Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The community is welcoming back Lucia Bunce, who recently launched Unbreakable You Counselling after taking a short break from practice to focus on her health and wellbeing. Lucia's return reflects both resilience and a deep commitment to helping others navigate life's challenges. Drawing on her professional counselling experience and personal understanding of overcoming adversity, she brings empathy, authenticity, and compassion to every client interaction. Unbreakable You Counselling offers a safe, supportive environment where individuals can explore their concerns, build confidence, and develop practical strategies for positive change. Whether facing stress, grief, relationship difficulties, disability-related challenges, or major life transitions, clients can expect respectful, person-centred support tailored to their unique circumstances. The name "Unbreakable You" captures a powerful message; that even during life's most difficult moments, strength and growth remain possible. As Lucia resumes her counselling journey, we congratulate her on this new venture and wish Unbreakable You Counselling every success in making a meaningful difference in the lives of those it serves. Get in touch with Lucia by email at: uycounselling@gmail.com or by calling: 0408 555 092. Offices at 37 Herbert St, Ingham.
Read the full story
Space for floor to ceiling tackle and rod displays, bicycles and homebrew supplies. Photo credit: Victoria Velton A Local Business Opportunity With Real Lifestyle Appeal Many people pass through Ingham and quickly understand why locals love calling it home. With Hinchinbrook Island, the Great Barrier Reef, rivers, creeks and world-class fishing all close by, the region offers a lifestyle that is becoming harder to find. Now, one local business is offering someone the chance to make that lifestyle permanent. Ingham Tackle Shop, a well-established retail business in the heart of town, is being offered for sale. For more than a decade, it has been offering Hinchinbrook locals, visitors, fishers, boaties, cyclists and homebrew enthusiasts a mix of fishing tackle, bicycles, boating accessories, homebrew supplies and outdoor essentials. It is the kind of shop that fits naturally into the North Queensland lifestyle. Locals and tourists alike rely on it for everyday gear and advice when exploring the coast, creeks and islands in the region. Already living in the region? This is an opportunity to step into a known local business with loyal customers. Visiting, thinking, “I could live here,” here’s a genuine reason to stay. Simple to operate, owner-friendly and supported by strong local demand, limited competition and steady tourism traffic. There is also room to grow through expanded product ranges, online sales and greater digital marketing. Ingham Tackle Shop represents more than a business purchase. It is a chance to invest in a proven local enterprise while enjoying the lifestyle that brings people to North Queensland in the first place. Enquiries are now welcome, for more information contact Paul Beardmore on 0427 979 147 or email paul.beardmore@finnbusinesssales.com.au or call the owner on 0419 375 620.
Read the full story
Hinchinbrook Shire Council is reminding residents that trees growing on Council-owned or managed land cannot be removed, damaged or relocated without written approval, following recent incidents in the region. This includes, but is not limited to, cutting down trees, removing, digging out or transplanting trees, and damaging tree roots or surrounding soil. “Unauthorised removal or damage of trees on Council land is a breach of local laws.” Council shared. “Enforcement action may be taken, including the issuing of penalties and recovery of costs associated with replacement and site restoration.” Council said that trees on public land are carefully planned and maintained as part of the region’s community infrastructure, providing shade to reduce urban heat, improving air quality and public health, supporting native wildlife habitat, assisting with stormwater management and erosion control, and contributing to the overall character of local communities. Residents are also reminded that planting trees or shrubs on public land, including footpaths and nature strips, is not permitted without Council approval. Applications can be made through the Vegetation Planting on Council Land Request Form, with assessments considering factors such as underground services, access requirements and future infrastructure projects. While residents cannot remove trees themselves, Council does undertake removals when necessary. This may occur if a tree is dead, diseased, structurally unsafe, damaging infrastructure, required for approved works, or poses a risk to public safety. Anyone concerned about the condition of a tree is encouraged to contact Council rather than take matters into their own hands. Council officers can assess the situation and determine whether maintenance or removal is required. For more information, contact Hinchinbrook Shire Council on 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au. Caption: Trees at Forrest Beach. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Read the full story
Did You Know? A Two-Day Tango Delivers Maximum Feels Here’s Hinchinbrook’s superpower: proximity. Ingham sits at the pivot point between wetlands, rainforest and coast, making it easy to pack huge variety into just two days. Less driving, more doing, always a win. Day one flows like this: TYTO Wetlands at dawn, deli picnic for lunch, Wallaman Falls for an afternoon roar, then dinner back in town. Day two? Coffee first, Lucinda jetty silhouettes next, a relaxed family fish, and a sunset that melts both sky and schedule. The real magic is flexibility. Weather off? Swap the order. Tides wrong? Pivot inland. This region rewards loose plans and curious detours. Two days here doesn’t feel rushed, it feels efficient, satisfying, and quietly smug. Map it: hinchinbrookway.com.au
Read the full story
.jpeg)
> be
aal
Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
�E���E���E��
Wilmar Grower Marketing�E���E���E��s annual Global Traders Roadshow has wrapped up for another year
after a busy week of presentations,
Through strong partnerships, innovation, and on-farm action, agriculture will play a pivotal role in ensuring Australia�E��E�E���E��Es net zero future - delivering not only environmental outcomes but also economic opportunities for communities across the nation.
>eserved_inh
cconnecte
James Cook University (JCU) researchers are calling for urgent government support to protect the spectacled flying-fox from extinction as new and escalating threats push the species closer to the brink.
Despite their reputation as noisy and messy neighbours, spectacled flying-foxes play a vital role in the survival of Australia�E��E�E���E��Es rainforests, travelling vast distances to pollinate flowers and spread seeds at levels unmatched by any other species.
JCU-led research researchers calls for urgent government support to protect the spectacled flying-fox from the threat of extinction (Photo Supplied)
�E��E�E���E��E
>airloch Mill. This mileston
>>
Recently, the Cardwell community came together for a Social Meeting hosted by the Red Cross at the Cardwell RSL. Robbie Savage, Red Cross Emergency Services Officer based in Cairns, joined the gathering to share his insights into disaster response and recovery in Far North Queensland.
Robbie spoke about his role as a secondary responder during emergencies, coordinating disaster management efforts across the region. His knowledge and experience were eye-opening, especially his emphasis on the importance of neighbour and friend networks, as well as community recovery hubs in the aftermath of a disaster. These connections can make all the difference when it comes to resilience and recovery.
The Tully Red Cross branch is planning to establish a Cardwell-based group and is inviting local residents to get involved. Opportunities for participation include fundraising, supporting disaster response, knitting trauma teddies, organising local events, and engaging with community groups. Contributions from volunteers are expected to be highly valued.
This year has already seen incredible collaboration between our branches and broader teams. By joining Red Cross, you�E��E�E���E��Ell be part of something much bigger, helping your community prepare for and respond to severe weather events, and being a trusted face of support in Cardwell.
Members of the Cardwell community met with the Red Cross for a social meeting. Photo credit: Centacare FNQ
>the
ff
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
mmade
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
ee w-richt
ssupplied<
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
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.
gath
llyn-Hugh
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!
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.
�E��E�E���E��E
>?�E��s????�E���E��??????�E��C???�E��s????�E��s?????�E��H?�E���E��??????????
>br>7:00am in Palm Creek, Ingham & The Cardwell foreshore.
A FREE weekly 5k exercising event for participants of all standards,
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
>e="max-width:11
>ax-width="433p
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
>s="w-richtext-f
>ble, with a
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.
>a-rt-
> the wet
.jpeg)
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.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes. Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Ltd.
