Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Victoria Velton Seventy-five years of history and service were commemorated in Ingham last Saturday, as the 103 Squadron of the Australian Air Force Cadets celebrated its three-quarter-century anniversary with a special dinner at the Herbert River RSL, bringing together generations of cadets and supporters. The 75th Anniversary Dinner was a significant occasion for the squadron, welcoming current cadets and their families alongside former cadets, past members and special guests who travelled to Ingham to mark the occasion. Among the guests were visiting representatives from the Australian Army and Royal Australian Navy, adding to the significance of the celebration and highlighting the strong connections the Australian Air Force Cadets share with the wider Australian Defence Force. For the current generation of cadets, the evening provided an opportunity to meet people who have served in uniform and hear from those who have been part of the squadron and its history over the decades. Just as importantly, former cadets returned to support the young people who are now following in their footsteps. Instructors, volunteers, parents and supporters were all recognised. Event organiser Simone Lennox said the celebration was the culmination of several weeks of planning, organising, printing and chasing up the many details needed to bring such a significant event together. “There were plenty of late nights, last-minute changes and stressful moments, but we did it,” Simone said. For a youth organisation with such a long history in the community, the presence of ex-cadets was particularly meaningful, demonstrating the endurance of friendships, experiences and lessons gained through the program. The evening also featured displays and memorabilia reflecting the squadron’s history, helping to bring together stories from its past with the work being carried out by its current members. Special commemorative pieces were also created for the occasion, with current Cadet Unit Officer Saxon Crabb and former CUO/LAC Corey Crabb working together to create 75th Anniversary 3D-printed pieces giving guests a unique reminder of the milestone. Simone thanked Erin and Sandra for their work in helping organise the celebration, as well as the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL for hosting the event. Bec from Budget Colour Copies was also recognised for her help with the extensive printing, scanning and last-minute jobs required in the lead-up to the dinner. “Seeing everyone there, catching up, sharing stories and enjoying the night made all the work worthwhile,” Simone said. After 75 years, the anniversary was a celebration of the people who have been part of 103 Squadron, the memories created along the way and the young cadets who are now carrying that tradition into the future. Caption: Photo credits: Victoria Velton Generations of 103 Squadron members, ex-103 cadets and visiting officials and representatives gathered at the Herbert River RSL for the 75th celebration. The current Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. Current 103 Squadron leaders, ex-103 cadets, alongside visiting officials and representatives from the broader Australian Defence Force. The current members and leaders of the Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. All attendees enjoying their time at the 75th celebration. Extras to put online: Extra 1. The current Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets and family table. Extra 2. The Ex-Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets and family table. Extra 3. The visiting dignitaries and officials table.
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Ingham’s own Mick’s Bread Kitchen has cooked up a spectacular result on the national stage, taking home two gold medals at the 2026 Official Great Aussie Pie Competition. The bakery’s Smoked Brisket Pie and Pork Pie both claimed gold, with the brisket creation developed by Mick’s daughter, Monique Toichev. The bakery entered four pies in the prestigious competition, with its Ned Kelly Pie also taking silver and its Plain Pie earning bronze. The four-medal haul has given the local team plenty to celebrate, with Monique saying the recognition was the result of hard work and a commitment to perfecting every part of the pie.
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By Sian Bantock One of Mission Beach’s signature endurance events took place on Sunday 6th September as Cassowary Coast Multisport Club (CCMC)’s Ona Mission challenged competitors across three disciplines: paddling, running and cycling. The event drew competitors of all ages and abilities, each pushing themselves past their limits to complete the course. Participants tackled the event individually or in teams, beginning with a 4km paddle-over to the iconic Dunk Island, before a 6km trail run and 30km cycle, finishing with a 6km run along the region's tropical beaches. Calm seas made for great paddling conditions, though rising temperatures ensured the athletes were working hard under the tropical sun. CCMC Club President Richard Blanchette was overjoyed with the turnout. “Wow Mission Beach! Superb day for Ona Mission 2026 with participants paddling, riding and running along the beach,” he said.
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Locals are being encouraged to grab their rods and help tackle one of the region’s invasive pests when the annual Tilapia Tournament returns to Warrina Lakes during the October school holidays. Cassowary Coast Regional Council will host the free, family-friendly fishing competition from Thursday 1st October to Saturday 3rd October, combining a day out for the community with an important effort to protect local waterways and native aquatic life. The tournament challenges participants to catch and remove Tilapia, an invasive pest fish capable of rapidly establishing large populations and outcompeting native species. Tilapia feed on plants, insects and small native fish and can produce hundreds of young in a single season. Their nesting behaviour can also stir up mud and damage important habitat for native fish and other aquatic species. Fortunately for competitors, the pest fish are relatively easy to catch and will take a variety of bait, including corn, bread, worms and pellets. Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said every fish removed during the tournament would contribute to improving the health of the local ecosystem. “The Tilapia Tournament is a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors to get involved in protecting our waterways while enjoying a free, family-friendly event during the school holidays,” Cr Millwood said. “Every Tilapia removed from Warrina Lakes helps reduce the pressure on our native species and improves the health of our local ecosystem. I encourage everyone to come along, register and be part of this important community effort.” The tournament is open to all ages, although children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing gear, hat, sunscreen, water bottle and camping chair, with prizes also up for grabs throughout the event. Entry is free, however registration is essential. Further information and registration details are available through the Cassowary Coast Regional Council website. CAPTION: The annual Tilapia Tournament will return to Warrina Lakes this October. Photo supplied by Cassowary Coast Regional Council
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The Lucinda Store is once again the place to be this festive season, offering locals and visitors alike a one-stop shop for convenience, food, and coastal charm. Owned by the Fortini and Waldon families, the beachfront store is open seven days a week, serving everything from freshly prepared meals and barista-made coffee to everyday grocery essentials.
This Christmas, Lucinda Store is helping families celebrate with specially prepared prawn packs, perfect for holiday gatherings by the beach or at home. Alongside the fresh-caught festive seafood, customers can enjoy fresh fish and chips, homemade treats, pizzas, and the ever-popular Big Jetty Burger, all available to take away or enjoy in the relaxed alfresco dining area overlooking the iconic Lucinda Jetty and surrounding islands.
With cool ocean breezes and stunning views, the outdoor seating marks Lucinda Store as a destination for family meals, casual catch-ups, and beachside dining.
For those heading out on the water, their sister business, the Channel Inn Lucinda Convenience Store, complements the Lucinda Store by offering boating essentials, grab-and-go meals, frozen pizzas, locally sourced meats, fuel, ice, and a well-stocked bottleshop. It’s the perfect support for boaties and early risers looking for convenience and quality before their Christmas fishing trip.
Whether you’re stocking up for Christmas, enjoying a casual meal by the water, or preparing for a day out on the boat, Lucinda Store and Channel Inn Lucinda Convenience Store delivers fresh local produce and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
The team at SPAR Halifax wishes the Halifax and wider Hinchinbrook community a joyful Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. We thank all our customers for their support throughout 2025 and hope your festive season is filled with friendship and good cheer.
As your local supermarket and post office, we are proud to help the community not only with everyday shopping essentials but also by assisting with sending and receiving Christmas gifts and parcels. Our team is here to make the festive season a little easier, helping your packages reach family and friends.
We look forward to continuing to serve you in 2026, providing friendly service, everyday grocery essentials, hot box favourites, and ongoing support for the community we are so grateful to be part of. Please note our Christmas closure is Thursday 25th December. We look forward to seeing you all in the New Year!
Guido’s Panel & Paint Pty Ltd has been a cornerstone of the Ingham and Cardwell community since 1992. Founded by Guido and Maria Giliberto, the family-owned business has grown from a two-man workshop in a small shed to a purpose-built facility on McIlwraith Street. Today, under the leadership of their son David, Guido’s continues to deliver high-quality panel repairs, spray painting, vehicle restorations, and maintenance services.
Over the years, the team has kept pace with changing technology, repair methods, and vehicle models, offering in-house training and opportunities for apprentices to develop skills in spray painting and panel beating. The business celebrates long-term, experienced staff and prides itself on returning vehicles to their pre-accident condition, or better.
Guido’s is deeply committed to the local community, supporting schools, clubs, non-profits, and events such as the previous Australian Italian Festival, the Kids Day Out fence painting event at the Maraka Festival, and the artistic Birdlife Awards. They always support the Secondary School Work Experience Program and welcome students to the workshop to have hands-on experiences in the vehicle repair industry.
This year, Guido’s Panel & Paint will close for the holiday break on Friday, December 19th, reopening on Monday, January 12th, 2026. While the team takes a well-earned rest, David and Maria remain available for emergency advice if needed. Customers are encouraged to explore premium JUICE Car Care products available at the workshop as a perfect gift or for personal use.
Whether you’re looking to restore a vehicle, learn about repairs, or simply support a family business that gives back to the community, Guido’s Panel & Paint continues to combine their expertise with dedication in everything they do.
Office National Tully is strengthening its presence across North Queensland, now extending its services to businesses, schools and organisations throughout the Hinchinbrook region, including Ingham and surrounding communities.
Based in Tully, the locally operated business has built a strong reputation for supplying office products, technology solutions and workplace essentials tailored to regional needs. With existing clients already in the Hinchinbrook area, the expansion reflects growing demand for reliable, locally backed service beyond their immediate base.
Office National Tully offers a comprehensive range of office supplies, furniture, print and technology solutions, supporting workplaces of all sizes. Their focus on personalised service means customers receive practical advice, flexible ordering options and dependable delivery, helping businesses stay productive and well equipped.
The move to support more Hinchinbrook customers reinforces the company’s commitment to regional Queensland. By bringing its services to Ingham and nearby areas, Office National Tully aims to provide local businesses with easier access to quality products and trusted support, without relying on distant metropolitan suppliers.
As workplaces continue to adapt and grow, having a dependable office supply partner close to home makes a meaningful difference. Office National Tully’s expanded service area ensures Hinchinbrook businesses can access the same high standard of service, expertise and product range that has made the company a trusted name throughout the Cassowary Coast.
2025 has been a year to remember at Gilroy Santa Maria College, marked by outstanding achievements across the arts, sport, academics and community life.
The Arts Retrospective at the Gilroy Santa Maria Centre was an evening showcasing student talent in music, dance, sculpture, painting, photography, and makeup design. Year 11 and 12 Hospitality students played a key role, planning and delivering the event while preparing and serving a four-course dinner.
A significant milestone was celebrated as the College marked 75 years of education, faith and community connection.
Hospitality students continued to impress with The Red Lantern, an Asian-inspired degustation event designed and managed by senior students completing their Certificate II in Hospitality.
Sporting achievements were a highlight of the year, with the Gilroy Velocity Raptors travelling to Germany to compete on the world stage. School teams recorded strong results across football, netball, futsal, touch and cricket, including multiple regional and zone championships, while many students earned NQ representative honours.
Creative excellence was recognised for 2 students at the Hinchinbrook Birdlife Awards and the Hinchinbrook Art Awards.
Academic success was equally impressive, with 11 students achieving 100 percent results across a range of subjects and a record eight early university offers.
Several students achieved exceptional individual success in 2025. Sophie was named among the top three finalists in Queensland for Trainee of the Year and completed a Certificate III in Health Support Assistance through the Deadly Start Program. Conor secured a school-based apprenticeship with DC Auto Electrical Works and is completing a Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology.
Grace excelled academically and in sport, earning North Queensland representation in Girls Rugby 7s while achieving perfect assessment results across English, Biology and Chemistry. Gemma was awarded the prestigious Deus Caritas Est Award by Townsville Catholic Education, along with a Queensland Agriculture Teachers Association Certificate of Excellence. She completed a Certificate III in Agriculture, a traineeship with Tropical Agricultural Services, and recorded outstanding academic results across Biology, English and General Mathematics.
The year concluded with a moving Year 12 Graduation Mass, celebrating achievement and the strong sense of community that defines Gilroy Santa Maria College.
Highlights of the Year 6 Graduation Dinner included students beginning the evening with a beautifully prepared dance, followed by a reflection from the School Captains on their years at Our Lady of Lourdes.
Guests then enjoyed a meal together before the graduates were presented with their certificates. It was a wonderful evening celebrating the conclusion of their primary school journey, surrounded by parents, friends, and staff.
The school wishes God’s blessings on all students as they begin the next chapter of their learning journey.
Ingham State High School is proud to announce that Year 12 student, Zoe Lahtinen, has been named the 2025 Herbert River District Canegrowers/Mitre 10 Senior Secondary Scholar of the Year. The award was presented at the school’s recent Annual Awards Ceremony and recognises the highest overall academic achievement across five General Subjects, based on results and rankings at the end of Term 3.
Zoe’s outstanding academic performance and commitment to excellence set her apart in a highly competitive field. In addition to receiving the school’s most prestigious academic award, Zoe was also honoured with several major accolades on the night, including:
· Distinction with Honours for Studies, acknowledging an “A” standard across all subjects
· Distinction for Service, recognising her contribution to the school and wider community
· Subject Awards for Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, and Physics
· The ADF Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award – Year 12, celebrating her leadership, resilience, and teamwork
Zoe’s academic performance this year has been outstanding, achieving a perfect score of 100% in her Internal Assessments for both Chemistry and Mathematical Methods—an exceptional accomplishment that showcases her dedication and exemplary work ethic.
Teachers describe Zoe as a motivated, thoughtful and inquisitive learner who consistently strives for mastery in every subject she undertakes. Her achievements highlight not only academic excellence but also the discipline and determination required to reach the highest levels of success.
Looking ahead, Zoe has set her sights on a career in medicine and hopes to study a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery at James Cook University in Townsville. With her strong academic foundation and commitment to helping others, she is well on her way to an exciting future.
The Ingham State High School community extends its warmest congratulations to Zoe on her incredible accomplishments. We are immensely proud of all she has achieved and look forward to seeing the many ways she will continue to excel.
Senior Secondary Scholar of the Year, Zoe Lahtinen. Photo supplied
JEDDA MICK
JOSEPH MICK
JAYDEN MANN
ELLA CAMERON
GABRIEL LANCINI
ELYSE COOPER
ELIJAH STUMPE
SOPHIE
CONOR
GRACE
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EMERSON
GEMMA
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NQ Reps
Futsal - Lewis and Brax
Field Sports - Summer and Noah
Open Cricket – Brandon
Athletics – Finlee & Emmerson
13s/14s Cricket – Rori
Track – Jack and Molly-Rose
Cricket – Julian
Lions Club Sports Awards
Junior Sportstar of the Year Winner - Julian
Junior Sportstar of the Year Runner Up - Brax
Senior Sportstar Encouragement Award - Spencer
Sports Innovation Team Winner - Gilroy Velocity Raptors
Sports Team of the Year 2nd - GSMC U13 Futsal
Sports Team of the Year 3rd - GSMC U13 Mixed Touch
After the overwhelming success of the first Late Night Shopping evening in late November, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council is gearing up to deliver another festive celebration on Thursday, 18th December from 5pm.
Last month’s event drew hundreds of enthusiastic shoppers who filled Lannercost, Palm Terrace, Herbert, and Cartwright Streets, as well as Hinchinbrook Central and Mercer Lane. The expanded precinct layout proved a winner, giving locals and visitors the opportunity to explore a wider range of retailers while showcasing the diversity of Ingham’s shopping districts. The atmosphere came alive thanks to Christmas carols from the Ingham Theatre Group and a lively performance by the talented local duo Obsession who kept the festive spirit flowing.
With retailers and market stalls embracing the season by offering discounts, special deals, and Black Friday–inspired bargains, the first event created a real sense of community buzz. Restaurants, cafés and a pop-up barbecue joined in by serving discounted dinners and sweet treats to keep shoppers fueled as they browsed their way through the precincts.
To keep the festive momentum going, some of your favourites have been confirmed for the second evening, with market stall holders and local shops confirmed to keep the shopping party going.
Families can look forward to Santa making a return appearance in NQ Makers Function Room, where you can snap your own Christmas phots. With the success of November’s event still echoing through the community, this second instalment offers one more chance to support local shops, discover new favourites, and enjoy a relaxed night of Christmas shopping under the summer evening sky.
If you missed the first event or simply want to back your favourite boutiques, stalls, and local traders again, make sure you mark your calendar.
WHAT: Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Late Night Shopping
WHEN: Thursday 18th December 2025, 5pm to 9pm
WHERE: Ingham township precincts, including Lannercost Street, Mercer Lane & Palm Terrace.
As we wrap up a wonderful year, we bid farewell to our Year 6 graduates and Mrs Sandra Gherardi, whose contributions have been truly valued. We also proudly celebrate Mrs Marcelle Grube for an incredible 25 years of dedicated service to St Peter’s and Townsville Catholic Education. We thank our families and the community for their ongoing support and partnership throughout 2025. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas, and a season filled with peace and joy.
We look forward to welcoming you all back in 2026 for another exciting year together!
Cantatore Pharmacy officially reopened its doors at 86 Cartwright Street in Ingham on Wednesday, 10th December 2025, with a lively Grand Opening celebration that drew many inquisitive customers and local supporters. The store was filled with seasonal festive cheer, creating a welcoming atmosphere for the community.
Atlanta Knuth of Cantatore Pharmacy said the team was thrilled with the turnout, “Our official reopening day at Cantatore Pharmacy was a fantastic success, with both new and returning customers joining us to celebrate.”
She also highlighted the Christmas spirit present throughout the event as “The store was filled with festive Christmas spirit as everyone enjoyed giveaways, food, and drinks throughout the day.”
The pharmacy also welcomed the support of local leaders, with Atlanta thanking the Mayor for cutting the opening ribbon with them.
“We are incredibly grateful for the warm support from our community and extend a sincere thank-you to the Mayor of Ingham, Ramon Jayo, for attending and helping us mark this special occasion,” Atlanta said, “We wish the community a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”
The event showcased the pharmacy’s full range of health, beauty, and lifestyle products, including the new Dukes weight-loss range, MCo Beauty products, and fragrances with discounts of 20–30%. Shoppers could enjoy professional foundation colour matching, sample Vital Nutrients and Dukes products, or browse Scholl and Homyped footwear for support and comfort.
Cantatore Pharmacy also emphasised its community focus with a raffle supporting the children’s cancer charity My Room, alongside generous contributions from local suppliers and businesses. Custom gift packs and complimentary gift wrapping added a festive touch, making it easy for visitors to find thoughtful gifts.
Beyond retail, the pharmacy provides private consultations, home deliveries, and mobility aids, catering to health and wellness needs across the district. The Grand Opening highlighted Cantatore Pharmacy as a friendly, community-minded hub, combining professional service with a welcoming space for locals just in time for the festive season.
This gorgeous trio of Staffy cross puppies is ready to melt hearts and find their forever families. Affectionate, intelligent and full of gentle charm, they each bring their own sparkle while sharing the same loving and easy-going nature that makes them beautiful companions.
These pups thrive on human connection and whether it is cuddling on the couch, learning new skills or tagging along for family time, they adore being close to their people. They enjoy the company of other dogs and are wonderfully social little characters, making them well-suited to homes with existing pets.
Harvey is the laid-back boy of the group, bringing calm energy and a peaceful presence wherever he goes. Harley is the sweet snuggle lover who is always ready for affection. Hestia is the devoted little shadow who loves nothing more than curling up in your lap and sharing her warmth. Together, they offer a mix of heartfelt personalities, each bursting with love to give.
These puppies are ready to grow, learn and flourish with families who can offer patience, kindness and plenty of cuddles. If you are looking for a loving, loyal and family-friendly pup, Harvey, Harley or Hestia might be the perfect match for you.
Fill in an inquiry or adoption form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html
All puppies are DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, have up-to-date VACCINATIONS, are FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated and are on PROHEART.
Adoption Fee: $545
DOB: 13/06/2025
Sex: Harvey (Male), Harley (Male), Hestia (Female)
Breed: Staffy x
Kid Friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Harvey (Untested), Harley (Untested), Hestia (Yes)
Other Dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft
Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!
Another busy week has come and gone, and I think this last weekend was probably one of my busiest yet! A few weeks ago when we met with Hinchinbrook Shire Council and they mentioned there had been community requests for a Christmas Lights Trail, a guide to the region’s best festive displays, and they wondered if we might put one together.
At the paper, we are always keen to deliver for the community, so we decided to accept the challenge!
Sherie and I hopped in the car and hit the roads, and went full-on “light hunt” mode to track down all the local Christmas displays for you. We drove around for ages, oohing and aahing at all the lights. Then we turned our road trip into our very special Christmas Lights Trail, ready for you to follow too.
You can check it out on pages 6 and 7 and don’t forget to peek at some of last year’s best displays! Hope you love it as much as we enjoyed creating it for you.
It is so wonderful to get out and see everybody enjoying the Festival of Events and all the other end-of-year celebrations in between. It sounds like the whole Hinchinbrook Shire is carolling up a Christmas storm before the actual wet season hits.
On that note, are you prepared for the wet? The Hinchinbrook Shire Council has published many great tips on how to get prepared, useful checklists, and helpful information sessions. If you have somehow missed those on their Facebook pages, the Hinchinbrook Life publishes it all too, so keep a copy of us handy. You never know how much you will enjoy a crossword by candlelight once the power goes off and you have nothing else to do.
Victoria
Fun Fact: The Grinch first appeared in the 1957 children’s book How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr Seuss and has since become a beloved Christmas figure.
“As owner and operator of Golden Touch Auto Detailing, this morning was a very proud moment for me,” said Frank as he delivered a cheque for $1,180 to Ingham Palliative Care.
Frank presented the cheque to Judy Cardillo, expressing his gratitude to everyone who supported this important local initiative. The funds were raised through his inaugural detailing workshop, along with generous contributions from community members who donated to the cause.
He said the morning gave him the greatest pleasure and pride to hand the cheque over, reflecting the community’s willingness to get behind such a meaningful local service that helps so many.
The donation was warmly received, marking a heartfelt moment of generosity and local business giving back.
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