Community News

Meet The Agent - Nathan Henderson of Nutrien Harcourts Ingham

Meet The Agent - Nathan Henderson of Nutrien Harcourts Ingham

With nearly two decades in real estate, Nathan Henderson has built a career grounded in experience, local knowledge, and a genuine understanding of people. After working as an agent for several years, he gained his Principal’s licence in 2007, marking the beginning of a long-standing presence in the Hinchinbrook property market. Nathan specialises in residential sales, rentals, and rural properties, with a particular appreciation for the people behind each transaction. “Residential sales and rentals and rural sales are the bulk of our work and having been around for a while, the people are the best part. We are truly grateful when people are referred to us and we have sold to parents and then children in the same family. Being an agent means helping people navigate an important transition in their life.” With a rural background, Nathan values getting out on the land and understanding how properties function within their environment and community. “It’s easy to focus too locally… we take care to understand what is happening outside of our area to ensure we are reacting quickly to changes in our market for clients.” “Understanding what people are aiming to achieve and when, helps us give advice and strategy in selling their property. We assist with the happiest and saddest moments in people's lives and we are always grateful for the trust our clients put in us.” What advice would you give to first-home buyers looking to settle in the region? “Avoid the FOMO, don’t rush unless it’s the right place… build a relationship with agents so you have a chance of seeing things as they come on the market.”

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Halifax State School Honours The ANZAC Spirit

Halifax State School Honours The ANZAC Spirit

Caption: Mr Blake and students at the Halifax memorial

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A Word From Wayde - Wayde Chiesa MP, Member For Hinchinbrook

A Word From Wayde - Wayde Chiesa MP, Member For Hinchinbrook

Last week I was in Brisbane for Parliament, continuing to advocate for the issues that matter most to our region, before returning home to spend time across the Hinchinbrook electorate. A key focus during the sitting week was the need for Queensland to become more self-sufficient, particularly when it comes to critical inputs like fuel and fertiliser. For communities like ours, these are important issues that directly impact the cost of living, our farmers, and the strength of our local economy. We have seen how global events can disrupt supply chains and drive-up costs. That’s why I have continued to push for greater sovereign capability, so Queensland is less exposed to international uncertainty. The Crisafulli Government is committed to strengthening this self-sufficiency and ensuring regional communities like Hinchinbrook are better protected into the future. We also passed the third tranche of Adult Crime, Adult Time laws in Parliament. This builds on the work already underway to restore community safety after a decade where victim numbers rose 193% under the former government. While we are starting to see some early signs of progress from stronger laws and a more focused approach, I know from conversations across our community that there is more to do. Turning around long-term challenges takes time, but the commitment remains clear: to back our police, hold offenders accountable, and make our communities safer. On Saturday, I had the privilege of attending a number of ANZAC Day services across the electorate, including the Dawn Service, RSL service, cemetery service, as well as services at Forrest Beach, Halifax and Cardwell. Each service was moving in its own way, and it was encouraging to see such strong attendance across all locations. It speaks to the deep respect our community holds for those who have served, and the importance of continuing to honour their sacrifice. It is always a privilege to stand alongside our community on ANZAC Day and reflect on the values of service, mateship and sacrifice that continue to shape our nation. As always, I will continue to take the voices of Hinchinbrook to Brisbane, while staying closely connected to our community here at home.

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London and Canberra calling: Inaugural Westminster Prize launches

London and Canberra calling: Inaugural Westminster Prize launches

The Crisafulli Government is launching a new international prize for eight high-achieving Queensland students and two teachers. Successful applicants will fly to London to visit the birthplace of Westminster democracy and will undertake trips to Canberra and Brisbane parliaments. Applications for the inaugural program open on Monday 18 May to Queensland Year 9 students. The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future and supporting the State’s students and teachers. The Crisafulli Government is delivering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Queensland students and teachers to experience the birthplace of parliamentary democracy through a prestigious education prize. Launching today, the Westminster Prize is open to all Year 9 students across Queensland’s state schools, non-state schools, and homeschool settings who have a strong interest in civics and citizenship. It’s just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future after a decade of decline under Labor. Eight successful students will fly to London next year with two teacher chaperones to experience first-hand aspects of the Westminster system of government, which is the foundation of Australia’s parliamentary democracy. The prize also includes trips to Canberra and Brisbane parliaments where students will gain valuable knowledge, insights and experiences with Australia’s political system. The Westminster Prize is a new initiative from the Crisafulli Government and adds to existing excellence programs including the Premier’s ANZAC Prize, the Premier’s Reading Challenge and the Peter Doherty Awards. Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the Westminster Prize aimed to strengthen Queensland students’ understanding of civics, citizenship and democratic participation. “This exciting new program offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students to travel to London, Canberra and Brisbane to learn about our rich history and political system,” Minister Langbroek said. “Today’s students are our future leaders, and the Crisafulli Government’s new Westminster Prize is a fantastic opportunity for them to travel, explore and deepen their understanding of democratic values. “Through the Westminster Prize, the eight students will grow their understanding of Queensland’s parliamentary system, Australia’s federal democracy and the Westminster model in the UK. “As well as their travels, the prize winners will deliver a local civics project focused on a community issue, applying their learning to real-world contexts.” British Consul General for Queensland and the Northern Territory Richard Cowin said he was delighted to support the fantastic initiative. “This exciting award gives students an amazing opportunity to see how the Westminster system works in real life and to experience the democratic traditions that connect the UK and Australia,” Mr Cowin said. “In a fast-changing world, understanding our shared values and approaches is more important than ever. “This prize will enable a lucky group of young Queenslanders to experience these principles firsthand and draw on them throughout their lives.” Applications to be part of the inaugural Westminster Prize open on 18 May and close 31 July, with interviews and selection in August and September. For more information, visit the website.

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Minute With The Mayor Ramon Jayo 16 December

December 15, 2025

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

December 15, 2025

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

December 15, 2025

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.

Healthy soil supports thriving farms and communities across rural Australia (Photo Supplied)

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Shell-ebrating Queensland’s Healthy Giant Mud Crab Populations

December 15, 2025

Queensland’s much-loved giant mud crab populations are thriving, with a major new study reaffirming the State Government’s commitment to maintaining a world-class and sustainable fisheries industry.

A recently completed study led by Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and co-funded by the Australian Government through the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) has confirmed that there is no current threat to the sustainability of the species. The research highlights the effectiveness of existing regulations, including the male-only harvest policy and the 15-centimetre legal minimum size limit.

The extensive project analysed approximately 20,000 giant mud crabs collected from across the state, using cutting-edge genetic techniques and satellite tagging to examine stock structure, monitor population health, and deepen the understanding of mud crab biology—particularly the spawning migration patterns of females.

DPI Principal Fisheries Scientist and lead researcher Dr Julie Robins said the findings provide strong scientific reassurance that Queensland’s management frameworks are successfully supporting healthy populations.

“Giant mud crabs are an iconic species and a vital part of Queensland’s fisheries, with our state accounting for 64% of Australia’s commercial harvest,” Dr Robins said.

“A significant success was the robust genetic analysis of the mud crab populations along the east coast and the Gulf of Carpentaria.

“Queensland’s male minimum legal-size limit ensures a proportion of mature males are available to reproduce and over 90% of females sampled were mated and getting ready to spawn. This means there’s no shortage of mature crabs to produce the next lot of offspring.”

Dr Robins said the research not only expanded scientific knowledge but also provided crucial biological reference points for future management.

“This study has added tremendous value to our collective knowledge and laid the groundwork for future discussions about mud crab management in Queensland,” she said.

"The collaborative nature of this project, working side-by-side with the commercial fishers, was invaluable. Their local knowledge was key to successfully gathering data on this iconic species."

As giant mud crabs remain a Queensland favourite—both commercially and recreationally—the study’s findings offer welcome confirmation that current sustainability measures are working, ensuring the species continues to flourish for generations to come.

Dr Julie Robins with one of the 20,000 giant mud crabs measured during the study. Photo Supplied
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Where Have All the Christmas Beetles Gone?

December 15, 2025

Hinchinbrook invited to Take Part in Festive Beetle Count

If you’ve wondered when you last spotted a Christmas beetle, you’re not alone. Many Australians have noticed fewer of these iconic, shiny insects in recent years. But there’s hope: researchers are calling on the community to help track their return through the annual Christmas Beetle Count.

Since the 1st of October, iNaturalist reports there have already been 226 sightings this season. The project, run by Invertebrates Australia, aims to understand the population trends of Christmas beetles and investigate why numbers may be declining.

Participants are encouraged to count and photograph any beetles they see, contributing to a national database that helps researchers solve the mystery of the Christmas beetle’s changing numbers. The sightings collected also help track species diversity, seasonal patterns, and distribution.

The project covers beetles from the genera Anoplognathus, Calloodes, and Repsimus, and sightings are recorded across Australia. So far, over 20,000 observations have been logged, with popular species including the Washerwoman (Anoplognathus porosus), Duck Billed Beetle (Anoplognathus montanus), and Emerald Tip Beetle (Anoplognathus brunnipennis).

To take part, locals can visit www.inaturalist.org/projects/christmas-beetle-count to submit observations. For those unsure how to identify the beetles, the Australian Museum’s Xmas Beetle ID Guide app is available on both iOS and Android.

By joining the Christmas Beetle Count, residents not only get a chance to enjoy a festive outdoor activity but also contribute valuable data to help protect these native insects for generations to come!

Spot a Christmas beetle in your backyard? Join the festive count and help track these iconic Aussie insects this season (Photo Supplied)
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Lucinda Store Brings The Coastal Cheer This Christmas

December 15, 2025

The Lucinda Store is once again the place to be this festive season, offering locals and visitors alike a one-stop shop for convenience, food, and coastal charm. Owned by the Fortini and Waldon families, the beachfront store is open seven days a week, serving everything from freshly prepared meals and barista-made coffee to everyday grocery essentials.

This Christmas, Lucinda Store is helping families celebrate with specially prepared prawn packs, perfect for holiday gatherings by the beach or at home. Alongside the fresh-caught festive seafood, customers can enjoy fresh fish and chips, homemade treats, pizzas, and the ever-popular Big Jetty Burger, all available to take away or enjoy in the relaxed alfresco dining area overlooking the iconic Lucinda Jetty and surrounding islands.

With cool ocean breezes and stunning views, the outdoor seating marks Lucinda Store as a destination for family meals, casual catch-ups, and beachside dining.

For those heading out on the water, their sister business, the Channel Inn Lucinda Convenience Store, complements the Lucinda Store by offering boating essentials, grab-and-go meals, frozen pizzas, locally sourced meats, fuel, ice, and a well-stocked bottleshop. It’s the perfect support for boaties and early risers looking for convenience and quality before their Christmas fishing trip.

Whether you’re stocking up for Christmas, enjoying a casual meal by the water, or preparing for a day out on the boat, Lucinda Store and Channel Inn Lucinda Convenience Store delivers fresh local produce and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

Enjoy a meal and shopping convenience at Luncinda Store. Photo supplied
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Merry Christmas From The Team At SPAR Halifax

December 15, 2025

The team at SPAR Halifax wishes the Halifax and wider Hinchinbrook community a joyful Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. We thank all our customers for their support throughout 2025 and hope your festive season is filled with friendship and good cheer.

As your local supermarket and post office, we are proud to help the community not only with everyday shopping essentials but also by assisting with sending and receiving Christmas gifts and parcels. Our team is here to make the festive season a little easier, helping your packages reach family and friends.

We look forward to continuing to serve you in 2026, providing friendly service, everyday grocery essentials, hot box favourites, and ongoing support for the community we are so grateful to be part of. Please note our Christmas closure is Thursday 25th December. We look forward to seeing you all in the New Year!

Happy Christmas from the team at SPAR Halifax. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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Welcome To Guido’s Panel & Paint

December 15, 2025

A Family Business

Guido’s Panel & Paint Pty Ltd has been a cornerstone of the Ingham and Cardwell community since 1992. Founded by Guido and Maria Giliberto, the family-owned business has grown from a two-man workshop in a small shed to a purpose-built facility on McIlwraith Street. Today, under the leadership of their son David, Guido’s continues to deliver high-quality panel repairs, spray painting, vehicle restorations, and maintenance services.

Over the years, the team has kept pace with changing technology, repair methods, and vehicle models, offering in-house training and opportunities for apprentices to develop skills in spray painting and panel beating. The business celebrates long-term, experienced staff and prides itself on returning vehicles to their pre-accident condition, or better.

Guido’s is deeply committed to the local community, supporting schools, clubs, non-profits, and events such as the previous Australian Italian Festival, the Kids Day Out fence painting event at the Maraka Festival, and the artistic Birdlife Awards. They always support the Secondary School Work Experience Program and welcome students to the workshop to have hands-on experiences in the vehicle repair industry.

This year, Guido’s Panel & Paint will close for the holiday break on Friday, December 19th, reopening on Monday, January 12th, 2026. While the team takes a well-earned rest, David and Maria remain available for emergency advice if needed. Customers are encouraged to explore premium JUICE Car Care products available at the workshop as a perfect gift or for personal use.

Whether you’re looking to restore a vehicle, learn about repairs, or simply support a family business that gives back to the community, Guido’s Panel & Paint continues to combine their expertise with dedication in everything they do.

Putting up the new sign outside the McIlwraith Street facility, in 1999. Photo supplied
Fence painting at the Maraka Festivals' Kids Big Day Out event. Photo supplied
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Office National Tully Expands Services Across Hinchinbrook

December 15, 2025

Office National Tully is strengthening its presence across North Queensland, now extending its services to businesses, schools and organisations throughout the Hinchinbrook region, including Ingham and surrounding communities.

Based in Tully, the locally operated business has built a strong reputation for supplying office products, technology solutions and workplace essentials tailored to regional needs. With existing clients already in the Hinchinbrook area, the expansion reflects growing demand for reliable, locally backed service beyond their immediate base.

Office National Tully offers a comprehensive range of office supplies, furniture, print and technology solutions, supporting workplaces of all sizes. Their focus on personalised service means customers receive practical advice, flexible ordering options and dependable delivery, helping businesses stay productive and well equipped.

The move to support more Hinchinbrook customers reinforces the company’s commitment to regional Queensland.  By bringing its services to Ingham and nearby areas, Office National Tully aims to provide local businesses with easier access to quality products and trusted support, without relying on distant metropolitan suppliers.

As workplaces continue to adapt and grow, having a dependable office supply partner close to home makes a meaningful difference. Office National Tully’s expanded service area ensures Hinchinbrook businesses can access the same high standard of service, expertise and product range that has made the company a trusted name throughout the Cassowary Coast.

The shopfront in Tully. Photo supplied

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A Year Of Achievement, Creativity And Community

December 15, 2025

At Gilroy Santa Maria College

2025 has been a year to remember at Gilroy Santa Maria College, marked by outstanding achievements across the arts, sport, academics and community life.

The Arts Retrospective at the Gilroy Santa Maria Centre was an evening showcasing student talent in music, dance, sculpture, painting, photography, and makeup design. Year 11 and 12 Hospitality students played a key role, planning and delivering the event while preparing and serving a four-course dinner.

A significant milestone was celebrated as the College marked 75 years of education, faith and community connection.

Hospitality students continued to impress with The Red Lantern, an Asian-inspired degustation event designed and managed by senior students completing their Certificate II in Hospitality.

Sporting achievements were a highlight of the year, with the Gilroy Velocity Raptors travelling to Germany to compete on the world stage. School teams recorded strong results across football, netball, futsal, touch and cricket, including multiple regional and zone championships, while many students earned NQ representative honours.

Creative excellence was recognised for 2 students at the Hinchinbrook Birdlife Awards and the Hinchinbrook Art Awards.

Academic success was equally impressive, with 11 students achieving 100 percent results across a range of subjects and a record eight early university offers.

Several students achieved exceptional individual success in 2025. Sophie was named among the top three finalists in Queensland for Trainee of the Year and completed a Certificate III in Health Support Assistance through the Deadly Start Program. Conor secured a school-based apprenticeship with DC Auto Electrical Works and is completing a Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology.

Grace excelled academically and in sport, earning North Queensland representation in Girls Rugby 7s while achieving perfect assessment results across English, Biology and Chemistry. Gemma was awarded the prestigious Deus Caritas Est Award by Townsville Catholic Education, along with a Queensland Agriculture Teachers Association Certificate of Excellence. She completed a Certificate III in Agriculture, a traineeship with Tropical Agricultural Services, and recorded outstanding academic results across Biology, English and General Mathematics.

The year concluded with a moving Year 12 Graduation Mass, celebrating achievement and the strong sense of community that defines Gilroy Santa Maria College.

Year 12 graduation mass. Photo supplied
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Year 6 Graduation Dinner

December 15, 2025

At Our Lady Of Lourdes

Highlights of the Year 6 Graduation Dinner included students beginning the evening with a beautifully prepared dance, followed by a reflection from the School Captains on their years at Our Lady of Lourdes.

Guests then enjoyed a meal together before the graduates were presented with their certificates. It was a wonderful evening celebrating the conclusion of their primary school journey, surrounded by parents, friends, and staff.

The school wishes God’s blessings on all students as they begin the next chapter of their learning journey.

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Ingham State High School Scholar of the Year

December 15, 2025

Congratulations to Zoe Lahtinen

Ingham State High School is proud to announce that Year 12 student, Zoe Lahtinen, has been named the 2025 Herbert River District Canegrowers/Mitre 10 Senior Secondary Scholar of the Year. The award was presented at the school’s recent Annual Awards Ceremony and recognises the highest overall academic achievement across five General Subjects, based on results and rankings at the end of Term 3.

Zoe’s outstanding academic performance and commitment to excellence set her apart in a highly competitive field. In addition to receiving the school’s most prestigious academic award, Zoe was also honoured with several major accolades on the night, including:

· Distinction with Honours for Studies, acknowledging an “A” standard across all subjects
· Distinction for Service, recognising her contribution to the school and wider community
· Subject Awards for Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, and Physics
· The ADF Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award – Year 12, celebrating her leadership, resilience, and teamwork

Zoe’s academic performance this year has been outstanding, achieving a perfect score of 100% in her Internal Assessments for both Chemistry and Mathematical Methods—an exceptional accomplishment that showcases her dedication and exemplary work ethic.

Teachers describe Zoe as a motivated, thoughtful and inquisitive learner who consistently strives for mastery in every subject she undertakes. Her achievements highlight not only academic excellence but also the discipline and determination required to reach the highest levels of success.

Looking ahead, Zoe has set her sights on a career in medicine and hopes to study a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery at James Cook University in Townsville. With her strong academic foundation and commitment to helping others, she is well on her way to an exciting future.

The Ingham State High School community extends its warmest congratulations to Zoe on her incredible accomplishments. We are immensely proud of all she has achieved and look forward to seeing the many ways she will continue to excel.

Senior Secondary Scholar of the Year, Zoe Lahtinen. Photo supplied

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Saint Peter's Catholic School Achievers 2025

December 15, 2025

JEDDA MICK

  • Blue Light Resilience Award

JOSEPH MICK

  • Sports Award

JAYDEN MANN

  • P-2 Academic Award

ELLA CAMERON

  • Mitre-10 Leadership Award

GABRIEL LANCINI

  • 3-6 Diligence Award

ELYSE COOPER

  • 3-6 Spirit Award

ELIJAH STUMPE

  • 3-6 Academic Award

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Gilroy Santa Maria College 2025 School Achievers

December 15, 2025

SOPHIE

  • Reached top 3 QLD Trainee of the Year, attained her Cert III Health Support Assistance which she undertook through the Deadly Start Program.

CONOR

  • obtained a School Based Apprenticeship through DC Aoto Electrical Works, he will also be completing his Cert III Automotive Electrical Technology.

GRACE

  • Sports Rep NQ Schools Girls Rugby 7s, 100% IA1 and IA2 – English, 100% IA2 and IA3 – Biology, 100% IA1, IA2 and IA3 – Chemistry

EMERSON

  • High Jump Record 1.26m, NQ Schools Rep – Athletics

GEMMA

  • Deus Caritas Est Award – Awarded by Townsville Catholic Education, most prestigious award recognising Christian Living and Faith in Action. QATA (QLD Agriculture Teachers Assoc) Certificate of Excellence in recognition of her outstanding performance, dedication, and very high level of achievement in both theoretical understanding and practical application. Completed a Certificate III in Agriculture and a traineeship with Tropical Agricultural Services.  100% IA1, IA2 and IA3 – Biology. 100% IA2 – English. 100% IA1 – General Mathematics.

NQ Reps
Futsal - Lewis and Brax
Field Sports - Summer and Noah
Open Cricket – Brandon
Athletics – Finlee & Emmerson
13s/14s Cricket – Rori
Track – Jack and Molly-Rose
Cricket – Julian

Lions Club Sports Awards
Junior Sportstar of the Year Winner - Julian
Junior Sportstar of the Year Runner Up - Brax
Senior Sportstar Encouragement Award - Spencer
Sports Innovation Team Winner - Gilroy Velocity Raptors
Sports Team of the Year 2nd - GSMC U13 Futsal
Sports Team of the Year 3rd - GSMC U13 Mixed Touch

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Late Night Shopping Returns For A Festive Second Round

December 15, 2025

After the overwhelming success of the first Late Night Shopping evening in late November, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council is gearing up to deliver another festive celebration on Thursday, 18th December from 5pm.

Last month’s event drew hundreds of enthusiastic shoppers who filled Lannercost, Palm Terrace, Herbert, and Cartwright Streets, as well as Hinchinbrook Central and Mercer Lane. The expanded precinct layout proved a winner, giving locals and visitors the opportunity to explore a wider range of retailers while showcasing the diversity of Ingham’s shopping districts. The atmosphere came alive thanks to Christmas carols from the Ingham Theatre Group and a lively performance by the talented local duo Obsession who kept the festive spirit flowing.

With retailers and market stalls embracing the season by offering discounts, special deals, and Black Friday–inspired bargains, the first event created a real sense of community buzz. Restaurants, cafés and a pop-up barbecue joined in by serving discounted dinners and sweet treats to keep shoppers fueled as they browsed their way through the precincts.

To keep the festive momentum going, some of your favourites have been confirmed for the second evening, with market stall holders and local shops confirmed to keep the shopping party going.

Families can look forward to Santa making a return appearance in NQ Makers Function Room, where you can snap your own Christmas phots. With the success of November’s event still echoing through the community, this second instalment offers one more chance to support local shops, discover new favourites, and enjoy a relaxed night of Christmas shopping under the summer evening sky.

If you missed the first event or simply want to back your favourite boutiques, stalls, and local traders again, make sure you mark your calendar.

WHAT: Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Late Night Shopping
WHEN: Thursday 18th December 2025, 5pm to 9pm
WHERE: Ingham township precincts, including Lannercost Street, Mercer Lane & Palm Terrace.

Many people enjoyed the homemade goods for sale along the streets and in the stores. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
The Grinch got up to much mischief during the first Late Night Shopping event and at the Carols in Rotary Park. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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