Celebrating 60 Years Of The Pied Imperial Pigeon

This year marks 60 years since the beginning of one of Australia’s longest-running bird counts, right here along the Far North Queensland coast. Initiated by conservationists Arthur and Margaret Thorsborne, the volunteer-led project has played a vital role in protecting this treasured species and raising awareness of the importance of conserving its natural habitats.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council invites the community to ‘The Coming of the White Birds’ - a celebration honouring the remarkable legacy of Arthur and Margaret Thorsborne and the many people who have carried the count forward across the decades.

Held at Cardwell Library on Friday, 31 October from 10am, the event will feature the unveiling of Margaret Thorsborne’s portrait, painted by artist Catherine Bone and donated by Liz Downes. With guest speakers, local art inspired by the White Birds, and Morning Tea inspired by Margaret Thorsborne's bird-count treats, it is a chance to reflect on the Thorsbornes' dedication, the ongoing work of the Thorsborne Trust, and the collective effort that continues to protect our coastal wildlife.

Everyone is warmly invited to be part of this meaningful celebration, free to the public. To book, contact Cassowary Coast Library and Museum Services on 1300 366 616

WHAT: The Coming of the White Birds' 60th Anniversary Celebration
WHEN: Friday 31 October 2025, from 10:00am
WHERE: Cardwell Library, 4 Balliol Street, Cardwell

Your dental health and comfort are our top priorities.  We understand that trips to the dentist can be unpleasant for some people so we focus on each of our patients’ needs, accommodating them as best we can while providing the highest quality treatment.

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As the countdown to the beloved Maraka Festival and Street Parade begins, excitement is truly in the air! Kicking off this Friday morning, the “Spot the Window” competition invites participants to collect entry forms from Harvey Norman Ingham, with submissions due by 4 PM on Friday, October 24. This fun community activity sets the stage for a weekend packed with colour, music, and celebration.

Saturday, October 25 – A Day to Remember
The festivities burst into full swing on Saturday with the Maraka Kids Big Day Out at the Ingham Showgrounds. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring seven fantastic activities – all completely free for families. Young artists aged 1–12 are encouraged to bring their own water paints for the ever-popular Fence Painting activity, proudly sponsored by Guido’s Panel and Paint and McDonald's Ingham.

The Pet Parade, thanks to Tropical Vets, is another crowd favourite. Categories like Best Dressed Petand Fastest Eating Dog promise smiles and giggles for all. Families can also enjoy hands-on experiences at the Petting Zoo, brought to life by local farms. New this year are adrenaline-packed attractions including Laser Tag and Gel Blasters, sponsored by SpinFX Electrical NQ are sure to keep the kids buzzing with excitement.

Spotlight on the Maraka Queens and Princesses
No Maraka Festival would be complete without the presence of the Maraka Queens and Princesses, who proudly represent the heart and heritage of our community. These young ambassadors have been busy in the lead-up to the festival, attending Maraka events and spreading the Maraka spirit. Be sure to give them a wave during the Street Parade — they’ll be riding in style on beautifully decorated floats. Their involvement honours the long-standing traditions of the festival and celebrates the achievements and spirit of local youth.

Street Parade & Musical Magic
As the sun sets, the Maraka Street Parade proudly sponsored by Ergon Energy and BK Bartolini Concreting & Earthworks, will showcase a dazzling array of floats, embodying this year’s theme of “Music Thru the Ages.” Expect to see creative contributions from local schools, businesses, and community groups. The parade will be accompanied by the rousing sounds of the Thuringowa Brass Band, and the evening’s entertainment continues at Rotary Parkwith a live performance by country favourite Peter Cullen.  This musical spectacle is a perfect way for the community to come together and celebrate.

The night wraps up with a festive Mardi Gras-style atmosphere, complete with fireworks, rides, and a family-friendly concert. Children under 16 can enjoy limited free tickets for rides, making this a truly inclusive event for all ages.  Thanks to NQIB  sponsoring the stage, QCAR the bar and co-sponsors Ingham Agencies and Townsville Lime & Gypsum the fireworks.

With delicious food, refreshing drinks, and endless entertainment, the 2025 Maraka Festival is set to be a highlight of the year for Ingham residents and visitors alike. Mark your calendars for October 25 – and get ready to enjoy a day of fun, music, and community pride!

Gilroy Santa Maria College is celebrating some outstanding academic results, with the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) confirming that several students from the Class of 2025 have achieved a perfect 100% result for their Internal Assessments.

The year 12 students have shown dedication and perseverance throughout their senior studies and this is reflected in the results they have achieved. The school community could not be prouder of their accomplishments.

Acting Principal Melissa Carr commended the students for their hard work, noting that their results demonstrate what can be achieved through focus and determination. We also extend this recognition to our teaching staff, whose expertise, encouragement, and commitment to high standards continue to inspire our students every day.

This achievement is further evidence of Gilroy Santa Maria’s strong academic culture and the collaborative spirit that defines its learning community. The school remains committed to fostering a supportive and challenging environment where every student is encouraged to strive for excellence in all their pursuits.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025 on your success!

**Chemistry**
IA1 - Brooke, Couper, Grace
IA2 & IA3 - Brooke, Eve, Jada, Couper, Abby, Grace

**Physics**
IA2 - Brooke, Couper
IA3 - Jada, Couper

**Biology**
IA1 - Gemma, Eve, Liam
IA2 - Brooke, Gemma, Jada, Abby, Grace
IA3 - Brooke, Gemma, Eve, Jada, Nyah, Loren, Abby, Grace

**Maths**
IA1 - Gemma, Eve, Abby, Nyah

**Mathematical Methods**
IA1 - Couper

**English**
IA1 - Grace, Eve, Couper
IA2 - Grace, Eve, Couper, Gemma, Jada

**Modern History**
IA1 - Alysha
IA2 – Eve, Alysha
IA3 - Eve

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The TYTO Wetlands are about to get a little wilder and a lot greener. Hinchinbrook Shire Council, in partnership with Greening Australia, is inviting locals to roll up their sleeves for a Community Tree Planting Day on Friday, 7th of November 2025. Together, volunteers will help plant 1,500 native trees to shade out pesky parra grass and restore vital habitat for TYTO’s feathered and furry residents.

Participants are asked to meet at 8:45am in the council car park near the entrance to the TYTO Wetlands walking track, at the end of Cooper Street, Ingham. The planting will run from 9:00am to 12:30pm, with a well-earned sausage sizzle at noon to celebrate everyone’s hard work. This event is a great opportunity to give back to nature while connecting with community members who share a passion for conservation.

By replacing invasive grass with native trees, volunteers will help create a cooler, healthier, and more resilient ecosystem right in the heart of Hinchinbrook. Don’t forget to bring covered shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water! To take part in this rewarding day of action, call Hinchinbrook Shire Council on 07 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au to register your interest. Together, we can keep TYTO Wetlands thriving for generations to come. **WHAT: TYTO Wetlands Community Tree Planting Day

WHEN: Friday, 7 November 2025, 9:00am–12:30pm

WHERE: TYTO Wetlands, end of Cooper Street, Ingham.

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With Pest Pro Exterminators

When pests invade your home or business, fast, reliable solutions matter, and that’s exactly what Pest Pro Exterminators delivers across North Queensland, from Tully to Townsville and everywhere in between. Locally owned and operated from Ingham, they understand the unique challenges of tropical environments and bring tailored, safe treatments to handle everything from termites and rodents to ants, spiders, and cockroaches.

What sets Pest Pro Exterminators apart is their commitment to smart, environmentally responsible control. Their licensed and experienced team uses low-odour, precision-applied methods that aim to protect your family, pets and beneficial insects. Plus, many of their treatments come with a satisfaction guarantee that if pests return within a set period, they do too, at no extra cost.

For homeowners, that means dependable protection all year round. For businesses, it means maintaining hygiene, reputation, and compliance without pest-related disruptions. Whether you need a one-off service or ongoing pest management, their team will assess the situation and recommend the right schedule to keep your property safe.

Don’t wait until pests become a problem. Call Pest Pro Exterminators today at 0427 490 349 or email solutions@pestproexterminators.com.au to get a free quote and protect your peace of mind.

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Donzel began his Tec-NQ House journey in Semester 2, 2025, bringing fresh energy to the boarding community. As a year 10 student, preparing for year 11 in 2026, he already has his future mapped out: a career in the automotive industry.

“I chose Tec-NQ for the opportunities after school,” said Donzel. “I heard about this school from family members,” he added. It’s the strength of Tec-NQ’s vocational pathway options that attracted him, and he is keen to take every chance to learn. “So far, it’s been good,” he added with a smile.

Head of Boarding, Luke Papworth, says Donzel’s attitude is a great fit for Tec-NQ House. “When new students arrive with a clear goal, it sets them up to make the most of the opportunities here,” Luke said. “Donzel has come in focused on automotive, and we’re already seeing his commitment.”

Life outside of the classroom keeps Donzel busy. At home on Warraber Island in the Torres Strait, he spends his spare time fishing with family and friends. In Townsville, he’s quick to make use of the boarding house facilities, enjoying games of pool and keeping up with basketball. A loyal Chicago Bulls supporter, his favourite number is 23, a tribute to Michael Jordan. On the rugby league field, he follows the Roosters.

For Luke, this balance of vocational focus, sport and recreation is exactly what Tec-NQ House was designed to provide. “Boarding gives young people independence with a safety net,” he explained. “We set expectations around learning, wellbeing and behaviour, and then we support them with structure and routine. That’s where they thrive.”

Tec-NQ House itself is a purpose-built boys-only residence located in Rosslea. Opened in 2022, it provides accommodation for up to forty senior school students from regional and remote Queensland, giving them access to Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school program.

The facility blends structure with comfort. Students have air-conditioned double-occupancy rooms, communal lounges with streaming services and computer access, and a secure outdoor recreation area with BBQ facilities and a basketball court. An on-site professional chef prepares nutritious meals every day, fuelling the boys for school, sport and work placements.

Transport is provided to the Tec-NQ Douglas co-educational campus, and staff also drive students to and from workplaces when required. This removes barriers and lets students focus on their learning, hobbies and friendships. After-hours, the boys enjoy organised sport, social activities and excursions, all designed to build a sense of community.

Luke says that for students like Donzel, these routines help them settle quickly. “First-year boarders do well when there is a clear rhythm to the week,” he said. “They learn to manage their time, connect with mates and build confidence. Those skills will serve them in school, in apprenticeships and in life.”

With his career pathway in mind, his hobbies from home, and a willingness to get involved in boarding life, Donzel is making a strong start. We look forward to seeing his journey continue into years 11 and 12.

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Are they not the most gorgeously beautiful and courageous ladies you have seen? Taking that step out into the Maraka spotlight are our wonderful Queens and Princesses, each putting themselves out there for the chance to claim the crown. You’ll get to meet them at the Wine and Cheese Night, the Afternoon Tea, Kids Big Day Out, and Aquathon, all before Hinchinbrook comes together for the ultimate display of regional pride at the Maraka Festival Mardi Gras Parade and Crowning. Mark your calendars as October runs Maraka royal green, floats and fireworks are just the tip of the festival iceberg!
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Last week, Premier of Queensland David Crisafulli visited Ingham to see the impact of the Stronger Homes Grant, meeting with one of the successful households affected by February’s historic floods.

Premier Crisafulli said. “We said when the flood came through this town that we’d be here for the long haul, and for the long haul we are. I’m determined to make sure that this community knows it’s not being forgotten in the recovery from what was really historic floods.”

The programme has already been taken up by 44 local residents, with over half of the applications completed. “It’s about building resilience and allowing people to handle the next flood,” the Premier added. “Everything we’re doing is about making sure we can make our communities more resilient. By doing that work, it reduces the impact next time around, which means lower cost, less heartache, and getting people back on their feet.”

Mayor of Hinchinbrook, Raymon Jayo, highlighted the practical benefits of the reduced pressure local emergency agencies will face if more homes take on the Stronger Homes Grant: "One home affected can impact 10 to 15 others, so the Stronger Homes programme abates all that.”

Yvonne and Neville, recipients of the grant, described their experience. “During the flood, we lost our hot water service, and it was devastating,” Yvonne said. “After the floods had died back, the Stronger Homes Grant was released. We applied, and it was a very simple process. I was overjoyed to hear back so quickly that we’d been granted $10,000. We were able to replace the hot water service and install solar. The whole process went so smoothly and the staff were prompt and very helpful. Before we knew it, we had hot water again. It was brilliant.”

Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor added, “This is one of dozens of households in this community alone who have benefited from the Stronger Homes Grant. It’s fantastic to hear the benefits for their home and future resilience. Applications are still open until the end of the year, and we want to get as many households that were impacted with inundation to apply as possible.”

The visit highlighted how the Stronger Homes Grant is helping Hinchinbrook residents rebuild safely, reduce future risk, and regain peace of mind after devastating floods.

On Friday 10 October, Selectability Ingham hosted a Big Breakfast for Mental Health at their Harmony Clubhouse, located in the CANEGROWERS building. Open to anyone needing a hot meal to start the day, it was a morning filled with good food, friendly conversation and community spirit.

The focus on wellbeing didn’t stop there for the Selectability team. Later that day, they travelled to Lucinda for a picnic in the park, complete with a musical jam session and a barbecue lunch by the sea, the perfect reminder of how spending time outdoors and connecting with others can lift the mind, body and soul.

For more information and to get involved, contact Selectability Ingham on 07 4781 2690 or email ingham@selectability.com.au

Mental health is something everyone should care for daily, not just during dedicated awareness periods. While Mental Health Week may be wrapping up, your commitment to continuous wellbeing should never be put on hold. It is important every day of the year.

Taking small, regular steps can make a significant difference. Start with the basics like ensuring you're getting enough quality sleep, eating nourishing food, and keeping active. Even simple activities like gardening, taking a walk along the beach, or relaxing under the trees are incredibly effective mood boosters that can also provide a vital sense of purpose.

In recent times, feelings of separation and loneliness have unfortunately become more common, making it even more crucial to look after ourselves and others. Make time to connect and sustain your social bonds by staying connected with friends, family, or community groups. Invite a friend to sit with you, slow down, and take a much-needed break. Remember that your mind can experience burnout just as easily as your body, so it's essential to care for both by finding time to step back and enjoy the simple moments.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, it is vital to know that you do not have to face challenges alone. Reach out and talk to someone you trust, contact your GP, or call a support service. Caring for your mental health must always be a priority.

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Mayor Ramon Jayo

It was great to see more than 170 seniors at the Get Ready Week lunch at Hinchinbrook Shire Hall last Friday.

Gathering like these are important not just for sharing a meal, but for sharing knowledge, connecting with others, and reminding ourselves why preparation matters.

The reality is, when disaster hits, it’s too late to start thinking about what you should have done.

Getting ready is personal — no matter how old you are, where you live, or how many times you’ve been through it before.

It’s about having a plan, knowing your contacts, checking your supplies, and making sure your medications are sorted.

Hinchinbrook has the oldest demographic in Queensland, and while our seniors are strong and capable, we all need to take responsibility for our own preparedness.

Talk to your family, your doctor, your pharmacist, your neighbours — and take the time now to make your home and yourself safe.

We also need fresh blood in our SES.

If you’ve got kids or grandkids, encourage them to get involved.

It’s rewarding, it builds real skills, and it’s a great way to make lifelong friends while helping a community that truly needs it.

Lastly, there has been ongoing community concern about a prominent structural eyesore in the town centre.

Over the past decade, Council made two attempts to enforce remedial action but was unable to proceed due to legal challenges and the need to prove structural deficiency under previous legislation.

To address this, Council advocated for legislative change to allow enforcement based on visual impact and loss of amenity, not just structural integrity. This change has only recently been approved. Various assessments have been carried out over the years, with some minor repairs undertaken. However, these did not improve the building’s appearance or resolve long-term concerns.

Council has continued to monitor the site with community safety as the priority. However, following recent flood and rain events, further deterioration has been observed, raising serious structural concerns. As a result, Council has initiated another formal enforcement proceedings to address the issue. Due to the legal and procedural nature of this process, we are unable to provide further details at this stage. However, we are committed to keeping the community informed as key milestones are reached and outcomes are confirmed.

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Petal and Beanz is the place to be and a popular stop for all ages. Visitors can’t resist snapping a photo under the café’s beautiful sign. From politicians and local business networkers to children’s gymnastics teams and even the Hinchinbrook Life newspaper’s own Sherie Hansler-Adams, everyone enjoys their time at Petal and Beanz.

With great coffee, cakes as beautiful as their floral arrangements, and fresh sandwiches and smoothies served with a smile, the team at Petal and Beanz are among the happiest around. So next time you're driving through Tully or if you're a business looking for your next networking location, pop into Petal and Beanz!

Oh Wow! Those are the two most common words guests say as they arrive at Vista Hinchinbrook.

After the steep drive through the rainforest, stroll along our side deck and past the beautiful pond. Then, as you step onto the front deck, the Hinchinbrook Channel bursts into view. Glory in the unique panorama of this World Heritage listed area adjoining Girringun National Park.

This is your breakfast arena, or perhaps you have come for one of our famed High Teas. Here, the sweeping outlook of one of the best views in North Queensland, pairs perfectly with homemade savouries, decadent cakes, and locally sourced tea and coffee. There is no rush to leave. Take your time, relax with friends, and enjoy a beer or wine from our bar.

Of course, you might be arriving for a night’s stay in one of our four luxury units. Perhaps a cabin tucked back among the rainforest, designed for comfort and seclusion. Or for a romantic escape, you may have reserved the Mahogany Cabin. Perched towards the front of the property, this stunningly designed apartment offers all you need, from the king bed where you will wake to uninterrupted panoramic views, to the bathroom… well, we will let you discover that for yourself.

Maybe you are one of the growing number of guests here for a special event. Whether private or corporate, our large deck means we can tailor the space to fit your needs.

And then, those words again: Oh Wow! You have come for a wedding. With this backdrop, your day will be truly unforgettable.

Do not miss the chance to make your special event extraordinary. Contact us, or better yet, pop up to see us in person. We would love to meet you. Vista are proud to have been nominated in the People’s Choice Awards Townsville Enterprise short stay category, along with a few other Hinchinbrook area businesses. It would be great to get behind these businesses with your vote, scan the QR code!

QR code: https://www.townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au/north-queensland-s-tourism-and-events-awards/

Let’s Keep Connecting

Queensland Mental Health Week has just wrapped up (October 4–12), with World Mental Health Day on October 10. Across much of the world, October marks Mental Health Awareness Month, a timely reminder that wellbeing isn’t something we think about once a year. It’s something we grow every day.

This year’s theme, Connect for Mental Health, couldn’t feel more relevant. There’s tension in the world: between people and power, families, and communities. Right now, many people are experiencing disconnection, from themselves, from others, from country and culture, and as we get busier, even from the day-to-day parts of life that help us feel like ourselves.

But connection doesn’t need to be grand or complicated. A small gesture, done consistently, matters more than we realise.

That connection can start with self: slowing down, listening to your body, checking in with how you’re really going. Reconnecting with what brings you energy or joy.

It continues with others: making space for conversations that go beyond “I’m fine.” Checking in with some. Sending the message. Taking the walk. Opening the door.

Then there’s community, those moments where we feel part of something. A nod across the street. A shared meal. A story told at the right time. A feeling that you belong, somewhere to be and people to see.

And finally, there’s nature, the track, the garden, the breeze off the water, the way the light filters through the cane. Nature grounds us. It reminds us we’re part of something bigger.

At Tumbleweed Therapies, we support people to reconnect with all of these, with self, others, community and place. Whether you're navigating stress, identity, grief, or change, it’s okay to reach out.

If at any point during the week or year, you’ve wondered whether it’s time to talk, consider this your sign. When you're ready, reach out to me or Lucia, our local counsellor. After hours, call 1300 MH CALL or dial 000 in an emergency.

Mental health isn’t something we fix. It’s something we take care of consistently. Connection is part of that and starts with a conversation. Let’s keep the momentum going: reach out to us at intake@tumbleweedtherapies.com or call 07 4463 8679. You can also visit our website at www.tumbleweedtherapies.com.au

Canegrowers Herbert River will host the CANEGROWERS Farm Performance and Productivity Policy Committee in Ingham on Tuesday, 14 October and Wednesday, 15 October, bringing together growers and industry leaders from across Queensland.

The two-day meeting will focus on key issues that directly impact growers inside the farm gate, including workforce strategies, harvesting risk, transport logistics, research and development priorities, and workplace health and safety. The committee plays a vital role in shaping policy that supports the long-term sustainability, productivity, and safety of Queensland’s cane farming industry.

Chairman of Canegrowers Herbert River, Steven Marbelli, who also chairs the committee, said it was an honour to host the event in the Herbert region.

“It’s exciting to welcome growers and policy representatives from across the state to Ingham,” Mr Marbelli said. “This committee is committed to understanding and resolving the issues that affect our industry and our members every day. Hosting the committee in Ingham gives us a valuable opportunity to showcase our region and highlight the shared goals and challenges that unite growers across Queensland.”

Day one will feature a field trip and harvesting demonstration, providing key stakeholders, including representatives from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), and Queensland Police with firsthand insight into the challenges faced during the cane harvesting process. The demonstration aims to improve understanding and collaboration on transport and safety matters affecting growers and the harvesting sector.

Safety will also be a key discussion point, with the committee set to meet with the Farm Safe Australia CEO and Chairperson to discuss strategies that help growers and workers remain free from harm in their workplaces.

The committee will also hear from Dr Garry Rosewarne, Sugar Research Australia’s General Manager for Variety Development, who will provide updates on varieties and their release processes.

The two-day program reflects CANEGROWERS’ strong commitment to advocacy, collaboration, and continual improvement, ensuring Queensland cane growers remain at the forefront of sustainable and productive farming.
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