
2026 has marked an exciting new chapter for Science at Our Lady of Lourdes with the introduction of Science as a specialist subject across the school. Aligned with the Australian Curriculum Version 9, our science program provides students with opportunities to investigate real-world phenomena through hands-on learning, creativity, inquiry and play. At Lourdes, we believe that students learn best when they are actively engaged in meaningful experiences that allow them to question, explore, design, test and create. Across every year level, students have been immersed in learning that encourages curiosity while developing important skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving and resilience. Our Year 2 students have stepped into the role of designers and inventors by creating their own fidget toys. Students investigated how materials can be changed and selected for specific purposes, using the design process to create products that are both practical and engaging. They have loved seeing how different products can be made, especially their favourite toys. Students at Our Lady of Lourdes have had lots of fun being inventors. Photos supplied
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Feel the Magic is providing vital support to children and families across Australia who are navigating the pain of grief, offering a range of free early intervention programs designed to help young people “face, feel and heal” after the death of a parent, guardian or sibling. At the heart of the organisation is a belief that no child should face grief alone. Its programs create a nurturing, supportive environment where children aged 7 to 18 can express their emotions, learn coping strategies, and connect with others who understand their experience. Through its virtual camp programs, Feel the Magic is able to reach families regardless of location. These online sessions bring together grieving children to learn a shared “grief language”, build practical emotional tools, and reduce feelings of isolation through connection with other families. The organisation also offers specialised programs for those impacted by suicide bereavement. These include virtual camps, a one-day face-to-face “Let’s Talk Suicide Family Day Camp”, and the signature Camp Magic experience—an intensive 2.5-day overnight program where children are paired with trained volunteer mentors who provide one-on-one support throughout the camp. Camp Magic focuses on helping children understand grief, regulate difficult emotions and develop healthy coping strategies in a safe and structured environment. A concurrent emotional literacy workshop is also available for parents and guardians, helping families better understand grief responses and strengthen communication at home. For older participants, Grad Camp supports young people aged 16 to 19 as they transition into adulthood while continuing to process their grief experience. Across all programs, Feel the Magic emphasises connection, understanding and hope, with the organisation noting that even a single day can make a meaningful difference in a child’s journey through grief. To learn more about how you can get involved email lauren.galbraith@feelthemagic.org.au. WHAT: Family Day Camp WHEN: 26th July WHERE: The Cathedral School, Townsville
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A strong school community is built on the dedication of its people. At the heart of Halifax SS are highly experienced and caring learning support staff who ensure every student feels included, supported, and capable of success. Their work, alongside experienced and innovative teachers, creates engaging classrooms where creativity and curiosity thrive. Play-based learning is one example of this approach in action, helping students develop confidence, independence, and a love of learning from an early age. Bringing these strengths together is exceptional leadership. This has been recognised through the awarding of the prestigious Bill McClintock Medal, introduced in 2016 to honour individuals who contribute to the advocacy and service of the Queensland Association of State School Principals (QASSP), particularly through supporting colleagues across regional and remote communities. “We are all very proud of Michael for receiving this award,” a spokesperson said. “It reflects a commitment not only to school excellence, but to strengthening education across Queensland. “Together, caring support staff, innovative teaching, and award-winning leadership create an environment where students and communities thrive.” Caption: 1. Teacher aide Jenny Genrich incorporates play-based learning to actively engage students and support early skill development in the classroom. 2. Presentation of the Bill McClintock Medal, recognising outstanding leadership and service to education across Queensland.
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When disaster strikes, firefighters are often the first people the community turns to. But behind every emergency response is a team of locals who give their time, train regularly and step up when their neighbours need them most. Forrest Beach Fire and Rescue is encouraging more community members, particularly younger residents, to consider joining the station and becoming part of the team. "It's a good thing to get people back in from the community, especially for the station here; because we're an elderly community. Getting the younger people in is really, really important,” said Acting Lieutenant Keith Amos. Keith highlighted that being part of the station is a chance to make a tangible impact on the community- and not just in cases of fire. During the major flooding event of 2025 that isolated Forrest Beach and surrounding areas, firefighters assisted residents, with rescues, but also delivering meals and helping secure damaged homes. "The floods, when we were cut off, the way we were seen by the community and how we helped people really made an impact," Keith said. The crew’s role is diverse, and potential recruits are reminded that it’s not all flashing lights and sirens. Beyond the emergencies, auxiliary firefighters have an important role in the everyday community; regularly attending markets, school safety days and events to teach fire safety and engage with local families. During the recent Tasman Turtle Picnic Day, a popular community event for children, countless young attendees were proudly sporting the station’s bright, colourful Blazer the Koala firefighting mascot stickers. "We try and get into the community, showing what we do," Auxiliary Firefighter Michael Monbelli said. Michael also explained that for him, the biggest obstacle is balancing service with everyday life – though this factor he feels is understood and well-supported by the crew. Michael balances his firefighting role with full time work at the mill, and a busy family life with young children. On his team, there is a schoolteacher, two ex-servicemen, and another millworker. Auxiliary firefighters also commit significant time to weekly training. As for emergency response, call-outs can occur at any hour of the day or night. "Being an auxiliary is that we're on call.” Acting Lieutenant Keith Amos explained. “So even on our Wednesday night training we can get a call." Keith described the role as ‘drop everything and jump into action’. Despite the demands, Former Army serviceman Mark McEwen believes many people underestimate how manageable the role can be. "It doesn't take too much out of your normal week. Give up your three hours of training on a Wednesday, and you're on call." At the same time, emergency work can be unpredictable. "Things can change in a heartbeat," Mark said. He recalled a 4:00am call-out to a possible house fire. "Eight hours later, we get home. Us older fellas feel it a bit more, but it was worthwhile. That's what we're here for." The crew also works closely with volunteer organisations including the SES and Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club. During the February 2025 flood event, firefighters and surf lifesavers combined resources to rescue elderly residents trapped by rising floodwaters. According to the firefighters, the biggest motivation to get involved is that it feels good to make a difference in your community. "It's that sense of pride," Keith said, "I take pride in this job and I love doing it." "Even if you've never thought about becoming a firefighter, come down and have a chat to us," Keith said. "It's that simple.” Caption: Members of the Forrest Beach Auxiliary Firefighters: Glyn Morgan, former Air Force serviceman, and Braydon Fratus, local mill worker and the brigade's newest recruit, standing by the Forrest Beach Brigade’s fire engine.
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Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) has recorded its biggest year of planned burns to date, surpassing its annual target by more than 50 per cent.
Between the 1st of July 2024 and the 30th of June 2025, QPWS carried out 637 planned burns across 968,884 hectares of Queensland’s public protected estate. The burns aim to reduce the risk and severity of bushfires, protect communities and infrastructure, and promote healthy ecosystems across the state’s parks and forests.
The milestone comes as part of the State Government’s More Rangers, Better Neighbours initiative, which has invested in additional fire management staff, upgraded equipment, enhanced training, and improved engagement with local communities. This includes restoring funding for 40 specialist fire rangers to strengthen bushfire preparedness and park management.
Planned burns are highly weather-dependent, requiring cooler conditions and minimal wind to create a patchwork of burnt and unburnt areas that support biodiversity and habitat conservation.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell praised the achievement.
“It is fantastic to see Rangers prepare our protected areas for the months and years ahead through the strategic use of fire,” Minister Powell said.
“What they have achieved this year is astounding – bolstered by good weather, strong investment in the QPWS fire program and an increased use of aerial burning techniques to deliver broadscale burning across multiple parts of Queensland when conditions are right.
“I want to congratulate our QPWS rangers and Fire teams for their focus, coordination, and commitment to deliver such an incredible result – protecting Queensland communities and our precious environment.”
QPWS Fire Services Director Troy Spinks said burns would continue over the coming weeks while conditions remain favourable.
“Rangers have done an exceptional job this year, but people can still expect to see smoke on the horizon as crews make the most of these cooler, milder conditions to undertake even more burns within national parks and state forests,” Mr Spinks said.
“These planned burns not only provide a picture-perfect sunset but prepare us for the upcoming bushfire season.
“We thank the community for your support and understanding over the coming weeks as we work to protect our parks and neighbours by delivering these vital planned burns.”


Families seeking a nurturing and enriching beginning to their child’s education are invited to enrol for Prep 2026 at St Peter’s Catholic School, Halifax. The school offers a warm and caring environment where each child is valued and supported to thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.
With small class sizes and a qualified, experienced early years teacher, St Peter’s ensures every student receives personalised attention and one-on-one support tailored to their unique needs. Teaching practices at the school are modern, engaging, and grounded in the Science of Learning. Emphasising hands-on experiences, students learn through play-based exploration and real-world activities that make learning both fun and meaningful.
The curriculum also includes creative arts, physical education, and digital technologies, promoting well-rounded development across all key learning areas.
St Peter’s Catholic School is proud to foster a loving and inclusive school community where children are encouraged to grow in confidence, curiosity, and compassion. Rooted in Gospel values, students are supported and challenged to live out the teachings of Jesus in their daily lives.
To experience the difference a supportive and faith-filled learning environment can make, families are warmly invited to attend one of the upcoming Prep Open Mornings, running from 8:30am to 11:00am on the following dates:
➔ Friday 12th September
➔ Friday 19th September
➔ Friday 14th November
➔ Friday 21st November
To book a tour or find out more, contact the school on 4777 7431 or email halfx@tsv.catholic.edu.au.




Students at Ingham State High School undertaking Certificate II in Rural Operations are gaining valuable real-world experience, community connections, and inspiration to pursue careers in agriculture.
At the beginning of the course, students focused on Workplace Health & Safety (WH&S) within the agricultural industry and were introduced to the fundamentals of safe tractor operation and the use of various implements. Students gained valuable hands-on experience in the effective operation of both the school's New Holland tractor and the Herbert River Athletics Club’s Kubota lawn tractor and rotary hoe.
Due to unfavourable conditions earlier in the year, it has only recently been possible to begin preparing the school’s agricultural block on the George Day Athletics Oval. Students have now successfully planted sugar cane as well as a range of vegetables, including pumpkins, zucchini, long capsicums and eggplant to enhance their learning and meet course outcomes.
The success of the program is due in large part to the generous support of local farmers, industry companies, and agricultural bodies, including HCPSL and Canegrowers Herbert River. Local farmer, Alan Lynn, donated his time and expertise, along with the use of his Bed Mounder/Renovator, to help students prepare the block for planting.
Regan and Kristen Kernke from Agro Group also kindly donated and spread a full load of mill mud onto the block to assist with soil preparation. This donation not only improved soil health but also significantly reduced the need to purchase fertilisers, supporting the sustainability of the school’s agricultural program.
HCPSL also provided tissue-cultured sugar cane varieties, which students recently planted under the guidance of Field Technician Rhiannan Harragon. These newly released varieties will form part of the school’s entry in the Herbert River Canegrowers Sugar Cane Varieties competition at the annual Ingham Show.
Ingham State High School’s Certificate II in Rural Operations program continues to benefit from the strong partnership between the school and the local agricultural industry. The school extends its sincere appreciation for the ongoing support, which plays a vital role in student success.




This year, the Catholic community is joyfully celebrating the Year of Jubilee: Pilgrims of Hope—a time to reflect on the shared journey of faith and the hope that lights the way forward.
As part of this special celebration, Townsville Catholic Education invited students from across the diocese—stretching from Ingham to Mount Isa, Townsville to Charters Towers, and every community in between—to create an artwork that captures the true essence of Hope.
Year 6 students from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and heartfelt reflection. They spent time exploring what hope means to them—in their faith, friendships, community, and dreams for the future.
The result is a stunning collection of artworks that are not only visually striking but deeply meaningful. Each piece tells its own powerful story of resilience, faith, and optimism.
The school community is incredibly proud of the students' creativity, insight, and the thoughtful way they have brought the theme of Hope to life. These artworks stand as a testament to the enduring strength of young voices and a reminder that—even in uncertain times—hope continues to guide, uplift, and inspire.
Here are some of the finalists from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School proudly showing their artworks that represent the Pilgrims of Hope.








This Father’s Day, JB Marine is helping you celebrate the legends in your life with unbeatable deals for all the fishing and boating dads out there!
For all your boating needs from wash to service, from 1st September to Monday, 8th September, enjoy 10% off all floor stock items when you use the code FATHERSDAY25 at purchase.
Whether you are after premium marine accessories, boating gear, or the latest gadgets, now is the time to grab a great deal, as they have everything perfect for keeping your vessel looking sharp and ready for adventure.
For those considering upgrading their outboard, Mercury Marine is running an unbeatable promotion. Right now, receive a complete rigging kit absolutely free when you purchase a selected 115 to 300 horsepower Mercury Marine outboard. This limited-time offer means serious value for your boating investment, but you will need to move fast.
Whether you are buying for Dad or upgrading your own boat and enjoying the new gear, JB Marine’s Father’s Day specials are the perfect excuse to set sail on new adventures with only the best new kit. Cast a line and show your old man some love with a fishing trip! Terms and conditions apply.



Father’s Day is just around the corner, and at Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy, we’ve made it easy to find a gift that shows Dad how much he means to you. Whether your father is practical, sentimental, or enjoys a little indulgence, our shelves are stocked with thoughtful options to suit every taste and budget.
For the dad who loves to keep active and healthy, explore our range of men’s grooming products, skincare essentials, and health supplements. If your father prefers something a little more personal, we have premium fragrances, stylish accessories, and beautifully packaged gift sets that are sure to make him feel appreciated.
Not sure what to choose? Our friendly team is always on hand to help you find the perfect present, or even put together a custom hamper tailored just for him. With free gift wrapping available, you can leave our store ready to surprise Dad with something truly special.
This Father’s Day, skip the socks and give a gift that speaks from the heart. Visit Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy and let us help you make Dad’s day one to remember.




The Seniors Medieval Morning Tea proved to be a magical and memorable occasion, filled with laughter, music and a sense of community. Guests were transported back in time as they were greeted by a visiting crusader knight, who mingled with the crowd and posed for cheerful photographs. Many princesses and noble ladies, dressed in their finest medieval attire, graced the tables, adding a colourful charm to the room.
The tables themselves were laden with decorations and delicious treats, as friends and neighbours gathered to share stories, enjoy the morning and celebrate the spirit of togetherness.
On stage, the entertainment flowed without pause. Chair exercises brought smiles and light-hearted participation, while choirs filled the hall with harmonies. Energetic dances swept across the stage, and talented musicians showcased instruments and voices that added a lively and charming touch to the event.
With every moment offering something new, the morning became a tapestry of joy, performance and companionship. It was a celebration of connection, where seniors could revel in fun, laughter and a little medieval magic.
Find the fullk social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/22nu4ct3







Last Friday, members of the HCSC Seniors Morning Coffee Club gathered at the Noorla Bowls Club for a morning filled with conversation, laughter, and activities. The highlight of the day was a thoughtful presentation from Penny King of NWRH, which was warmly received by everyone in attendance. Morning tea was a treat, with plenty of delicious options to enjoy before the fun continued with bingo and trivia. The atmosphere was lively, with plenty of smiles shared across the room.
Looking ahead, the club’s next meeting will take place on Friday, 29 August, and there will be a venue change. For the next few gatherings, members will come together at Conroy Hall, 41 McIlwraith Street, Ingham. The morning runs from 9:30am to 11:30am and continues to offer a wonderful program of games, trivia, prizes, and of course, a tasty morning tea.
A $5 entry fee helps cover the cost of catering, and transport options are available for seniors needing pick-ups from Halifax or around Ingham. To RSVP or register your interest, please contact Desley on 07 4776 1822.
Join us for another enjoyable morning of friendship and community.
Contributed with thanks by Desley Di Bella, Elderly Inclusion Facilitator of the HCSC.


The Cardwell and Tully Sub Branches met at the El Arish RSL Hall for a morning tea and a tour of the town's Museum. Incidentally, this gathering occurred on the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific or V.P. Day.
The El Arish Hall committee are to be congratulated for their hard work in keeping these buildings in top condition, and their community spirit was an inspiration to all the visitors. El Arish is an old soldier settlement town and has a very strong connection to our Military past.
The recently commissioned “War Horse to Plough Horse “ exhibit is a brilliant example of what a community can achieve.
Contributed with thanks by Rob Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub-Branch


Jim Hodge may call himself “a newbie” to Hinchinbrook, but after 22 years in Ingham, he has become a well-known voice both in person and online.
Born in Victoria in 1957, Jim spent little time in his birth state before moving around Australia. When it came time to settle, Ingham stood out. “It ticked enough boxes,” Jim said. “It was big enough to have Coles and Woolies, but not the traffic woes of bigger places. And the people were my kind of people.” He admired the strong work ethic of the Italian community in particular, which helped him feel right at home.
Jim’s working life was spent as a postie in New South Wales. He recalls long hours, especially at Christmas, when mail reached its peak. “One year, I didn’t start the round until five in the afternoon after a full day of sorting,” he said. The heavy workload eventually took a toll on his health, and he has been on a pension since his forties.
Life in Ingham has brought both challenges and new beginnings. Jim lost his first wife nearly 13 years ago after caring for her through illness. Today, he is married to Olivia, who has encouraged him to reconnect with the wider world. “Thanks to her, I got out in the world again,” he said. “The spirit wants to go, but the body doesn’t always agree anymore.”
Jim is a regular at the Seniors Morning Coffee Club, which he admits is his main form of socialising. Away from gatherings, he spends much of his time on the computer. While Olivia is active on Facebook, Jim also uses the platform, often adding his perspective to local conversations. “Somebody’s got to rock the boat,” he said with a smile.
Among his strongest views are the need for better community infrastructure, particularly footpaths. “It’s fine in the fancy parts of town, but down Perkins or McIlwraith Street, there’s nothing,” he said as he sees firsthand how difficult accessibility can be.
Before his father passed aged 94, Jim went to visit him as often as he could, always sporting his lucky hat so his father could recognise him. He suffered from dementia linked to a lack of vitamin B12, which has shaped Jim’s awareness of health services in regional areas. His own struggles with eyesight and the long wait for treatment have only reinforced his concerns about access to specialist care in smaller towns.
Candid, humorous, and never afraid to speak his mind, he continues to be an active presence in the Hinchinbrook community, and newcomer or not, Jim Hodge has found his place in Ingham.


The Second World War also left its mark on the region. In December 1942, the American B24 bomber Texas Terror crashed on Mount Straloch, killing all on board – five crew members and seven passengers. Cardwell later became home to the Battle of the Coral Sea memorial, commemorating the fierce battle fought in 1942 against the Japanese by US allies just 800 metres off the Queensland coast.
Post-war developments saw gradual population growth and economic changes. In 1961, the Cardwell Shire Council area had a population of 5,183, and by 1967 the Queensland Government called for applications for the development of a tourist resort at Cape Richards; consequently, Hinchinbrook Island Proprietary Limited were granted the lease. The current jetty – the third constructed at Cardwell – was officially opened in July 1969. Hinchinbrook Island itself, recognised as Australia’s largest island National Park, spans 52 km in length and 10 km in width, with its highest peak, Mt Bowen, reaching 1,142 metres.
Texas Terror: There were heavy storms around Ingham and Cardwell that morning, and the crew would not be expecting such big peaks as those found on Hinchinbrook while flying over the sea. Although coastal residents reported seeing a flash on Mt Straloch on the day of the crash, and later sugar mill workers reported seeing sunlight flash off pieces of metal just below the summit, the search for the "Texas Terror" was concentrated further north.



Lucinda Coast Guard will be conducting a Marine Radio Licence course for members of the public at the Lucinda Base, 19 Patterson Parade, Lucinda, on Saturday, 27th September. It is a legal requirement to hold a marine radio licence if you have a marine radio installed on your boat.
The course covers both LROCP (Long Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency) for HF radios and SROCP (Short Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency) for VHF radios. It begins at 8:15am and runs for approximately 7 hours. Please bring your own lunch, tea and coffee will be available.
The course costs $100 and bookings are essential. To reserve your place, please contact Rex on 0439 079 922.



Hello Everyone,
Welcome to the 37th issue of Hinchinbrook Life! It’s hard to believe we’ve been producing your free weekly newspaper for over six months now – and what an incredible journey it’s been!
We’re proud to bring back a local newspaper to the region. Our passion shines through in everything we do – from our journalist Victoria out gathering stories and snapping photos, to our sales manager Sherie, who works closely with local businesses to meet their marketing needs. And behind the scenes, our central office team helps bring it all together each week.
For those new to our story, Life Publishing Group is an independent, locally-owned business. We’ve been publishing magazines for nearly 15 years and added weekly newspapers five years ago – right when many printed publications were shutting down, we took the opposite path and grew.
What started as one paper has grown into five weekly mastheads. Our mission is simple: to connect communities, provide a free local voice in print, and give businesses a platform they can be proud of.
Local businesses have been at the heart of this journey from day one. Their support makes it possible for us to deliver this paper to you free each week.
If you’re a business owner, we’d love to see your ad here. You’ll get free design, strong local exposure, and a real sense of pride in supporting something truly local.
And to our readers – take a moment to check out those ads. Shop local, support the businesses that support your newspaper – and be sure to mention where you saw them!
Thank you for your continued support – it means the world.
Rach


Women across the region are being encouraged to take the next step in their leadership journey, with partial scholarships now available through Women & Leadership Australia.
With up to $5,000 on offer per person, the scholarships aim to empower more women to build their leadership skills, expand their workplace impact, and take on greater responsibilities—regardless of career stage.
Women & Leadership Australia’s programs are designed for flexibility, allowing participants to engage in part-time study that blends cutting-edge theory with practical application.
There are four programs available, each tailored to different levels of experience:
Graduates are seeing real results with 9 in 10 gaining the confidence to step into senior leadership, more than 90% improving their ability to lead change, and 80% reporting positive career progression.
Applications close Friday, the 22nd of August and to learn more and register, visit www.wla.edu.au/industry/register.


Cardwell was transformed into an intergalactic hotspot from 8 to 10 August 2025 as the Australian UFO Festival returned for its fourth year, attracting visitors from across the country. After a year’s absence in 2024, anticipation had been building for months, and the festival did not disappoint, offering three days packed with cosmic conversation, community fun, and unforgettable experiences.
The action began on Friday with free community events, including a Planetarium experience and Stories in the Stars, setting a tone of wonder and curiosity for the weekend ahead.

At the heart of the festival was the C-Files Forum, a two-day program that once again proved to be one of the festival’s biggest drawcards. Guest speakers such as author Rowan Bo and researcher Grant Lavac shared thought-provoking insights into UFO encounters, UAP investigations, and extraterrestrial disclosure. Along with the C-Files Tours, which sold out, took visitors to local UFO hot spots and shared Cardwell’s own mysterious sightings history
Beyond the forums and tours, the weekend celebrated Cardwell’s creative spirit and community connection. The Hinchinbrook Regional Arts Mosaic Workshop and Star People & Ancestral Connections Workshop explored the artistic and cultural sides of cosmic curiosity.
Families flocked to the foreshore on the weekend, especially for Sunday’s Monster Market Day featuring dozens of stalls, face painting and alien crafts, crab races, and a classic Aussie BBQ. A Moon Phases Workshop and a bustling car boot sale added to the variety, ensuring there was something for every type of festival-goer.
From serious discussions on the unexplained to light-hearted fun for the whole family, the 2025 Australian UFO Festival proved why it has become one of the region’s most unique and beloved annual events, leaving visitors and locals alike eager for the next chance to connect under the Cardwell stars.







