The countdown to the 2025 Maraka Festival has begun, and time is running out to register as an entrant for the Maraka Queen and Princess competitions! This year is the 65th Maraka Festival, with the Parade theme Music Thru the Ages, promises an unforgettable experience and an opportunity to show your pride in our wonderful district. We encourage those considering entering to take the step and represent their individual spirit and creativity.

If you have an interest in being crowned as our Maraka Queen or Princess, please contact us immediately at inghammarakafestival@gmail.com. This is a wonderful opportunity to shine, engage with the community, and create lasting memories.

This year's festival features a fantastic Kids Day Out on Saturday Morning, 25th October at the Ingham Showgrounds, packed with FREE activities for our youth! Enjoy Laser Tag, Gel Blasting, a Petting Zoo, Fence Painting, and a Pet Parade, along with loop de Lou Ballon artistry, all at no cost.

We are thrilled to announce that we have a limited number of FREE Ride Tickets to give out for the Mardi Gras.  Our special guest performer, Peter Cullen, will be joining us, the Maraka Committee to hand out the free tickets from the Maraka Tent at the Mardi Gras from 6pm or a further undetermined time,TBA.

Don�E��Et miss out on the chance to be part of this vibrant celebration that highlights the spirit of Ingham and the Hinchinbrook Shire. Join us in making the 65th Maraka Festival a memorable event for everyone in our community! Contact us today to register as an entrant for the Maraka Queen or Princess event or to learn more about other festival activities.

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The recent flood is still very much on our minds as it wreaked so much loss and trauma. Residents still talk of past floods and compare flood heights each time a flood event occurs. There is now unlikely to be anybody alive who experienced the worst flood on record, the 1927 flood. poet Dan Sheahan wrote of that flood that the Herbert River: “poured over the countryside like a drunken demon … bringing death and destruction in its wake.”

When a cyclone crossed the coast north of Cairns on February 9, it became a disastrous rain depression, filling the catchment area and swelling coastal streams. Meanwhile, rain poured down locally, the most being over Hawkins Creek which received in excess of 1,333.5 millimetres (52 1/2 inches).

When there was some warning that a flooding event was on the way, people rushed to the shops for fear of a shortage of food. The Police Magistrate had to take control and ration the food supply. The hospital kitchen baked bread for people if they supplied their own flour. Two babies were born during the flood despite there being 18 inches of water over the maternity ward floorboards. Dr Leckie visited his patients in his swimming costume, and many people adopted that attire to move through the flood waters. Apparently, it was business as usual in the hotels, with patrons and barmen alike standing chest-high in water!

The Herbert River broke its banks at Bemerside, sending flood waters coursing down onto the low-lying areas of the Valley. It was so sudden, widespread and ferocious that it literally swept away everything in its path, isolating Ingham and Halifax in a sea of water.

Because of a lack of communication, it was not known how each township fared. It was not until Tom Mullins set out from Halifax for Ingham on foot and was noticed on the rise near Cordelia by two men that it was revealed that Halifax hadn’t been washed away. They hoisted him on their backs and kept calling out, ‘Halifax is saved! ’
There was a tragic loss of life. In the Herbert River Valley alone there were in excess of 25 lives lost. People sheltered where they could, crawling up into ceilings and on roofs, while some took refuge at the convent in Abbott Street or at the hospital. Amongst the dead were Salvatore Lizzio, Mitakara Sukezaymon, James MacMillan, and Ambulance Superintendent Edgar Von Alpen.

The heavy loss of life at Bemerside was because the river cut a new channel from Gairloch Bridge right across to the Seymour, creating a large racing stream. Members of the Russo, Sofra and Ragonese families (eight adults and six children) took refuge in Giuseppe Strano’s house, which was not bolted to its seven-foot blocks (as many houses were not in those days). It floated away, breaking into pieces in the strength of the current and ending up in the Anabranch. All the people clinging to the roof were thrown into the floodwater. Only three adults survived.

Encampments on Palm Creek of both Aboriginal people and Melanesian people were washed away. While the total number of these residents’ lives lost is untallied, Lily Cassady and five children, including Volki and George Palmer, and one man were known to have lost their lives.

1,500 horses were calculated to have drowned, and loss of crops, stock and property was estimated to have been in the vicinity of £300,000, though it was much higher. Farm paddocks were stilted over to the depth of several feet in some areas. Roads, bridges and railway lines were damaged, and homes were lost or damaged. At least nine homes on Townsville Road were washed away.

At Father Mambrini’s instigation, a Catholic Committee was formed to erect a monument for a communal grave for those bodies recovered. The monument was dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and was blessed on November 17, 1927. The unveiling ceremony was performed by the Chairman of the Shire, Mr Frank Cassady and an address given by Parish Priest, Dr Kelly. The memorial towers above all the other tombstones and stands forever as a reminder of the fearful potential of the Herbert River.

Contributed with thanks by Dr. Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui.

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Locals are being encouraged to give their pre-loved or new toys a second life by donating them to support veteran families in need.

The initiative, run through the Wounded Heroes Veterans Centre in Hyde Park, aims to bring joy to children while lending a helping hand to families who have served our country.

Wounded Heroes Australia was established in 2007 to provide immediate financial support to veterans & their families. Now they have established a Veteran Centre in Townsville with an OPSHOP & Cafe.

Organisers are calling on the community to rummage through cupboards, toy boxes, and sheds for items that can be donated.

�E��E�E���E��EEvery toy brings a smile, and every donation makes a difference,�E��E�E���E��E they said.

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Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!

Now that it's coming to the tail end of the year, things are starting to really happen. Large-scale events such as the Rodeo last week and the Seafest soon to come, or the cross-school ball and many school discos, just show how packed everyone's schedule is this time of year. Huge props to anyone who is managing it all - school, work, a business, and planning and pulling off an event on the side - you all deserve a treat and a holiday!

Please know that if there's an event in the community, the paper wants to know about it! Nothing is too small to have its story known and told. Just reach out to myself or the lovely Sherie, you can find our emails in the contacts section of the paper or on the Hinchinbrook Life website for our online readers.

I'm still on the lookout for sponsors to support me as a Maraka Queen entrant. If you�E��Ed be interested in being a sponsor, please reach out. Shout-out to Hinchinbrook Life and the Ingham Lions Club for being my first ones and for showing their support. Here's hoping that having your local journo participating and not just snapping pics on the sidelines gets everybody excited for Maraka!

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Fun Fact: A parade float is a decorated platform, either built on a vehicle like a truck or towed behind one. In the past, Maraka has seen utes, flatbed lorries and even boats being towed, used as floats for parade participants to perch in.

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The 25th anniversary of the IGC NRL Tipping competition was marked with a lively celebration at the Ingham RSL, where participants gathered to toast a quarter-century of friendly rivalry and community spirit. The night brimmed with high spirits, storytelling and anticipation as long-time tippers mingled with newer faces, united by their shared love of rugby league.

A major highlight of the evening was the charity raffle for a framed and signed �E��EMaroon Commanders�E��E photograph featuring Queensland Origin legends. The prized piece of memorabilia sparked excitement among the crowd, with every ticket snapped up before the evening's game had begun. The raffle raised an impressive $1,000, which will be donated to Ingham Meals on Wheels to support their vital work in the community. The generous contribution drew loud applause from the room, underscoring the competition�E��Es commitment to giving back.

With its mix of competition, camaraderie and a strong show of community support, the 25th anniversary event captured the essence of what the IGC NRL Tipping competition has become, not just a contest of sporting predictions, but a cherished annual tradition that brings Ingham locals together.

Last week, I attended the public hearing into Queensland�E��Es sugar cogeneration and bioenergy held in Townsville. Industry representatives from QCAR, Canegrowers, Burdekin Renewable Fuels, Burdekin Shire Council, Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Kalagro and Townsville Enterprise shared their experiences and ideas on how to expand bioenergy production and remove barriers to investment.

At the hearing, industry representatives put forward a range of options that are worthy of being explored, but importantly, they highlighted the significant barriers to future investment into diversification. Without meaningful government intervention and support, a sustainable biofuels industry has zero chance of ever getting off the ground. I�E��Ed like to see the State Government make legislative and regulatory changes that guarantee offtakes for biofuels and incentivise millers and growers to invest in electrical co-generation projects to help produce affordable dispatchable baseload power.

Contributed with thanks by Nick Dametto MP, Member for Hinchinbrook

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The Hinchinbrook Art Awards Return

Creativity is set to take centre stage once again as the Hinchinbrook Art Awards return in 2025, welcoming artists from across Australia! The awards offer emerging and established artists a chance to have their work seen and celebrated as part of Hinchinbrook�E��Es rich artistic tradition.

The winners will be announced during a special Awards Night on Friday, 14 November at 6:00pm, where the gallery will come alive with colour, conversation, and celebration of the arts. All submitted works will remain on display to the public until Friday, 19 December 2025, giving the community a chance to enjoy and be inspired by the diverse range of works on show.

Categories
OPEN AWARD ACQUISITIVE - All entries will be judged for the Open Award prize. The winning artwork of this award will be acquired by Council. $3,000.
LOCAL ARTIST AWARD - Automatic entry for local artists (unless already a winner in any other section). Must have residential status within Hinchinbrook Shire. $800.
INDIGENOUS ARTIST AWARD - Outstanding indigenous artist from any section. $400.
YOUTH AWARD �E��E Outstanding work from any section by an artist under 18 years. $400.
PEOPLE�E��ES CHOICE AWARD - Viewers vote. Votes counted after closure of competition. $400.

Sections
PAINTING (2D) - Any subject, any style in any medium - $350
WATER COLOUR - Traditional or contemporary water colour on any support or base - $350
MIXED MEDIA (2D) �E��E A combination of two/plus different media - $350
DIGITAL MEDIA �E��E Any subject, any style - $350
WORKS ON PAPER - Any subject, any medium - $350
PHOTOGRAPHY �E��E Any subject, any style - $350
CERAMICS �E��E Any method of construction - $350
SCULPTURAL FORM �E��E Any subject, any medium - $350

Sunrise 'A New Beginning' by Jeanette Jones, 45th Hinchinbrook Art Awards Open Winner. Image credit: TYTO Regional Art Gallery

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Spring has sprung in Ingham, and the Herbert River Orchid and Allied Plant Spring Show is back to brighten the season. Taking place over two days at Conroy Hall, 41 McIlwraith Street, the event is a must-visit for plant lovers and gardening enthusiasts alike.

Held over two days, attendees can browse sales tables filled with a variety of orchids and other plants, participate in the popular cent sale, and enjoy refreshments while soaking up the community atmosphere. The event is an ideal opportunity to meet fellow plant enthusiasts, share tips, and celebrate a shared passion for horticulture.

The first day runs from 8:00am to 5:00pm, while the second day is a shorter session from 8:00am to 12:00pm, showcasing the final day of the displays and offering one last chance to pick up unique plants. Entry is just $2, cash only.

Whether you�E��E�E���E��Ere a seasoned collector, looking for inspiration for your garden, a budding orchid grower, or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of flowers, the Herbert River Orchid and Allied Plant Spring Show promises a vibrant experience. Don�E��E�E���E��Et miss the chance to celebrate the season, discover new plants, and be part of Ingham�E��E�E���E��Es thriving plant community.

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After thousands of kilometres flown across the rugged heart of Australia, and countless laughs shared along the way, aviators Team Zic have claimed victory in the Red Planet Software Outback Air Race 2025. The 15-day adventure, which spanned more than 2,000 nautical miles from Yulara in the Northern Territory to Carnarvon in Western Australia, was not just a test of flying skills but a triumph of community spirit, perseverance, and generosity.

This year�E��Es race made history, with participants raising a record-breaking $1,001,918.19 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), far surpassing the $750,000 target. The funds will go directly towards supporting vital medical services in regional, rural, and remote communities across Australia.

This year, it was Team Zic who flew into Carnarvon as champions, but every take-off, every landing, and every dollar raised marked a win for the RFDS and the communities it serves.

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In a gallery filled with vibrant colours, bold brushstrokes, and imaginative interpretations of birdlife, one painting quietly drew people in �E��E The Watcher by Lisa Bishop.

With its masterful depiction of the Tawny Frogmouth�E��Es natural camouflage and its signature sideways glance, the painting evoked a sense of intimacy and nostalgia.

The Watcher is more than a painting, it�E��Es a personal homage to the quiet observers of nature and a heartfelt nod to the bond she shared with her father.

�E��EA huge thank you to everyone who visited the exhibition, cast their votes, and supported our local and interstate artists.

The awards night, held on Friday, 1 August 2025, welcomed over 280 guests to celebrate a decade of the Birdlife Art Awards.

The event continues to shine a spotlight on the rich birdlife of the Hinchinbrook region, from the iconic TYTO Wetlands�E��Ehome to over 230 bird species�E��Eto the broader natural landscapes that inspire artists far and wide.

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A TRIBUTE TO PETER SHEAHAN, A RODEO MAN, A COMMUNITY CHAMPION

It was an absolute honour bestowed on me by the Ingham Sugar City Rodeo to present the committee�E��E�E���E��Es tribute to Peter Sheahan at the rodeo recently �E��E�E���E��E a man whose life was deeply woven into the fabric of our community and the sport he loved: rodeo.

Rodeo was more than a sport to Peter �E��E�E���E��E it was a way of life, a social connection, and a challenge he embraced alongside his commitment to farming.

Under his leadership, the committee helped establish the undercover arena and delivered some of the most successful and profitable rodeos our region has seen.

Peter�E��E�E���E��Es passion was shared by his beloved wife Jenny and children Kelly and Cody, who continued the tradition with their own families.

His contributions will be remembered, and his spirit will ride on in every young competitor who takes to the arena.

Thank you, Ingham Sugar City Rodeo, for the privilege.

Rest in peace, Peter.

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Hello Hinchinbrook residents,

A huge congratulations goes out to the Ingham Sugar City Rodeo committee for running such a great event that weekend, after the challenges of the February flood and not being able to run the event last year.

The event attracted a great crowd to come along and watch our local cowboys and cowgirls compete in the many events throughout the day.

It is always challenging for committees to organise and execute events such as this, and it is great to see that the Ingham community gets behind and supports such events, whether it be through sponsorship or just turning up to watch.

Volunteers in such committees are vital to such events�E��E�E���E��E success.

Today, we unfortunately don�E��E�E���E��Et have such volunteers who are flexible. Most people work a 9-to-5 job and find it difficult to commit to the time it takes to volunteer in such events.

Hopefully, this report may identify areas that may assist volunteers, committees, and organisations to be able to continue to bring new and existing events to the communities in which we live.

Next year, it is the 30th anniversary of the Ingham Sugar City Rodeo, and I have no doubt Hinchinbrook is already looking forward to it.

Until next time, residents, stay safe and be kind.

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Forrest Beach: Where the Sand Meets the Sweet Life

Once a sleepy seaside outpost, Forrest Beach is where the coast kicks back and the cane fields wave hello.

With golden sands on one side and sugarcane on the other, it�E��E�E���E��Es the ultimate blend of salty and sweet.

The Herbert River district is a cornerstone of Queensland’s sugar industry, producing significant economic value while sustaining generations of farming families. Central to this success are our harvesting contractors - skilled professionals who ensure cane is efficiently cut, transported, and delivered to mills during the critical crushing season. Recognising their pivotal role, Canegrowers Herbert River is taking proactive steps to understand and address the challenges faced by harvesting contractors in our region.

Currently, Canegrowers Herbert River is conducting a comprehensive survey of all harvesting contractors in the district. The aim is to identify the biggest challenges they face and to gain a clearer picture of the pressures and risks inherent to their operations. From rising finance and insurance costs, labour shortages, equipment maintenance, to delays in mill operations or logistics that affect their ability to perform their role efficiently, understanding the reality of these challenges is essential. This survey is a first step in gathering the insights needed to support contractors and safeguard the long-term viability of harvesting services in the region.

Once the survey is complete, Canegrowers Herbert River plans to establish a dedicated Working Group. This group will bring together key stakeholders, including contractors, growers, industry representatives, and relevant government agencies, to define issues more clearly and explore practical solutions. By creating a collaborative space for discussion and problem-solving, the Working Group will aim to develop strategies that not only address immediate risks but also strengthen the sustainability and resilience of harvesting operations in the Herbert River district.

The retention and attraction of harvesting contractors is critical to the ongoing health of the sugar industry. Contractors provide essential expertise, equipment, and manpower that keep the supply chain running smoothly. By understanding their pain points and actively seeking solutions, Canegrowers Herbert River aims to ensure contractors feel valued, supported, and equipped to continue their work. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to the principle that the industry thrives when all participants—growers, contractors, and supporting stakeholders—work together.

In the face of evolving challenges, the message is clear: Canegrowers Herbert River is dedicated to protecting and strengthening our harvesting workforce. By listening, collaborating, and innovating, we aim to retain the contractors who are vital to our industry and to create conditions that will encourage more skilled professionals to join this essential sector. The health of our industry depends on it, and together, we can ensure that the Herbert River remains a strong and productive sugar-growing region.

By Owen Menkens, Chairman, CANEGROWERS

Sugarcane has always been part of Queensland’s story. From the sunlit paddocks along our coastline the sweet scent of a mill in full crush, it’s hard to imagine our state without it.

But there’s a side to the industry that many people don’t see – how far our growers have come in making cane a world leader in sustainability.

This month we reached a milestone worth celebrating. Farms accredited through our Smartcane BMP program have now earned a rare triple tick from the three most respected international sustainability umpires – VIVE, Bonsucro and ProTerra.

In layman’s terms, this means independent global auditors have confirmed that Queensland cane is grown to the highest environmental and sustainability standards.

That recognition didn’t arrive by chance. It’s the result of years of effort by growers keeping detailed records, improving soil health, managing water carefully and refining how they farm.
Today almost half of Queensland’s cane area is managed under Smartcane BMP, and that number keeps climbing.

Why does this matter? Because major buyers – from soft drink companies to overseas refiners – are demanding proof their sugar comes from responsible sources.

Thanks to the dedication of our growers, Queensland cane can meet that test. In fact, we’re now one of the very few cane-growing regions on the planet able to offer this level of verified sustainability.

And it’s not just about the environment. Smartcane BMP helps farmers build stronger, more profitable businesses, which means healthier regional communities and a stronger state economy.
When Queensland sugarcane is recognised internationally, the benefits flow to everyone – from the workers in the mills to the small businesses in our towns.

So next time you stir a spoonful of sugar into your tea or coffee, think of the people behind it – the Queensland growers proving that you can farm sustainably and stay competitive on the global stage.

They deserve every bit of the pride we feel today.