WHAT AUSTRALIA DAY MEANS TO ME

Australia Day means something different to each of us. It’s shaped by who we are, where we’ve come from, and the path that led us to call this place home.

No two stories are the same — yet we all stand together in a country that values the voices, beliefs and contributions of its people.

And really, that’s the heart of Australia Day.

It’s a chance to pause and think about who we are as a nation, and the kind of nation we want to keep becoming.

It’s a day to gather with family, friends and community, to appreciate the freedoms we enjoy, and to recognise the story we’re all part of — a story that keeps growing, changing and strengthening. Our history, our identity, and above all, our people.

And if there’s one thing we do well here in Hinchinbrook, it’s look after one another.

That spirit was on full display yesterday as we recognised our Australia Day Award winners and those who went above and beyond during the January–February 2025 floods.

This year’s 2026 Australia Day Honours List recognises Dan Cordner, Local Controller for the Halifax SES, with an Achievement Award.

He has been acknowledged for his outstanding leadership, training, operational support, and his unwavering commitment to the Queensland State Emergency Service and the wider community.

Dan’s contribution to our region is nothing short of extraordinary.

Dan worked for weeks on end during the 2025 floods, often in deteriorating conditions, sometimes isolated from support and even his own family.

He prepared his community, carried out evacuations, responded to requests for help, and when he finally got a moment to breathe, he deployed elsewhere to support other flood‑affected regions and those impacted by TC Alfred.

All year, Dan has been the same — selfless with his time, calm under pressure, forward‑thinking and deeply committed to protecting Queensland communities.

We’re incredibly fortunate to have people like him leading local disaster response.

Dan also joins a group of 24 Flood Hero Recognition recipients honoured yesterday.

These remarkable community members are: Evlyn Bailey, Victor Bligh, Robert Bonassi, Kerri Ann Burnell, Ian Cameron, Daniel Castorina, Travis Cauchi, Carina Chesson, Madeleine D’Urso, Francis Debono, Keldon Fletcher, Andrew Giliberto, Joe and Luke (Halifax Hotel), Ingham Lions Club, Russell Kealy, Paul Longbottom, Jeff McMurray, Robert Morris, Don Pollock, Greg Sexton, Luke Shepherdson, Gio Tantalo and Luke Venables.

To every one of you – thank you. You showed what community really means.

I also want to acknowledge our Australia Day Award winners.

These individuals make our region tick, and their dedication — day in and day out — is what makes this community strong:

Citizen of the Year – Leonardo “Lenny” Chiesa
Young Citizen of the Year – Gemma Di Bella
Beryl Prior Award – Sam Cosentino
Individual Achievement Award – Rina Zatta
Senior Cultural Award – Janice Carr
Junior Cultural Award – Indiana Guy
Junior Sports Award – Liam Fascetti and Levi Murray (dual winners)


We are lucky. Truly lucky to have so many outstanding people in this community.

Their actions, their generosity, their commitment … it’s what makes me proud to be Mayor of the Hinchinbrook Shire.

Thank you to all our nominees, our winners, and every quiet achiever who chips away, helping to make this place a better one.

What you do matters. More than you know.

Hello Hinchinbrook,

With Australia Day done and dusted, whether you are a local or a visitor, I hope you enjoyed the day in the Hinchinbrook Shire, as we offer a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure and community spirit.

I thought I would mention an area in the Infrastructure Portfolio which is very important for this time of year.

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, and 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.

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

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 here at www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/customer-service/

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. Visit their website here for more at www.snapsendsolve.com/snappers

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 sends you your council’s contact information, location and email contact. 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 resolve the issue.

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.

Did you know the most common possum species found in the Hinchinbrook Shire is the Brushtail Possum?

These cheeky night-owls are pros at living alongside humans. The Brushtail Possum is highly adaptable and often sets up home in sheds, roof cavities, wall spaces and backyard trees. In built-up areas where old hollow trees are scarce, our homes can become their cosy substitute.

Brushtails love to travel high, using fences and power lines as possum highways while foraging for fruit and leaves. When they’re forced to the ground, however, they’re far more vulnerable to cars, dogs and other dangers.

If you think a possum has moved into your roof, there are humane ways to check and manage the situation. Look for signs like droppings, fur or urine stains, and gently block suspected entry points with paper to see if they’re disturbed. Always make sure the possum has safely exited before sealing gaps, and never trap or relocate one without proper advice.

They might be noisy neighbours—but they’re an important part of our local wildlife too!

As we welcome growers into 2026, I’d like to extend a warm Happy New Year to all members of the Herbert River grower community. The year ahead promises to be an exciting one as we continue to build on the strong foundations of our district, while also celebrating a major milestone in our organisation’s history.

The 2025 year once again highlighted the strength, resilience and determination of Herbert River growers. Despite a challenging season marked by weather impacts, operational pressures and ongoing industry change, growers across the district continued to adapt, collaborate and push forward. That collective spirit remains one of our greatest assets.

Throughout the year, Canegrowers Herbert River remained focused on advocacy, service delivery and building long-term capacity for our members. One of the most significant achievements was our success in lobbying the government to secure Category D Disaster Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 for growers affected by the Tropical Low event in January and February 2025. This vital funding has gone a long way in assisting growers to recover, rebuild and restore operations following major disaster impacts.

We also worked closely with Canegrowers Queensland and other Canegrowers districts to extend the definition of “primary producer” under disaster recovery grants, ensuring more growers were eligible for assistance. We continue to advocate strongly for improved disaster assistance and recovery settings on behalf of Herbert River growers.

Another priority was the delivery of the Haulout Course, which supports improved safety outcomes and practical skills development across the district. Our Young Growers Branch also continued to grow in strength, with activities including a successful trip to Cairns that provided valuable learning experiences and strengthened connections within the next generation of sugar industry leaders.

Education and school engagement expanded in 2025, with Canegrowers Herbert River working with eight local schools. With support from HCPSL, SRA and Ingham State High School, students planted cane at these schools, creating hands-on learning opportunities and highlighting career pathways in agriculture.

Throughout the crushing season, we maintained strong advocacy with the mills, ensuring grower concerns were raised consistently and constructively. Our Board and Management also remained active across regional, state and national forums, ensuring the Herbert River’s voice was heard on key policy and industry issues.

Looking ahead to 2026, we are pleased to share several upcoming events for the first half of the year. These include the 2026 Haulout Course in May, a Young Growers trip to Maleny and Bundaberg in March, Business Essentials Training in April, and our biggest event of all, the Canegrowers 100 Year Celebration in May. We will be sharing further details about this milestone event in the coming weeks.

It will be an exciting year as we celebrate the past, present and future of Canegrowers Herbert River, and the community of people involved who have made the organisation what it is today. As always, we remain committed to strong advocacy, clear communication and supporting members through whatever challenges and opportunities the new season may bring.

Rural landholders impacted by the North and Far North Tropical Low between 29th January and 28th February 2025 are being reminded that financial assistance remains available, with applications for the Rural Landholder Recovery Grant Scheme closing on 13th February 2026.

The scheme provides grants of up to $10,000 to assist eligible landholders with clean-up and reinstatement activities after direct damage to primary production enterprises. The funding is jointly provided by the Australian Government and the Queensland Government through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

The grant is designed to help cover the costs of recovery work such as repairing fences, restoring infrastructure, and returning properties to operational condition following the severe weather event.

Who can apply?
To be eligible, applicants must own or lease at least 10 hectares of land within a declared disaster area and operate a primary production enterprise. Landholders must also have earned at least $20,000 in gross income from primary production in the financial year before the disaster and hold an Australian Business Number (ABN) at the time of the event.

Additional eligibility requirements include:

• The property must be located in a declared disaster area for the event
• Applicants must intend to re-establish their primary production enterprise
• Combined off-farm income must not exceed $250,000
• Applicants must not have already received other disaster-related grants or loans for the same event
• Declared disaster areas

How to apply
To apply, landholders within the Hinchinbrook Shire must submit a completed application form along with supporting documentation, including proof of land ownership or lease, five to ten photographs of damage, evidence of expenditure, and insurance details where applicable.

Applications can be submitted online via QRIDA’s Application Portal, or by downloading the application form and submitting it by email or post. Applicants using the paper form are advised to download and save the document before completing it, and to avoid sending original documents by mail.

With just weeks remaining before applications close, eligible rural landholders are encouraged to review the guidelines and apply as soon as possible to access this recovery support and continue rebuilding after the 2025 tropical low event.

Meet Hestia!

She's a devoted canine companion on a mission to find her new family. This charming pup is absolutely smitten with her humans and finds her greatest joy in being by your side. If you're looking for a furry friend who offers unconditional affection, Hestia is your girl.

Hestia's favourite place is undoubtedly your lap, where she graciously settles, exuding warmth and love. This affectionate pup is a fast learner when it comes to manners, making her an excellent addition to any household.

For Hestia, every day is an opportunity to deepen her bond with her family. Her charming personality and gentle nature make her a wonderful match for those who can provide love and attention. Hestia's dedication and loyalty will surely make her a treasured friend, bringing happiness and companionship to her new family's life.

If you’re interested in meeting any of the lovely Hestia, please complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

Included in adoption fee of $495: Desexed, Micro-chipped, Up to date vaccinations, Flea, tick, and intestinal worm treated, and on ProHeart.

DOB: 13/06/2025
Sex: Female
Breed: Staffy x
Colour: White & Brindle
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft

For tradies and serious DIYers who rely on cordless tools every day, battery performance can make or break a job. At Ingham Manufactures Mitre 10 on Herbert Street, the Makita 40V Max LI-ION battery range is standing out for one clear reason. Consistent, intelligent power delivery backed by durability built for real worksites.

The Makita 40V Max LI-ION system is an advanced digital communication between the tool and the battery. This technology allows both components to constantly exchange information, ensuring power output is optimised for the task at hand. The result is improved efficiency, stronger performance under load, and better overall battery management.

Durability is another defining feature across the range, with heavy duty cell casing significantly improving impact resistance, an important consideration on busy job sites where drops and knocks are unavoidable. A built-in battery ventilation system helps regulate temperature, allowing the battery to run cooler during use and extending its overall lifespan.

Protection from the elements has also been carefully engineered as a short-circuit prevention structure that shields battery terminals from dust and moisture, while a three-layer moisture protection system guards internal cells against water ingress. Together, these features ensure the batteries are well suited to Queensland conditions, where getting dirty is part of the job.

The batteries are fully compatible with the Makita XGT platforms, allowing users to build a flexible cordless setup that grows with their needs. Available locally at Ingham Manufactures Mitre 10, the Makita 40V Max LI-ION battery range represents a smart investment in power with performance that lasts.

WHERE WEDDING DREAMS MEET WILD BEAUTY

From rainforest romance to coastal elegance, discover North Queensland’s hidden gem for weddings.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels cinematic, Hinchinbrook Way is the destination you’ve been searching for. This breathtaking stretch of coastline and hinterland offers lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, pristine beaches, and sweeping island vistas, all within easy reach of charming regional towns.

PICTURE-PERFECT BACKDROPS
Start in Ingham, where TYTO Parklands provides a serene setting with boardwalks winding through lily-strewn lagoons and fluttering birdlife. For couples who crave adventure, Wallaman Falls, Australia’s tallest single-drop waterfall, offers misty rainforest and thundering water straight out of a fairytale. Coastal lovers will fall for Lucinda and Dungeness, where the sugar-loading jetty stretches into turquoise waters framed by Hinchinbrook Island’s peaks. Forrest Beach and Taylors Beach offer secluded sands perfect for romantic sunset shots.

MORE THAN JUST PHOTOS
Hinchinbrook Way isn’t just about scenery; it’s a complete wedding experience. Boutique venues offer ceremony decks overlooking the Channel, luxury accommodation, and styling services. Imagine exchanging vows with Hinchinbrook Island as your backdrop, then dancing under a canopy of stars.

CELEBRATE IN STYLE
For the groom’s crew, Hinchinbrook is a buck’s party paradise, with world-class fishing including barramundi, reef trips, and heli-fishing adventures. Hens can enjoy bohemian beach picnics at Forrest or Taylors Beach. Add local boutique food experiences, such as Italian delicacies from Ingham delis, and you have the perfect recipe for a relaxed, chic celebration.

Tennille, the owner of Sola the Salon, is passionate about bridal hair and ensures that after each appointment you feel beautiful, confident, and stylish. Tennille takes care of everything, from consultation to the big day. Whether it’s trials, colour, or cuts, she listens to exactly what you want and brings it to life.

The whole bridal party is welcome, from flower girl to best man. Style duo Tennille and Carly can travel to event locations, or the entire salon can be booked out for a boutique, private session. Enquire at www.solathesalon.com.au or call 04 7580 5274 to discuss your upcoming wedding and event!

Meet one of Ingham’s best local Authorised marriage celebrants, Sandra Bison.

Sandra describes her role honestly as the happiest job in the world, spending the past five years being part of many special days. Each ceremony is created from scratch and tailored to reflect every couple’s individual style and story, with a strong focus on making each celebration personal and meaningful.

Sandra is also part of the popular local music duo Obsession and can provide live entertainment for wedding receptions, offering couples added convenience. Couples interested in a relaxed, casual chat can contact Sandra on 0407 760 063.

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Planning a sweet celebration in 2026? Courtney’s Delectable Treats specialises in creating beautiful and delicious desserts to make any occasion memorable. From custom cakes and cupcakes to cake pops, cookies, macarons, slices, and a variety of treats, Courtney can tailor creations to suit your event and personal style.

Bookings are open and filling quickly. So whether you’re planning a birthday, wedding, or special milestone, Courtney is ready to bring your sweet ideas to life.

To secure your date or discuss your ideas, contact Courtney via email at courtneysdelectabletreats@gmail.com or send a DM through her Facebook page!

Mandy’s Beauty in the Bush specialises in bespoke florals for intimate weddings, creating meaningful, personalised arrangements made to be remembered. With a focus on timeless elegance, each arrangement is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the couple’s story.

Blending artistry and creativity, Mandy’s work is defined by exceptional attention to detail, delivering floral designs that are perfect for your special day.

Ph: 0419 676 758 | Em: mandy@mandysbeautyinthebush.com.au | Facebook: Mandy's Beauty In The Bush

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Tuesday 27 January
Weekly Community Bingo – Tuesday Session
10:30am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Tuesday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Wednesday 28 January

Thursday 29 January

Technology Classes
10:00am – 1:30pm, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Want to get more confident with computers, smartphones, tablets, or social media? Free Computer Classes from 10:00am to 11:30am, followed by Technology Classes from 12:00pm to 1:30pm. Bookings are essential, please contact the Library on 07 4776 4600 or email: library@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

Playtime At The Library
10:30am – 12:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
A fun-filled learning session, which incorporates stories, songs and rhymes aimed at children 0–5 years of age. Each session caregivers will have the opportunity to ask questions or discuss concerns with a Queensland Health Clinical Nurse.

Weekly Community Bingo – Thursday Session
6:45pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Thursday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Friday 30 January

Green Thumbs Club
2:30pm at Community Garden, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
An afternoon of planting, chatting and getting dirty in the soil. Whether you’re putting seedlings in the ground or just soaking up the fresh air. No experience needed – just bring a smile and maybe a pair of garden gloves. Call the HSCS (07) 4776 1822 for more info!

Beers By The Beach
5pm at the Forrest Beach SLSC, 6 Palm st, Forrest Beach.
Unwide with friends while soaking up ocean views. Bring the kids, there’s a park next door!

Saturday 31 January

Parkrun
7:00am in Palm Creek, Ingham & The Cardwell foreshore.
A FREE weekly 5k exercising event for participants of all fitness levels, an opportunity for all the local community, regardless of age or gender, to come together and enjoy the outdoors and get physically active. Encouraging people to run, jog, walk and volunteer together!

---------------------------------------- NEW MONTH! --------------------------------------------

Sunday 1 February

Weekly Community Bingo – Sunday Session
1:30pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Sunday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Monday 2 February

Tuesday 3 February
Weekly Community Bingo – Tuesday Session
10:30am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Tuesday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Wednesday 4 February

Thursday 5 February

Technology Classes
10:00am – 1:30pm, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Want to get more confident with computers, smartphones, tablets, or social media? Free Computer Classes from 10:00am to 11:30am, followed by Technology Classes from 12:00pm to 1:30pm. Bookings are essential, please contact the Library on 07 4776 4600 or email: library@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

Playtime At The Library
10:30am – 12:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
A fun-filled learning session, which incorporates stories, songs and rhymes aimed at children 0–5 years of age. Each session caregivers will have the opportunity to ask questions or discuss concerns with a Queensland Health Clinical Nurse.

Weekly Community Bingo – Thursday Session
6:45pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Thursday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Friday 6 February

Green Thumbs Club
2:30pm at Community Garden, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
An afternoon of planting, chatting and getting dirty in the soil. Whether you’re putting seedlings in the ground or just soaking up the fresh air. No experience needed – just bring a smile and maybe a pair of garden gloves. Call the HSCS (07) 4776 1822 for more info!

Beers By The Beach
5pm at the Forrest Beach SLSC, 6 Palm st, Forrest Beach.
Unwide with friends while soaking up ocean views. Bring the kids, there’s a park next door!

Saturday 7 February

Parkrun
7:00am in Palm Creek, Ingham & The Cardwell foreshore.
A FREE weekly 5k exercising event for participants of all fitness levels, an opportunity for all the local community, regardless of age or gender, to come together and enjoy the outdoors and get physically active. Encouraging people to run, jog, walk and volunteer together!

Sunday 8 February

Weekly Community Bingo – Sunday Session
1:30pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Sunday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Monday 9 February

Tuesday 10 February
Weekly Community Bingo – Tuesday Session
10:30am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Tuesday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Wednesday 11 February
International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Thursday 12 February

Technology Classes
10:00am – 1:30pm, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Want to get more confident with computers, smartphones, tablets, or social media? Free Computer Classes from 10:00am to 11:30am, followed by Technology Classes from 12:00pm to 1:30pm. Bookings are essential, please contact the Library on 07 4776 4600 or email: library@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

Playtime At The Library
10:30am – 12:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
A fun-filled learning session, which incorporates stories, songs and rhymes aimed at children 0–5 years of age. Each session caregivers will have the opportunity to ask questions or discuss concerns with a Queensland Health Clinical Nurse.

Weekly Community Bingo – Thursday Session
6:45pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Thursday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Friday 13 February
World Radio Day

Green Thumbs Club
2:30pm at Community Garden, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
An afternoon of planting, chatting and getting dirty in the soil. Whether you’re putting seedlings in the ground or just soaking up the fresh air. No experience needed – just bring a smile and maybe a pair of garden gloves. Call the HSCS (07) 4776 1822 for more info!

Beers By The Beach
5pm at the Forrest Beach SLSC, 6 Palm st, Forrest Beach.
Unwide with friends while soaking up ocean views. Bring the kids, there’s a park next door!

Threads – Mission Arts Exhibition
6:00pm, TYTO Regional Art Gallery, Ingham.
Discover Threads, an exhibition showcasing the exquisite creations of the Mission Arts fibre and textile artists. Featuring intricate techniques, rich textures, and cultural storytelling, this exhibition celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the enduring art of fibre and textiles. Tickets at: hinchinbrooktickets.com.au.

Saturday 14 February
Valentine's Day

Parkrun
7:00am in Palm Creek, Ingham & The Cardwell foreshore.
A FREE weekly 5k exercising event for participants of all fitness levels, an opportunity for all the local community, regardless of age or gender, to come together and enjoy the outdoors and get physically active. Encouraging people to run, jog, walk and volunteer together!

Sunday 15 February

Weekly Community Bingo – Sunday Session
1:30pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Sunday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Monday 16 February

Tuesday 17 February
Carnival/Shrove Tuesday/Pancake Day/Lunar New Year

Weekly Community Bingo – Tuesday Session
10:30am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Tuesday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Wednesday 18 February

Thursday 19 February

Morning Melodies: Bloom Sings Eva Cassidy
10:30am, Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, Ingham.
Experience an intimate and acoustic tribute as Bloom brings to life the timeless music of Eva Cassidy, performing her beloved songs including “Songbird" and “Time After Time,” Bloom’s rich, soulful voice delivers a heartfelt homage to Eva Cassidy’s extraordinary talent and enduring legacy. Tickets: $25. Pre-purchase at hinchinbrooktickets.com.au or buy at the door. Doors open at 9:30am.

Technology Classes
10:00am – 1:30pm, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Want to get more confident with computers, smartphones, tablets, or social media? Free Computer Classes from 10:00am to 11:30am, followed by Technology Classes from 12:00pm to 1:30pm. Bookings are essential, please contact the Library on 07 4776 4600 or email: library@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

Playtime At The Library
10:30am – 12:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
A fun-filled learning session, which incorporates stories, songs and rhymes aimed at children 0–5 years of age. Each session caregivers will have the opportunity to ask questions or discuss concerns with a Queensland Health Clinical Nurse.

Weekly Community Bingo – Thursday Session
6:45pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Thursday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Friday 20 February

Green Thumbs Club
2:30pm at Community Garden, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
An afternoon of planting, chatting and getting dirty in the soil. Whether you’re putting seedlings in the ground or just soaking up the fresh air. No experience needed – just bring a smile and maybe a pair of garden gloves. Call the HSCS (07) 4776 1822 for more info!

Beers By The Beach
5pm at the Forrest Beach SLSC, 6 Palm st, Forrest Beach.
Unwide with friends while soaking up ocean views. Bring the kids, there’s a park next door!

Saturday 21 February

Parkrun
7:00am in Palm Creek, Ingham & The Cardwell foreshore.
A FREE weekly 5k exercising event for participants of all fitness levels, an opportunity for all the local community, regardless of age or gender, to come together and enjoy the outdoors and get physically active. Encouraging people to run, jog, walk and volunteer together!

Diesel By Request ’26
7:00pm–9:30pm, Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, Ingham.
Join beloved singer-songwriter Diesel for Diesel By Request ’26, a unique, audience-driven concert where fans shape the setlist with requests spanning his entire career—from his 1989 debut album Johnny Diesel & The Injectors to his latest Bootleg Melancholy. Expect an intimate, electric evening of hits, deep cuts, and eclectic covers, making each show a one-of-a-kind experience. Licensed event.

Sunday 22 February

Weekly Community Bingo – Sunday Session
1:30pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Sunday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Monday 23 February

Tuesday 24 February

Weekly Community Bingo – Tuesday Session
10:30am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Tuesday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Wednesday 25 February

Thursday 26 February

Technology Classes
10:00am – 1:30pm, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Want to get more confident with computers, smartphones, tablets, or social media? Free Computer Classes from 10:00am to 11:30am, followed by Technology Classes from 12:00pm to 1:30pm. Bookings are essential, please contact the Library on 07 4776 4600 or email: library@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

Playtime At The Library
10:30am – 12:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
A fun-filled learning session, which incorporates stories, songs and rhymes aimed at children 0–5 years of age. Each session caregivers will have the opportunity to ask questions or discuss concerns with a Queensland Health Clinical Nurse.

Weekly Community Bingo – Thursday Session
6:45pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham.
Every Thursday at the RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy BINGO in a great atmosphere with friends, family, or on your own. Grab a bite to eat at the venue before or after the session and make a morning of it. For more information, contact info@herbertriverrsl.org.au or phone (07) 4776 5157.

Friday 27 February

Green Thumbs Club
2:30pm at Community Garden, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
An afternoon of planting, chatting and getting dirty in the soil. Whether you’re putting seedlings in the ground or just soaking up the fresh air. No experience needed – just bring a smile and maybe a pair of garden gloves. Call the HSCS (07) 4776 1822 for more info!

Beers By The Beach
5pm at the Forrest Beach SLSC, 6 Palm st, Forrest Beach.
Unwide with friends while soaking up ocean views. Bring the kids, there’s a park next door!

Saturday 28 February

Parkrun
7:00am in Palm Creek, Ingham & The Cardwell foreshore.
A FREE weekly 5k exercising event for participants of all fitness levels, an opportunity for all the local community, regardless of age or gender, to come together and enjoy the outdoors and get physically active. Encouraging people to run, jog, walk and volunteer together!

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- “We've had so much bloody fun!”

For more than three decades, Mimmo Mancuso and Mario Magnani brought laughter to stages, airwaves and local festivals across the Hinchinbrook Shire. Now in their twilight years, the pair reflect on a life spent performing, improvising and making audiences smile.

“We've had so much bloody fun,” Mimmo laughs, recalling the start of their partnership in 1989. But the story goes back further. They first met in the 1970s at what is now the Ingham Theatre Group, during a performance of Rinse the Blood Off My Toga. Mimmo had to step in at the last minute dressed as a centurion—a role he hadn’t rehearsed—missing his first cue since 1971.

“It was chaotic, but that’s how it started,” Mimmo says. He joined the club shortly after and never left, though he admits it took him a little longer to find his rhythm on stage. “I don’t perform the characters. The characters speak through me,” he explains. “I used to get on stage and perform. I didn’t like performing the characters everybody else wanted me to perform, and I always had to mould it the way I thought it should be done.”

The duo became well-known for their impressionist theatre, comedy sketches, and improvisation. Shows like Robbin Hood and the time they shared on live radio remain standout memories. “It wasn’t just about line delivery,” Mario says. “It was the way we said the words, waiting for it to sink in.” The pair also helped pioneered theatre-restaurant performances, where short skits and songs blended seamlessly with acts from other performers.

Even when work and life got in the way, Mimmo and Mario found time for the stage. “We’d ad-lib a lot,” Mimmo recalls. “Some of the most memorable moments are those unscripted ones, just working off each other.” That spontaneity extended beyond the theatre; the duo became fixtures on local radio and TV, creating the characters Vittorio and Luigi, twin Italian brothers whose antics charmed audiences. “We don’t tell jokes,” Mario explains. “We tell stories. And we make funny little stories up. If we’re having a conversation with people, we’ll come out with something hilarious. But we don’t tell jokes.”

For Mario, the love of performance started young. “Once I figured out at school I was good at making everyone laugh, I was hooked,” he says. “Even in primary school, I was always joking around. The teacher kept telling me to sit down.” Mimmo, too, has passed the performance gene down the family. “My granddaughter loves it. Life happens during and in between shows, but it rubs off,” he says.

Some roles have lingered in memory longer than others. Mario fondly remembers playing a ten-year-old boy in The Blue Goose at age 14, a serious role that challenged his emotional range. Mimmo’s highlight? “I played a jumping flea once in a pantomime. It was silly, simple—but 54 years later, I still remember it!”

Their partnership worked because, as Mario puts it, “We never argue. We think alike. He can say something, I get it straight away. And vice versa. It’s the way things happen.” Mimmo agrees: “On stage, anything can happen. You just get up and play, muck around with the audience. It’s live, and it’s magic.”

Now in the 21st century, the duo still perform when time allows, though their pace is gentler. Looking back, they assured that lessons of life are better with a laugh.

"Never copy, always be yourself, and aim for 100 per cent of the audience laughing, not just 70,"  Mimmo said with a grin. “If you’re not getting them all, they’re asleep,”

For Mimmo and Mario, the stage has always been a place to relax, escape, and connect. With their characters, audiences, and each other. Decades may have passed, but the joy of performance and shared laughter remains timeless.

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Queensland authorities ramped up water safety messaging ahead of the recent long weekend, as one of the busiest and highest-risk periods on the state’s waterways unfolded.

With coastal and inland waterways experiencing heavy traffic, Queensland Water Police joined forces with Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) and Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) to help ensure a safe and enjoyable break for boaties, swimmers and beachgoers.

Water Police Sunshine Coast Officer in Charge Sergeant Kyle Bates said officers were out in force throughout the long weekend, focusing on safe and responsible behaviour on the water.

“With increased traffic on both coastal and inland waterways, the choices people make on the water matter more than ever – not just for themselves, but for everyone around them,” Sergeant Bates said.

He also reiterated the dangers of mixing alcohol or drugs with boating, noting authorities have a zero-tolerance policy for anyone putting themselves and others at risk.

“Alcohol and drugs will slow down your reaction time and decision-making, increasing the risk of serious injury or fatal incidents,” he said.

MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff said more than 1,000 volunteers were on standby across the state during the long weekend.

MSQ General Manager Kell Dillon said while most boaties were doing the right thing, the long weekend highlighted the need for extra caution.

“Slow down, wear your lifejacket, and make it home safely to your family and friends,” he said.

Authorities reminded Queenslanders that water safety was a shared responsibility, with planning, preparation and smart decision-making key to a safe long weekend on the water.

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