Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
As Queensland’s shorebird nesting season gets underway, beachgoers are being reminded to give coastal birds plenty of space as they raise their young. For ground-nesting birds, a peaceful stretch of sand can be the difference between a successful nesting attempt and a disturbed one. Nests and chicks can be difficult to spot due to camouflage. Dogs, people and vehicles moving too close to the birds can cause them to leave their nests and leave vulnerable chicks unprotected. Visitors should watch where they walk, avoid known roosting and nesting areas and keep dogs on a lead where required. Local beaches and wetlands are home to shorebirds such as beach stone-curlews, pied oystercatchers, and the endangered little terns. If you spot birds nesting or young chicks on the sand, give them plenty of space and avoid walking or driving through the area. A simple way to help is to give birds a wide berth. If a bird becomes agitated or flies away as you approach, take that as a sign you are too close and move further back. The warmer months also bring an opportunity for Queenslanders to take a closer look at the birds sharing their local environment as the Aussie Bird Count returns. The Aussie Bird Count will run from the 19th to 25th October, giving bird lovers and curious locals the chance to spend just 20 minutes counting the birds around them. Now in its 13th year, the national citizen science event is open to everyone, with counts able to be completed in backyards, parks, schoolyards, beaches or even from a window. Last year, a record 64,000 Australians counted more than five million birds, with the information helping BirdLife Australia build a better picture of Australia's bird populations. You don't need to be a bird expert to take part as the free Aussie Bird Count app includes a bird finder to help identify unfamiliar species, and every count contributes to Australia's growing citizen-science dataset. This October will be a great chance to look a little closer at the wildlife around you and help the birds. WHAT: Aussie Bird Count 2026 WHEN: October 19th–25th WHERE: Anywhere you can spot birds
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The Lucinda Coast Guard QF-14 has welcomed new communication headsets for its volunteers, thanks to a grant from the Port of Townsville Authority. Lucinda Coast Guard President Steve Whipps said the headsets would make communication between crew members significantly clearer while the vessel was underway. “These headsets provide clear and audible speech despite the noise from our twin 300 HP motors and the sound of the waves striking the vessel at speed,” President Whipps said. He said the improved communication would help ensure important instructions were heard clearly by all crew members while out on missions. “This ability greatly improves communication between the Skipper, the Navigator, the Helmsperson and the deck crew, preventing missed instructions and misheard directions,” he said. “Our thanks go to the Port of Townsville Authority for their great contribution to our on-board safety,” he said. Caption: Helmsperson Coral and Skipper Graham at the helm. Photo supplied: Steve Whipps Crew member Jeanette with the new headset on.
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Forrest Beach locals are doing their bit to keep the popular coastline clean, with a recent online conversation highlighting how many beachcombers are now regularly picking up plastic and other rubbish washed in by the tide. For some, it has become part of their regular beach walk, with one local saying they often fill a pocket with pieces of plastic they find along the sand. “I quite often go for the little, tiny pieces as they are easily swallowed by our marine life, but also pick up the chunky bits,” one resident commented. Others shared their own experiences of helping to keep Forrest Beach clean, with another resident remembering the old saying, “three for the sea”, an initiative asking beachgoers to collect and dispose of at least three items of trash whenever they leave the shore. “These days it is more like 30,” the resident said. The problem is not limited to the obvious rubbish. Though larger pieces pose a danger through choking, entanglement and restricting movement, smaller plastics can build up in animals over time. Locals have pointed to tiny fragments, some no bigger than grains of salt, which can be easily swallowed by marine wildlife. One local said the ongoing challenge of plastic washed in with the tide makes beach clean-up a “never-ending job”. Forrest Beach residents are encouraging others to pick up what they can when they are at the beach or along any waterway, whether it is one piece or a pocketful, and help keep the coastline beautiful for both the community and its wildlife. Caption: Rubbish and plastics can range from the tinies coil of nylon fishing line to the metres of thick marine rope. This pile of rubbish was found on Forrest Beach by residents. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Read the full storyOn Friday, 19th September 1879, the first annual meeting of the Herbert River Jockey Club (Kennedy District) was held.
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This weekend, the Tropical North Showjumping Club (TNSJC) will host the thrilling finale of the 2025 Frosty Mango NQ Leaderboard Series with the eagerly awaited �E��E�E���E��EOut of the Floods Comes the Warmbloods�E��E�E���E��E event. After a season disrupted by severe weather, riders and their horses are ready to put on a spectacular show of skill and determination.
With electric energy, thrilling performances, and trophies on the line, Ingham is the place to be for anyone wanting to witness North Queensland�E��E�E���E��Es best riders in action.
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Be Ready Because Disasters Are A Reality Here
Living in Hinchinbrook Shire on Queensland�E��E�E���E��Es north-east coast means living with the reality of severe weather. Cyclones, floods, and intense storms are part of life here �E��E�E���E��E and during disaster season, we need to be ready to respond quickly and calmly when the time comes.
What if the power goes out for an extended period?
What if we can�E��E�E���E��Et get to the shops or the pharmacy?
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Hello Hinchinbrook,
I thought I�E��Ed mention the Hinchinbrook Road Safety Advisory Committee, which provides strategic direction and leadership to improve road safety in our community. Its purpose is to enhance safety and maintenance across the shire�E��Es state and local road corridors.
It also aims to create a clear channel for communication and participation between the community and Council on road safety matters.
In addition, the Committee seeks to raise awareness of road safety issues and initiatives, support the planning and delivery of local road safety programs and promotions, and develop targeted initiatives that address specific groups and concerns within the community.
Just a reminder �E��E if you need to request a service, make an enquiry, or report an issue, please use the web forms under Customer Service on the Hinchinbrook Shire Council website: https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/
or call our staff on 4776 4600.
It�E��Es always great to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read about what�E��Es been happening �E��E and what�E��Es coming up �E��E across our Shire. Thank you again for the opportunity.
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Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises residents that the connection for the Trebonne water main replacement project will take place on Tuesday, 30 September 2025.
To complete this essential upgrade, a final water outage will be required for all Trebonne residents between 9:00am and 5:00pm on the day of connection.
Residents may also experience temporary discoloured water once the supply is restored.
Council sincerely thanks the Trebonne community for their patience and cooperation throughout these works, which are part of our commitment to improving water reliability and service across the Shire. For more information, please contact Council�E��E�E���E��Es Customer Service Centre on (07) 4776 4600.
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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.
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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)
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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