7:00 pm. An exciting highlight on the horizon is the annual challenge match against Cardwell, scheduled for Saturday, May 24th. Spirits are high, and the darts community is thriving.

Friday trade will resume on May 23rd, marking another step toward normalcy. While the kitchen remains out of operation, patrons will still enjoy snacks, served in the revamped upstairs area. Traditional activities like the jackpot and raffles will resume, and a special screening of the 1985 reserve grade Grand Final will also take place, inviting former players and the community to share in some nostalgic memories.

As the community gathers once again, it’s clear that the floods couldn’t dampen the Brothers Sports and Community Club’s unwavering sense of community and tradition.

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Wednesdays
9:30am Brothers Bingo.
The beloved Brothers Bingo is back after the club's recovery efforts. Running continuously since 1967, reconnect with familiar faces, and enjoy the excitement of Bingo once again.

7:00pm Social Darts.
Social darts have been back in full swing for five weeks, and the enthusiasm is stronger than ever. Players are to check in before 7pm to join the competition and experience the friendly spirit of the game.

Fridays
4pm - 11pm Friday Trade.
Join us as Friday trading returns and snacks will be available to ensure everyone feels welcome. Usual jackpot games and raffles will continue, and on May 23rd we’ll be screening the 1985 Reserve Grade Grand Final for a touch of nostalgia.

Saturday 24 May
11am Social Darts Annual Challenge: Ingham vs. Cardwell.
Mark your calendars as the players are eager to showcase their skills in a friendly yet competitive environment. Don’t miss this chance to support your team and enjoy a great day of darts. Sign up before 11am.

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OPINION PIECE

Recently, a Townsville mother endured a terrifying home invasion when three teenagers allegedly broke in and held her at knifepoint before stealing the family car. This was on Mother’s Day and all while her children were asleep. No one should feel this unsafe, vulnerable and scared in their own home.

The Queensland Government's Making Queensland Safer (Adult Crime, Adult Time) Amendment Bill 2025, which we anticipate will go to a vote in the next Parliamentary sitting, aims to increase penalties for youth offenders who commit certain crimes. However, the Adult Crime, Adult Time laws already cover offences such as unlawful use of a motor vehicle and break and enter, yet we continue to see far too many home invasions and car thefts. Clearly these laws are not having the desired impact.

To effectively deter would-be criminals and restore residents’ peace of mind, Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) is again calling for Castle Law to be legislated in Queensland. Castle Law is based on the fundamental right to self-defence. Its introduction would give victims the legal right to use whatever force is necessary to protect themselves, others in the home, and their property if faced with an intruder.

Currently, Queensland law only allows the use of force deemed "reasonably necessary" in all the circumstances, a standard that is open to broad interpretation. As a result, homeowners defending themselves may face serious charges such as assault or even murder.

We are calling on the Crisafulli Government to amend their draft legislation currently before the House to include Castle Law. If they fail to act, we will launch another parliamentary petition. Last year, our petition to introduce Castle Law was strongly supported by Queenslanders, gathering over 40,000 signatures in just five weeks!

Should the incoming government refuse to legislate Castle Law, and if the renewed petition is again an overwhelming success, we will introduce our own Castle Law bill into the Queensland Parliament and force the Parliament to debate and vote on Castle Law.

I hope the new LNP Government has learnt from Labor’s mistakes, Queenslanders want the right to defend themselves with whatever means necessary. Castle Law is about galvanising the rights of victims.

Contributed with thanks to Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto.

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In a gesture reflecting his ongoing commitment to the local community, State Member for Hinchinbrook, Mr. Nick Dametto MP, recently visited Ingham State High School to present a brand-new pop-up marquee to the Student Council. The donation comes as a welcome addition, addressing the need for more shaded areas during the school’s outdoor activities and community events.

The initiative to secure the marquee began when the Ingham State High School Student Council identified a gap in sun protection during school events. Understanding the importance of sun safety, they reached out to Mr. Dametto's office, hoping for support. Mr. Dametto's office responded imminently, and organised the donation of the new shade structure to the school.

Principal Mr. Rod Flood expressed his sincere gratitude to Mr. Dametto for his continued support as this generous donation aligns with the school's commitment to promoting sun safety. Having the additional shade will make a real difference during sporting and community events, ensuring the students and staff are better protected from the elements.

The new marquee will be put to good use at various school functions, including sports days, community events, and other outdoor gatherings. As a school that places high importance on the wellbeing of its students, the added shade will not only enhance comfort but also promote health and safety.

The presentation of the marquee took place at Ingham State High School, with Mr. Flood and key Student Council Executive Members proudly accepting the donation. Charli Lancini (Secretary), Emily Provians (Treasurer), and Sophee Lepinath (President) joined Mr. Dametto for the handover, expressing their appreciation for the contribution.

The school community expressed collective thanks to Mr. Dametto for his ongoing dedication to improving the lives of students and his commitment to the wider Ingham community, highlighting the positive impact the marquee would have. As a consistent supporter of local schools, Mr. Dametto’s contribution not only meets a practical need but also strengthens the sense of connection between the school and the community.

Ingham State High School looks forward to making full use of the new marquee in the months and years to come.

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For nearly two decades, Ingham Exhaust 4x4 & Welding has been a cornerstone of the Ingham community, offering top-quality products and services. Owned and operated by Markus and Amy Erkkila for the past 19 years, this family-run business takes pride in serving their community with reliable, competitively priced solutions. Instead of making the long trip to Townsville, why not shop local and get everything you need right here in Ingham?

Ingham Exhaust 4x4 & Welding cater to all your automotive and off-road needs. Their huge range of services includes but is not limited to, supply and fitting of 4x4 suspension upgrades, bullbars, snorkels, towbars, child restraints, solar panels, and dual battery systems. Also specialising in exhausts for cars, 4WDs, trucks, tractors, and even harvesters. Plus, their skilled team handles engineering, aluminium and stainless steel welding, and caravan and trailer servicing.

Proudly stocking leading brands like Ironman, Engel, TJM, KT Solar, Ultra Vision Lighting, ARK, Maxx, Hulk, TAG, Redback Exhausts, Hayman Reece, and Lightforce. Whether you're upgrading your vehicle, preparing for a camping trip, or in need of welding services, they have you covered.

Don’t miss out on their Link2Country specials, visit their marquee to see some fantastic deals! They're happy to help you with quality products, expert advice, and the friendly service you’ve come to expect.

Visit us at 3 Haig Street, Ingham QLD 4850, or give us a call at (07) 4776 5060. You can also reach us via email at inghamexhaust@bigpond.com and experience the difference with Ingham Exhaust 4x4 & Welding!