Entertainment

Don’t Miss The Boat! Cruise Club Is Filling Fast

Don’t Miss The Boat! Cruise Club Is Filling Fast

If you’re looking for a great night out filled with music, laughter and a fantastic dinner, Ingham Theatre Group’s 2026 Theatre Restaurant production, Cruise Club, could be just the ticket. Performing at the Ingham Bowls Club on August 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd, 27th, 28th and 29th, tickets to the shows of been selling quickly, with the August 22nd and 29th performances already completely sold out. Only limited seats remain for the other dates, so theatre-goers are encouraged to book soon to avoid missing the boat. For $70, guests will enjoy a delicious dinner and a full evening of live entertainment featuring plenty of music, comedy and colourful characters. It is the perfect excuse to gather a group of friends, organise a work night out or simply enjoy something fun and different close to home. Director Steven Veltmeyer said the cast and crew were delighted by the community’s response. “We’ve put together a show that is all about giving people a really enjoyable night out,” Steven said. “There’s lots of music, plenty of laughs, some wonderfully outrageous characters and our audience will feel like they are completely at sea.” Cruise Club takes audiences aboard a luxury cruise ship where the passengers and crew are anything but ordinary. What begins as a relaxing voyage soon becomes a lively adventure filled with unexpected events, suspicious behaviour and plenty of comic confusion. As the story unfolds around them, audience members can watch for clues and test their detective skills as they try to solve the mystery by the end of the show. Tickets are available from Barnes Sewing Centre. With dinner, music, mystery and plenty of laughs included, Cruise Club promises to be a fantastic night out, but you’ll need to get in quickly and grab your boarding pass before the ship gets full.

Read the full story
Rocketman - Flying Solo Brings Elton John's Greatest Hits To Ingham

Rocketman - Flying Solo Brings Elton John's Greatest Hits To Ingham

Fans of Elton John are in for a memorable evening this August when ROCKETMAN – FLYING SOLO arrives at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, celebrating the music of one of the world's most iconic performers. Starring acclaimed tribute artist Greg Andrew, the 75-minute production takes audiences on a musical journey inspired by Elton John's own solo world tours. Blending timeless hits, the performance offers a unique "up close and personal" experience that pays tribute to the legendary partnership of Elton John and Bernie Taupin. Through The Elton John Experience, Greg has performed in more than 30 countries and entertained over half a million fans worldwide. Widely regarded as one of the world's leading Elton John tribute artists, he made history in 2017 as the first—and still the only—Elton John tribute performer invited to appear at TRIBFEST UK, the world's largest tribute festival. From chart-topping classics to songs that have introduced Elton John's music to younger generations, ROCKETMAN – FLYING SOLO is designed to appeal to audiences of all ages. Whether you've followed Elton's career from the beginning or discovered his music recently, the show promises an evening filled with nostalgia, storytelling and exceptional piano performances. Doors open at 4pm ahead of the 5pm performance, with the licensed event giving patrons the opportunity to settle in before the music begins. Pre-purchase tickets through Hinchinbrook Tickets or purchase them at the door on the day, unless sold out prior. WHAT: ROCKETMAN – FLYING SOLO: The Elton John Experience WHEN: Saturday August 8th, 5pm (doors open 4pm) WHERE: Hinchinbrook Shire Hall Caption: Greg Andrews performing as Elton John. Image supplied: Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism

Read the full story
Probus Club Celebrates Christmas In July With Aussie Flair

Probus Club Celebrates Christmas In July With Aussie Flair

The Ingham Probus Club brought together more than 100 members and guests to embrace the festive spirit with a uniquely Australian twist during its annual Christmas in July celebrations. Held with an Aussie-theme, the event featured a light-hearted rendition of Colin Buchanan's Australian version of Jingle Bells, with four club members, including one dressed as a kangaroo, carrying a Holden car prop complete with an esky through the crowd as guests enthusiastically sang along. The festivities also included dozens of hampers, prizes and gifts, along with joke tellers and plenty of live entertainment, creating a memorable afternoon for all in attendance. Guests enjoyed a delicious lunch while being entertained by the Cassidy Band. The event attracted 108 attendees, including members from Probus clubs in Innisfail and Townsville. Joining the Townsville group was a visiting Probus couple from Sydney, highlighting the friendships and connections that extend well beyond the local district. Organisers described the celebration as a tremendous success, and a fun-filled Christmas in July gathering which continues to be a highlight on the club's social calendar.

Read the full story
THE ALIENS ARE COMING!

THE ALIENS ARE COMING!

Tickets Running Out For 2026 C-Files Forum With the Australian UFO Festival fast approaching, organisers are reminding visitors there are only days left to secure online tickets for the highly anticipated 2026 C-Files Forum. Online ticket sales close at 5pm on Wednesday 5th August, ahead of a packed weekend of presentations, discussion and exploration into some of Australia's most intriguing mysteries. Across three days, the forum will bring together 14 respected researchers, investigators and experiencers to examine topics including the 60th anniversary of the Tully Saucer Nest, UFOs and UAPs, physical evidence, extraordinary firsthand encounters, ancient mysteries and the ongoing search for disclosure. After online sales close, in-person tickets will only be available at the door if the event has not sold out. Organisers are encouraging anyone planning to attend to book early and avoid disappointment. WHAT: C-Files Forum WHEN: Friday 7th August - Sunday 9th August 2026 WHERE: Throughout Cardwell Galactic Roll-Off Kicks Off Festival Fun Festival celebrations begin on Friday evening with the Galactic Roll-Off at the Cardwell Country Club, offering a relaxed and family-friendly start to the weekend. From 6pm, locals and visitors alike are invited to enjoy barefoot bowls, live music, a barbecue and raffles while meeting fellow festival-goers in a fun social atmosphere. No bowling experience is needed, making the event an ideal opportunity for first-timers to have a go while soaking up the unique atmosphere that has become synonymous with the Australian UFO Festival. A Booze Bus will also be operating throughout the evening, helping everyone get home safely after an enjoyable night on the greens. WHAT: Galactic Roll-Off WHEN: Friday 7th August, from 6pm WHERE: Cardwell Country Club Foreshore Set For An Alien Invasion The festival's biggest public celebration will take over the Cardwell Foreshore on Saturday evening, with organisers promising an unforgettable night of live entertainment, costumes and community spirit. Festivities begin from 5pm with Homemade Space Machine opening the entertainment before Zachariah takes to the stage from 7pm. Food vendors and the licensed bar will be operating throughout the evening, while festival-goers are encouraged to embrace the fun by dressing as their favourite alien for the popular costume competition. Children's judging begins at 7pm, followed by adults at 8.30pm. To help everyone enjoy the evening safely, a free courtesy bus will run throughout the event, servicing areas north to Five Mile and south to the old Kennedy Store. With free entry, organisers are inviting residents and visitors alike to bring their family, friends and best extraterrestrial costumes for one of Cardwell's most anticipated nights of the year. WHAT: Alien Invasion Foreshore Party WHEN: Saturday 8th, August, from 5pm WHERE: Cardwell Foreshore

Read the full story
Advertising Banner

Local Students Compete In Readers Cup

June 15, 2026

Students took a love of reading to Cairns. Photos supplied

A team of keen readers from Mission Beach State School travelled to Cairns on Thursday to compete in the Far North Queensland Readers Cup, showcasing their literary knowledge and teamwork skills.

The Readers Cup competition challenged students to read four selected books before coming together as a team to answer a series of quiz questions based on the texts. The event encourages a love of reading while fostering collaboration, critical thinking and communication skills.

Representing their school with enthusiasm and dedication, the Mission Beach team embraced the challenge and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

School staff praised the students for their commitment to the competition and the effort they invested in preparing for the event.

Read More

Stock Up Your Freezer And Support Silkwood State School

June 15, 2026

With winter around the corner, it’s the perfect time to stock up on hearty family pies that can be pulled straight from the freezer, heated up and served whenever you need an easy meal.

Silkwood State School P&C is running a pie fundraiser, giving families the chance to fill their freezers while helping support students and the local school community.

There are nine pie options available, including savoury and sweet varieties, meat and vegetarian choices, with beef, chicken and lamb options all available.

Each pie is locally made by Tully Pies and weighs 800 grams.

Orders can be placed online at: silkwoodstateschoolpc2026.square.site or you can contact Simone on 0450 262 594. Orders can be taken now until Thursday, 25th of June! They will be delivered on Thursday, 14th of July.

Funds raised will go towards supporting Silkwood State School and its students, initiatives like this also helps keep local producers and community groups thriving across the region.

Read More

Home Stay Hosts Wanted

June 15, 2026

Would you like to host a Japanese student?

Local families are invited to take part in the cultural experience of a lifetime, right here in the region, by hosting Japanese students.

Banora International Group is urgently seeking local families interested in becoming part of its upcoming Japanese student exchange program.

Homestays are popular among Japanese students as they provide an authentic way to experience Australian life, while giving host families the opportunity to build international friendships and gain a deeper understanding of another culture.

Two students are allocated to each homestay, with host families required to provide two to three meals per day.

Comprehensive training and ongoing support are provided, and host families receive generous remuneration for their participation.

Hosts are still needed for an upcoming 12-night stay from 26 July to 7 August 2026. In return for providing a welcoming ‘home away from home’, host families will receive $1,515 in remuneration.

For more information, email info@banoragroup.com or call 0414 229 250.

Read More

A Tropical Treasure Worth Exploring This Weekend

June 15, 2026

The Mission Beach Markets bring together local producers, artists, makers and food vendors in a stunning beachfront setting, making them one of the Cassowary Coast's favourite Sunday morning outings. Photo source: Mission Beach Tourism

Few things capture the relaxed charm of Mission Beach quite like a morning stroll through the local markets.

Set beneath the shade of towering trees at Ulysses Day Park and just steps from the beach, the Mission Beach Markets have become a much-loved community institution, bringing together locals, visitors and stallholders in one of the region's most picturesque locations.

Operated by Rotary Mission Beach, the markets are held on the first and third Sunday of every month throughout the year.

They will be held on Sunday, 21st June, offering the perfect excuse to get out of the house, support local businesses and enjoy everything the Cassowary Coast community has to offer.

With up to 100 stalls spread throughout the beachfront parkland, visitors can browse fresh fruit and vegetables, handmade jewellery, locally crafted gifts, plants, books, clothing, artwork and second-hand treasures, while enjoying freshly prepared food, coffee and tropical treats.

Part of what makes the markets so special is the atmosphere. Locals catch up with friends over breakfast, travellers passing through the region showcase their products, and visitors from around the world experience a slice of authentic community life in Mission Beach.

The markets have also become an important platform for small businesses, artists, makers and community groups, helping support local enterprise while creating a vibrant social hub for residents and tourists alike.

In a region blessed with natural beauty, the Mission Beach Markets are one of those simple experiences that remind people what community is all about; local people supporting local businesses in a stunning tropical setting. Whether you're hunting for a unique gift, stocking up on fresh produce, or simply looking for a pleasant way to spend a Sunday morning, the Mission Beach Markets are well worth a visit.

What: Mission Beach Markets

When: Sunday 21st June, 7am-12pm

Where: Ulysses Park, Mission Beach

Read More

UFO Festival Set To Land In Cardwell This August

June 15, 2026

The 2026 Australian UFO Festival will return to Cardwell from 6th to 9th August, bringing four days of entertainment, guest speakers, markets, live music and extraterrestrial intrigue to the Cassowary Coast.  

The countdown is officially on for the 2026 Australian UFO Festival, with organisers confirming a packed four-day program that is expected to once again draw visitors from across Queensland and beyond to the Cassowary Coast.

Running from 6th to 9th August in Cardwell, the festival has grown into one of the region's most recognisable events, combining mystery, entertainment and community in a way few festivals can match.

The Queensland Government has recognised the festival's significance, supporting the event through Tourism and Events Queensland's Homegrown Fund.

Queensland Environment, Tourism and Science Minister Andrew Powell said the festival plays an important role in showcasing both Cardwell and the wider Cassowary Coast.

"It is my pleasure to welcome you all to the Australian UFO Festival, an event that celebrates the energy and diversity of the Cassowary Coast," Mr Powell said.

"The Queensland Government is proud to support the Australian UFO Festival through Tourism and Events Queensland's Homegrown Fund, which backs events developed in our state and helps connect them with the unique destinations they call home.

“Homegrown events play an important role in showcasing new ideas, celebrating culture, and creating memorable experiences for visitors, all while contributing to Queensland's vibrant and diverse events calendar."  

The minister also encouraged festival-goers to take advantage of everything the region has to offer during their stay.

"Beyond the Australian UFO Festival, there is so much to see and experience in the Cassowary Coast. I encourage visitors to take the opportunity to explore the area and enjoy the wide range of tourism opportunities that Queensland has to offer."

The official festival program has now landed, featuring a diverse lineup of events including the popular C-Files Forum, Galactic Roll-Off Barefoot Bowls, Films on the Foreshore, Alien Abduction Night, Alliance of Earthlings, the C-Files Tour, Alien Invasion Foreshore Party and Monster Market Day.

Family-friendly entertainment will also feature prominently, including appearances from Superconscious Dave, who will bring interactive activities and children's entertainment to the festival throughout the weekend. For those keen to start planning their visit, the full list of confirmed events can be found in our official Cassowary Coast Life Event Guide on page 12.

In perfect timing, skywatchers across Queensland recently found themselves looking upward after reports of a Chinese rocket launch created a bright plume visible from parts of the state. Social media quickly filled with photos and speculation as residents debated whether the mysterious light was a rocket, a UFO, or something else entirely.

While the answer turned out to be firmly earthbound, the sighting has only added to the excitement surrounding Australia's only dedicated UFO festival.

Whether you're a lifelong believer, a curious sceptic or simply looking for an unforgettable weekend by the waterfront, Cardwell is once again preparing to welcome visitors for what has become one of the Cassowary Coast's most unique and talked-about events. And with another mystery recently spotted in the skies above Queensland, festival organisers might argue there has never been a better time to keep looking up.

Read More

Photo Of The Week

June 15, 2026

Photo Of The Week

By Cheryl Larsen

By Chris Gray

Thanks to the Ingham Photography Group

Read More

Hinchinbrook Event Guide

June 15, 2026

Tuesday 16 June
Weekly Community Bingo (Tuesday Session), 10:30am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham

Wednesday 17 June
Hinchinbrook Stitchers, Social Sewing Group, 9:00am - 3:00pm at Victoria Mill Social Club Hall, Ingham

Tai Chi, 9:00am - 10:00am, Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Forrest Beach

Friends of Forrest Beach, conversation and games, 9:00am – 12:00pm, Progress Park shelter, Forrest Beach

Canasta & Cards, 1:30pm – 3:30pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd

Social Darts, 7:00pm, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham

Thursday 18 June
Senior Men's Social Group, 9:00am – 12:00pm at HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd, Ingham  

CWA Craft Group, 9:00am – 12:00pm at the Forrest Beach CWA Hall, 6 Palm St.

Technology Classes, 10:00am – 1:30pm, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham

Playtime At The Library, 10:30am – 12:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith St, Ingham

Mahjong, 1:00pm – 3:00pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd

Weekly Community Bingo (Thursday Session), 6:45pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham

Friday 19 June
Seniors Morning Coffee Club, 9:30am – 11:30am at the Noorla Bowls Club, 32 McIlwraith St, Ingham

June 2026 Tea and Trivia, 9:00am - 12:00pm, YTO Conference and Events Centre, 73 Mcilwraith St, Ingham

Saturday 20 June
Parkrun, 7:00am, Palm Creek, Ingham & Cardwell Jetty Foreshore, Cardwell

Markets at the Mosaic, 8:00am - 12:00pm, Mercer Lane, 78 Lannercost St, Ingham

Sunday 21 June
Lucinda Markets, 7am –11am, Borello Park, Lucinda

Tuesday 23 June
Winter in the Tropics High Tea, 9:30am, QCWA Halifax, Cr Macrossan & Rupp Sts, Halifax

Weekly Community Bingo (Tuesday Session), 10:30am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham

Wednesday 24 June
Hinchinbrook Stitchers, Social Sewing Group, 9:00am - 3:00pm at Victoria Mill Social Club Hall, Ingham

Tai Chi, 9:00am - 10:00am, Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Forrest Beach

Friends of Forrest Beach, conversation and games, 9:00am – 12:00pm, Progress Park shelter, Forrest Beach

Canasta & Cards, 1:30pm – 3:30pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd

Social Darts, 7:00pm, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham

Thursday 25 June
Ingham Show Day 1, 5:00pm, Ingham Showgrounds, Ingham

Senior Men's Social Group, 9:00am – 12:00pm at HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd, Ingham  

CWA Craft Group, 9:00am – 12:00pm at the Forrest Beach CWA Hall, 6 Palm St.

Technology Classes, 10:00am – 1:30pm, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham

Playtime At The Library, 10:30am – 12:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith St, Ingham

Mahjong, 1:00pm – 3:00pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd

Weekly Community Bingo (Thursday Session), 6:45pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham

Friday 26 June
Ingham Show Day 1, 5:00pm, Ingham Showgrounds, Ingham

Seniors Morning Coffee Club, 9:30am – 11:30am at the Noorla Bowls Club, 32 McIlwraith St, Ingham

Saturday 27 June
Parkrun, 7:00am, Palm Creek, Ingham & Cardwell Jetty Foreshore, Cardwell

Sunday 28 June

Tuesday 30 June
Weekly Community Bingo (Tuesday Session), 10:30am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham

Wednesday 1 July
Hinchinbrook Stitchers, Social Sewing Group, 9:00am - 3:00pm at Victoria Mill Social Club Hall, Ingham

Tai Chi, 9:00am - 10:00am, Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Forrest Beach

Friends of Forrest Beach, conversation and games, 9:00am – 12:00pm, Progress Park shelter, Forrest Beach

Canasta & Cards, 1:30pm – 3:30pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd

Social Darts, 7:00pm, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham

Thursday 2 July
Senior Men's Social Group, 9:00am – 12:00pm at HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd, Ingham  

CWA Craft Group, 9:00am – 12:00pm at the Forrest Beach CWA Hall, 6 Palm St.

Technology Classes, 10:00am – 1:30pm, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham

Playtime At The Library, 10:30am – 12:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith St, Ingham

Mahjong, 1:00pm – 3:00pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd

Weekly Community Bingo (Thursday Session), 6:45pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham

Friday 3 July
Seniors Morning Coffee Club, 9:30am – 11:30am at the Noorla Bowls Club, 32 McIlwraith St, Ingham

Exhibition Opening Night: Traces of Growth – A student exhibition by Gilroy Santa Maria College, 6:00pm - 8:30pm, TYTO Regional Art Gallery, Ingham

Read More

Ingham Show Office Now Open, Get Your Tickets Early!

June 15, 2026

Ranger Dan Bamblett from Hands On Wildlife will be at the Ingham Show with his slithery friends. Photo sourced: Hands On Wildlife

Excitement is building for the Ingham Show 2026, with not long to go until two huge days of country show fun return to the Ingham Showgrounds on Thursday 25th June and Friday 26th June.

With preparations well underway, the Ingham Show Office is now open and ready to assist visitors with family pass purchases, ride ticket sales, entries and general enquiries.

Showgoers can also take advantage of online ticket sales through TryBooking, making it easier than ever to secure entry before the gates open.

Visitors can look forward to horse and cattle competitions, sugarcane displays, poultry exhibits and the ever-popular tractor pull. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the show rides, while families can browse stalls filled with lollies and showbags. This year's entertainment lineup has also been boosted with the announcement that Hands On Wildlife will bring along some of their slithery friends for an exciting snake show.

Show Map

Family passes are available for just $40, while ride tickets can be purchased for $25 per sheet. Purchasing tickets early is a great way to avoid the rush on show day and ensure a smooth start to the festivities.

The friendly team in the Show Office is available to assist the public throughout the lead-up to the event. Visitors can find the office by entering from Cooper Street near the tennis courts, walking past the pavilion and turning left at the end of the building. The Show Office is located on the right-hand side.

Whether you're entering competitions, purchasing tickets or simply seeking information, now is the perfect time to visit the Show Office and start planning your Ingham Show experience.

WHAT: Ingham Show 2026
WHEN: Thursday 25th to Friday 26th June 2026
WHERE: Ingham Showgrounds, Cnr Cooper Street and Miles Street

Read More

Tickets Now On Sale For Ingham Gold Cup Race Day

June 15, 2026

One of the district's biggest social events is set to return next month, with tickets and tables now on sale for the 2026 Ingham Gold Cup Race Day.

The annual event will take place on Saturday, 11th July at the Herbert River Jockey Club and promises a full day of racing, entertainment and socialising for patrons aged 18 years and over.

Gates will open from 11:00am, with racegoers able to enjoy five local horse races throughout the day, along with on-site bookmakers, a fully stocked bar and canteen facilities.

Beyond the action on the track, the Ingham Gold Cup is renowned for its vibrant social atmosphere. Live music and a DJ will keep the entertainment going during and after the races, creating the perfect setting for a day out with friends.

A highlight of the event will once again be the popular Fashions on the Field competition, with categories including Contemporary Lady of the Track, Classic Lady of the Track, Man of the Track, Millinery and the Spotters Choice awards.

Entry tickets are available now for $20 and can be purchased online or at the gate on race day. Those looking to secure a prime position can reserve a table for $150, with seating for up to 10 people. Tables are available online only and are expected to be popular.

With racing, fashions, food, refreshments and live entertainment all on the program, organisers are encouraging racegoers to secure their tickets early and start planning for another memorable Ingham Gold Cup.

WHAT: Ingham Gold Cup Race Day
WHEN: Saturday, 11th July 2026, gates open 11:00am
WHERE: Herbert River Jockey Club, 69 Marina Parade, Ingham
TICKETS: www.trybooking.com/DMPSR

Read More

Under 8’s Day Teddy Bears Picnic - A Morning of Fun and Friendship

June 15, 2026

A game of pass the parcel was enjoyed by the children. Photo supplied

St Peter’s recently celebrated Under 8’s Day with a delightful Teddy Bears Picnic, and it was a wonderful morning filled with laughter, creativity and excitement. Students arrived with their favourite teddy bears, ready to take part in a wide range of hands-on activities.

The children enjoyed making delicious treats such as biscuits and fairy bread, while others explored their creative side through painting and threading. There were also plenty of classic games, including pass the parcel and the ever popular “Pin the Ears on the Teddy Bear,” which brought smiles and giggles all around.  

Students also had the opportunity to plant their own seedlings to take home, encouraging a love of nature and responsibility. Even wet play activities added to the fun, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy.

The children got to plant their own seedlings to take home. Photo supplied

The morning concluded with a relaxed picnic, where students shared their snacks with friends and their cuddly companions. This was followed by storytime, along with joyful dancing and singing that had everyone joining in.

It was truly a special event that brought our youngest learners together in a fun and engaging way. Everyone had a fantastic time, making it an exciting and memorable morning for all involved.

Read More

Temporary Closure Of Herbert River Museum

June 15, 2026

The Herbert River Museum will be temporarily closed for repairs. Photo source: Museums & Galleries QLD

The Herbert River Museum advises that it will temporarily close from Monday 22nd June 2026 to allow for essential repairs to damage caused by the 2025 flood event.

At this stage, a reopening date has not been confirmed. It is anticipated that the museum will remain closed for approximately two to three months while works are undertaken.

The museum will provide updates on the progress of repairs and advise the community when a reopening date has been determined.

The Herbert River Museum thanks the community for its understanding and support during this period.

Read More

Students Build Mini Rural Communities In Creative Geography Project

June 15, 2026

Arial views of communities made though crafts by the St Peters P-2 students. Examples see buttons used to show crops in gardens, and matchsticks to indicate a bridge over a blue cellophane waterway.

St Peter’s students in Years P–2 have been exploring what makes a community through an engaging hands-on learning project. Over recent weeks, classes have focused on understanding different types of communities, including rural areas such as Halifax, while identifying key features like schools, houses, parks, shops, libraries, churches, roads and water supplies.

Arial views of communities made though crafts by the St Peters P-2 students. Examples see buttons used to show crops in gardens, and matchsticks to indicate a bridge over a blue cellophane waterway.

Using recyclables, craft materials and their imagination, students researched and designed their own bird’s-eye-view models of rural communities. The activity encouraged creativity while helping students recognise how important landmarks and spaces are organised within a community.

The project also supports early geography skills, as students learn to interpret maps, globes, and images. By locating where they live within Australia and connecting it to a broader global context, students are developing a deeper understanding of place and scale.

Arial views of communities made though crafts by the St Peters P-2 students. Examples see buttons used to show crops in gardens, and matchsticks to indicate a bridge over a blue cellophane waterway.

The project highlights how hands-on learning can bring geography to life in meaningful and memorable ways.

Read More

This Week On The Herbert In 1893

June 15, 2026

This Week On The Herbert In 1893

The Ripple Creek Provisional School opened on 19 June 1893. It closed in 1994 after 100 years of operation.

Read More

Did You Know? Sugar Shaped Hinchinbrook (and Still Does)

June 15, 2026

Sugar isn’t just part of the scenery here, it’s the spine of the region. Macknade Mill, established in 1873, is Queensland’s oldest continuously operating raw sugar mill, while Victoria Mill, opened in 1883, remains one of the state’s largest producers. Together, they shaped settlement patterns, transport routes and generations of livelihoods.

Cane trains still thread through paddocks and town edges, especially atmospheric at golden hour when sunsets paint glorious backdrops over the endless fields. It’s industrial history in motion and irresistible for photographers. Always shoot from public roads, stay rail-safe and never cross active lines.

Pair a self-guided heritage drive with deli stops and a Lucinda sunset and you’ve tasted Hinchinbrook’s backbone without stepping inside a factory. Sweet, scenic and still very much at work. Plot a loop: hinchinbrookway.com.au

Read More

Herbert River Crushers Ladies Day 2026

June 8, 2026

Photo credit: Peter Reitano

Herbert River Crushers Ladies Day was a huge success, with many fabulously dressed ladies turning out for the occasion. Drinks, live music by Michael Kauppila and plenty of good cheer kept spirits high throughout the afternoon, making it an event not to be missed.

See all photos here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/herbert-river-crushers-ladies-day-2026

Read More

Your FREE Voice In Print

Located in high foot traffic areas around your region.
Including your Local Grocery store, Cafes, Doctors, Fuel stations, News agencies and more!

Locally Owned. Community Loved.