Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.
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There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.
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Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.
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The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."
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A milestone celebration took place at Cardwell Library on Friday, the 31st of October, marking sixty years since the beginning of one of Australia’s longest-running bird counts. Titled ‘The Coming of the White Birds’, based on the documentary by the same name, the event honoured the extraordinary conservation legacy of Arthur and Margaret Thorsborne and the many volunteers who have continued their work along the North Queensland coast.
More than 150 people gathered to commemorate the Thorsbornes’ pioneering citizen science project, which has played a crucial role in protecting the Pied Imperial Pigeon and preserving its natural habitat. The Cassowary Coast Regional Council hosted the event, recognising both the Thorsborne Trust’s ongoing work and the collective dedication of local conservationists, artists, and community members.
The celebration featured presentations from guest speakers Liz Downes, Daryl Dickson, Dr John Winter, and Damon Sydes; an art exhibition by the artists of the Hinchinbrook Regional Art Association inc.; and imaginative installations of Margaret’s “White Birds” created by community members of all ages across the Cassowary Coast. Guests learned about the origins of the count and the remarkable science and conservation outcomes achieved over 60 years of monitoring. The highlight of the morning was the unveiling of a portrait of Margaret Thorsborne by artist Catherine Bone, a gift to the Cassowary Coast Regional Council that pays tribute to Margaret’s lifelong commitment to the environment.
Guests also enjoyed a screening of ‘The Coming of the White Birds’ documentary and a morning tea hosted by the Cassowary Coast Library & Museum Services team, whose careful planning and facilitation helped make the event a wonderful success. It was a fitting tribute to sixty years of citizen science and community spirit in Cardwell, with plans in place for the count to continue for many years to come.
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Mandy Griffiths of Mandy's Beauty In The Bush is proving that a beautiful floral design is much more than just a bouquet: it's a story. As a fully qualified florist with a lifelong passion for the emotions flowers can express, Mandy's extensive background as a make-up artist and beauty therapist, both locally and nationally, has honed her exceptional creative expertise.
Conveniently located centrally in Ingham, Mandy brings her unique talent for blending creativity and a compassionate approach to ensure every design, whether for birthdays, weddings, corporate functions, or gifting, truly understands and reflects the client's needs.
A particular specialism is bespoke funeral tributes, where Mandy crafts arrangements to genuinely honour and reflect a loved one's tale. Furthermore, Mandy is deeply invested in the community; she is a proud supporter and sponsor of local events. Her floral designs are blooming reminders that every season in life deserves to be honoured with beauty and grace.
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) enjoyed a spooky twist on their Seniors Morning Coffee Club this week, celebrating Halloween on 24th October. The morning also included a special birthday celebration for October, with warm wishes to Joan Oldham — happy birthday, Joan!
Attendees enjoyed a morning filled with Halloween-themed decorations, a few festive costumes, and plenty of laughter. Fun activities included a Halloween trivia challenge and several rounds of Bingo, making it a fantastic morning shared with wonderful company.
The next Coffee Morning will be held on Thursday, 7th November. Anyone interested in joining in can contact Desley at the HUB for more details on (07) 4776 1822.
On 26th October, the ladies at the Cardwell RSL were first in line to enjoy selections from the extensive buffet salad bar during on of the RSL's delightful Sunday BBQ lunch sessions. Among the guests were members of the National Servicemen’s Association, who had travelled from the Atherton Tablelands, Cairns, and Townsville for their annual gathering.
The National Servicemen, conscripted into the Australian Army between 1951–1959 and 1964–1972, undertook the same training as Regular soldiers for a compulsory period. Around 20,000 of these “Nashos” saw active service in the Vietnam War, and their contribution to Australia’s defence remains deeply respected.
Though many of the attendees were in their eighties, the camaraderie among the group was evident. The strong bonds forged during their service continue to remain incredibly strong, a testament to the shared experiences that have stood the test of time.
Ingham locals know that the best kind of café is one that feeds both the body and the soul, and that’s exactly what Fiori With Love does so well. This Ingham floral café has become a local treasure where great food meets stunning blooms in perfect harmony.
From the moment you step inside, the scent of fresh coffee mingles with the fragrance of flowers, setting the tone for a truly sensory experience. The café menu is full of wholesome, home-style fare that celebrates simplicity done well. Expect breakfasts, fresh juices, toasted sandwiches, and indulgent cakes, all made with care in-house and served with a smile. Their coffee, rich and smooth, has earned a loyal following among locals who drop by for their morning pick-me-up or a slow afternoon chat among the flowers.
The display cabinet is always stocked with something inviting and worth a peek: house-baked slices, muffins, tartlets, and of course, cakes, that feel just like home. With vegetarian and gluten-free choices available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Adding to the charm is the setting itself. Fiori With Love doubles as a florist, so diners are treated to the sights and scents of seasonal greenery. It’s the kind of place where you can sip your latte while watching fresh bouquets being made just a few metres away.
Whether you’re meeting a friend for brunch, grabbing a takeaway coffee, or choosing flowers for someone special, Fiori With Love offers a taste of Ingham hospitality at its most heartfelt. With a little slice of beauty served on a plate and wrapped in petals. Reach out to Louise at 0407 166 186 to book a table or email louise@fioriwithlove.com.au, and enjoy something beautiful.
You can get everything for this project at Barnes Sewing Centre on 16 Lannercost St, Ingham. Pop in and see the cute Christmas patterns in stock!
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 30–45 minutes
What You’ll Need:
Christmas-themed cotton fabric (30cm–50cm, depending on bag size)
Ribbon or twine for ties
Scissors or rotary cutter
Sewing machine or needle and thread
Pins or clips
Iron (optional)
Cut your fabric: A good starting size is 30cm wide by 40cm tall. Cut two equal rectangles.
Place right sides together: Pin or clip the fabric pieces together with the right sides facing each other.
Sew around the edges: Stitch along both sides and the bottom, leaving the top edge open. Use a 1cm seam allowance.
Finish the top edge: Fold the top edge down twice (about 1.5cm each fold) to hide the raw edges. Press flat, then stitch along to create a clean hem.
Add ribbon ties: You can either stitch a ribbon directly on opposite sides of the top edge for easy ties, or thread the ribbon through the top edge and leave two slits open for a draw-string effect.
Turn right side out: Flip your bag so the pattern side of the fabric is showing. Add your gifts, tie it up, and you’re done!
Variations: Add embroidered names or decorations to make each sack personal. Make several in different sizes for a matching set! This project also works for those who want to skip the tape and wrapping - it works as reusable gift bags you could pop under the tree every year.
The Christmas countdown is on, and there’s no better time to refresh your summer wardrobe than at I Love Boutique in Ingham. With the North Queensland sun blazing down, the boutique is brimming with breezy styles that keep you cool while looking effortlessly chic.
For the ladies, lightweight dresses, playful minis and flowing long styles are perfect for sun-drenched days and balmy evenings. Bold prints and soft, breathable fabrics capture the spirit of the coast, while relaxed silhouettes ensure comfort without compromising on style. Pieces like the crinkle cotton dresses or boutique-exclusive statement dresses strike the perfect balance between festive flair and everyday wearability.
The boutique hasn’t forgotten the little ones either. They have bath bombs, cute jewellery pieces like beaded necklaces and crystal bracelets, stylish shoes and funky hats, making for fun and fashionable Christmas gift ideas.
I Love Boutique also offers gift-ready items to delight friends or loved ones this festive season. Accessories, sunhats and jewellery complement the summer wardrobe, providing thoughtful, on-trend gift options.
What makes the boutique truly special is the way it blends style with practicality. Each piece has been chosen to suit the coastal summer heat, offering comfort, colour and character for every occasion. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, your children or someone special, I Love Boutique is your go-to destination for fresh summer styles, festive flair and a little bit of coastal magic, all just in time for Christmas!
Follow their socials for sales and style updates at iloveboutiqueingham on Facebook and Instagram!
If you’re searching for a place where the rainforest meets the reef, where waterfalls tumble from misty peaks and white sand beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, then look no further than Hinchinbrook Island National Park.
Just a hop, skip and a jump from your own backyard, off the coast between Cardwell and Lucinda, this rugged island wilderness is one of the country’s largest island national parks and a true gem of Tropical North Queensland. Known as Munamudanamy by the Bandjin and Girramay Traditional Owners, Hinchinbrook’s spectacular landscapes are rich in cultural and environmental significance.
Protected since 1932, the island spans nearly 40,000 hectares and lies within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Its diverse habitats range from mangrove-lined estuaries and paperbark wetlands to eucalypt forests and mountain ridges often cloaked in cloud. Dugongs, turtles, and countless bird species call these waters home, while the island’s mangrove forests remain some of the most varied in Australia.
But Hinchinbrook isn’t a resort island, it’s an adventure! With no hotels, cars, or crowds, visitors come to experience nature at its rawest, with camping the only way to stay overnight, ensuring a true wilderness escape for hikers, kayakers, and nature lovers.
The island’s crown jewel is the Thorsborne Trail, a 32-kilometre trek named after local conservationists Margaret and Arthur Thorsborne. Recognised worldwide for its untouched beauty, the trail takes around four days to complete and winds through rainforests, waterfalls, and pristine beaches. Only 40 hikers are allowed on the trail at any time to preserve its delicate ecosystems, so booking well in advance is essential.
If a shorter adventure is what you’re after, guided day tours and scenic cruises offer a glimpse into Hinchinbrook’s breathtaking terrain! Visitors can explore Zoe Bay, Mulligan Falls, or Ramsay Bay, where the rainforest meets the ocean, and marine life such as dolphins and dugongs can often be spotted.
While Hinchinbrook’s beauty is undeniable, visitors are reminded to tread lightly, leave nothing behind, take all rubbish with you, and help protect this precious island for future generations. Campers should come prepared and be aware of seasonal closures, crocodile warnings, and marine stingers during the warmer months between November and April.
Whether by foot, kayak, or boat, a journey to Hinchinbrook Island National Park is a journey back to nature which will be nothing short of wild, remote, and unforgettable!
To keep up to date with park alerts, trail bookings, and safety advice, visit the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service website at www.queensland.com/us/en/places-to-see/experiences/islands/explore-hinchinbrook-island.
It’s cheers all round at NQ Travel & Cruise, with the Ingham-based agency proudly sharing in the success of its national network, Travellers Choice, which was named Australia’s Most Outstanding Travel Agency Network for the fifth consecutive year at the 2025 National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA).
Owner Kathleen Lynch said the award – presented on 18 October at The Star Brisbane – is the Australian retail travel industry’s highest honour.
“To be recognised and awarded by your industry peers is an incredible honour and one of the highest forms of validation,” says Ms Lynch.
“It’s not every day you get to say your business is part of a multi-award-winning network. This award underscores what Travellers Choice and agencies like ours are all about, which is an unwavering focus on customers and offering the very best in personalised service, expert advice and unbeatable value.
“We’re proud to be part of a national network that champions independent agencies and supports us to deliver outstanding travel experiences to our local community.”
As an independent travel adviser, Ms Lynch takes the time to understand each traveller’s unique needs and preferences. Whether it’s a relaxing island getaway, a luxury river cruise or a once-in-a-lifetime overseas adventure, every detail is handled with professionalism and care.
NQ Travel & Cruise is also an ATIA Accredited Travel Agent, a recognition that represents the highest standard in the Australian travel industry. This accreditation is renewed annually following a detailed assessment of financial stability, workforce practices and operational integrity.
With NQ Travel & Cruise, your holiday plans are in expert hands. Find out more at www.nqntravelandcruise.com.au, visit the office at 73-81 Lannercost Street, Ingham or call 07 4440 3310.
Ingham Maraka Festival 2025 – “Music Thru The Ages”
As the 2025 Ingham Maraka Festival draws to a close, organisers have extended their deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this year’s celebration a resounding success. The festival brought together the vibrant spirit of the Hinchinbrook community, showcasing the very best of local creativity, talent, and tradition.
Maraka was proud to kick off the Hinchinbrook Festival of Events, with festivities that included the Run Swim Run, Wilmar Sugar Wine and Cheese Night, Careys Group and Ingham Ray White Afternoon Tea, Harvey Norman Ingham Spot the Window competition, Kids Day Out supported by Tropical Vets, McDonald’s Ingham, SpinFX Electrical NQ, and Hinchinbrook Life, and the spectacular Ergon and BK Bartolini Concreting & Earthworks Parade. The grand finale, featuring the NQIB Mardi Gras Stage, Ingham Agencies and Townsville Lime & Gypsum Fireworks, and the QCAR Mardi Gras Bar, was a testament to the incredible creativity and community spirit of the region.
A special thank you goes to the dedicated Maraka committee members, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the festival to life. Appreciation was also extended to all Queen and Princess entrants, volunteers, emcees, judges, local businesses, photographers, stallholders, performers, and the wider community for their support and enthusiasm.
Warm congratulations were offered to the winners of the 2025 Maraka Queen Quest, proudly sponsored by Rachael Cauchi Optometrists. This year’s Maraka Queen title was awarded to Ainslee DiMaggio, with Trista Kopeshke named as Runner-up. In the 2025 Maraka Princess Quest, sponsored by Windlab, Ashley Swarbrick was crowned Maraka Princess, with Vanessa Wilson receiving Runner-up honours.
Organisers also acknowledged the 2024 Quest winners: Maraka Queen Montana, Runner-up Johanna, and past Maraka Princesses Hazel and Millie for their ongoing support and contributions throughout the year.
A special thanks was shared with Nick Dametto, outgoing Local Member, for his outstanding support and years of service as Emcee, as well as Maddyn White, past Maraka Queen, for her continued involvement. The Maraka family also warmly welcomed Carley Whittington, who has recently returned to Ingham.
Further thanks were extended to Tourism and Events Queensland, the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Tourism & Industry, and all who contributed grants, photography, and event coordination, including Ann and Anthony Vardanegh, Sherie Hensler-Adams from Hinchinbrook Life, and Chris and Christine Spencer from the Festival of Events.
Special Thanks To Our Sponsors
Diamond Sponsors
Hinchinbrook Shire Council
Windlab Pty Ltd
Wilmar Sugar
Triple M
Platinum Sponsors
NQIB
QCAR – Qld Cane Agricultural and Renewables
Rachel Cauchi Optometrists
SpinFX Electrical NQ
Gold Sponsors
BK Bartolini Concreting & Earthworks
Ergon Energy
Carey Group
Ray White Ingham
Silver Sponsors
Guido’s Panel & Paint
Ingham Agencies
Townsville Lime & Gypsum
Tropical Vet Services
Major In-Kind Sponsors
McDonald’s Ingham
Harvey Norman Ingham
Hinchinbrook Life
House of Harvey
Thank you all for making the Ingham Maraka Festival a cherished tradition and a highlight of the Hinchinbrook calendar. The community looks forward to celebrating together again in the future.
By Dr. Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui
Many have crossed Conn Creek on the way to Cardwell without giving much thought for whom the creek is named.
William George Conn was a Scottish immigrant who arrived on the lower Herbert in 1870, aged 51. He was a pioneer of the Clarence River, NSW, and afterwards took up Dillelah station near Warrego, western Queensland. Conn Waterhole west of Winton is named for him. He was described as ‘a brave and clever bushman and explorer’.
His second wife, Elizabeth Burrows, accompanied him to the Herbert when she was 31 years of age. They established a garden growing fruit, sweet potatoes and maize on the south bank of the Herbert, directly opposite Macknade Plantation on the north bank, where William did fencing work.
They carved a track from the south bank, across a group of sand islands — identified in a survey map of 1871 as the Elizabeth Group — to the north side. This track came to be called Conn’s Crossing. Once a new trafficable bridle path was cut from the Crossing to Cardwell in 1872, the previous track over the Seaview Range became obsolete.
In 1873, they moved to an isolated selection 22.5 kilometres south of Cardwell that they named the Hermitage. They named the nearby creek, which was an access point between mainland and Hinchinbrook Island for the Indigenous people, Williams Brook (later Conn Creek). The Government paid William a small salary to keep the track open to traffic. Again, they established gardens, producing fresh produce for the Cardwell market, and offered refreshments to travellers.
Elizabeth was a hard worker. Planter Arthur Neame observed the Conn’s building a hut with William on the ground and Elizabeth on the roof putting on the thatch! By the end of 1873, their selection was well-established.
Neame and his fellow planters thought that the Conns were very foolish to settle where they had, with no other white settlers nearby. So concerned were they that William Bairstow Ingham invited William to come and work on his Ings plantation, but Conn refused.
There had been few violent confrontations between settlers and the Indigenous people on the lower Herbert, and Conn was of the opinion that if he treated them kindly, they would not interfere with him. So trusting was he that he traded vegetables for fish with those who paddled their canoes up Conn Creek to their property. However, misunderstandings began when vegetables were taken without the offer of an exchange of goods.
When his potatoes were getting close to being ready for harvest, William contacted Robert Johnstone and his Native Police detachment, who usually did boat patrols of the area. William made it clear that he did not want Johnstone to ‘molest’ the Aboriginals. Johnstone was so concerned for the Conn's welfare that he made a special patrol on horseback, where he found Elizabeth had taken ill. As she was too sick to travel with him on horseback, he promised to return the next day in a boat to take her to Gairloch, where there were ladies who could provide nursing care.
Unfortunately, due to bad weather and tidal conditions, Johnstone did not reach the Conn’s farm until sunrise on the morning of 7 April, in which time the Conns had been massacred. At the time of their deaths, Elizabeth was dressed and ready to leave with the boat patrol and had been preparing breakfast, while William was wheeling manure to his garden. There are numerous conjectures as to why they were massacred, but given their formerly amicable relations with the visiting Aboriginal people, there clearly had been a misunderstanding.
A group of Aboriginal people was located nearby with incriminating items in their camp. Retribution was immediate and merciless. Neame believed that the actual perpetrators got away, and those killed, including women and children, had nothing to do with the massacre.
The Conns were buried near their cottage, and a tree marked with the date and their names. It is said that the markers of their graves only disappeared in recent times when work on the adjacent government railway line was carried out.
As the 2025 Ingham Marka Festival “Music thru the Ages” concludes, the organisers extend their deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this year’s Festival a resounding success. The event brought together the vibrant spirit of the community, showcasing the best of what Ingham has to offer.
The Ingham Maraka Festival Committe would like to extend special to those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Their commitment and passion made the festival possible. Thanks to their efforts, the Ingham Marka Festival remains a cherished tradition and a highlight of the year. The community looks forward to celebrating together again in the future. See the highlights in the social pics tab on our website!
Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!
What a journey the Maraka festival has been. I would like to thank my sponsors who supported me, and my friends and family who stood by me. Ingham Agencies and Hinchinbrook Chamber of Industry and Tourism for their financial support and advice, Hinchinbrook Life for their encouragement, Rupp Plumbing and Hardware for their manpower and dedication, Sola the Salon for their love and amazing hair skills, and finally Ingham Lions Club for their persistance in asking me to participate and being my origional sponsors, I enjoyed every Maraka event (especially the parade) and it would not have been possible without you, thank you all!
Special mention and much love to Tennille, Brian, Julie, Kimberley, Steven, Maria, and Chance. All of you stepped up to help me when I was in the tightest spots and were always prepared with a word of kindness to calm my nerves. I couldn't ask for better 'Yes Men'. You all were there for me, lending a hand, a glue gun, a can of hairspray and a gentle comb, or a last-minute ute - your joy on this journey with me was everything. Thank you all so much.
Though I come away crown-less, I think I gained so much more than I could have hoped for. I may not have the roots here that the other beautiful entrants have, but Maraka has definitely helped plant the seed. Thank you, Hinchinbrook, for welcoming me to this community in such a way that let me step out of my comfort zone and do something I never would have thought myself doing.
With the Hinchinbrook Life newspapers' 1st birthday just around the corner, I hope everyone will continue to support myself and Sherie, your local on-the-ground Team Hinchinbrook, and all the others behind the scenes. With my first big festival under my belt, I can't wait to see what the region has to offer in our second year together. I'm ready to try my best to capture every moment and preserve this journey in print with you all.
Victoria
Fun Fact: On a work trip to Tully a few months ago to drop off our CORE and Tripping Magazines, I visited a boutique called Mamma Mia and I loved their style immediately. So later on, I went back and got my Maraka outfits and a few accessories from them. They were so helpful with finding sizes and fashion-fitting my ideas, thank you ladies!
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Combined Rotary Clubs of Townsville, Ingham and Ayr are doing it again!
BUSINESSES from across Queensland are already making plans to be part of the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day on 29-30 May 2026.
With a change of venue to the Townsville Show Grounds and more suitable dates than the previous event, the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day is gearing up to be a cracker event.
With a few new faces on the 2026 Committee, combined with some seasoned committee members, these volunteers are working with exhibitors and stakeholders to ensure that the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day will be a successful event showcasing the best of North Queensland. One on the calendar not to miss.
All proceeds from this event are farmed back into the communities of Townsville, Ingham and Ayr.
We are happy to announce that Ian Gough from Gough Plastics and Justin Minuti from TRACPOWER have shown their support to the community, once again, by partnering with Rotary for this event.
The Battle Family from Nortrans have thrown their support behind the event as well, coming on board as a major sponsor.
From the latest in farming technology to time-honoured traditions, the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day will be about sharing knowledge, strengthening connections, and honouring the hardworking hands that shape our fields and our future.
There will be a broader range of exhibitors, including but not limited to technology, lifestyle interests, machinery for the farm and the everyday household.
Other exhibitors at the event will include government agencies, health services, financial services, community support organisations, job training and secondary and tertiary education providers from across North Queensland.
Interested exhibitors can secure their site on the website nqfieldday.com.au
Online ticket purchases will once again be available, and there will be regular prize draws for those who have pre-purchased tickets. Mark it on your calendar; book your exhibitor's site and/or pre-purchase your tickets and follow our updates on Facebook.
“Let’s Dig In, Gear Up and Grow Together.”
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