Entertainment

This Week On The Herbert In 1859

This Week On The Herbert In 1859

On 10 October 1859 George Elphinstone Dalrymple first sighted what would become the Valley of Lagoons. He applied for a land grant of the area. Arthur and Walter Scott later took up controlling interest in the Valley of Lagoons Station.

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Photo Of The Week

Photo Of The Week

Drongo in the rain photographed at Midgeree Bar Nth Qld, by Kerrie Norrie (With thanks to the Ingham Photography Group)

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Exemplary Citizen And Great North Queenslander - James Lawrence Kelly

Exemplary Citizen And Great North Queenslander - James Lawrence Kelly

By Dr Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui No doubt the whole community is eagerly awaiting the refurbishment of the Ingham picture theatre. So what better time to learn about its namesake – James Lawrence ‘Larry’ Kelly, an energetic, hardworking local devoted to the betterment of the Herbert River district and its citizens. Larry was born in Ipswich in 1910 and educated by the Christian Brothers. After working for the Taxation Department, he arrived in Ingham in 1935 to work for the firm E.J. Hardy and G.G. Venables, and in the same year, he married Ella Veronica Hanlon. In 1936 at the age of 26 he was elected as Hinchinbrook Shire Chairman, becoming the youngest shire chairman in Australia at the time. He also was selected as the Shire’s representative on the Townsville Hospital Board and was conducting his own accountancy business. Later he would also act as secretary of the local Fire Brigade Board. In 1943 he retired from both positions and was seconded to the Allied Works Department. In 1946, 1949 and 1952 he again successfully contested the Hinchinbrook Shire Chairman position. He also served as the Shire’s representative and Chairman for TREB until his death in 1952, and delegate to the NQLAA as both vice-president and president until he retired from the latter position in 1951 due to ill health. As an executive member of the Ingham branch of the Labor Party (and President from 1944) he attempted to enter parliament at both the State and Federal levels without success. He had previously been elected as Shire Chairman on a Labour Party ticket but on becoming personally disillusioned he and two fellow council members resigned from the Labour Party. It was as an independent that he was elected as Shire Chairman in 1952 which he considered a personal triumph. He was a gifted speaker and had a great skill in controlling meetings and keeping speakers on topic and within the prescribed time limit. He was popular, conscientious and active though his detractors accused him of dominating the Council. He was also fair-minded, compassionate and sensible. A dedicated Catholic, friend and supporter of the Christian Brothers. In 1937, in defence of the industrious, law-abiding Italian immigrant community, Larry emphatically denied “the wild rumours of an alleged organised secret society of assassin-racketeers, known as the dreaded "Camorra" or "Black Hand".” Instead he identified Ingham’s Mano Nera as a “small fringe of low-class foreign undesirables” who should be deported. Again, his good sense and compassion were visible in his support of Councillors Frederick Hecht and Giuseppe Cantamessa on the outbreak of WW2 when others doubted their loyalty. He reminded those doubters of how much Hecht and Cantamessa had contributed to the district. When Larry and his wife flew south to spend some months in Brisbane on the weekend 8-9 November 1952, he had been ill for some time. Barely three weeks later on 29th November, he died at the age of 42 leaving behind his wife Ella and son James. Larry is buried in the Toowong Cemetery. Seven months later in June 1953, in tribute to Larry, his significant contributions to the Herbert River District, and at the suggestion of Councillor W.O. Garbutt, the new library was opened and dedicated to James Lawrence Kelly by the new chairman E.L. Burke as the J.L. Kelly Memorial Library. Photos sourced and supplied with thanks: Hinchinbrook Shire Council Library Photograph Collection James Lawrence Kelly, Shire Chairman Opening of J.L. Kelly Memorial Public Library, June 1953 The J.L. Kelly Memorial Public Library became a local Council rented office space for a time Cr J.L. Kelly speaking at the opening of the Ingham Aerodrome in 1939

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BIG NAMES AND BIG NIGHTS AT HINCHINBROOK SHIRE HALL

BIG NAMES AND BIG NIGHTS AT HINCHINBROOK SHIRE HALL

Hinchinbrook Shire Hall is set to welcome two big names in Australian entertainment this spring, with legendary singer-songwriter Rick Price bringing his Classic Hits Show to Ingham in October, followed by comedian Joe Avati and his Good Old Days tour in November. From much-loved Australian music to family-friendly comedy and a trip down memory lane, both shows offer a chance to enjoy a night of live entertainment right here in the Hinchinbrook. With a career spanning decades, multi-instrumentalist Rick Price is best known for hits including Heaven Knows, Not a Day Goes By and River of Love. His debut album, Heaven Knows, released in 1992, reached No. 3 on the ARIA chart and produced two Top 10 singles. The Classic Hits Show will see Price take audiences through songs from across his illustrious career, performing on both guitar and piano in a one-man live performance. This is a licensed event, with tickets expected to sell fast. One of Australia’s biggest comedy exports Joe Avati will bring his Good Old Days show to Ingham this November. For more than 30 years, Avati has entertained audiences with his sharp and relatable comedy about growing up Italian in Australia. His material has since expanded to explore the differences between cultures and generations, giving audiences plenty of familiar moments to laugh about. Clean and family-friendly, Good Old Days is a chance for three generations of the same family to sit down together and enjoy a night of comedy, with Avati taking audiences on a trip down memory lane. The 90-minute show has no intermission and is suitable for ages 12 and over. This is a licensed event, with only minimal tickets remaining! WHAT: Rick Price – The Classic Hits Show WHEN: Saturday 24th October 2026 5.00pm. Doors open at 4.00pm. WHERE: Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, Ingham Tickets: Hinchinbrook Tickets: Rick Price - The Classic Hits Show WHAT: Joe Avati – Good Old Days WHEN: Thursday, 12th November 2026, 8.00pm. Doors open at 7.00pm. WHERE: Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, Ingham Tickets: TryBooking: Joe Avati Good Old Days Ingham

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This Week On The Herbert In 1885

August 3, 2026

On 7 August 1885 the Ingham Hospital (though possibly built as early as 1883) was formally established.

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Enjoy Great Food And Live Music Every Friday

August 3, 2026

At Herbert River RSL

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Looking for the perfect way to kick off your weekend? The Herbert River RSL is serving up live entertainment every Friday night throughout August, making it easy to enjoy a delicious meal before settling in for an evening of great local music. Whether you're catching up with friends or planning a family dinner, there's something on for everyone.

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Friday 7th August
Anthony John Music returns to the RSL stage with an energetic mix of popular favourites and crowd-pleasing classics. Known for his engaging performances, Anthony is sure to have audiences singing along throughout the evening.

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Friday 14th August  
Andy G brings his easy-listening style and versatile repertoire to the RSL stage, performing a wide selection of favourites spanning multiple decades and genres. Whether you're in the mood to relax over dinner or nod to familiar tunes, his performance promises an enjoyable evening of live entertainment.

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Friday 21st August  
The Cassady Connections, a talented family duo from Innisfail, will showcase their signature blend of smooth vocals, guitar instrumentals and popular classics. Their engaging performances and broad musical repertoire have made them a favourite with audiences across North Queensland, offering something for listeners of all ages.

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Friday 28th August
Kevin Spencer rounds out the month with an evening of timeless favourites and easy-going entertainment. Known for his strong vocals and relaxed stage presence, Kevin delivers a mix of well-loved songs that create the perfect soundtrack for a Friday night spent with family, friends and great food.

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Live music is free to enjoy, so why not make a night of it? Grab a table in the bistro, enjoy a great meal, catch up with family and friends, and let the entertainment take care of the rest. With good food, cold drinks and live music every Friday night, the Herbert River RSL is the perfect place to unwind at the end of the week.

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Celebrate Fathers’ Day With A Special Lunch At Lee's Hotel

August 3, 2026

Book a table for a Father’s Day Feed at Lee’s Hotel: Photo credit: Lee’s Hotel

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Families are invited to treat Dad to a hearty Father's Day lunch at Lee's Hotel this September, with a traditional roast and all the trimmings set to take centre stage. The lunch will celebrate all of the dads, grandads and father figures who are always there when they're needed.

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Hosted in Lee's Bistro on Sunday 6th September, the special lunch offers the perfect opportunity to gather the family together and celebrate Father's Day over a relaxed meal. Guests can choose from a selection of roast meats, served with all the classic trimmings, making it an ideal way to spoil the father figures in their lives.

Diners can round out the afternoon with a sweet treat, with desserts available for $10.

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Whether it's an intimate lunch for two or a larger family gathering, the event promises great food and a welcoming atmosphere to mark the occasion. Adult meals are priced at $27.50 and children's meals are available for $15.

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Skip the socks and shout him a roast and a cold one instead!

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With Father's Day traditionally one of the busiest dining days of the year, organisers are encouraging families to secure their table early to avoid missing out. Bookings are essential. To reserve a table or find out more, visit: www.leeshotelingham.com.au/whats-on/fathers-day-lunch-at-lees

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WHAT: Father's Day Lunch At Lee's Hotel

WHEN: Sunday 6th September from 11.30am

WHERE: Lee's Bistro, Lee's Hotel, 58 Lannercost Street, Ingham

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Photo Of The Week

August 3, 2026

Photography of back patio birds, by Wally Beresford

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(With thanks to the Ingham Photography Group)

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Did You Know? Lucinda Is Built for Family Reel-Axation

August 3, 2026

Lucinda makes family days easy. Shaded foreshore areas, BBQ facilities and wide open space set the scene, while the public fishing jetty delivers safe, social casting beside that famous sugar jetty backdrop. Kids count pylons, adults relax — everyone wins.

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Boaties can launch at nearby Dungeness for broader options, but plenty of memories are made without leaving the shore. Pack snacks, sunscreen and patience; fish are a bonus, not a requirement.

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As the afternoon cools, salty hair and tired smiles signal success. Add a Coral Sea sunset and you’ve nailed the holy grail of family outings: low stress, high reward and minimal packing lists.

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Plan a picnic: hinchinbrookway.com.au

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MOON WHISPERER TAKES TOP HONOUR AT BIRDLIFE ART AWARDS

August 7, 2026

All the artist winners of the 11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Symone Welsh has won the 11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards biggest prize for their outstanding piece, “Moon Whisperer”, which captivated judges with its creativity, technique and connection to Hinchinbrook’s birdlife.

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More than 250 people gathered to celebrate Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s 11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery on Friday night, 31 July 2026.

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This event continues to celebrate the rich birdlife of the Hinchinbrook region through the eyes of talented artists from across Queensland and New South Wales. This year’s exhibition features 105 entries across a variety of mediums including drawing, painting, photography, sculpture and mixed media.

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Open Award, Symone Welsh: Moon Whisperer

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Community and Cultural Services Councillor Donna Marbelli said each piece showcases bird species found in Hinchinbrook, from the iconic TYTO Wetlands, home to more than 230 bird species, to the broader natural landscapes that inspire artists.

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“The Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards are a wonderful celebration of both our region’s remarkable birdlife and the talented artists who bring it to life through their work,” Cr Marbelli said.

“The quality of this year’s exhibition was exceptional, and it was fantastic to see so many artists, visitors and community members come together to celebrate creativity, nature and community.”

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Local Artist Award, Fran Nason: Jacana Wading

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“Congratulations to all entrants and award winners, and a heartfelt thank you to our sponsors and supporters who continue to make this event possible.”

The event is proudly supported by valued sponsors, each of whom has chosen a specific award category to sponsor.

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Open Award – Symone Welsh: Moon Whisperer

Local Artist Award sponsored by Guidos Panel & Paint – Fran Nason: Jacana Wading

Youth Award sponsored by Bissons Electrical – Hamish Darveniza: Wompoo

Painting 2D – Reanna Emanouel: Remnants of an Ancient World

Watercolour sponsored by Nutrien Harcourts Ingham – Joanne Bingham: Can I help you?

Mixed Media – Megan Allford: Sahul Sunbird

Digital Media sponsored by COSCA – Norm Rains: Belle of the Bush

Works on Paper – Amy Venn: Celestial Magpie

Photography – Sharon Cislowski: Peekaboo

Ceramics – Sally Moroney: Rainbow Lorikeet Bowl

Sculptural Form sponsored by Sans Souci Apartments – Mark Bishop: A Sweeping Shadow

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Youth Award, Hamish Darveniza: Wompoo

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Cr Marbelli said Council was grateful to the sponsors and local businesses whose generous support helped bring the Birdlife Art Awards to life.

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Voting for the People’s Choice Award sponsored by Ergon Energy Network will remain open until the close of the exhibition, with the winner of this category announced in September 2026.

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To vote, please visit the TYTO Regional Art Gallery.

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The 11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards will be on display daily from 10.00am to 4.00pm until Saturday 29 August 2026.

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See more photos here: www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/moon-whisperer-takes-top-honour-at-birdlife-art-awards

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Cassowary Coast Event Guide

August 3, 2026

Tuesday 4th August

Art from the Heart Acrylic Painting Group, 10am-12:30pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach

Morning Melodies: Rocketman Flying Solo – Sir Elton John Tribute, 10:30am-11:45am, Innisfail Shire Hall, Innisfail

Pottery Session with Michelle, 5pm-8:30pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach

Wednesday 5th August

Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Run Speed Sessions, 6am, Bottom Oval, Mission Beach School, Mission Beach

Pottery Session with Irene, 10am-2pm, Mission Arts Pottery Studio, Mission Beach

Thursday 6th August

Australian UFO Festival Presents Stories in the Stars & Official Festival Opening, 6pm-10pm, Cardwell Foreshore, Cardwell

Pottery Session with Trudy, 5pm-8:30pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach

Innisfail Community & Services Club Trivia Night, 6pm, 18 Fitzgerald Esplanade, Innisfail

Friday 7th August

Australian UFO Festival Presents Tully Saucer Nest 60 Years On C-Files Forum, 9am-4pm, Cardwell Community Hall, Cardwell  

Seniors Mosaic Gazing Ball Workshop with Rebecca Wilkie, 3pm-5pm, MARCS Park, Mission Beach

Australian UFO Festival Galactic Roll Off Bare Foot Bowls, 6pm, Cardwell Country Club, Cardwell

Australian UFO Festival Films on the Foreshore, 6pm, Cardwell Foreshore, Cardwell

Australian UFO Festival Alien Abduction Night, 6pm, Marine Hotel, Cardwell

A Taste of Ireland – The Irish Music and Dance Sensation, 7:30pm-9:30pm, Innisfail Shire Hall, Innisfail  

Saturday 8th August

Paradise Run Mission Beach, 6:45am, Seaview Street, Mission Beach

Cardwell parkrun, 7am, Cardwell Foreshore, Cardwell

Australian UFO Festival Presents the Alliance of Earthlings, 8am-12pm, Cardwell Sports Field, Cardwell

Seniors Mosaic Gazing Ball Workshop with Rebecca Wilkie, 8:30am-5pm, MARCS Park, Mission Beach

Australian UFO Festival Presents Encounters and Investigations C-Files Forum, 9am-4pm, Cardwell Community Hall, Cardwell

Australian UFO Festival C-Files Tour, 10am, Cardwell Community Hall, Cardwell

Australian UFO Festival Alien Invasion Foreshore Party, 5pm-12am, Cardwell Foreshore, Cardwell

Sunday 9th August

Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Long Run Group, 6am-7am, Casuarina Park, South Mission Beach

Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Sunday Cycling Group, 6am-8am, Mission Beach Police Station, Webb Road, Wongaling Beach

Kurrimine Beach Progress Association Markets, 7am-12pm, Kurrimine Beach Progress Hall, Kurrimine Beach

Australian UFO Festival Monster Market Day, 8am-1pm, Cardwell Foreshore, Cardwell

Australian UFO Festival RSL BBQ Lunch, 8am-1pm, Cardwell RSL, Cardwell

Seniors Mosaic Gazing Ball Workshop with Rebecca Wilkie, 8:30am-5pm, MARCS Park, Mission Beach

RAM Recreational Centre Indoor Monthly Markets, 9am-1pm, RAM Recreational Centre, 4 Stitt Street, Innisfail

Australian UFO Festival Presents Ancient Mysteries & Future Possibilities, 9am-4pm, Cardwell Community Hall, Cardwell

Australian UFO Festival C-Files Tour, 10am, Cardwell Community Hall, Cardwell

Australian UFO Festival Alien Ambrose, 10am, Cardwell Golf Club, Cardwell

Tully Nursing Home Inc. Market Day, 10am-2pm, Tully Nursing Home, Tully

Monday 10th August

Lions Club of Tully Meet Up, 6:30pm, Mount Tyson Hotel, 23 Butler Street, Tully

Tuesday 11th August

Read to Me Day, 9:30am-11:30am, Butler Street, Tully

Art from the Heart Acrylic Painting Group, 10am-12:30pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach

Pottery Session with Michelle, 5pm-8:30pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach

Wednesday 12th August

Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Run Speed Sessions, 6am, Bottom Oval, Mission Beach School, Mission Beach

Pottery Session with Justin, 10am-2pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach

NDIS Farm Fun Day, 10am-2pm, The Pocket, 60840 Bruce Highway, El Arish

Thursday 13th August

Mums Club Collective Coffee Catch Up, 9:30am, Castaways Beach Bar & Grill, Mission Beach

Oiled Painting Group, 10am-12:30pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach

Tully Nursing Home Inc. & Tully High School’s Presentation of Water Colour Portraits, 1:40pm, Tully Nursing Home, Tully

Pottery Session with Trudy, 5pm-8:30pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach

Innisfail Community & Services Club Trivia Night, 6pm, 18 Fitzgerald Esplanade, Innisfail

Vanessa Larry Mitchell the Endurance Edition, 7pm, The Con Theatre, Innisfail

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Reader Of The Week

August 3, 2026

This week's Cassowary Coast Reader of the Week is Kerry Brown, owner of Mission Beach Mini Mart. Thank you, Kerry, for picking up your copy each week and supporting your local newspaper. We truly appreciate your continued support!

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Did You Know? Mission Beach Is Actually Four Beaches

August 3, 2026

Many people think Mission Beach is a single stretch of sand, but it is actually a collection of connected beachside communities extending along approximately 14 kilometres of coastline.

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The result is plenty of room to spread out, enjoy a quiet walk or find your own patch of paradise. Palm trees lean toward the water, islands dot the horizon and sunrise often steals the show.

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Whether you're seeking activity or relaxation, there is space to enjoy both. Rest under the shade: cassowarycoasttourism.com.au

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Cassowary Coast Has Talent

July 27, 2026

Finalists Mermaid Party with their Jazz dance Routine - Photo Supplied

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40 Performers Brave The Stage For Talent Quest Auditions

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Tully State High School recently hosted auditions for this year’s Cassowary Coast Talent Quest, inviting talented and brave individuals aged between 5-18 to give it their all to be a part of this year’s variety show competition.  

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The event brought around 40 competitors from across the region to audition in front of a panel of judges and their peers.

Siblings Isabelle & Benji Roelofs performing Aerial Lyra- Photo Supplied

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Violin Teacher Lissy Entwistle, was a part of the judging panel.

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‘It was very enjoyable to see so much talent and skill across the region.” Lissy reflected.  

“It was really impressive to see the confidence of people having a go. It was really hard to pick the finalists.”  

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Thomas and Benjamin Singing Duo- Photo Supplied

The room was brimming with talented acts who showcased skill, creativity and ambition. There was a variety of acts; dance, musical performances and theatre that showcased the diverse talent across the area.

Charlie gave a powerful performance as he sung a musical theatre song from The Lion King - Photo Supplied

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Event Founder and Organiser Eve Rose was filled with pride after the event.  

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“It is obvious the Cassowary Coast is absolutely bursting with young talent and today's auditions showed how courage, persistence and authentic talents can continue to grow in these local kids, when supported by family, community and generous local businesses,” Eve Rose said.

Sophie and Hannah were a self choreographed dance duo- Photo Supplied

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“I feel so privileged to help give a safe platform for these artists to shine and am extremely excited for the Grand Final, because it is going to be a wholesale, unique and genuine variety show the whole family will enjoy.”

The finalists have a chance to win big with over $3,500 in cash and trophy prizes across 14 categories plus Judges’ Choice and audience-voted People’s Choice awards.  

Ariana gave a beautiful singing performance- Photo Supplied

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The Grand finale will take place on Sunday 2nd August, 2pm at Tully State High’s Multi Purpose Court School. Tickets are available to purchase through trybooking.com. Ticket holders get 2 votes each to cast in the People’s Choice Awards.  

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Karma won his place in the final with his singing and rapping- Photo Supplied

Finalists

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Junior 5-9yrs

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Thomas- Singing

Artemis- Comedy Routine

Mermaid Party- Group Jazz Dance

Thomas and Benjamin- Duet singing

Artemis- Interpretive Dance

Santana and Caleb Fire Twirling Performance- Photo Supplied

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Tween 10-13yrs

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Laityn- Tap Dance

Karma- Singing

Penny- Musical Theatre

Benji- Aerial Lyra

Hannah and Sophie- self-choreographed dance

Charlie- Singing

Olivia- Tap Dance

Summer- Singing

Grace- self-choreographed Dance

Duo act Isabelle and Benji Roelofs in rehearsal for the talent show - Photo Credit Alicia Roelofs

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Senior 14-18yrs

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Ariana- Singing

Santana and Caleb- Fire Twirling performance

Amity- Speed Tap Dance

Matilda- Singing & Guitar 

Isabelle- Aerial Performance

Lochlan- Singing & Guitar

Oscar- Trumpet 

Isabelle and Benji- Lyra Duo performance

Santana- Singing & Guitar 

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Mini Indonesian Festival Brings West Javanese Groove to Mission Beach

July 27, 2026

Gamelan Gangiang Suda Group - Photo Credit Sian Bantock  

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On Saturday 25th July the Indonesian Mini Festival took over Progress Hall, showcasing authentic Indonesian food prepared by the team, alongside a vibrant program of musical performances; including the delightful tones from the Gamelan Gangiang Suda group.  

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‘’We play Gamelan Sunda which is West Javanese music; it’s just really beautiful,’ said Event Organiser Kym Hall

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The group of 11 musicians performs the fast rhythms of the Sundanese Rampak Gendang drumming, with a full ensemble of bronze percussion instruments that creates a multi-layered sound. At Saturday’s festival, they were joined by students from the Rainforest School.

This was the fourth annual Mini Indonesian Festival and Kym said she was thrilled with how well it resonated with the community in Mission Beach.  

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Kym also credits the wider community support to the success of the event.  

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The festival was made possible through the Regional Arts Development Fund which is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Cassowary Coast Regional Council in support of local arts and culture in regional Queensland.  

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‘Brewed in the Paddock’ Builds Connection For Women In Agriculture

July 27, 2026

July's Monthly Meet Up at the Tully Show Grounds with members of the sugar industry from the local Mill, productivity services and SRA. Hayley (Tully Sugar), Erin (SRA), Nancy (SRA), Danielle (SRA), Sonya (Tully Productivity Services), Siona (SRA), Kelly (Tully Sugar).  Photo supplied

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Brewed in the Paddock are seeking new members, following a successful July meet-up at the Tully Showgrounds.

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Brewed in the Paddock is a monthly meet up for women working in the agricultural sector, whether that be in cane, bananas, cattle or horticulture. The group is dedicated to creating an environment where women can come together to share ideas, network and pick up some helpful tips along the way.  

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The club was created less than a year ago by four founding members; Wendy Finlayson, Kimberly Teelow, Carmen Camilleri & Jenny Crema, all of whom have a background in agriculture.

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“It’s obviously something that’s been missing,” said founding member and Club Secretary Wendy Finlayson. 

“At our first meet up we had over 60 people attend.

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“We learn so much off each other, a lot of us aren’t in the same industry but there’s a common thread that links us all.”

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Women across the local area from Tully, Mission Beach and Innisfail are all welcome to attend. Meet ups are generally held in Tully but they vary so a variety of business can be supported. Check out the Tully Women in Agricutulre Inc Facebook page for more details.  

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An Out-Of-This-World Weekend

July 27, 2026

Australia's only dedicated UFO festival is set to return to Cardwell from Thursday 6th August to Sunday 9th August, bringing four days of guest speakers, entertainment, markets, tours and family-friendly activities to the Cassowary Coast.

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Whether you're a firm believer, a curious sceptic or simply looking for a unique weekend out, the Australian UFO Festival promises something for everyone. The event celebrates the unexplained while showcasing the region through live entertainment, cultural experiences, food, art and local attractions. The festival's flagship attraction is the C-Files Forum, where researchers, authors and experiencers from across Australia will discuss UFOs, unexplained phenomena, ancient mysteries and emerging theories through presentations, panel discussions and audience question sessions.

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What’s On:

Thursday 6th August
Opening Night & Stories in the Stars
On Thursday evening the festival officially opens with the premiere of Stories in the Stars, celebrating Indigenous astronomy, culture and storytelling, before the weekend's celebrations begin.

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Friday 7th August
C-Files Forum – Day One
Held throughout the day, hear from researchers, investigators and authors exploring UFO sightings, witness accounts and some of Australia's best-known unexplained mysteries.

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Saturday 8th August
Monster Market Day
Along the Cardwell Foreshore browse market stalls, enjoy family entertainment, food vendors, live performances and plenty of extraterrestrial-themed fun. Costumes are encouraged for visitors of all ages.

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Alien Invasion Party
On Saturday evening along the Cardwell Foreshore, the festival's biggest social event features live music, entertainment and plenty of aliens, astronauts and other out-of-this-world costumes.

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Sunday 9th August
C-Files Forum – Final Day
When: Throughout the day
Where: Cardwell
The final forum sessions examine ancient mysteries and future possibilities before wrapping up with an open-mic session where attendees can share their own stories and experiences.

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C-Files Tours
When: Selected sessions during the weekend
Where: Departing from Cardwell
Visitors can also join guided tours to locations associated with local UFO sightings, mysterious lights, Yowie reports and other unexplained stories from the region.

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With visitors travelling from across Australia and overseas, the Australian UFO Festival has become one of Cardwell's most distinctive annual events, blending mystery, entertainment and tourism into a weekend unlike any other. Whether you come for the research, the costumes or simply the atmosphere, this year's festival is sure to be out of this world.

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Reader Of The Week

July 27, 2026

Little pupper Pixel was super keen to know all about what’s happening on the Cassowary Coast. She especially loved the Surf Life Saving page last week and wished she could also get her tiny paws out on the beach for a paddle. Oh, to feel the sun and sea breeze on her fur!

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Waste To Art Inspires Creativity & Sustainability

July 29, 2026

Adult/Open and People's Choice winner Trish Andrews. Photo credit: Maria Girgenti

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Waste to Art returned to this year's Innisfail Show, proving that everyday waste can be transformed into something truly inspiring.

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The exhibition celebrated local creativity while encouraging reuse and recycling, with Cassowary Coast Regional Council thanking everyone who entered, visited and supported the event.

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Congratulations went to Mourilyan State School, which took out the Primary School category with Magical Mini Beasts, while Kimberley Collins claimed the High School award for Shells Up for Waste Management. A special congratulations also went to Trish Andrews, who received both the Adult/Open award and the coveted People's Choice award.

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Council later congratulated all participants for showcasing the creative potential of recycled materials and helping inspire a more sustainable future.

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