Community News

Hiker’s Paradise Opens On Hinchinbrook Island

Hiker’s Paradise Opens On Hinchinbrook Island

The government has delivered a new world-class hiking experience on Hinchinbrook Island. Thorsborne Trail is now complete and open for bookings, with the 32-kilometre walk set to begin in May 2026 once the wet season has concluded. Thorsborne Trail is the third ecotourism project completed in the last six months as part of Destination 2045, the State’s 20-year tourism plan. The government is delivering a fresh start for Queensland’s environment after a decade of limited ecotourism development. Offering an immersive walking experience in one of Australia’s most revered natural environments, Thorsborne Trail provides four-day, three-night hikes through the spectacular landscape of Hinchinbrook Island. The trail is a flagship initiative under Destination 2045, demonstrating the government’s commitment to unlocking ecotourism, creating jobs, and providing new opportunities for operators. This rapid delivery of completed projects follows a period of limited ecotourism approvals, with only three projects approved in the past decade. Since taking office, the government has unveiled Thorsborne Trail alongside Ngaro Track and Twin Bridges, with many more projects planned. Guided walks led by world-class tourism operator World Expeditions will begin after the wet season, while unguided hiking permits will be free for the 2026 hiking season. Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the government was delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy. “We promised 45 ecotourism experiences when we launched Destination 2045 – to have already delivered three in time for Christmas shows spectacular progress for Queensland’s tourism industry,” Minister Powell said. “By championing projects like this, we can showcase Queensland’s incredible natural landscapes, delivering more experiences in our globally-acclaimed environment that inspire future conservationists to protect it. “Step aside New Zealand, move over Tasmania – Queensland is setting a new bar for ecotourism.” Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said this was a momentous occasion for his community. “Locals know this place is spectacular, but now our piece of paradise has earned its place on the world stage,” Mr Chiesa said. “This is the sort of experience that people will fly around the globe to discover, and as they do, they’ll bring massive economic gain to our local businesses. “That means a boost to our restaurants, hotels and other experiences, and real growth for our community.” To find free unguided hiking permits, visit https://parks.qld.gov.au/parks/hinchinbrook-thorsborne

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Minute With The Mayor Ramon Jayo 16 December

Minute With The Mayor Ramon Jayo 16 December

Celebrating Confidence, Community and Christmas in Hinchinbrook One of the greatest privileges of this role is witnessing first-hand the confidence our local businesses continue to place in our community. This past week, I had the honour of officially opening a new chapter for one of our district’s proud family-run enterprises – Cantatore Pharmacy. Brendan, Atlanta, and their team have shown tremendous faith in Hinchinbrook by expanding operations, investing in new facilities, and strengthening the local services we rely on, especially as we live in one of Queensland’s oldest demographics. Their commitment reflects what we all know to be true — Hinchinbrook is a place where businesses can prosper, families can grow, and community spirit thrives. It’s equally exciting to see construction underway on Moduline’s new 5,000 m² automated factory and showroom on Herbert Street — a milestone that promises cutting-edge innovation, local jobs, and a vibrant boost to our town centre. These decisions are never made lightly. Local businesses fight hard every day — through challenges, competition, and uncertainty — yet they continue to back our district. They choose Hinchinbrook. They choose our people. And in doing so, they help build the strong, vibrant community we are so proud of. As we head into the festive season, I’m reminded of how deeply our local businesses invest in us — not just through bricks and mortar, but through the countless ways they give back. They sponsor sporting clubs, donate to community groups, support events, and contribute to the liveability and wellbeing of residents across the Shire. Every dollar spent locally strengthens that cycle of support. That’s why I encourage everyone to make the most of Christmas Late Night Shopping on Thursday 18 December 2025. It’s a great opportunity to pick up gifts, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and show appreciation to the hardworking business owners who continue to put their faith in Hinchinbrook. Shopping local isn’t just a transaction; it’s an investment in our future. When our businesses succeed, our entire community succeeds. Thank you to everyone for your ongoing contribution to our district, and to all local businesses for your unwavering commitment to Hinchinbrook. Your confidence in our community speaks volumes, and we are proud to stand with you this Christmas season and beyond.

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Councillor Column Councillor Andrew Carr 16 December

Councillor Column Councillor Andrew Carr 16 December

Hello Hinchinbrook, I wanted to share another update from the Hinchinbrook Drainage Advisory Group. Since my last councillor column, there’s been some progress. One of the key concerns — though certainly not the only one — has been blockages in mangrove drains and the challenges in maintaining these vital and fragile areas so they function as healthy waterways. The Lower Herbert Water Management Authority (LHWMA) has successfully obtained the necessary documentation to carry out maintenance clearing on the access track to the Mandam Waterway. Once this is complete, LHWMA will be able to conduct routine instream maintenance more efficiently and safely. Following Mandam, other trial sites — Rifle Range Creek, Swampy Creek, and the outflow of Alligator Ponds — are also planned for rehabilitation as soon as the required documentation is received, hopefully early next year. The group has conducted several onsite visits to these areas, which have helped government departments gain a clearer understanding of the mangrove maintenance work needed in the Lower Herbert Catchment. While these trial sites represent only a small portion of our catchment, the aim is to establish a clear, repeatable process that works for landholders, ratepayers, HRIT, and LHWMA. Ultimately, the goal is legislative change to make these activities “Acceptable Development,” enabling much shorter timeframes for planning and undertaking the work. It’s always great to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and see what’s happening across our Shire — thank you for the opportunity to share this update. As the year draws to a close and we look forward to a well-earned break with family and friends, please stay safe and take time to enjoy everything our Shire has to offer. Finally, I’d like to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas in Hinchinbrook.

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The Ground Beneath Us

The Ground Beneath Us

Why Soil Health Matters As rural communities wrapped up another year of planting, harvesting and hard work on the land, World Soil Day on 5 December offered an important reminder of the quiet powerhouse beneath our feet — the soil that sustains farms, families and entire regions. Often taken for granted, soil underpins Australia’s agricultural output, contributing around $90 billion to the national economy each year. It’s also one of the most complex living ecosystems on Earth, home to more than a quarter of the planet’s biodiversity. From tiny microbes to earthworms and insects, healthy soil supports life well beyond what we see on the surface. Globally, an estimated 95 per cent of food production relies directly or indirectly on soil. For rural communities, that makes healthy soil fundamental not just to local farm productivity, but to long-term food security, economic strength and the resilience of regional landscapes. World Soil Day — a United Nations initiative held annually on 5 December — aims to raise awareness of soil as a vital natural resource. This year’s theme, Healthy Soil for Healthy Cities, highlights the growing connection between rural food production and urban communities that rely on it. Here in Australia, efforts to protect and improve soil health continue through the National Soil Strategy and National Soil Action Plan — the country’s first long-term national policy dedicated to soil. Backed by more than $90 million in federal investment, these initiatives support soil monitoring, research, information sharing and on-ground programs across farming regions. Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy Group Deputy Secretary Matt Lowe said soil remains central to Australia’s prosperity and resilience. “Soil is an integral part of the Australian landscape,” he said. “It supports us all, no matter where we live, and provides essential ecosystem and production services that contributes to Australia’s economic, environmental and social wellbeing. “Soil also has cultural significance, and its health impacts biodiversity, water and air quality, human health and plays a vital role in building resilience to natural disasters and adapting to and mitigating climate change.” As the wet season approaches and preparations begin for the year ahead, World Soil Day serves as a timely reminder: strong, healthy soil is the foundation on which rural Australia grows — and protecting it benefits communities far and wide.

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Red Cross To Join Forces With Cardwell Community

October 9, 2025

Recently, the Cardwell community came together for a Social Meeting hosted by the Red Cross at the Cardwell RSL. Robbie Savage, Red Cross Emergency Services Officer based in Cairns, joined the gathering to share his insights into disaster response and recovery in Far North Queensland.

Robbie spoke about his role as a secondary responder during emergencies, coordinating disaster management efforts across the region. His knowledge and experience were eye-opening, especially his emphasis on the importance of neighbour and friend networks, as well as community recovery hubs in the aftermath of a disaster. These connections can make all the difference when it comes to resilience and recovery.

The Tully Red Cross branch is planning to establish a Cardwell-based group and is inviting local residents to get involved. Opportunities for participation include fundraising, supporting disaster response, knitting trauma teddies, organising local events, and engaging with community groups. Contributions from volunteers are expected to be highly valued.

This year has already seen incredible collaboration between our branches and broader teams. By joining Red Cross, you�E��E�E���E��Ell be part of something much bigger, helping your community prepare for and respond to severe weather events, and being a trusted face of support in Cardwell.

Members of the Cardwell community met with the Red Cross for a social meeting. Photo credit: Centacare FNQ

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A Tropical Plant Paradise In Cardwell

October 9, 2025

Drip, drip, drip �E��E the sound of rain pitter-pattering through the foliage of the tropics. At the Tropical Plant Expo 2025, you can discover a taste for all things tropical. Get ready to be surrounded by vibrant sights and luxurious leafery as this one-day event transforms into a paradise for plant lovers, packed with stunning displays and stalls overflowing with lush greenery.

WHAT: Tropical Plant Expo 2025
WHEN: 9:00am, Saturday 11 October
WHERE: 1 Victoria Street, Cardwell

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GEORGE WICKHAM WHO?

October 9, 2025

Few readers would recognise the name George Wickham, but he is somewhat important to the history of the Herbert River district, though not as important as his wife.

George hailed from Novia Scotia, British America, arriving in Cardwell in 1870. He was a carpenter and worked for the Mackenzie family, which established Gairloch Plantation. Scottish widow Isabella Campbell (nee Morrison) and her children travelled out from Scotland to Australia with the Mackenzie family and lived and worked on the Plantation.

George was an early selector, who along with others, selected land in the Gairloch Plantation area. Wickham established his property, Cudmore, in 1872 and in 1875, the Planters Retreat Hotel. Its auspicious location, at the landing where passengers alighted for the two-mile road journey from Gairloch to the Camping Reserve (later Ingham township), meant that the hotel did a roaring trade.

George married Isabella on 25 January 1871 in Cardwell, in a marriage celebrated by Reverend William Mackenzie. During the seven years that George was licensee of the Planters Retreat Hotel, the hotel flourished with Isabella building up its reputation for �E��E�E���E��Egood pure spirits and delicious Scotch scones�E��E�E���E��E. A hotel was guaranteed success if the publican did not water down the spirits and the food was hearty and plentiful.

Isabella held the Planters Retreat Hotel license from 1882 to 1892. Her son-in-law George Hunter, took on the license in 1893 and then her daughter, Isabella Alexandrina Hunter (nee Campbell), in 1904.

In her daughter�E��E�E���E��Es published recollections, Isabella was very instrumental in the development of the district. It was she who produced the first sugar in a kitchen saucepan from cane crushed by the new Gairloch Mill. This milestone event is not mentioned in contemporary men�E��E�E���E��Es accounts. Her daughter�E��E�E���E��Es recollections are full of praise for the ingenuity and work of her mother, with little reference, if any, to her stepfather, George Wickham.

Contributed with thanks by Dr Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui

The Planters Retreat Hotel, 1876. Source: Hinchinbrook Shire Library photograph collection

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The Flood's 'Mud Army' Receives Recognition

October 9, 2025

A thank-you dinner was held at the Beachcomber Restaurant in Cardwell on Thursday evening, 18 September 2025, for the hard-working volunteers. Led by Christine Ihle, they were recognised for their quick response following the disastrous flood on 2 February this year, when their efforts helped lift the spirits of the entire community. recieved received

When a grant opportunity was offered by CleanCo, the government-backed organisation that produces clean energy at Kareeya Hydro Power Station near Tully and Barron Gorge Hydro Power Station near Cairns, the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch submitted a successful application. The grant contributed $3,000 towards the dinner, with the remaining $1,500 donated by the Cardwell RSL Sub-Branch.

Special thanks were extended to Damien Clarke from CleanCo and his wife Charelle for attending, and a wonderful evening was enjoyed by all.

Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch

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All the volunteers of the 'Mud Army' gathered at the Beachcombers restaurant in Cardwell. Photos supplied
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Hands-On Learning At Abergowrie State School

October 9, 2025

Surrounded by the lush landscapes of North Queensland, Abergowrie State School is a place where curiosity and culture grow hand in hand. Catering from Kindergarten to Year 6, we provide a personalised education where every child is known, supported, and encouraged to thrive. From just two students in 2020 to 13 today, our growth reflects our belief that �E��E�E���E��EFrom small things, big things grow.�E��E�E���E��E

Our strong community connections, including walking alongside local Elders on Warrgamay Country, enrich our curriculum and culture. Abergowrie was proud to receive the Queensland Premier�E��E�E���E��Es Reconciliation Award in Education (2024) for embedding culture and language into everyday practice.

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You Caught Colin!

October 9, 2025

Crikey! What amazing crocodile catchers I had to hide from this time! Congratulations to Nowell Tento and Daniel Heggie, who spotted me waaayyy up in the sky on an aeroplane journey through the outback.

Nowell found me on Thursday and Daniel caught me on Friday, great spotting you two!

Nowell is a Hinchinbrook local and a regular reader of Hinchinbrook Life. Daniel, the former journalist with the paper, still reads it, even though he now lives down in the Whitsundays. Both enjoyed the challenge of snapping me up for a chance to have their pictures in the paper. I'd better find an even harder hiding spot next time!

Amazing work catching me Nowell and Daniel, until next time, later 'gators!

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Nowell Tento snapped with Colin Croc
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Daniel Heggie spotted Colin Croc in the Whitsundays
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Event Guide | 30 September 2025

October 9, 2025

Tuesday 30 September

Free Tennis Coaching
8:30am - 11:30am at the Ingham Tennis Courts.
Get active and give tennis a go these school holidays! Open to ages 5�E��E�E���E��E13, with fun skills development and games led by a fully qualified coach. Racquets are available if you don�E��E�E���E��Et have your own. Call Coach Tom Casey on 0413 199 702 to register your interest.

Join local author Amy Aquilini for an engaging conversation about her literary journey, inspirations, and recent publications. This relaxed session offers a chance to connect with Amy and explore the stories and culture of North Queensland that inspire her work.

Hinchinbrook Stitchers, Social Sewing Group
9:00am - 3:00pm at Victoria Mill Social Club Hall, Ingham.
Quilting, crocette, knitting and sewing, all crafts are enjoyed at at this club! Bring whatever you need and your own lunch and refreshments for a lovely day of being creative. Contact Jackie for further detials on: 04 2771 7605.

Brothers Bingo
9:30am at the Brothers Sports & Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
The beloved Brothers Bingo is on! Running continuously since 1967, this event has been a cornerstone of the community, fostering a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Come along, reconnect with familiar faces, and enjoy the excitement of Bingo once again.

Discover State Library of Queensland Online
11:00am �E��E�E���E��E 11:30am oat the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, Ingham.
Get a guided tour of the State Library of Queensland�E��E�E���E��Es online services. Learn how to access eBooks, digital archives, newspapers, historical images, and more �E��E�E���E��E all from the comfort of your home.

Social darts have been back in full swing and the enthusiasm is stronger than ever. Players are enjoying the newly upgraded upstairs area and the fresh amenities. Be sure to check in before 7:00pm to join the competition and experience the friendly spirit of the game.

Thursday 2 October

Hinchinbrook Sportfishing Festival �E��E�E���E��E Competition Day 1
From 5:00am.
The fishing competition gets underway, with anglers hitting the water in pursuit of trophy catches. A day dedicated to outdoor adventure, skill, and aquatic excitement.

A fun-filled learning session, which incorporates stories, songs and rhymes aimed at children 0�E��E�E���E��E5 years of age. Each session caregivers will have the opportunity to ask questions or discuss concerns with a Queensland Health Clinical Nurse.

Hinchinbrook Sportfishing Festival �E��E�E���E��E Competition Day 2. & Family Activities + Awards Dinner
All day at Lucinda.
Non-fishers can enjoy outings and activities, while the evening brings the QLD Sportfishers Dinner and Awards at Lucinda Hotel from 6:00pm. A great day for families, followed by a night of recognition and celebration.

Offering a relaxed coastal atmosphere, the SLSC is a place where locals and visitors alike can unwind with a cold drink in hand while soaking up ocean views. Nibbles and occasional raffles add to the fun, with prizes like fresh prawns up for grabs. Bring the kids, there�E��E�E���E��Es a park next door, or pop in before your evening beachside stroll.

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

Cardwell Seafest Hotrod Classic Car �E��E�E���E��En�E��E�E���E��E Bike Show
9:00am �E��E�E���E��E 1:00pm, Cardwell Foreshore.
See classic cars, hotrods and bikes on display at this much-loved foreshore event. With food and entertainment, raffles, prizes, and live music, it�E��E�E���E��Es a family-friendly morning for car enthusiasts and visitors alike. Gold coin entry.

Gather by the water for an evening of delicious food, a licensed bar, and live music. The night will end with a spectacular fireworks display.

Sunday 5 October

Ingham Raintree Community Markets
8:00am �E��E�E���E��E 12:00pm at Rotary Park, Ingham.
Held under the shade of Ingham�E��E�E���E��Es iconic raintrees in Rotary Park, enjoy crafts, bric-a-brac, tropical plants, and local made treats! All stallholder fees are proudly donated to Palliative Care Ingham, supporting a vital local cause. For more infoor to book a site, please contact Linda on 0436 047 358.

Chat Room
9:30am �E��E�E���E��E 10:30am at the Community Support Centre, 52 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
A social group for like-minded adults who wouldlike to gather, socialise and enjoy a chat with their coffee. No need to sign up, just drop in and have a cuppa!

Cafe Crawl
9:00am �E��E�E���E��E 11:00am, cafe location provided on RSVP.
Join us on a cafe adventure through our community. Come along as we explore the different cafe's we have available to us within our community and have a chat, sip a coffee and a bite to eat. If interested please RSVP with Mei at: 07 4776 1822.

Hinchinbrook Stitchers, Social Sewing Group
9:00am - 3:00pm at Victoria Mill Social Club Hall, Ingham.
Quilting, crocette, knitting and sewing, all crafts are enjoyed at at this club! Bring whatever you need and your own lunch and refreshments for a lovely day of being creative. Contact Jackie for further detials on: 04 2771 7605.

Brothers Bingo
9:30am at the Brothers Sports & Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
The beloved Brothers Bingo is on! Running continuously since 1967, this event has been a cornerstone of the community, fostering a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Come along, reconnect with familiar faces, and enjoy the excitement of Bingo once again.

Canasta & Cards
1:30pm �E��E�E���E��E 3:30pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd.
Enjoy games of canasta among other card games with your fellow card players! Please call Desley to register your interest: 07 4776 1822.

Thursday 9 October

CWA Craft Group
9:00am �E��E�E���E��E 12:00pm at the Forrest Beach CWA Hall, 6 Palm St.
Everyone is welcome to do your own craft or join an organised craft activity. For just $2.00 enjoy the company of other crafters, all levels of experience and craft types welcome! Our gold coin donation library is also open with books aplenty, CDs, DVDs, and puzzles too!

A welcoming and judgement-free group for mums who may be feeling isolated, vulnerable, or at risk of postnatal depression. Expectant mothers are also encouraged to join. Sessions focus on connection, support and creating a sense of belonging, with children under school age welcome to attend alongside their mums. For more info, contact Shannen at the HCSC on 07 4776 1822.

Friday 10 October

Big Breakfast for World Mental Health Day
6:30am �E��E�E���E��E 8:00am at the Canegrowers Building, 11�E��E�E���E��E13 Lannercost Street, Ingham.
Kickstart your morning with a free warm meal and connect with the community at this World Mental Health Day event. Part of QLD Mental Health Week (4�E��E�E���E��E12 October), focusing on the theme �E��E�E���E��EConnect for mental health�E��E�E���E��E. Free event for adults 18+. For more information, contact 07 4781 2690.

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

Conroy Hall Markets
7:30am - 11:30am in Conroy Hall, 43 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
This fantastic all-weather market is Inghams longest running market packed with charm and variety. You'll find a great selection of crafts, jewellery, plants, antiques, books, bric-a-brac, clothing, and more. Don�E��E�E���E��Et miss the homemade goodies �E��E�E���E��E from cakes and biscuits to jams �E��E�E���E��E and be sure to grab a delicious bacon and egg toastie for breakfast! For stallholder enquiries, contact Rita on 0417 792 602.

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Recognising And Supporting Men In Our Community

October 9, 2025

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre is committed to recognising the invaluable contributions of men within our community and to providing avenues that foster connection, support, and wellbeing. A central part of this commitment is the Centre�E��E�E���E��Es Men�E��E�E���E��Es Group, successfully facilitated by Mr Angelo Cavaliere.

The HCSC Men's Group gentlemen out and about. Photo supplied

The HCSC Men's Group enjoying a BBQ together. Photo supplied

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Stop This Seasons Crawlers With A Local Expert

October 13, 2025

The Pest Control Guy

Michael, better known as The Pest Control Guy, is based right here in the Hinchinbrook region and understands the challenges local homes and businesses face. As a proud local himself, hes passionate about helping the community stay pest-free with reliable, personalised service. This season, he seeing more infestations of cockroaches and termites than anything else and hes ready to stop them before they become a bigger problem.

Michael, The Pest Control Guy. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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HELP Backs Halifax CWA With $1000 Donation

October 9, 2025

The Halifax Emergency Liaison Partnership (HELP) has recognised the tireless efforts of the Queensland Country Women�E��E�E���E��Es Association (QCWA) Halifax Branch, donating $1000 to support their ongoing community work. The cheque was presented on 12 September by HELP representatives Natalie Hulett and Rita Ferrari, alongside Sargent Gio Tantalo, during a heartfelt visit to the Halifax CWA Hall.

�E��E�E���E��EOur members work tirelessly each week to support our community through twice-weekly morning teas and donations to people needing a hand. It is such a pleasure to be associated with such a fine mob,�E��E�E���E��E she said.

The $1000 contribution will help ensure the Halifax CWA can continue offering their essential support and uplifting community spirit well into the future.

The ladies of the Halifax CWA receiving the $1000 from the ladies of H.E.L.P. Photo credit: Gio Tantalo

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Victoria's View | 23 September 2025

October 9, 2025

Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!

I had to nip down to Airlie Beach last Friday to say farewell to two of the company's lovliest ladies. Taking a Sundowner cruise felt symbolic as the sun set on their final days with Life Publishing. Mackay and Whitsunday Life newspaper's will definitely miss you both, and we all wish you well on your next steps and new journeys, Crissy and Amanda!

Locally, I attended the Orchid and Foliage show at Conroy Hall, and I must say, we have some extremely talented green thumbs in Hinchinbrook. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the hybridisation of bromeliads and the planting and nurturing techniques of African violets. The tropical foliage displays were so lush and the orchids were breathtaking. With so many kinds of plants on display and for sale, it was so hard to pick a favourite. You had to stop every few steps to admire something new.

On another note, I'm still on the lookout for sponsors to support me as a Maraka Queen entrant. If you're interested in being a sponsor, please reach out. Shout-out to Ingham Agencies, Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Information, and Solar Hair for their support.

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Fun Fact: Orchids are found naturally growing on all continents but Antarctica. The Orchidaceae family has been confirmed to have existed as far back as the Late Cretaceous period from an amber fossil dated 56 million years ago, with genetic sequencing indicating their overall biogeography and phylogenetic patterns trace back roughly 100 million years. This means that even dinosaurs could stop and smell the orchids.

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Hinchinbrook Celebrates New Citizens

October 9, 2025

On 17 September, Hinchinbrook welcomed four new citizens in a heartfelt ceremony. After a welcome message, they were sworn in, the national anthem was sung, and little aussie flags were waved as four ladies officially became Australian citizens. Many had already called the region home for over a decade, with some living locally for up to 12 years.

Mayor Ramon Jayo led the proceedings and warmly shared, "It's always good to welcome new citizens to Australia. These people have been in Hinchinbrook for quite a substantial period of time and they've contributed to our community through their work."

He continued, "It's good that we recognise their contribution by granting them Australian citizenship and it's wonderful to finally see it happen for their families."

The ceremony not only marked a milestone in the lives of the new citizens but also highlighted the strength of Hinchinbrook�E��E�E���E��Es diverse community, now with new additions in Katie Butler (England), Denise Sartor (Germany), and Maria Flett and Miguelita McKeough (Philippines). With their commitment and long-standing ties to the region, the newest Australians were warmly celebrated as part of the Hinchinbrook family.

New Australian citizens welcomed.

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Ingham Team Recognised As Finalists In 2025 Queensland Mental Health Awards

October 9, 2025

Selectability is celebrating after their Ingham team was named a finalist in the Workplace �E��E�E���E��E Community Wellbeing category of the 2025 Queensland Mental Health Achievement Awards.

Essential programs such as the Ingham Clubhouse continued, giving recipients structure, connection and confidence during a time of uncertainty. The team also distributed close to 50 food and hygiene packs with the support of local businesses.

�E��E�E���E��ERecipients were very excited to receive supplies!�E��E�E���E��E the team shared, as their efforts extended well beyond immediate recovery, creating safe, inclusive spaces where recipients could stay engaged and supported.

The team at the Selectability clubhouse. Photo supplied

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Ingham Meals On Wheels Honoured With Prestigious Rhoda Cameron Award

October 9, 2025

Ingham Meals on Wheels has been named the recipient of the prestigious Rhoda Cameron Award 2025, recognising the branch as the best in Queensland. The award honours Member Services that demonstrate the values of Rhoda Cameron, the founder of Meals on Wheels�E��E�E��E�E�� in Queensland.

Ms Phillips paid tribute to the branch�E��E�E���E��Es team, saying "ve a very special team, the Management Committee, Paid Staff and super-caring Volunteers who go above and beyond their call of duty for the vulnerable residents of this district."

"Ingham Meals on Wheels is for our Community and was built by the Community, and we appreciate very much the generosity given by everyone from this Community and also outside the Ingham District. The Herbert Valley Community is a place to be really proud to be part of."

Ingham Meals on Wheels is always looking for extra volunteers to help with delivering meals. If you can assist, please call the office and support this vital service.

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Ingham Powers Up With New Electric Vehicle Charging Station

October 9, 2025

Ingham�E��E�E���E��Es brand-new electric vehicle charging station is already proving its worth, with one of its very first users, Bradley, a retired tradie turned traveller, sharing his excitement about the addition.

Mayor Ramon Jayo, who was on hand to mark the milestone, reflected on the journey to get the project completed, "We�E��E�E���E��Ere really pleased to see this finally in place, after three to four years in the making. One of the main challenges was finding a relatively flood-free and accessible site that met the company�E��E�E���E��Es requirements. It�E��E�E���E��Es very pleasing to see it up and running, because this (electric vehicles) is where people are heading.

With the charging station now live, Ingham is set to welcome more travellers, boost the local economy, and showcase the beauty of the district to a new wave of visitors. The charging station is located in the car park behind Ingham's Westpac bank, accessable via Hawkins or Euclid St.

Bradley, alongside Mayor Ramon Jayo and Councillor Mark Spina, enjoying the convenience of Ingham's new EV charging station. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
One of the new EV chargers at the charging station, located in the car park behind Inghams Westpac Bank.

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