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 “From small things, big things grow.”

At Abergowrie, learning is active, hands-on, and full of possibilities. Our students enjoy STEM classes with 3D printing, drones, and coding, weekly online Japanese lessons, and instrumental and music programs. Outdoor learning is central to our approach: children explore our natural playground, ride our bike track, care for quails, and engage in gardening to learn about sustainability and responsibility. Outdoor and risky play fosters confidence, resilience, and decision-making skills.

We celebrate both academic and personal growth. Programs such as Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) encourage kindness, respect, and responsibility. Recent PBL celebrations included a pancake breakfast and a book week character dress-up day, highlighting the fun and creativity in our learning environment.

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’s Reconciliation Award in Education (2024) for embedding culture and language into everyday practice.

Every child at Abergowrie is valued, seen, and supported. With highly individualised learning, specialist teachers, and a safe, inclusive environment, students develop the confidence, curiosity, and skills to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.

From STEM projects to outdoor adventures, creative arts, and leadership opportunities, Abergowrie State School offers a vibrant, nurturing, and inspiring place to learn. Come and see how every child can grow, thrive, and shine in our welcoming school community.

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!

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 5–13, with fun skills development and games led by a fully qualified coach. Racquets are available if you don’t have your own. Call Coach Tom Casey on 0413 199 702 to register your interest.

Cafe Crawl
9:00am – 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.

Double Daws Studio – Record Your Ideas
10:00am – 11:30am at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, Ingham.
Ever wanted to record your own podcast, music, or presentation? Try our in-library studio in a fun, friendly environment. Open to all, no experience needed.

Local History Q & A
10:30am – 11:30am at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, Ingham.
Discover Ingham’s local history and meet the passionate team behind the library’s collection. Learn how they gather, preserve, and share the stories that have shaped the community.

Book Chat with Amy Aquilini
2:00pm – 3:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, Ingham.
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.

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

Wednesday 1 October

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 – 11:30am oat the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, Ingham.
Get a guided tour of the State Library of Queensland’s online services. Learn how to access eBooks, digital archives, newspapers, historical images, and more — all from the comfort of your home.

Canasta & Cards
1:30pm – 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.

Justice of the Peace Services
2:00pm – 4:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, Ingham.
Need documents signed or certified? JP Denise Scott will be at the library to provide free Justice of the Peace services.

Hinchinbrook Sportfishing Festival – Meet & Greet
From 5:00pm at Borello Park, Lucinda.
Kick off the festival with a friendly sausage sizzle and social gathering, followed by the official competition briefing. A relaxed evening to connect with fellow anglers and families before the fishing begins.

Social Darts
7:00pm in the Upstairs Area, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
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 – 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.

CWA Craft Group
9:00am – 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!

Senior Men's Social Group
9:00am – 12:00pm at HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd, Ingham.
Are you a man over 60, or 55 if you identify as ATSI, looking for a place to belong, connect and share good times? Meet other men, enjoy meaningful conversations, and participate in fun activities. Please contact Desley at: 4776 1822.

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

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

Mummy’s Matter
1:00pm to 2:00pm at The Hub, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
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.

Mahjong
1:00pm – 3:00pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd.
Join in friendly games of mahjong and test your tile skills with fellow enthusiasts! Please call Desley to register your interest: 07 4776 1822.

Friday 3 October

Hinchinbrook Sportfishing Festival – 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.

Cardwell Seafest Kick-Off Party
Evening at the Marine Hotel, Cardwell.
Celebrate the start of Seafest with the Friday Night Kick-Off Party. Enjoy live music, food and a lively community atmosphere at the Marine Hotel.

Movie Time – Garfield
10:30am – 12:30pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, Ingham.
Full of colourful characters, fast-paced action, and themes of family, forgiveness, and friendship, Garfield the Movie is the perfect school holiday treat for kids and families.

Meet Dash the Robot
1:00pm – 3:30pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Meet Dash, the smart little robot that can dance, sing, and respond to your code! Kids will enjoy learning the basics of programming in a fun, hands-on environment. No experience needed, just join in.

Beers By The Beach
5pm at the Forrest Beach SLSC, 6 Palm st, Forrest Beach.
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’s a park next door, or pop in before your evening beachside stroll.

Saturday 4 October

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 ‘n’ Bike Show
9:00am – 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’s a family-friendly morning for car enthusiasts and visitors alike. Gold coin entry.

Movie Time – Herbie Goes Bananas
9:30am – 11:30am at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, Ingham.
Herbie the hilarious VW Bug is back! In this wacky, family-friendly film, Herbie heads to South America for wild adventures, hilarious mishaps, and a bit of banana-fuelled chaos.

Hinchinbrook Sportfishing Festival – Weigh-In & Presentations
11:00am at Ingham Showgrounds.
Lines out at 11am, with the weigh-in and final presentations to follow at the Showgrounds. Celebrate the achievements of anglers and enjoy the closing atmosphere of one of Queensland’s premier sportfishing events, concluding with the QLD Sportfishers AGM.

Mt Fox Markets
11:00am at the Mt Fox camp grounds.
Spend your Saturday browsing through the talents of local stallholders at the Mt Fox Markets! If you’re looking to become a stall holder yourself, contact Brandie on 0477 199 758.

Cardwell Seafest's Evening On The Foreshore
Evening, Cardwell Foreshore.
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 – 12:00pm at Rotary Park, Ingham.
Held under the shade of Ingham’s 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.

Cardwell Seafest's Family Fun Day
All day, Cardwell Foreshore.
Bring the whole family for markets, a kids’ jetty fishing competition, live music, pirates and mermaids, crab racing, pie eating and prawn peeling contests, plus kids’ entertainment throughout the day.

Cardwell Seafest's Sunday Afternoon Session
Afternoon, Beachcomber’s, Cardwell.
Round out the weekend with live music, fresh oysters and great food at Beachcomber’s. Daily island tours with Hi Tours will also be running.

Monday 6 October

Chat Room
9:30am – 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!

Empowering Women Generations XYZ
9:30am to 11:30am at Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, Ingham.
This program is designed to support women through connection, confidence and community belonging. Each session provides opportunities to build skills, improve wellbeing, and access both formal and informal supports in a safe space. Transport assistance is available. For more info or to get involved, contact the HCSC on 4776 1822 or email donna@hcsc.org.au

Creative Corner Craft Group
2:00pm – 3:00pm at The HUB, 100 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
This crafty event is free and materials will mostly be provided. However on occasion, depending on the activity, members will be asked to bring consumables. Please contact Desley, Shannen or Mei at: 4776 1822.

Tuesday 7 October

Cafe Crawl
9:00am – 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.

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

Wednesday 8 October

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 – 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.

Social Darts
7:00pm in the Upstairs Area, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
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 9 October

CWA Craft Group
9:00am – 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!

Senior Men's Social Group
9:00am – 12:00pm at HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd, Ingham.
Are you a man over 60, or 55 if you identify as ATSI, looking for a place to belong, connect and share good times? Meet other men, enjoy meaningful conversations, and participate in fun activities. Please contact Desley at: 4776 1822.

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

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

Mummy’s Matter
1:00pm to 2:00pm at The Hub, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
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.

Mahjong
1:00pm – 3:00pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd.
Join in friendly games of mahjong and test your tile skills with fellow enthusiasts! Please call Desley to register your interest: 07 4776 1822.

Friday 10 October

Big Breakfast for World Mental Health Day
6:30am – 8:00am at the Canegrowers Building, 11–13 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 (4–12 October), focusing on the theme ‘Connect for mental health’. Free event for adults 18+. For more information, contact 07 4781 2690.

Seniors Morning Coffee Club
9:30am - 11:30am at Conroy Hall, 41 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
Offering lovely morning tea, games, trivia, prizes, and can pick you up from your residence if required depending on your address. Currently doing bus pick-ups to Halifax and around Ingham. We charge a cover fee of $5pp. which goes towards morning tea. To register your interest and RSVP, please contact Desley at: 07 4776 1822 or register on selectability.com.au

Beers By The Beach
5pm at the Forrest Beach SLSC, 6 Palm st, Forrest Beach.
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’s a park next door, or pop in before your evening beachside stroll. It’s a laid-back evening for everyone to enjoy.

Saturday 11 October

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’t miss the homemade goodies – from cakes and biscuits to jams – and be sure to grab a delicious bacon and egg toastie for breakfast! For stallholder enquiries, contact Rita on 0417 792 602.

Tropical Plant Expo 2025
9:00am at 1 Victoria Street, Cardwell.
Step into a tropical paradise and browse stalls overflowing with lush, hardy plants grown by local growers. From vibrant flowering varieties to striking foliage, there’s something for every garden or indoor space. Enjoy a relaxed morning among beautiful blooms and luxurious folage.

Forrest Beach Hoy
12:30pm at the Community Function Centre, Wattle Street, Forrest Beach.
Fill your afternoon with a competitive and fun game of Hoy! It's just like bingo but with a deck of cards to match instead of numbers and every game of Hoy has a prize. There's a Lucky Door Prize, Raffles, Cent Sale and Afternoon Tea available and everyone can have a go!

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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’s Men’s Group, successfully facilitated by Mr Angelo Cavaliere.

The Men’s Group has continued to thrive, offering participants a variety of activities that strengthen both individual wellbeing and community engagement. These include fishing trips, national park outings, and volunteering initiatives in partnership with schools and local organizations. The group reflects the important role men play in giving back to their communities, while also creating an environment where members can support one another.

In further recognition of this vital part of our community, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre will host an International Men’s Breakfast on Tuesday, 19 November, at 6:30am at the Ingham RSL. Tickets are priced at $25 and are available for purchase at the HUB, located at 52 McIlwraith Street, Ingham and also at the Ingham RSL, located in Hawkins Street.

This event seeks to celebrate men in our community while providing a platform for meaningful conversations surrounding mental health and wellbeing over breakfast. There will also be a guest speaker attending who will share some vital information for our male attendees.

The need for such initiatives is underscored by confronting statistics. Nationally, approximately 75 per cent of all suicides are among men, with Queensland recording rates slightly above the national average. Men also remain significantly less likely than women to seek assistance for mental health concerns, often due to societal stigma and perceptions of resilience or “toughness.” These realities highlight the importance of local initiatives that encourage men to connect, communicate, and seek support.

The Men’s Group is an example of how community connection can positively impact mental health outcomes. By creating a safe environment where men can share experiences and engage in open dialogue, the group fosters both resilience and a sense of belonging. It reinforces the message that speaking openly is not a sign of weakness, but of strength.

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre values the men in our community and is committed to ensuring their voices are heard, their challenges recognised, and their contributions respected.

For further information, or to enquire about participation in the Men’s Group, please contact the HUB on 4776 1822.

(Contributed with thanks by Mei Yakuma, Community Support Worker & Seniors Advocate of the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre)

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, he’s passionate about helping the community stay pest-free with reliable, personalised service. This season, he’s seeing more infestations of cockroaches and termites than anything else — and he’s ready to stop them before they become a bigger problem.

Cockroaches are notoriously resilient pests that can infest your home at any time. They crawl through the smallest of gaps and will start several nests in hidden spots. Their quiet nature means you often won’t notice them until it’s far too late, so early treatment is essential to stop an outbreak before it spreads.

Termites are a major threat to local homes, silently chewing through timber and other organic materials. Once they find their way into a structure, they can cause thousands of dollars in damage before they’re even detected. Regular inspections and swift treatment are the best way to protect your home from these destructive pests.

Michael, The Pest Control Guy, is a local who loves helping fellow locals. If you’ve noticed any signs of pests around your property, give him a call and protect your home today on 0409 065 069 or 0439 722 311, or email appc147@gmail.com

The Halifax Emergency Liaison Partnership (HELP) has recognised the tireless efforts of the Queensland Country Women’s 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.

HELP members praised the QCWA for their pivotal role in operating the Lower Herbert Recovery Centre during and after recent disaster events. The Centre became a hub of care and connection, providing a safe space where locals could gather, access support, and lend a hand to one another in difficult times.

QCWA Halifax Branch President Evyln Bailey said it was a proud moment for their small but dedicated group.

“Our 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,” she said.

Mrs Chris Walker, the Northern Divisional President of QCWA, was also present to accept the generous donation.

HELP also acknowledged their own members, fundraisers, and the wider community who support their efforts, including regular Friday night fundraising events at the Lucinda Hotel. As well as backing local organisations, HELP maintains vital community-owned assets such as the Disaster Community UHF CB Radio Repeater Ch. 3 to assist during emergencies.

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

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.

Victoria

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.

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’s 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.

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

The nomination recognises the incredible resilience and dedication of the team during the February weather event, when Ingham’s Mental Health Hub sustained significant damage. Despite these challenges, the team continued to deliver critical support to recipients and the wider community.

Regional Coordinator Julie Ross said, “I am incredibly proud of the entire team and community for coming together during this event."

Even as roads closed and services were disrupted, employees quickly adapted, moving operations to a temporary base, maintaining services over the phone, and providing vital supply deliveries.

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.

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

From community meals to a local open day, the team kept connection at the heart of their response. This recognition highlights the extraordinary leadership and compassion shown in Ingham and reflects Selectability’s commitment to delivering person-centred care.

Winners will be announced at an event in Brisbane on World Mental Health Day (10 October).

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™ in Queensland.

Rita Phillips, President of Ingham Meals on Wheels, said, "It was indeed an honour and privilege to receive the Rhoda Cameron Award 2025 on behalf of Ingham Meals on Wheels. The Award’s criteria are ‘in recognition of their compassion, commitment, and enduring community spirit in the face of adversity’."

She added, "It was very overwhelming to be chosen from all Meals on Wheels Branches in Queensland."

Ms Phillips paid tribute to the branch’s team, saying "We have 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.

Ingham’s 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.

"Amazing, just amazing. The more chargers, the better. It means more flexibility and more convenience," Bradley said as his vehicle charged.

The stop also gave him a chance to explore the town. "I had breakfast at one of the local cafés, which was great. I normally wouldn’t stop, but that’s what I find about the EV charge stations: you stop places, smell the roses, and go for a walk," he added.

Mayor Ramon Jayo, who was on hand to mark the milestone, reflected on the journey to get the project completed, "We’re 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’s requirements. It’s very pleasing to see it up and running, because this (electric vehicles) is where people are heading.

By having a charging station close to the CBD, we believe it will draw more traffic into our town, encouraging people to walk through our streets, visit our shops, and support local businesses. This morning, our first customer told me he had just been for breakfast on our main street, which was fantastic to hear.

It’s also going to enable visitors with electric vehicles to explore our district much more widely. Previously, some avoided destinations like Wallaman Falls because they feared running out of charge before reaching another station. After a lot of discussion and planning, it’s great to finally see it operating, and we believe it will be very significant for local trade."

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.

Singapore Airlines has ushered in a new era of comfort and connectivity for Far North Queensland with its upgraded Cairns–Singapore service, operating four times weekly on the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900.

The A350 offers a premium experience, featuring lie-flat Business Class seats, in-flight connectivity, elevated dining, and generous storage space.

But the real game-changer lies in the connections. Flights are timed to integrate smoothly with Singapore Airlines’ extensive global network, unlocking effortless onward travel to the UK, Europe, and Southeast Asia.

This service isn’t just about convenience - it’s about flying with one of the world’s best. Singapore Airlines was recently named among the top 10 carriers in the prestigious APEX World Class™ Awards for 2026, a recognition that reflects excellence in safety, sustainability, service, and culinary experience.

Planning a getaway to Europe, the UK or beyond? Fly direct from Cairns with Singapore Airlines - and take advantage of their Early Bird Sales, available until 30 September 2025.

Did you know that the Cairns Airport is having a $55 million International Terminal Upgrade?

Cairns Airport is undergoing a $55 million transformation of its international terminal - the first major upgrade in over 30 years. The redevelopment, set for completion by the end of 2025, includes a refurbished terminal, including remodelled bathrooms, new seating, all-new baggage reclaim belts and four air-conditioned glass airbridges.

Guests departing from the international terminal can now also take advantage of a newly opened airport lounge experience. Operated by Escape Lounges, the stylish space offers premium facilities and complimentary dining in comfort.

SCIENCE, STRATEGY AND SHEER HARD WORK

When people look back at the flying fox story in Ingham, they often remember the heatwaves. The flying foxes dropping from the trees, the overwhelming smell, and the struggles families faced living, schooling, and working with colonies that grew to hundreds of thousands.

But what’s sometimes overlooked is the extraordinary science, strategy, and teamwork that turned things around. Back in 2019, our community was in crisis. Half a million flying foxes spilled out of the Botanical Gardens and into our parks and schoolyards. The usual tricks — pots, pans, and pool noodles — didn’t make much of a difference, just sending the animals from one backyard to the next.

We needed real expertise. Thanks to the help of biodiversity specialists from Biodiversity Australia, we developed a plan that was both humane and effective.

The science was simple but powerful: make the flying foxes feel unwelcome where they roost but provide them a safe haven elsewhere. By studying their flight paths, past roost sites, and nightly behaviours, we helped guide them out of town and into more suitable habitats.

It was noisy, smoky, and relentless work — more like mustering cattle than managing wildlife — but it worked. And none of this would have been possible without the unsung heroes of the whole effort: our dedicated staff.

Since February 2020, they’ve been up before dawn, every single day of the year, putting in the hard yards to make sure the scouts know the coast is not clear in the botanical gardens. It’s gruelling, thankless work, but they’ve stayed committed, even when the conditions were less than ideal. The long hours, the constant disruptions, and the sometimes-thankless nature of the job, they’ve powered through it all.

The effort they’ve put in isn’t just about getting the job done, it’s about caring for our community, our environment, and the wellbeing of everyone in Ingham. It’s not glamorous work, and it’s not cheap. But it’s vital. It’s the kind of behind-the-scenes, ongoing maintenance that keeps things from falling apart. Like a road that needs constant repair to remain safe for travel, our staff’s daily efforts ensure the flying foxes don’t return in force.

And let’s not forget how serious it got. At one point, the helicopter couldn’t even land at Ingham Hospital because of the flying foxes.

I just want to take a moment to thank our residents. Council knows it’s not easy, being woken up at 4am by all the noise and movement. We really appreciate your patience and also for helping us keep the flying foxes out of your yards. It’s a team effort, and without this, we’d risk going back to the chaos of schools closing, families living in unbearable conditions, and our gardens being lost as community spaces.

Your understanding and support have been just as important as the science and the hard work of our staff in keeping the program on track. What we’ve achieved together is truly something to be proud of.

By combining good science, dedicated staff, and a resilient community, we’ve protected our way of life. This is why the daily maintenance of disrupting the scouts is essential, so we don’t go through this again. So, let’s continue to work together to keep the flying foxes at bay so we endeavour to not fall in this situation again.

With the cane harvest season now passed the halfway mark and the traditional southern state tourist season moving toward its latter weeks as the temperature starts to warm up, it is timely to reflect on how far our community has progressed since the impactful weather event in February this year.

The harvest figures to date have revealed a more positive trend, which has seen the current crop estimate increase throughout the district. The recent announcement by the Federal Government of a $1.1 billion biofuels program has created much excitement for the future of value-adding opportunities for the sugar industry.

Recorded local visitor numbers to date have seen very encouraging increases and positive upward trends, with hospitality and retail businesses reporting strong visitor spending in the district. The appointment of an experienced international hike operator to conduct tours on Hinchinbrook Island, planned to commence in the first half of 2026, is a long-awaited and exciting tourism opportunity for the Shire and region.

This year has also seen several additional new tourism products enter the local market, which has further increased visitor spending in the Shire. The development of products that support the visitor experience and showcase Hinchinbrook Shire to the world has been many years in the making, and it is exceptionally pleasing to now witness these new opportunities being delivered.

The launch on Friday by Townsville Enterprise of the largest-ever tourism marketing campaign for North Queensland will provide the opportunity for the Hinchinbrook Shire to be showcased on the state, national, and international stage, providing more opportunities for tourism growth in our Shire.

Despite the incredibly challenging start to 2025, which many residents continue to navigate, these positive developments in the sugar and tourism industries should provide confidence that some exciting opportunities are on the horizon.

Macknade Mill has completed its largest capital program in a decade, with a new high-grade fugal station already delivering positive results halfway through the 2025 sugar production season.

The $10.76 million project saw the installation of seven Silver Seibull 1250E fugals during the maintenance season, along with new supporting structures, civil works, services, and switch rooms.

Wilmar Sugar and Renewables Senior Project Engineer Joseph Bonassi said the project was about more than just new equipment.

“Local drainage and access systems were also improved as a portion of the scope of the project, with the aim of improving upon safety culture and factory performance,” he said.

The fugal station marks the final stage of sugar manufacturing, where centrifuges separate and wash molasses from sugar crystals. Macknade Manager Mechanical Engineering Wes Seri said the benefits were already clear.

“From the start of the season there has been a step-change improvement in sugar quality compliance,” he said.

“The old fugal station was traditionally a factory bottleneck when CCS levels were high. With the new fugals performing so well, our Operations team is excited for the next few weeks, when CCS is expected to peak.”

Mr Bonassi said the project highlighted the expertise and teamwork across the business.

“The successful delivery of the project reflects the exceptional technical expertise, commitment and collaboration of our people,” he said.

Capital Work Coordinator Joshua Beccaris praised the resilience of the team in overcoming unexpected hurdles.

“Severe flooding cost us two full weeks of work and presented unexpected hurdles but, thanks to the resilience, adaptability, and commitment of our team, we regrouped quickly, adjusted timelines, and kept the project moving forward without compromising quality,” he said.

“Even with the setbacks, the upgrade was completed efficiently and to a high standard – a true testament to the strength of our people and the value of having skilled talent in-house."

Mr Seri added that planning and teamwork were crucial to the successful delivery.

“The quality of work was outstanding, reflecting the care and pride our people put into every detail. This achievement speaks volumes about the dedication and skill of our people,” he said.

The project involved contributions from the Herbert Centre of Excellence, along with site electrical, engineering, and technical teams. Employees Blaise Fontana, Dale Cantoni, Brendan Holland, Lexi Sexton, Ryan Carr, and Joshua Beccaris were among those who worked on the upgrade.

The new fugal station is now expected to improve both throughput and sugar quality for the remainder of the season and into the future.