Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
2026 has marked an exciting new chapter for Science at Our Lady of Lourdes with the introduction of Science as a specialist subject across the school. Aligned with the Australian Curriculum Version 9, our science program provides students with opportunities to investigate real-world phenomena through hands-on learning, creativity, inquiry and play. At Lourdes, we believe that students learn best when they are actively engaged in meaningful experiences that allow them to question, explore, design, test and create. Across every year level, students have been immersed in learning that encourages curiosity while developing important skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving and resilience. Our Year 2 students have stepped into the role of designers and inventors by creating their own fidget toys. Students investigated how materials can be changed and selected for specific purposes, using the design process to create products that are both practical and engaging. They have loved seeing how different products can be made, especially their favourite toys. Students at Our Lady of Lourdes have had lots of fun being inventors. Photos supplied
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Feel the Magic is providing vital support to children and families across Australia who are navigating the pain of grief, offering a range of free early intervention programs designed to help young people “face, feel and heal” after the death of a parent, guardian or sibling. At the heart of the organisation is a belief that no child should face grief alone. Its programs create a nurturing, supportive environment where children aged 7 to 18 can express their emotions, learn coping strategies, and connect with others who understand their experience. Through its virtual camp programs, Feel the Magic is able to reach families regardless of location. These online sessions bring together grieving children to learn a shared “grief language”, build practical emotional tools, and reduce feelings of isolation through connection with other families. The organisation also offers specialised programs for those impacted by suicide bereavement. These include virtual camps, a one-day face-to-face “Let’s Talk Suicide Family Day Camp”, and the signature Camp Magic experience—an intensive 2.5-day overnight program where children are paired with trained volunteer mentors who provide one-on-one support throughout the camp. Camp Magic focuses on helping children understand grief, regulate difficult emotions and develop healthy coping strategies in a safe and structured environment. A concurrent emotional literacy workshop is also available for parents and guardians, helping families better understand grief responses and strengthen communication at home. For older participants, Grad Camp supports young people aged 16 to 19 as they transition into adulthood while continuing to process their grief experience. Across all programs, Feel the Magic emphasises connection, understanding and hope, with the organisation noting that even a single day can make a meaningful difference in a child’s journey through grief. To learn more about how you can get involved email lauren.galbraith@feelthemagic.org.au. WHAT: Family Day Camp WHEN: 26th July WHERE: The Cathedral School, Townsville
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A strong school community is built on the dedication of its people. At the heart of Halifax SS are highly experienced and caring learning support staff who ensure every student feels included, supported, and capable of success. Their work, alongside experienced and innovative teachers, creates engaging classrooms where creativity and curiosity thrive. Play-based learning is one example of this approach in action, helping students develop confidence, independence, and a love of learning from an early age. Bringing these strengths together is exceptional leadership. This has been recognised through the awarding of the prestigious Bill McClintock Medal, introduced in 2016 to honour individuals who contribute to the advocacy and service of the Queensland Association of State School Principals (QASSP), particularly through supporting colleagues across regional and remote communities. “We are all very proud of Michael for receiving this award,” a spokesperson said. “It reflects a commitment not only to school excellence, but to strengthening education across Queensland. “Together, caring support staff, innovative teaching, and award-winning leadership create an environment where students and communities thrive.” Caption: 1. Teacher aide Jenny Genrich incorporates play-based learning to actively engage students and support early skill development in the classroom. 2. Presentation of the Bill McClintock Medal, recognising outstanding leadership and service to education across Queensland.
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When disaster strikes, firefighters are often the first people the community turns to. But behind every emergency response is a team of locals who give their time, train regularly and step up when their neighbours need them most. Forrest Beach Fire and Rescue is encouraging more community members, particularly younger residents, to consider joining the station and becoming part of the team. "It's a good thing to get people back in from the community, especially for the station here; because we're an elderly community. Getting the younger people in is really, really important,” said Acting Lieutenant Keith Amos. Keith highlighted that being part of the station is a chance to make a tangible impact on the community- and not just in cases of fire. During the major flooding event of 2025 that isolated Forrest Beach and surrounding areas, firefighters assisted residents, with rescues, but also delivering meals and helping secure damaged homes. "The floods, when we were cut off, the way we were seen by the community and how we helped people really made an impact," Keith said. The crew’s role is diverse, and potential recruits are reminded that it’s not all flashing lights and sirens. Beyond the emergencies, auxiliary firefighters have an important role in the everyday community; regularly attending markets, school safety days and events to teach fire safety and engage with local families. During the recent Tasman Turtle Picnic Day, a popular community event for children, countless young attendees were proudly sporting the station’s bright, colourful Blazer the Koala firefighting mascot stickers. "We try and get into the community, showing what we do," Auxiliary Firefighter Michael Monbelli said. Michael also explained that for him, the biggest obstacle is balancing service with everyday life – though this factor he feels is understood and well-supported by the crew. Michael balances his firefighting role with full time work at the mill, and a busy family life with young children. On his team, there is a schoolteacher, two ex-servicemen, and another millworker. Auxiliary firefighters also commit significant time to weekly training. As for emergency response, call-outs can occur at any hour of the day or night. "Being an auxiliary is that we're on call.” Acting Lieutenant Keith Amos explained. “So even on our Wednesday night training we can get a call." Keith described the role as ‘drop everything and jump into action’. Despite the demands, Former Army serviceman Mark McEwen believes many people underestimate how manageable the role can be. "It doesn't take too much out of your normal week. Give up your three hours of training on a Wednesday, and you're on call." At the same time, emergency work can be unpredictable. "Things can change in a heartbeat," Mark said. He recalled a 4:00am call-out to a possible house fire. "Eight hours later, we get home. Us older fellas feel it a bit more, but it was worthwhile. That's what we're here for." The crew also works closely with volunteer organisations including the SES and Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club. During the February 2025 flood event, firefighters and surf lifesavers combined resources to rescue elderly residents trapped by rising floodwaters. According to the firefighters, the biggest motivation to get involved is that it feels good to make a difference in your community. "It's that sense of pride," Keith said, "I take pride in this job and I love doing it." "Even if you've never thought about becoming a firefighter, come down and have a chat to us," Keith said. "It's that simple.” Caption: Members of the Forrest Beach Auxiliary Firefighters: Glyn Morgan, former Air Force serviceman, and Braydon Fratus, local mill worker and the brigade's newest recruit, standing by the Forrest Beach Brigade’s fire engine.
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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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
JEDDA MICK
JOSEPH MICK
JAYDEN MANN
ELLA CAMERON
GABRIEL LANCINI
ELYSE COOPER
ELIJAH STUMPE
SOPHIE
CONOR
GRACE
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EMERSON
GEMMA
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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
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.
As we wrap up a wonderful year, we bid farewell to our Year 6 graduates and Mrs Sandra Gherardi, whose contributions have been truly valued. We also proudly celebrate Mrs Marcelle Grube for an incredible 25 years of dedicated service to St Peter’s and Townsville Catholic Education. We thank our families and the community for their ongoing support and partnership throughout 2025. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas, and a season filled with peace and joy.
We look forward to welcoming you all back in 2026 for another exciting year together!
Cantatore Pharmacy officially reopened its doors at 86 Cartwright Street in Ingham on Wednesday, 10th December 2025, with a lively Grand Opening celebration that drew many inquisitive customers and local supporters. The store was filled with seasonal festive cheer, creating a welcoming atmosphere for the community.
Atlanta Knuth of Cantatore Pharmacy said the team was thrilled with the turnout, “Our official reopening day at Cantatore Pharmacy was a fantastic success, with both new and returning customers joining us to celebrate.”
She also highlighted the Christmas spirit present throughout the event as “The store was filled with festive Christmas spirit as everyone enjoyed giveaways, food, and drinks throughout the day.”
The pharmacy also welcomed the support of local leaders, with Atlanta thanking the Mayor for cutting the opening ribbon with them.
“We are incredibly grateful for the warm support from our community and extend a sincere thank-you to the Mayor of Ingham, Ramon Jayo, for attending and helping us mark this special occasion,” Atlanta said, “We wish the community a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”
The event showcased the pharmacy’s full range of health, beauty, and lifestyle products, including the new Dukes weight-loss range, MCo Beauty products, and fragrances with discounts of 20–30%. Shoppers could enjoy professional foundation colour matching, sample Vital Nutrients and Dukes products, or browse Scholl and Homyped footwear for support and comfort.
Cantatore Pharmacy also emphasised its community focus with a raffle supporting the children’s cancer charity My Room, alongside generous contributions from local suppliers and businesses. Custom gift packs and complimentary gift wrapping added a festive touch, making it easy for visitors to find thoughtful gifts.
Beyond retail, the pharmacy provides private consultations, home deliveries, and mobility aids, catering to health and wellness needs across the district. The Grand Opening highlighted Cantatore Pharmacy as a friendly, community-minded hub, combining professional service with a welcoming space for locals just in time for the festive season.
This gorgeous trio of Staffy cross puppies is ready to melt hearts and find their forever families. Affectionate, intelligent and full of gentle charm, they each bring their own sparkle while sharing the same loving and easy-going nature that makes them beautiful companions.
These pups thrive on human connection and whether it is cuddling on the couch, learning new skills or tagging along for family time, they adore being close to their people. They enjoy the company of other dogs and are wonderfully social little characters, making them well-suited to homes with existing pets.
Harvey is the laid-back boy of the group, bringing calm energy and a peaceful presence wherever he goes. Harley is the sweet snuggle lover who is always ready for affection. Hestia is the devoted little shadow who loves nothing more than curling up in your lap and sharing her warmth. Together, they offer a mix of heartfelt personalities, each bursting with love to give.
These puppies are ready to grow, learn and flourish with families who can offer patience, kindness and plenty of cuddles. If you are looking for a loving, loyal and family-friendly pup, Harvey, Harley or Hestia might be the perfect match for you.
Fill in an inquiry or adoption form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html
All puppies are DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, have up-to-date VACCINATIONS, are FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated and are on PROHEART.
Adoption Fee: $545
DOB: 13/06/2025
Sex: Harvey (Male), Harley (Male), Hestia (Female)
Breed: Staffy x
Kid Friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Harvey (Untested), Harley (Untested), Hestia (Yes)
Other Dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft
Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!
Another busy week has come and gone, and I think this last weekend was probably one of my busiest yet! A few weeks ago when we met with Hinchinbrook Shire Council and they mentioned there had been community requests for a Christmas Lights Trail, a guide to the region’s best festive displays, and they wondered if we might put one together.
At the paper, we are always keen to deliver for the community, so we decided to accept the challenge!
Sherie and I hopped in the car and hit the roads, and went full-on “light hunt” mode to track down all the local Christmas displays for you. We drove around for ages, oohing and aahing at all the lights. Then we turned our road trip into our very special Christmas Lights Trail, ready for you to follow too.
You can check it out on pages 6 and 7 and don’t forget to peek at some of last year’s best displays! Hope you love it as much as we enjoyed creating it for you.
It is so wonderful to get out and see everybody enjoying the Festival of Events and all the other end-of-year celebrations in between. It sounds like the whole Hinchinbrook Shire is carolling up a Christmas storm before the actual wet season hits.
On that note, are you prepared for the wet? The Hinchinbrook Shire Council has published many great tips on how to get prepared, useful checklists, and helpful information sessions. If you have somehow missed those on their Facebook pages, the Hinchinbrook Life publishes it all too, so keep a copy of us handy. You never know how much you will enjoy a crossword by candlelight once the power goes off and you have nothing else to do.
Victoria
Fun Fact: The Grinch first appeared in the 1957 children’s book How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr Seuss and has since become a beloved Christmas figure.
“As owner and operator of Golden Touch Auto Detailing, this morning was a very proud moment for me,” said Frank as he delivered a cheque for $1,180 to Ingham Palliative Care.
Frank presented the cheque to Judy Cardillo, expressing his gratitude to everyone who supported this important local initiative. The funds were raised through his inaugural detailing workshop, along with generous contributions from community members who donated to the cause.
He said the morning gave him the greatest pleasure and pride to hand the cheque over, reflecting the community’s willingness to get behind such a meaningful local service that helps so many.
The donation was warmly received, marking a heartfelt moment of generosity and local business giving back.
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