Community News

Painting The Region’s Story  Lavinia Brings Hinchinbrook To Life Through Murals

Painting The Region’s Story Lavinia Brings Hinchinbrook To Life Through Murals

Lavinia Letheby has created murals across Hinchinbrook, celebrating local identity 🎨 Her work appears in Taylor’s Beach, Lucinda, Cardwell, Dungeness, Halifax, and TYTO Wetlands Murals highlight wildlife, landscapes, culture, and community stories She researches each town to reflect its history and character Lavinia says public art helps create local pride and lasting landmarks

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North Queenslanders Called To Celebrate The State’s Best For QLD Day

North Queenslanders Called To Celebrate The State’s Best For QLD Day

North Queenslanders are being encouraged to shine a spotlight on their favourite people, places and businesses, with nominations now open for the 2026 QLD Day Awards and voting underway for the All the Best campaign. Held annually on 6 June, QLD Day celebrates the state’s identity, recognising the individuals and icons that make Queensland unique, from grassroots community heroes to beloved local businesses and destinations. The All the Best campaign invites Queenslanders to vote across 15 categories, including everything from the best bakery to the state’s most stunning beach, while the QLD Day Awards focus on honouring outstanding individuals and organisations. Premier David Crisafulli said the initiative was about celebrating the very best of the state. “From your local pizzeria to your favourite beach, we want Queenslanders to share what they love most about our amazing State,” he said. “We’re also calling on all Queenslanders to help us recognise our amazing community members and organisations by nominating them as part of this year’s competition.” North Queensland has already proven a strong contender in past years, with Ingham teacher Carina Chesson recognised as one of five Local Legends. “It was truly humbling as I felt there were hundreds of local legends who assisted during the 2025 local floods, but it was amazing to have my wonderful small rural town of Ingham acknowledged,” Ms Chesson said. Winners for the All the Best campaign will be announced on 3 June.‍CAPTION: Carina Chesson was recognised as one of 2025’s Queensland Day’s five Local Legends. Photo supplied

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QUESTION TIME : Fuel Crisis with Wayde Chiesa, Member for Hinchinbrook

QUESTION TIME : Fuel Crisis with Wayde Chiesa, Member for Hinchinbrook

QUESTION TIME : Fuel CrisisWith Wayde Chiesa, Member for Hinchinbrook‍Q: The fuel crisis is impacting the whole world, but what do you see as the key pressure points here in our community? What are you actively doing to advocate for change or improved assistance through your networks? A:
The biggest pressure points I’m hearing about are for farmers, tradies, freight operators and families who simply do not have other options. In a region like ours, when fuel goes up, everything goes up — from harvesting and freight to groceries, services and getting kids to school. For our sugar industry, additional diesel costs during harvest are a major concern. I have raised this in Parliament because it is critical that there is a national plan to not only secure diesel supply for our region, but that it is available at a reasonable cost. I’m working closely with industry groups, local businesses, State colleagues and Federal counterparts to make sure local impacts are understood. I’m also pushing for practical measures like a national fuel dashboard, with real-time supply information, and for stronger long-term fuel security for Australia. Q: People are feeling the pinch not only at the fuel pump, but also at the checkout. There is growing concern about the cost of living and the future stability of regional economies. What would you like to say to reassure our readers, while also speaking plainly about the influencing factors and what they should be aware of? A:
There is no sugar-coating it — people are doing it tough, and the uncertainty is weighing heavily on families, businesses and communities. Cost of living pressures are real, and in regional areas like ours they hit harder because of freight, distance and fewer alternatives. What I want people to know is this: our region is resilient. We have faced challenges before and we have always come through them by backing each other and supporting local. There are broader pressures at play — global fuel prices, supply chain issues and economic uncertainty — but that does not mean regional communities should be left to carry the burden alone. I will keep advocating for policies and support that recognise the realities of living in the regions. Please keep sharing what you are seeing on the ground, because that local feedback matters. Q: What other common concerns are you currently hearing in your community? What solutions or reassurances would you like to share with our readers? A: Alongside cost of living, the issues I hear about most are roads, youth crime and workforce shortages. These are not abstract concerns — they affect how safe people feel, how easily they can move around the region, and whether local businesses can grow. On youth crime, people want continued action and greater community safety. We have seen 391 new recruits for our region in 18 months and good results from Operation Forge in only one month of its inception. Flood resiliance on our farms and roads. Areas like Bruce Highway at Gairloch and Seymour, the community expects practical upgrades and honest communication. I will keep working to ensure local feedback is taken directly to the Minister and department. And on workforce, the long-term answer is making our region an easier place to live and work — with the right housing, services, training and support to not only attract but retain people here.

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QUESTION TIME: Fuel Crisis with Bob Katter, Federal Member for Kennedy

QUESTION TIME: Fuel Crisis with Bob Katter, Federal Member for Kennedy

QUESTION TIME : Fuel Crisis Bob Katter, Federal Member for Kennedy:‍ Q: The fuel crisis is impacting the whole world, but what do you see as the key pressure points here in our community? What are you actively doing to advocate for change or improved assistance through your networks? A: Whilst North Queenslanders had a win by forcing Government to halve the fuel excise tax and suspend the heavy vehicle road user charge last Monday – a full fortnight after my request in writing to the Prime Minister, on behalf of the transport sector and regional communities demanding urgent action – it’s a stay of execution, not a solution, for primary producers on the knife-edge of a crumbling supply chain for our national food security. The Government didn’t lead on this – they were dragged to it – which proves that when the people fight, they can still win. But right now, we’re fighting for immediate Government action to guarantee time-critical diesel and fertiliser supplies that are not cost-prohibitive for the continuation of primary industries across North Queensland. And we remain in constant contact with the Prime Minister, Treasurer and Energy Minister to secure critical interventions where cumulative supply pressures are most acute, from our regional centres to our rural and remote communities. Q: People are feeling the pinch not only at the fuel pump, but also at the checkout. There is growing concern about the cost of living and the future stability of regional economies. What would you like to say to reassure our readers, while also speaking plainly about the influencing factors and what they should be aware of? A: Until Australia can fuel itself, this crisis will continue. As one of the world’s biggest producers of grain and sugar as ethanol feedstocks, we're uniquely placed for self-sufficiency – yet we live at the mercy of the Middle East. While my electorate offices from Mount Isa to Innisfail are assisting our local families and regional industries being stung at the pointiest end of the global supply chain, we are told just today that two of Melbourne’s biggest truck stops are both out of diesel, while our canegrowers can’t secure diesel or fertiliser supplies for upcoming harvesting or the next crop – never mind at the doubled-plus prices leaving the whole enterprise in the balance. I have warned continuously that ‘we will go without fuel’ – and now what I am telling my fellow Australians is, 'you will go without food'. The fuel crisis hitting North Queensland’s once-great foodbowl industries from fishing to farming… soon there won't be any left, leaving our regional communities facing a precarious future as ghost towns. Q: What other common concerns are you currently hearing in your community? What solutions or reassurances would you like to share with our readers? A: You cannot run a country on imported fuel and expect security. Australia is 20 per cent self-sufficient in oil, yet only three per cent in petrol. As I have reiterated in Parliament and our ongoing representations to Government in recent weeks, this escalating crisis impels at the very least: banning Australian oil exports, which we buy back as foreign-owned fuel for 10 times what we sell it for; reopening recently closed fuel refineries, and ramping up production at our remaining two; and ramping up ethanol production (including converting sugar mills and boosting our existing grain and sugar ethanol plants), alongside immediate enforcement, in full, of existing ethanol and biodiesel mandates in Queensland and New South Wales, and urgent expansion to 10 per cent ethanol-blended petrol nationally; to ensure we use all we produce in our thriving regional industries, whilst further reducing our dangerous reliance on dirtier, imported fuels that cost Australians’ health and hip-pockets to deliver super-profits to our foreign overlords. ‍

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A Tropical Plant Paradise In Cardwell

October 9, 2025

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

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

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GEORGE WICKHAM WHO?

October 9, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed with thanks by Dr Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui

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

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The Flood's 'Mud Army' Receives Recognition

October 9, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

October 9, 2025

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

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

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You Caught Colin!

October 9, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

October 9, 2025

Tuesday 30 September

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thursday 2 October

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday 5 October

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thursday 9 October

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

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

Friday 10 October

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

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

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

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Recognising And Supporting Men In Our Community

October 9, 2025

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

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

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

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Stop This Seasons Crawlers With A Local Expert

October 13, 2025

The Pest Control Guy

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

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

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HELP Backs Halifax CWA With $1000 Donation

October 9, 2025

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

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

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

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

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Victoria's View | 23 September 2025

October 9, 2025

Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!

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

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

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

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.

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Hinchinbrook Celebrates New Citizens

October 9, 2025

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

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

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

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

New Australian citizens welcomed.

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Ingham Team Recognised As Finalists In 2025 Queensland Mental Health Awards

October 9, 2025

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

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

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

The team at the Selectability clubhouse. Photo supplied

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Ingham Meals On Wheels Honoured With Prestigious Rhoda Cameron Award

October 9, 2025

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

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

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

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

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Ingham Powers Up With New Electric Vehicle Charging Station

October 9, 2025

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

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

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

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

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Cairns To Singapore On The New Airbus!

October 9, 2025

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

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

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.

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Enjoy the new A350's amazing Business Class seats. Photo supplied
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The International Terminal is set to undergo a $55mil transformation. Photo supplied

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