Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire, I would like to address the tragedy that many of us woke up to on the 15th, of the mass shooting that happened at Bondi Beach in Sydney. An antisemitic massacre that directly targeted the Australian Jewish community, who were celebrating the beginning of Hanukkah. Local authorities declared it a terrorist attack, and it is now the second-deadliest mass shooting in Australian history. Though it happened miles from here, many locals, including myself, are holding the victims in our hearts, the youngest of whom was 10 years old, and mourning alongside those families affected, despite the distance. Robert Lang from the Cardwell RSL let me know that, "The National Flag flies at Half Mast at the Cardwell Cenotaph today in honour of the innocent victims of the horrendous attack by religious fanatics at Bondi Beach on the 14th of December 2025." It is truly tragic, Australia is a country built on community and mateship, that 'Australian melting pot'. In times like these, I hope everyone can be there for a friend or family member who may be hurting from this news. I will sign off with this message written by MP for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa, "My heart breaks for those that have lost their lives and those who are injured, in this senseless attack. My thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends, our brave first responders and the entire community." [SIGNATURE]
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Over the past seven weeks, Hinchinbrook Shire Council hosted 10 Community Shed Meetings across the region, from Halifax to Mount Fox and Forrest Beach to Ingham. These sessions provided residents with practical information and resources to prepare for disasters, strengthen response capabilities, and build resilience in homes, neighbourhoods, and communities. Mayor Ramon Jayo said disasters can strike at any time, and resilience starts with knowledge and planning. “By knowing your risk, making a plan and packing a kit, preparation is critical,” Mayor Jayo said. “Preparing by coming together, sharing ideas, and learning what steps to take, we make Hinchinbrook stronger and safer for everyone. Thank you for taking the time to be part of these important conversations.” It was also an opportunity for communities to discuss with the Mayor, Councillors and Council Executive local concerns. From roads, children’s parks, pet responsibility and local projects, everything was up for discussion. For more information on disaster preparedness visit https://getready.qld.gov.au and bookmark the Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard https://disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/ for real-time updates.
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When you think of the Hinchinbrook Way, you picture breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. From the thunderous roar of Wallaman Falls to the serene beauty of TYTO Wetlands, Hinchinbrook is a destination that resets your mind, body, and soul. But behind every magical moment is something even more powerful – our volunteers. They are the heartbeat of our tourism industry. They are the smiling faces who greet visitors at the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre, organise and shelve books at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, welcome guests and guide them through exhibitions at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery, preserve our stories in local history, and bring life to community events. Together, they make every experience memorable. This month, we celebrated 42 incredible volunteers who have collectively dedicated nearly 500 years of service to our tourism industry. Hinchinbrook Shire Council Deputy Mayor Mary Brown said their passion drives the Hinchinbrook Way Ambassador Program. “This is a program dedicated to showcasing what makes Hinchinbrook special,” Cr Brown, who is the portfolio councillor for Economic Development and Tourism, said. “Why does this matter? Because the Hinchinbrook Way isn’t just a brand – it’s a lifestyle. “It’s the warm welcome and local knowledge you receive at the visitor information centre and library, where volunteers assist with programs, resources, and community engagement. “It’s the guidance and insight you get at the gallery, where volunteers help visitors connect with exhibitions and artists. “It’s the dedication of our local history volunteers preserving our heritage, and the energy of volunteers at events that bring our community together. “Our volunteers make this possible. They are the storytellers, the guides, and the guardians of our region’s charm. “On behalf of Council and our communities, I extend our heartfelt thanks to all our dedicated volunteers. “A special acknowledgment goes to Rini Dallavanzi for her incredible 32 years of service as she officially retires. “Your commitment has made a lasting impact, Rini, and we are truly grateful. To all our volunteers, you create unforgettable experiences for our visitors, and Rini, you have been an integral part of making that difference. Thank you.” Through the Ambassador Program, volunteers gain new skills while becoming part of a team that champions Hinchinbrook’s unique identity. Want to join the heartbeat of Hinchinbrook? Contact the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre on 4776 4790.
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Northern Queensland Legacy have once again hosted a series of heartwarming Christmas Lunches across several shires to bring the community together and ensure veterans’ families are supported this festive season. Annually, the Christmas Lunches provide a chance for widows and children of veterans to reconnect and celebrate the festive season with others who understand their unique circumstances. The Northern Queensland Legacy's Herbert River Christmas Party was held recently at the Oasis Café in Ingham where invited guests gathered together to share in a wonderful lunch and celebrated the silly season with a very competitive game of Christmas Trivia. David Burke, President of Northern Queensland Legacy, attended and sees these events as a rare opportunity to ensure that for those living in small towns or remote communities, distance doesn’t mean disconnection. “These Christmas lunches are much more than just a festive celebration. They are a vital lifeline for those who might otherwise feel isolated,” said David. “It’s in these moments of shared joy that we remind each other that we’re not alone, and that the Legacy community stands together, not just during the holidays, but every day of the year." Northern Queensland Legacy CEO, Nicole Hayes, believes the events are an essential part of Legacy’s tailored approach to addressing the challenges veterans’ widowers and children in small, remote communities face, especially when it comes to social isolation and access to services. “For many, especially those facing social isolation, these events are a lifeline, offering not just a social gathering but a reminder that they are part of a supportive network,” Nicole explained. “The sense of belonging and connection that these events foster helps reduce feelings of loneliness and builds a stronger sense of community. For those who might be living alone or distanced from family, these gatherings are a welcome opportunity to bond with others, share experiences, and feel supported in a fun, festive environment.” Northern Queensland Legacy provides a range of support services, including social activities, financial assistance, home visits, and advocacy, all aimed at connecting individuals with vital resources. “We strive to undertake regular contact including home visits and phone calls to check on people’s wellbeing to make sure that no one feels forgotten,” added Nicole. “We provide a listening ear and practical supports, including links with services and agencies. We try to create opportunities for connection to bridge the gap that isolation can create and we aim to ensure that veterans' families are supported no matter where they live.” Northern Queensland Legacy has expanded its eligibility criteria to now include the dependents of veterans who did not serve operationally or deploy overseas, opening the door for more families to access support. If your spouse served in the Australian Defence Force and you would like to check your eligibility, contact the Northern Queensland Legacy office on 4772 7533 or email admin@nqlegacy.com.au after the 26th of January 2026.
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A total of 39 new Australian citizens took the pledge at a citizenship ceremony held on 24 November 2025 at the Innisfail Shire Hall. The event brought together families, friends, and community representatives to witness an important milestone for the conferees as they formally committed to their new life as Australians.
The new citizens originated from New Caledonia, South Africa, Argentina, Malaysia, Cambodia, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, the Philippines, New Zealand, Tonga, Kazakhstan, the United States, Russia, Brazil, China, Estonia, Hong Kong, Pakistan, and Germany. Their diverse backgrounds reflect the wide range of cultures and experiences that continue to strengthen the region.
Council extended a warm welcome to all conferees and congratulated them on becoming Australian citizens. They also wished them the very best for the future as they begin the next chapter of their lives as part of the community.
A total of 39 new Australian citizens took the pledge at a citizenship ceremony held on 24 November 2025 at the Innisfail Shire Hall. The event brought together families, friends, and community representatives to witness an important milestone for the conferees as they formally committed to their new life as Australians.
The new citizens originated from New Caledonia, South Africa, Argentina, Malaysia, Cambodia, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, the Philippines, New Zealand, Tonga, Kazakhstan, the United States, Russia, Brazil, China, Estonia, Hong Kong, Pakistan, and Germany. Their diverse backgrounds reflect the wide range of cultures and experiences that continue to strengthen the region.
Council extended a warm welcome to all conferees and congratulated them on becoming Australian citizens. They also wished them the very best for the future as they begin the next chapter of their lives as part of the community.
Bright and early on Thursday the 20th of November, the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch members gathered on the foreshore for a Department of Veterans Affairs sponsored walk. The Health Week participants walked from the Police Station to the Memorial and then back to the Seabreeze Café for an excellent breakfast supplied by Stuart Ward and his staff. Due to numerous alarm clock malfunctions, not everyone arrived on time. However, 35 members attended the Seabreeze breakfast. The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch is extremely grateful to the DVA for sponsoring this Health Week activity.
Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch.
The GSM 1st XIII boys Confraternity Rugby League squad recently completed block 1 of their 2026 preseason train and trial period, throughout Term 4. The young men were tested by coaches Matthew Spina (GSM “Confro Old Boy” & current A-Grade Herbert River player) and new staff member Annan Whittington (former Townsville Blackhawks and North Queensland Cowboys pathways coach) in weekly training sessions in the blistering heat, before meeting northern Confraternity neighbours Good Counsel College, Innisfail in their first trial match.
With some players unavailable through injuries and other commitments, GSM still fielded 21 players of differing experience levels in the preseason match, enabling eight young men the opportunity to play rugby league for the first time and earn valuable playing experience, before the squad is selected and announced in mid to late Term 1.
2026 marks the 30th anniversary of Gilroy Santa Maria’s inclusion in their first Confraternity Carnival in 1996, with the Carnival now growing to be the biggest schoolboy and schoolgirl carnival in Queensland, with well over 60 schools represented. GSM will honour the 30th anniversary of Confro at the college by returning to their roots with 1996 inspired playing jerseys for the 2026 carnival and other events for GSM "Confro Old Boys".
The GSM Rugby League program will also be implementing brand new initiatives in 2026, across the Under 13 and Under 15 junior age groups. The junior age groups will have the opportunity to take part in the Townsville Blackhawks Schoolboy Trophy and planning is underway for an u15 Development Tour, to assist with their development towards future Confraternity tours in 2027/2028 on the Gold Coast and Cairns.
In the Senior 1st XIII age group, the boys will be returning to training in Term 1 with gym, field sessions and further trial matches, ahead of competing in the Townsville Blackhawks Schoolboy Trophy in Term 2 and the Confraternity Carnival, held in Brisbane in 2026.
(Contributed with thanks by the GSMC Rugby League Program.)
Ingham, Noorla and Macknade gathered to mark the end of another strong year of men’s interclub competitions for 2025. The season wrapped up with plenty of camaraderie and a healthy dose of rivalry, as each club recognised the achievements that defined their year.
Congratulations to the following winners:
Terry White Trophy – Noorla
Moduline Trophy – Macknade
Royal Hotel Trophy – Macknade
A warm thank you goes to the trophy sponsors whose support helps keep this long-running tradition thriving.
Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) candidate for Hinchinbrook, Mark Molachino has confirmed his main priority once elected will be to ensure the shire does not lose its voice in statewide decision making.
Born, raised, educated and employed in Ingham, Mr Molachino has worked in the shire’s sugar industry from the farms to the processing mills for years, and has served in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) for two and a half decades, with two deployments. Currently a small business owner himself, Mr Molachino and his six employees deliver professional vocational training to mining companies, and paired with his previous role as a RAAF Operations Officer, Mr Molachino’s professional resume of leadership and coordination speaks volumes.
A committed family man, Mr Molachino and his wife, Lexy, enjoy spending their time with their three daughter, Scarlett, Zara, and Victoria, and their beloved mini dachshund, Walter. Whether out boating, fishing, water-skiing, or riding dirt bikes across the region’s tracks, the Molachino family enjoy the very lifestyle they hope to protect.
Since graduating from Gilroy Santa Maria College, Mr Molachino has gone on to study numerous Diplomas in Vocational Education, Project Management, and has acquired eight years of experience in local government, leading him to truly understand how intricately each level of government interact and operate.
Mr Molachino has been living and raising his family in the region for several decades, and with that in mind, he plans to prioritise the safety of both his family, and the shire if elected in this month’s by-election. The presentation of Castle Law in parliament stands as one of Mr Molachino’s main priorities to grant homeowners greater protections when defending themselves, their families, and their property against intruders, to ensure they are not unfairly penalised for taking reasonable action to stay safe.
Paired with his push for the implementation of Castle Law, Mr Molachino will continue the work of the KAP to place North Shore roadways back on the state’s agenda, a move he sees as a real investment along with floodproofing the Ingham Power Substation, the Gairloch and Seymour Highway and the greater shire.
With deep roots in the region, and a clear plan for meaningful, practical change to safeguard the future of the shire, Mr Molachino and Katter’s Australian Party are committed amplifying the Hinchinbrook Shire’s voice, to deliver the safety, infrastructure and representation the community deserves, furthermore ensuring the community’s needs are not only heard in parliament, but acted on.
LNP candidate for Hinchinbrook, Wayde Chiesa, says he is determined to deliver strong representation and practical outcomes for the region, drawing on his lifelong connection to the district and decades of experience across local industries and community organisations.
“I’m proud to be Ingham-born and bred, growing up on our family farm and spending weekends at Forrest Beach and playing footy,” Mr Chiesa said.
After finishing school, he moved to Townsville to study at university but says “Ingham has always been home.”
Across his career, Mr Chiesa has worked in a wide range of fields, from small and family businesses to senior roles in regional development. His experience includes serving as CEO of Regional Development Australia Townsville and Northwest Queensland, and as Director of Regional Development and Investment at Townsville Enterprise. He has also run his own business and spent 17 years as part of the Triple M Cowboys Call Team, calling Cowboys games and staying connected with communities right across North Queensland.
With Hinchinbrook heading into a by-election, Mr Chiesa views this moment as pivotal for securing a stronger voice at the state level.
“This by-election is a once-in-a generation opportunity to elect someone who can sit alongside David Crisafulli, around the table where decisions are made. For too long Hinchinbrook has been on the sidelines from Government but I want to change that,” he said.
Mr Chiesa’s key priority is tackling youth crime, advocating for a tougher, more consistent approach to community safety.
“I’m fighting for a sensible plan to deal with youth crime,” he said.
“The LNP’s Adult Crime, Adult Time laws are starting to hold youth criminals accountable but there’s a long way to go to fix a decade of Labor’s weak laws.”
He said the region needs “more police with better early intervention and rehabilitation that works – as well as CCTV in known trouble spots,” adding, “I’ll also fight for tougher bail laws for youth criminals, which I believe our State needs.”
Traffic congestion across Townsville’s Northern Beaches and improved local infrastructure also feature strongly in his platform.
Mr Chiesa has long championed key North Queensland industries including agriculture, manufacturing and tourism. If elected, he intends to focus on fixing Port Hinchinbrook, improving marine facilities, building flood resilience, and securing better roads for the district.
Community involvement has been a constant in his life, from volunteering with the Forrest Beach and Arcadian Surf Life Saving Clubs to serving as Treasurer of the Rotary Club of Townsville and helping organise the Townsville Triathlon Festival, however above all else, family remains his greatest motivation.
“My two kids, Lucy and Tommy, love spending time with their Nanna and Nonno here in Ingham,” he said, noting that those simple moments on the family farm remind him why Hinchinbrook deserves strong, local representation.
By Rachael Smith
Following a whirlwind campaign and a significant leap of faith, former Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto has won his bid to become the next Mayor of Townsville.
Dametto stepped down from his role as local MP just over a month ago, stating that he wanted to give Townsville the Mayor it deserved.
On Saturday night, Dametto claimed victory and is now Mayor-elect, ahead of the formal declaration expected in the coming days.
After serving as Member for Hinchinbrook for the past eight years and Deputy Leader of Katter’s Australian Party since 2021, Nick Dametto made the bold decision last month to run for Townsville’s Mayoralty.
Acknowledging the move as a ‘step down’ and a ‘wage cut’, Dametto said the decision was driven by a bigger purpose — giving the people of Townsville the leader they deserve.
“I want Townsville to be proud of the leader they’ve elected,” Dametto stated on Monday morning.
“I want to give them someone who can act as an ambassador for the region, I want to help deliver pride and prosperity for all.”
Dametto thanked residents of the Hinchinbrook Shire for their support over the past eight years.
“Thank you for backing me for all those years – we wanted to leave Hinchinbrook in a better place than when we started, and I believe we did that.”
Committed to a grassroots campaign, Dametto said he spent considerable time engaging directly with the community throughout the election period.
“It was almost like a silent auction” he shared, referring to the postal-vote system used over the weekend.
Rather than being at polling booths, Dametto spent Saturday speaking with residents at a local tavern before heading to the vote-counting centre at 6pm.
He watched the tallying with scrutineers and said that “from the out-set there was strong support”, and by 9pm he believed it was a “done deal”.
Dametto praised his Campaign Manager, Catherine Holden, who he described as “an absolute God-send”, and acknowledged Matthew Pew for organising a dedicated team to deliver pamphlets.
“I would also like to thank everyone who supported me in any way – from displaying a bumper sticker to putting up a core flute – every gesture was a huge help.”
The Electoral Commission of Queensland is expected to officially declare the Mayoralship in the coming days. Once Dametto receives the paperwork, he will be sworn in.
When asked what his first few weeks as Mayor will look like, Dametto said he plans a ‘back to basics blitz’.
“A big thing for me is the proper maintenance of the city – I want to give the people a city they can be proud of,” he shared.
“If they put out a bin on Wednesday night, they deserve to have it picked up on Thursday morning.”
Dametto added that he will be engaging with all Councillors and the CEO, noting he looks forward to bringing the Council together to work as a united team.
Following the announcement, Premier David Crisafulli expressed his support.
“The people of Townsville have strongly backed Nick Dametto for Mayor,” he said.
“This result will give this proud city the local leadership it needs and deserves.
“Congratulations Nick - our Government looks forward to working with you to deliver better outcomes for a great city.”
As Dametto steps into his new role, Hinchinbrook now awaits a by-election to determine who will become the next local MP.
The election is scheduled for Saturday 29 November.
Candidates who have announced their intention to run include: Mark Molachino for Katter’s Australian Party, Wayde Chiesa for the Liberal National Party of Queensland, Maurie Soars for the Australian Labor Party, Amanda Nickson for Family First, Aiden Creagh for the Greens, Luke Sleep for One Nation, and Independent Steven Clare.
“With the upcoming by-election,” said Dametto, “I hope that the winners are the people of Hinchinbrook”.
Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!
It feels like Christmas has finally crept into the region. My family puts up the tree as soon as Halloween is over, although it looks like plenty of others are now getting into the Christmas spirit as well. Lights are already appearing on houses and hedges, and posters, pickets, and even the occasional roadside VMS are popping up to tempt passersby with the promise of carolling and markets full of cheer.
The 47th Hinchinbrook Art Awards were also held last weekend. I even had a go and submitted two pieces, and I hope even more people enter next year. I would love to see the gallery filled from floor to ceiling, Salon Style. I also helped out at McHappy Day in Ingham with my newspaper co-star Sherie and the whole team at Maccas. It was a colourful and fun day, and I hope we raised plenty to support families in need.
It's the Schools feature this week in the paper, and I want to congratulate all the graduates and every student who has put in the hard yards to make it to the end of the year. Enjoy your Schoolies or your upcoming gap years, remember to stay safe, and have fun before getting stuck in at university or wherever life takes you.
Victoria
Fun Fact: On my gap year, I worked as a receptionist in an Irish hotel for a time. I also reconnected with old Irish family roots and visited the farm where my great-grandmother grew up.
Hinchinbrook’s own Forrest Beach Country Women’s Association (CWA) were warmly thanked for their craftiness and kindness after last week’s Beach Armistice Day Remembrance Ceremony.
Held on Monday, the 11th of November, the Remembrance Day event provided the community with the opportunity to come together to reflect and honour the courage, sacrifice and spirit of those who served in defence of our nation. Residents and community groups gathered throughout the shire to observe a minute’s silence at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, along with millions of other communities at services held around the world.
Annually, the ladies of Forrest Beach CWA volunteer their time to crochet poppies to freely share with ceremony attendees as a true act of kindness and respect.
Officially adopted in 1919, red poppies serve as a symbol to represent remembrance for those who have lost their lives or suffered in times of war or conflict and are often worn on Remembrance Day as a way to honour the sacrifice of service members and veterans. In day-to-day life, some chose to wear a red poppy as a way of keeping the memory of those we have lost alive, continuing to respect the little flower as a global emblem of remembrance.
The ladies’ selfless gesture never fails to warm the hearts of the community, with locals often describing Forrest Beach CWA volunteers as dedicated, passionate, and beautifully kind women continuing to spread goodwill within the shire.
A photographic artist and academic who proudly calls Ingham home has taken out the Open Award at the 47th Hinchinbrook Art Awards at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery last Friday night.
Ann Vardanega claimed the Open Award with her “Spirit of the Land” from a field of 113 entries, showcasing the incredible depth of creativity and talent within our region and beyond.
This annual event continues to provide a respected platform for artists of all levels to share their work in a professional gallery setting, reinforcing its place as one of North Queensland’s most valued cultural traditions. Nearly 180 guests gathered to celebrate the arts and recognise the outstanding achievements on display.
Cr Donna Marbelli said the Hinchinbrook Art Awards showcase the incredible talent within our community and beyond.
“Each piece tells a story, and together they create a rich tapestry of creativity that we are proud to celebrate,” Cr Marbelli said.
“We extend our sincere thanks to the sponsors and local businesses whose support makes these Awards possible. Their contributions help foster creativity and ensure the continued success of this important cultural event.”
The category winners:
The exhibition will remain open to the public until Friday 19 December 2025, from 10:00am to 4:00pm daily at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery. Visitors are encouraged to explore the collection and cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award, which will be announced in early January 2026.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that the Taylors Beach boat ramp will be temporarily closed to all users from Monday, 17 November to Monday, 1 December 2025.
This closure is required to support the biennial dredging of the Victoria Creek Navigation Channel, which will take place over a four-week period from Monday, 17 November to Wednesday, 17 December 2025, weather permitting.
Unlike previous methods involving excavation and sand transfer, this year’s works will use a dredger to remove material and pump it through a pipeline to a designated discharge area, as required by permit conditions. Unfortunately, the pipeline must cross the boat ramp.
Key dates and impacts:
Council urges all users to follow signage and directions provided by the contractor for safety.
Alternative boat ramps are available at Dungeness and Forrest Beach during the closure.
Council appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation while these important works are carried out. An update will be provided once the boat ramp is ready to reopen.
For further information, please contact Council on 4776 4600.
On the 12th of November, a member of the public reported a crocodile sighting within the stinger net enclosure at Forrest Beach. The sighting occurred outside of weekend patrol hours.
Upon receiving the report, we were notified immediately and our net supervisor promptly responded removing the net from the water to eliminate the risk to the public. After a safe period of monitoring, the net was reinstalled.
Surf Life Saving Queensland Lifesaving Services Coordinator for the North Barrier Branch and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, were all notified.
As we know, North Queensland is crocodile country, and sightings can occur in both open and enclosed swimming areas any where along the north coast. We remind everyone to exercise caution, remain vigilant and follow all safety signage and lifesavers instructions when visiting the beach.
Your safety remains our top priority, and we thank the community for their continued awareness and cooperation.
(By the Forrest Beach SLSC)
Learn how to be crocwise and how to report sightings here https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/plants-animals/animals/living-with/crocodiles/becrocwise
Communities across the Hinchinbrook region paused on 11 November to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia’s men and women in uniform. Cardwell and Ingham each held moving ceremonies that demonstrated the enduring respect locals hold for those who served, those who still serve, and those who never returned home.
In Cardwell, more than 80 attendees gathered at the Cenotaph for a solemn and well-supported ceremony. The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch once again showcased the strength of its volunteers and performers, with Piper Judith Tannoch—resplendent in full Scottish regalia—leading the commemoration with stirring bagpipes. She was joined by vocalist Colleen Tennent and bugler Adrian Frost, whose contributions set a dignified tone for the morning. The presence of former QATB officers underscored the depth of community connection.
In Ingham, residents gathered to reflect when, in 1918, the guns finally fell silent on the Western Front. Rodger Bow’s tribute reminded those assembled of the courage and sacrifice that shaped the freedoms enjoyed today. Wreaths were laid by community members and Australian diggers, flags were lowered, and the sound of the bugle echoed across the memorial space. It was a simple yet powerful ceremony, strengthened by the collective act of remembrance.
At 11:00am, the crowds observed a minute’s silence, standing together in quiet reflection. Lest We Forget.
What began as a mountain to climb at the start of this campaign has blossomed and grown with each passing week. Now, as we near the finish line, six weeks of fun, laughter, community, culture, and artistry are drawing to a close.
This past weekend we celebrated the NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier and the Hinchinbrook Cup Raceday, which once again proved to be a standout event on our festival calendar. Trackside Tables sold out quicker than you can say “ready, set, go!” and the crowd braved the heat, turning up in numbers that exceeded even our biggest Race Meets of recent times.
From the energy at the track to JD Smith performing Unchained Melodies for an appreciative audience at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, the weekend delivered something special for everyone.
As we move further into November and closer to Christmas, we begin to see our community Christmas festivities taking shape. This year brings a brand new event thanks to the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, together with various Halifax Community Groups. Almost Christmas! A Community Celebration will bring the communities of Halifax and surrounding areas together as they ring in the festive season.
This celebration will be held on November 22nd at the Halifax Community Hall in Argaet Street, across from the Halifax Cemetery, from 8:00am to 1:00pm. The morning will include Market Stalls, Christmas Raffles, Food and Drinks, Entertainment, Christmas Photos, Kids Activities, and a range of Cultural Experiences. One of the most intriguing additions is the Human Library Performances. It is shaping up to be a family-friendly morning full of festive fun.
For more information, visit Hinchinbrook Festival of Events on socials or go to the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism website at www.hinchinbrookchamber.com.au/hinchinbrook-festival-of-events
WHAT: Almost Christmas! A Community Celebration
WHEN: Saturday 22 November 2025 8:00am to 1:00pm
WHERE: Halifax Community Hall, Argaet Street, Halifax
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