Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!

Last week, I felt like I was running around like a chicken without a head. Back and forth, round and round, all about town, over mountains and across rivers, sunrise to sunset and beyond, a journo's job is never done!

On top of interviews, photo-ops, sports events, meetings, paper deliveries and writing, I somehow managed to also be a part of Ingham Community Theatre Group's theatre restaurant production: Wink at the Sphinx. It was so fun to be on stage again. I love building characters and getting to act them out. I was part of the ensemble cast, a Turkish merchant specialising in shoes, fabrics and lotions. Sphinx Screen, anyone?

Much love to all my fellow cast members, the production team and all the wonderful audience. Your laughter made us feel brighter than the golden genie.

This week is looking just as busy with the Teen Odyssey Horizon gallery exhibition opening at Tyto and the Sugar City Rodeo bound to blow us all away. See you 'round Hinchinbrookshire, say hello if you spot me out and about!

Victoria

Fun fact: Journalism is the practice of gathering, investigating, curating, and presenting news and information to the public through various media channels. You can find journalism in many forms, like newspapers, magazines, television, radio, and the Internet. The fast-paced nature of news reporting means that journalists frequently operate under intense deadlines, as much news is time-sensitive.

Residents of the Rockingham Home for the Aged in Cardwell are set to enjoy more outdoor gatherings thanks to two new Weber Family Q barbecues donated by Cardwell Meals on Wheels and the RSL.

The donation came after the home urgently required a replacement barbecue. Each month, the Rockingham Home hosts barbecue lunches for residents and their families, and the new equipment will ensure this much-loved tradition continues.

As a gesture of thanks, the home invited the Meals on Wheels Committee to join residents for a special barbecue lunch, where everyone came together to celebrate the donation and enjoyed a hearty meal.

Cardwell Meals on Wheels, the RSL and the Rockingham Home have built a long-standing relationship over many years, working closely to support the needs of local residents. This partnership remains an important part of the community and is expected to continue well into the future.

This donation is one of many contributions made by the RSL Sub Branch, which has already given back $15,500 to the local community this year alone. For the residents of Rockingham Home, the BBQ represents much more than just a place to cook—it’s a reminder that they are supported, valued, and connected to their community.

On Saturday, 30th August, the Hinchinbrook Shire Library welcomed a special event as local MP Nick Dametto and Mayor Ramon Jayo officially opened The Basques in Australia exhibition. The photographic display, created in the Basque Country with support from the Basque Government, offers a captivating insight into the history and contribution of the Basque community in North Queensland.

The exhibition highlights the impact of Basque families in towns such as Ayr, Ingham and Mareeba, where they played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s sugar and tobacco industries. Visitors were treated to a rich visual journey, with images capturing both daily life and the broader cultural heritage of the Basque community.

One of the exhibition’s most poignant moments came when Thomas Garate shared a photograph of himself and his brother, a memory that resonated deeply with those in attendance and underscored the stories of migration, resilience and hard work that define the Basque experience in Australia.

Locals featured in the photographs were particularly celebrated, giving the community a unique chance to connect with their shared history. Mr Pedro Mendiolea, President of the Basque Club of North Queensland, was acknowledged for his role in supporting the exhibition and preserving these important stories.

The exhibition will remain on display until Friday 6 September, offering a final opportunity for residents and visitors alike to explore this remarkable celebration of culture, heritage and community.

It was busy last week in State Parliament, and a lot of the issues were raised that hit close to home for many North Queenslanders. I had the opportunity to speak about the ongoing crime in our region, why law-abiding people should have access to pepper spray for self-protection, and reiterated the calls from the community for Castle Law.

Additionally, the State Government passed new domestic violence laws with the passage of the Domestic and Family Violence Protection and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025. On the surface, these laws are meant to give greater protection to domestic violence victims, but there were many questions raised about how the laws will operate, as they could end up doing more harm than good.

From the 1st of January 2026, the laws will give police the power to issue 12-month Police Protection Directions (PPDs) on a suspected domestic violence perpetrator without any judicial oversight. Police play a critical role in keeping our communities safe, but they are not judges. Handing them powers with long-term legal consequences, without court involvement, is a big step, and one that comes with serious risks.

Under these new laws, a PPD can instantly affect someone’s domestic violence history, revoke their firearms licence, and make them ineligible for a Blue or Yellow Card. This is concerning because it is not uncommon for the wrong person to be identified as the aggressor when police first respond to a domestic violence incident. Misidentification could mean that the victim actually becomes subject to a PPD. A court review of the PPD can be requested; however, choosing to do so carries the risk that the court could replace the PPD with a five-year domestic violence order instead.

Combatting domestic and family violence is critical, and I fully support policy and legislation that would work to reduce domestic violence rates and victim numbers. But rushed, band-aid fixes that risk punishing innocent people are not the answer. Judicial oversight exists for a reason, and placing that decision making responsibility onto our police is unfair in my opinion.

Contributed with thanks to Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto.

Nick Dametto MP and former Cowboys player Glenn Hall are physically and mentally preparing to take on a bucking bull at the Ingham Sugar City Rodeo Charity Bull Ride on Saturday, 6 September.

The Hinchinbrook MP is eager to return to the arena and go head-to-head with Glenn Hall, all in the name of raising much-needed funds for Ingham Palliative Care.

Glenn, a former North Queensland Cowboys forward, retired at the end of the 2015 season after a stellar 14-year career. Despite his sporting achievements, Glenn has never sat on a bull, let alone ridden one, but admits it has been on his bucket list for a very long time.

Mr Dametto said the challenge of getting back on a bull was nothing compared to what families go through when they are faced with losing a loved one.

“Supporting anyone during end-of-life care is tough, but the team at Ingham Palliative Care do an amazing job to make sure patients and those closest to them are supported physically and emotionally during that time,” he said.

“Each time I’ve decided to ride in the Charity Bull Ride, I have made sure I was doing it to raise money for a local charity that the Hinchinbrook community directly benefits from. This year, I am asking people to dig deep for a great cause.”

Judy Cardillo, President of Ingham Palliative Care, said the Committee has always been strongly supported by the Hinchinbrook community since it was established and is honoured to be the beneficiary of the 2025 Charity Bull Ride.

“The Ingham Palliative Care Committee was formed as an offshoot of the Cancer Council Committee to ensure end-of-life care and support remained local,” Ms Cardillo said.

“The funds raised from the Charity Bull Ride will support the Hurley Bus, which provides free transport for residents over 65 years to medical appointments, family gatherings, and social outings.

“The Ingham Palliative Care Committee was able to launch a dedicated transportation service thanks to a generous $203,000 bequest from Brian and Theresa Hurley.

“The money raised will help cover the Hurley Bus’s operational costs, including fuel, insurance, and repairs. Every donation to the Charity Bull Ride helps us continue providing this vital service, which reduces isolation and eases the burden on elderly and vulnerable residents who have no other means of transport.”

To donate to the 2025 Charity Bull Ride and help raise funds for Ingham Palliative Care, please visit our GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/6dcfe141.

Corporate and local business sponsorships are welcome and will be given shout-outs on social media in the lead-up, as well as call-outs on the night.

Contributed with thanks by Nick Dametto MP, Member for Hinchinbrook

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Ingham’s Brenden Seri has been crowned Pharmacist of the Year at the WholeLife Pharmacy & Healthfoods 2025 Conference in Sydney, shining a national spotlight on the dedication of his local team. Seri said the award was a tribute to the commitment of his staff, crediting their hard work as the foundation of the pharmacy’s success. Teammates Debbie and Nancy were also recognised with prestigious award nominations, adding to the celebration. Returning home inspired and motivated, Seri says the recognition is just the beginning of an exciting year ahead for Ingham’s WholeLife Pharmacy.

Ingham WholeLife Honoured At National WholeLife Conference

The WholeLife Pharmacy & Healthfoods 2025 Conference in Sydney proved a memorable event for Ingham’s own Brenden Seri, who returned home with one of the industry’s highest accolades. Seri, pharmacist at WholeLife Pharmacy Ingham, was named Pharmacist of the Year, a recognition he described
as both an honour and a humbling experience.

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The award was presented to Seri by his friend and 2024 recipient, Brenton Veurman. In accepting, Seri emphasised that the accolade belonged to the entire Ingham WholeLife team rather than himself alone. He credited the dedication and support of his colleagues as the driving force behind the pharmacy’s success. “It’s a reection of what our whole team achieves every day for the Ingham community,” Seri said. “Without their hard work and passion, none of this would have been possible.” Seri attended the Sydney conference alongside two valued team members, Debbie and Nancy. Both were recognised as award nominees, with Debbie shortlisted for Retail Manager of the Year and Nancy nominated for the Spotlight Award. Seri congratulated them on their achievements, noting that their nominations were “well deserved” acknowledgements of their commitment and leadership.


The Ingham team also expressed appreciation for the ongoing guidance of the WholeLife head oce sta, including Damian Young, Sarah Salem and Sara Kemp, who have provided consistent support. Across the three-day conference, pharmacists and sta from around the country gathered to hear from inspiring speakers, exchange innovative ideas, and celebrate industry achievements. Seri said the atmosphere was energising, leaving him motivated for the year ahead.

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“The conference was full of ideas and inspiration,” Seri said. “It has given us a lot of momentum as we look at what more we can achieve for our local community.” With strong recognition at the national level and renewed enthusiasm from the conference, the Ingham WholeLife team is eager to continue building on its success, delivering high quality care and support for the community it serves.

The Gilroy Velocity Raptors have returned home from Chemnitz, Germany, after proudly representing their school, community, and Australia at the World Hydrogen Grand Prix Championships.

The students spent months preparing their hydrogen-powered car before embarking on the 36-hour journey to Europe. Once there, they joined teams from across the globe in showcasing the future of clean energy and engineering.

The week in Chemnitz was more than just racing. The Raptors immersed themselves in German culture, toured museums, universities and technology institutes, and even formed a special partnership with Team Pantera from Sacramento, USA. Along the way they strengthened international friendships, broadened their STEM knowledge, and gained valuable insight into real-world hydrogen innovation.

Race day tested the Raptors’ skills and spirit. Despite mechanical setbacks, the students demonstrated remarkable resilience, repairing, rewiring, and fine-tuning their car until the very last buzzer. Their determination impressed judges and inspired fellow competitors.

The journey would not have been possible without the generosity of the local community. Businesses, families, and service clubs provided the financial and moral support that enabled the students to travel across the world and compete with confidence.

While the Raptors did not take home a trophy this year, they returned with memories, knowledge, and a drive to build an even stronger car for the future. Above all, they proved that with passion, teamwork, and community behind them, regional students can dream big and achieve big.

This experience shows what regional students can achieve on the world stage. The Raptors are not only our students today, but our scientists, engineers, and innovators of tomorrow.

The week the entire shire has been eagerly waiting for has finally rolled around! The infamous, exhilarating, and downright awesome 2025 Morton’s Earthmoving Ingham Sugar City Rodeo will light up the Ingham Showgrounds this Saturday, the 6th of September!

With gates opening at 8am, rodeo-goers can expect a full day of thrills, live entertainment, market stalls, a licensed bar, free camping, and a party into the night with Sneaky Beats.

After last year’s cancellation, the rodeo is back in spectacular style, bringing with it the much-anticipated Charity Bull Ride. Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto will once again take centre stage, this year going head-to-head with former North Queensland Cowboys player and current Cowboys Team Manager, Glenn Hall.

“With last year’s Ingham rodeo cancelled due to the wet weather, I thought that may have been the end of my bull riding career,” Mr Dametto said.

“With the news of the rodeo’s return, I had that feeling come over me – I needed to get back on a bull.”

Motivated by the compassionate care his grandmother received at the Ingham Palliative Care Unit, Dametto has set an ambitious fundraising goal of $10,000.

“This will be my sixth Charity Bull Ride and my only advice to Glenn Hall is to start stretching now and you might be ready for the big dance,” he added.

Hall, who played 98 games for the Cowboys before retiring in 2015, admits he has never sat on a bull before.

“It’s not every day you get the chance to do something wildly outside your comfort zone while helping to try and make a difference,” he said.

“I have absolutely no idea how I’ll go. I might only last a second, but either way, I know the cause is worth every bump and bruise.”

Nominations are now open for all events, tickets are available online via trybooking.com/DBCUT. To donate to the Charity Bull Ride, visit gofund.me/6dcfe141.

Don’t miss out this action-packed day!

WHAT: 2025 Morton’s Earthmoving Ingham Sugar City Rodeo
WHEN: Saturday, 6th September from 8am
WHERE: Ingham Showgrounds

The Heart Of The Tropics

Discover the Cassowary Coast with its lush, untamed stretch of paradise where rainforest meets reef and adventure greets you at every turn. From Cardwell to Etty Bay, this region is a mosaic of natural wonders, vibrant communities, and unforgettable experiences.

Start in Cardwell, the southern gateway to Hinchinbrook Island, home to the legendary Thorsborne Trail. Stroll the scenic foreshore, soak in the spa pools, and watch the sun dip behind rugged island silhouettes.

Head north to Mission Beach, a dreamy 14km coastline linking four charming villages. Here, golden sands meet the rainforest, and adrenaline meets serenity. Seek adventure with a skydive over the reef, kayak to Dunk Island, or simply unwind beneath swaying palms.

In Tully, embrace the thrill of white-water rafting on the mighty Tully River, or snap a selfie with the iconic Golden Gumboot, celebrating Australia’s wettest town. Surrounded by sugarcane fields and misty mountains, Tully is a green haven for nature lovers.

Just up the coast, Kurrimine Beach offers a laid-back escape with reef fishing straight off the shore and coral gardens just a snorkel away. It’s the kind of place where shoes are optional and sunsets are mandatory.

And tucked between rainforest and sea lies Etty Bay, a hidden gem where cassowaries stroll the beach and the waves whisper tranquillity. It’s a rare chance to meet Australia’s most enigmatic bird in its natural habitat.

The Cassowary Coast isn’t just a destination. It’s a living story of reef, rainforest, and resilience. Come write your chapter. Visit www.cassowarycoasttourim.com.au

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Follow Team Rookies!

Team Rookies have been making their way across the heart of Australia, taking in spectacular scenery and embracing every challenge along the way. On 25 August, they enjoyed a layover in Alice Springs, marveling at the MacDonnell Ranges before settling in at the Bluestone Motor Inn. The next day, they flew to Tennant Creek, battling 20-knot headwinds along the way.

In Tennant Creek, they reflected on their first leg score of 1643/1800 and worked to improve their timing despite variable winds and minor equipment glitches. On 28 August, they had fun at the bush ballad night and with a stunning score of 1792/1800, Team Rookies not only claimed victory of the rally leg but also took on the fun challenge of transporting their trophy leg.

Their journey continued with an unforgettable arrival in Katherine by the 29th, greeted by an F35 at Tindal RAAF Base. They attended the Katherine Outback Experience, witnessing innovative approaches to training dogs and horses, and soaking in the region’s unique stories.

On 30 August, Team Rookies were treated to a glorious sunrise at Katherine Gorge, flying over the vast Victoria River before landing in Kununurra, where they received a warm welcome from the local community, especially the Boys in Blue.

Fundraise with Team Rookies for the Royal Flying Doctor Service: https://tinyurl.com/25u7k5c

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, in partnership with the Bandjin and Girramay Traditional Owners of Munamudanamy (Hinchinbrook Island National Park), has announced a significant new chapter for one of Australia’s most celebrated wilderness walks.

World Expeditions’ domestic division, Australian Walking Holidays, has been selected to operate fully supported four-day, three-night guided tours along the 32-kilometre Thorsborne Trail. Renowned for its untouched landscapes and rich biodiversity, the trail is named after pioneering conservationists Arthur and Margaret Thorsborne, and is regarded as one of the country’s premier long-distance hikes.

The new guided tours have been developed in close collaboration with the Bandjin and Girramay People, ensuring that cultural knowledge and traditional stories remain at the heart of the visitor experience. As the Traditional Owners note, the initiative represents both a cultural sharing opportunity and a meaningful way to reconnect with the island.

The tours will follow strict Leave No Trace principles, ensuring the Thorsborne Trail’s wild ethos is preserved. Group sizes will remain small, with no more than 20 guided hikers on the trail at any one time, and participants will camp at designated sites at Little Ramsay Bay, South Zoe Bay, and Mulligan Falls. Independent hiker permits remain unaffected under the current Hinchinbrook Island National Park Management Plan, which continues to safeguard the trail’s remote character while allowing for greater accessibility and education.

This partnership represents a balance of conservation, culture, and visitor support. By combining responsible tourism with Traditional Owner leadership, the Thorsborne Trail is set to offer an enriched experience that honours both its natural beauty and deep cultural significance.

Councillor Donna Marbelli

Hi Readers,

So much to tell you on the sporting topic.

2025 North Queensland Sport Star Awards nominations are now open.

The North Queensland Sports Foundation is proud to announce that the 35th Annual North Queensland Sport Star Awards will be held in Townsville, hosted by the Townsville City Council, on Saturday, 25 October 2025, at the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre. Sam Thaiday will be the VIP guest speaker on the night — how wonderful to have a legend of Rugby League.

These prestigious awards shine a spotlight on sporting excellence across our North Queensland region, recognising outstanding achievements in nine categories. From juniors and masters to volunteers, especially new for this year is the Officials Award. This helps celebrate the dedication, determination, and passion of those who inspire in sport.

Nominations open: Friday, 25 July 2025
Nominations close: Saturday, 6 September 2025
Event night: Saturday, 25 October 2025


So, if you know a sporting superstar or sporting team who deserves recognition, now is the time to nominate your sport star or sporting stars. Please contact Council for more information or click on the link on Council’s Facebook page starting the NQSF post. Nomination forms are easy to complete.

Also happening in Hinchinbrook is the 2025 Lions Club Sport Star of the Year Awards presented by the Lions Club of Ingham.

Tonight’s the night! The community comes together to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our local athletes at the 2025 Hinchinbrook Sport Star of the Year Awards.

With nominations now closed, we’re looking forward to seeing who will be recognised across categories including:

Sport Star of the Year – Junior & Senior
Para-Athlete of the Year
Masters of Sport
Team of the Year


From rising stars to seasoned champions, these awards shine a spotlight on the dedication, talent, and spirit of Hinchinbrook’s sporting community.

Let’s get behind our local talent and give them the recognition they deserve.

There’s something special about our beaches at Lucinda, Taylor Beach, and Forrest Beach. They are not just scenic escapes; they’re part of our community’s identity.

But lately, we’ve seen a resurgence in reckless vehicle use across these foreshore areas, and it’s causing real damage.

Let’s be clear: driving on Council reserves, including dunes and vegetated foreshore areas, is unlawful without a permit.

These zones aren’t just sand and scrub — they’re fragile ecosystems that protect against erosion and provide nesting grounds for turtles and shorebirds.

When vehicles tear through them, we lose more than just plants; we lose habitat, stability, and peace for nearby residents.

Yes, there are legal ways to enjoy beach driving. You can drive between the low and high tide marks, as long as your vehicle is registered and you follow road rules.

Council even created a policy years ago with designated access points to make this easier and safer for everyone.

But lately, things have slipped.

Complaints are rising, and so is the damage.

That’s why Council is stepping up enforcement and prosecutions will follow for those who ignore the rules.

This isn’t about spoiling anyone’s fun — it’s about protecting what makes our region special.

We know beach driving is a beloved pastime, and we’re not here to shut it down. We’re here to make sure it’s done responsibly.

That means sticking to the rules, respecting the environment, and thinking about the long-term impact of our actions.

It’s everyone’s responsibility to do the right thing to keep our beaches safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone, and that includes our locals, visitors, wildlife, and future generations.

And if you see something that doesn’t sit right, report it either to Council on 4776 4600 or if it’s a police-related matter call 131 444. Because protecting our coast is a community effort.

The Japanese House: From Kobe with Love

Ingham is home to a house with serious travel miles. Built in Kobe, Japan in 1887, it was shipped to Brisbane by Judge George William Paul, who admired its climate-friendly design.

Featuring sliding paper walls and intricate timber joinery, it stood out in New Farm before becoming a Country Women’s Association HQ.

In 1962, Dr Pam Markwell saved it from demolition, buying it for £600 and relocating it to Ingham piece by piece. Now nestled in Ingham, it’s the only known traditional Japanese house in Australia. With no glass windows and a roof adorned with Buddhist symbols, it’s a rare blend of elegance and endurance.

Heritage-listed and lovingly restored, it’s a quiet marvel that bridges cultures and centuries—proof that good design travels well.

Forrest Beach has always been a place where community and coastline meet, and now it has a new chapter in its real estate story. After more than 40 years of dedicated service, Mary Venables has retired, passing the torch of Venables Real Estate to Richard and Lisa, who have proudly launched Forrest Beach Real Estate. The change marks the end of an era, but also a fresh beginning for the township and its real estate landscape.

Mary’s journey in the industry is nothing short of remarkable. Arriving at Forrest Beach as a stay-at-home mother with four children, she was encouraged by friends and neighbours to pursue real estate. After gaining her licence, she worked alongside her husband and became a trusted name in property sales, deeply respected for her professionalism, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the community. Her legacy is evident not just in her successful career but in the relationships she built over decades and the connections that have made her an enduring figure at the beach.

Reflecting on her decision to retire, Mary shared that reaching 80 and completing her final property inspections made her realise it was the right time to step back. “It's so much so that everyone's saying, 'Oh, good on you!' and giving me hugs,” she said with a laugh, acknowledging the support and well-wishes from the community she’s served so faithfully. Her retirement, however, will not mean disappearing; Mary intends to remain an active and cherished presence in Forrest Beach life.

For Richard and Lisa Scobie, taking over the business is both an investment and a commitment. As long-time business neighbours and community members, they have witnessed the resilience and spirit of Forrest Beach, particularly following recent floods. Their goal is to honour Mary’s legacy while building upon it, maintaining the local love and personal care that has always been the hallmark of the office.

“We want people to feel a part of our community, to experience the same trust and care that Mary established,” Lisa said. With a plan that's been 12 months in the making, Lisa is eager to grow with the community, serve its people, and continue the proud tradition of locally-driven real estate service.

The transition also reflects a broader optimism for Forrest Beach itself. The township is experiencing a resurgence, with young families, dedicated local businesses, and a thriving surf lifesaving club contributing to the area’s vibrancy. Richard and Lisa’s investment in the business is a tangible demonstration of confidence in the community’s future, reinforcing that Forrest Beach is a place where people want to live and raise their families.

As Mary steps into a well-earned retirement and Richard and Lisa embark on this exciting venture, Forrest Beach residents can look forward to continuity, dedication, and a fresh perspective in real estate. The community’s legacy of trust, neighbourliness, and coastal pride continues, ensuring that the heart of 'The Beach' beats stronger than ever.