Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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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Drongo in the rain photographed at Midgeree Bar Nth Qld, by Kerrie Norrie (With thanks to the Ingham Photography Group)
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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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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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For anglers chasing something extraordinary, heli-fishing in the Herbert River Gorge rewrites the rulebook. A helicopter flight drops you into remote river pools rarely reached on foot, opening up a full day of fishing in jungle-lined country.
Trips typically allow around six hours on the water, hopping between pools targeting jungle perch, sooty grunter and barramundi when conditions allow. Quality tackle and a picnic are usually included, and flights only run in suitable dry-season weather, with river height and visibility guiding decisions.
Even if the fish play shy, the aerial views alone justify the sunscreen. Deep gorges, winding river systems and untouched forest unfold beneath you. It’s not everyday fishing — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime way to experience Hinchinbrook from above and below.
Lock it in: hinchinbrookway.com.au
Evie and Lataya's Shark boat received First prize. Photo source: Rollingstone State School
The Rollingstone State School P&C has successfully revived a much-loved community tradition, with a strong turnout for this year's Dry Boat Race.
The event, which first began around 20 years ago, was originally established by former local Police Sergeant Brad "Goughy" Gough. Although it had not been held for several years, the P&C brought the popular event back to life, much to the delight of the community.
Adding to the occasion, Brad returned as the guest judge for the Best Boat competition, helping celebrate the creativity and enthusiasm on display.
Rollingstone State School P&C President Bec Truscott said it was fantastic to see so many families supporting the event's return.
A number of local businesses helped make the day possible, including Allison Gough from Ray White Real Estate, Bullock's Butcher, Frosty Mango and BCF Deeragun.
First prize: Evie and Lataya's Shark boat, receiving a $50 Frosty Mango voucher.
Second prize: Dakota's Silver Boat DMM, receiving $30 cash from the P&C.
Third prize: The Little Red Boat, receiving a camping chair and hat from BCF Deeragun.
The successful return of the Dry Boat Race has paved the way for the event to once again become a yearly fixture in the Rollingstone.
Tuesday 28 July
Weekly Community Bingo (Tuesday Session), 10:30am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham
Ingham Probus Christmas In July, 10:30am Theme: Australian Style
Wednesday 29 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 30 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 31 July
Seniors Morning Coffee Club, 9:30am – 11:30am at the Noorla Bowls Club, 32 McIlwraith St, Ingham
July 2026 Tea and Trivia, 9:00am - 12:00pm, TYTO Conference and Events Centre, Ingham
11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards, 6:00pm, at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery, 73 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Saturday 1 August
Parkrun, 7:00am, Palm Creek, Ingham & Cardwell Jetty Foreshore, Cardwell
Sunday 2 August
Ingham Raintree Community Market, 7:00am-12:00pm, Rotary Park, Ingham
Monday 3 August
Tuesday 4 August
Weekly Community Bingo (Tuesday Session), 10:30am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham
Wednesday 5 August
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
Ingham Probus Meeting and Bring & Buy, 10:00am, Herbert River RSl, Ingham
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 6 August
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
Why Aren’t My Vegetables Fruiting?
By Joe Bond
Nestled in the back streets of Forrest Beach, Joe (Joanne) and her partner Dan (Daniel) tend a 2.5-acre oasis - a haven of more than 75 different fruit trees and seasonal vegetables nurtured over 20 years. Together, they cultivate high-quality, affordable produce for the local community.
Here’s Joe’s monthly update of practical tips and ideas for your garden and home.
Between the two of us, Dan and I have built up a pretty solid knowledge of growing food and caring for the land.
Several people approached Dan at the markets asking for advice, saying, "Our pumpkins, cucumbers and zucchini aren't growing. They produce flowers, but nothing else happens."
His suggested advice was "Hand-pollinate them."
So, what is hand pollination?
Pumpkins, cucumbers and zucchini produce separate male and female flowers on the same plant. For fruit to develop, pollen must be transferred from the male flower (the anther) to the female flower (the stigma). Nature usually relies on bees and other pollinators to do this, but if they aren't around, you can lend a helping hand by gently transferring the pollen using the male flower itself or a small paintbrush.
Cross-pollination is a little different. It happens when pollen is transferred from the anther of a flower on one plant to the stigma of a flower on another plant of the same species. This mixes the genetic material of both parent plants, producing seeds with greater genetic diversity. Over time, this helps create stronger, healthier plants that are better able to adapt to changing conditions.
One of the best ways to improve pollination naturally is by keeping bees. I know beekeeping isn't for everyone, but bees do an incredible job of pollinating your crops while bringing plenty of other benefits to the garden.
If you'd like to see what we're growing or pick up some fresh local produce, visit Joe and Dan's fruit stall at 63 Forrest Drive, Forrest Beach.
Joe's Garden Tip: If your vine crops are producing plenty of flowers but no fruit, try hand-pollinating early in the morning when the flowers are fully open. It's quick, easy and can dramatically improve your harvest!
On 31 July 1895 the Hinchinbrook Divisional board announced that a contract had been let for the construction of an 844 feet (269.4 meters) jetty at Lucinda Point and that work had begun.
Lucinda at sunset, by Leonie Leotta
(With thanks to the Ingham Photography Group)
Bachelors' Quarters, Stone Hut 1865. Photo source: Hinchinbrook Shire Council Library photograph collection
By Dr Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui
Did you know that the north ‘Queenslander’ house style is said to have originated here in the Herbert River district?
Alan Frost who has written on what came to be called the ‘Queenslander’ observes that “It was on the banks of the Herbert River that settlers first set their houses high.” He claims that they did this because “their medical knowledge told them that they might avoid malaria by sleeping off the ground” – and so the trend started in the district to build houses on seven-to-eight-foot stumps.
Henry Stone’s Bachelors’ Hut (1865) was one of the first examples of these structures. By 1875 it was observed by a visitor to the Valley that houses “on high piles [were] a peculiarity …everywhere noticeable.” Planter Charles Leon Burguez’s house (1880) on the Gairloch Plantation is an example.
The ‘Queenslander was an adaption to climate and location. It was raised on high stumps or piles and encased in verandas which provided a covered walkway around the entire structure. Interiors were accessed from the verandas via French doors and adjustable sash windows provided additional ventilation. These openings syphoned breezes through the house assisted by ‘whirlybird ventilation’ vents. Kitchens were detached in order to keep the heat and fire danger away from the main structure.
These buildings were also built on the highest ground out of the threat of high flood levels and away from large trees where pools of stagnant water would provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Bats inhabited the ceilings eating the mosquitoes, while breezes blew the mosquitoes away from the house.
Furthermore, as Tony Raggatt advocating for the ‘Queenslander’ in his opinion piece after the 2019 Townsville floods wrote, “Not only are they [the ‘Queenslander’] cooler for the ventilation they provide under the home and are raised above the jaws of the armies of termites that patrol the garden, they are designed to allow floodwaters to flow underneath them.” If the houses are not built under there is little to be lost from water damage.
Today, even on the Herbert, the ‘Queenslander’ house design has been all but abandoned. The style of housing that has come to be favoured because of taste or economics is low-set brick or concrete boxes lined with non-durable materials such as gyprock. Rarely are they surrounded by verandas. Because they are not ergonomically sited, they are stifling in summer, freezing in winter, walls exposed to blazing afternoon sun, ill-placed to catch passing breezes and only bearable to live in with air-conditioners full-bore.
Perhaps it is time this quintessential north Queensland architectural style originating in the Herbert River Valley is re-evaluated and appreciated anew.
2026’s Tully & District Show featured huge Ferris Wheel! Photo Credit: Siân Bantock
Country fun and carnival thrills filled the Tully Showgrounds as the much-loved Tully & District Show returned for another unforgettable two-day celebration.
Families flocked through the gates to experience everything from award-winning agricultural displays and friendly farm animals to thrilling rides, live entertainment and spectacular fireworks, with something to delight visitors of all ages.
A crowd favourite, and a true symbol of the Tully Show, was the display of the region's finest bananas and sugarcane, alongside impressive fruit, orchid and botanical exhibits competing for top honours. Outside, towering agricultural machinery, a popular petting zoo and a snake handling display kept crowds entertained throughout the day.
By Siân Bantock
The 2026 Tully & District Show created countless heartwarming moments, including a chance reunion between former local George Sing, who now lives in Canada, and his old school friend Karen McLeod.
"It's like nothing has changed, it's exactly how I remember it when was a kid," George said.
"I love coming back, it takes me back to my childhood and I like catching up with people I haven't seen for years," Karen said.
As darkness fell, the showgrounds transformed into a sea of lights as the Ferris wheel and carnival rides whirred into action before a dazzling fireworks display capped off the evening.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere were community groups, emergency services and volunteers, whose support helped make the event another success.
"Today was an awesome day for all our families. Thank you for all your support," the Tully & District Show Society shared.
For more than 90 years, the Tully & District Show has celebrated the region's rural heritage, and this year's event once again proved why it remains one of the Cassowary Coast's most treasured traditions.
Tuesday 28th July
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
Twenty25 Great Ideas, Great Stories, 500 Seconds, 5pm, 37 Porter Prom, Mission Beach
Wednesday 29th July
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
Tully Book Fair, 10am-2pm, Tully Masonic Centre, Tully
Tradition, Ritual, Community Art Exhibition, 10am-2pm, Tully Masonic Centre, Tully
Thursday 30th July
Tully Book Fair, 10am-2pm, Tully Masonic Centre, Tully
Tradition, Ritual, Community Art Exhibition, 10am-2pm, Tully Masonic Centre, 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
Friday 31st July
CORES Queensland’s Suicide Intervention Training, 9am-4pm, Tully Support Centre, 54 Bryant Street, Tully
Tully Book Fair, 10am-2pm, Tully Masonic Centre, Tully
Tradition, Ritual, Community Art Exhibition, 10am-2pm, Tully Masonic Centre, Tully
Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Social Run, 6pm-7pm, Mission Beach, Mission Beach
Count Down Band North Queensland Tour, 7:30pm-11:30pm, Silkwood Hotel, Silkwood
A Centenary Ball Celebration of 100 Years of Masonic Lodge Debutante Balls, 8pm, Tully State High School, Tully
Saturday 1st August
Paradise Run Mission Beach, 6:45am, Seaview Street, Mission Beach
Cardwell parkrun, 7am, Cardwell Foreshore, Cardwell
Tradition, Ritual, Community Art Exhibition, 10am-2pm, Tully Masonic Centre, Tully
Mission Beach Film Club’s Screening of Holy Cow, 6:30pm-8:45pm, C4 Theatrette, Porters Promenade, Mission Beach
Tully Book Fair, 10am-2pm, Tully Masonic Centre, Tully
Sunday 2nd 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
Mission Beach Markets, 7am-12pm, Ulysses Park, Mission Beach
Coffee & Cars Monthly Meet Up, 9am, Flying Fish Point Beach Café, Innisfail
Community Fundraising Raffle, 3pm-6pm, Tuckers at the Beach, South Mission Beach
Cassowary Coast Talent Quest Grand Final, TBA, Multipurpose Court at Tully High, Tully
Monday 3rd August
Cassowary Coast Yarners & Threads, 10am-12pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach
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
Year 9 students from Tully State High School have created a collection of personalised watercolour portraits for residents of Tully Nursing Home, with the artworks set to be presented next month. Photos supplied
Year 9 art students from Tully State High School have once again demonstrated their creativity and compassion, producing a series of beautiful watercolour portraits of residents from Tully Nursing Home.
As part of their art studies, students learnt to draw facial features realistically and explored a range of watercolour techniques before creating personalised portraits for the residents. Each artwork was carefully crafted, with students incorporating meaningful background elements that reflected the lives and interests of the individuals they portrayed.
Art teacher Leandra Willis said the class embraced the project with maturity, compassion and enthusiasm, delighting in the fact they were engaging in an assessment piece that would connect with the wider community. Ms Willis expressed she’sincredibly proud of her students, and their level of dedication to the task as well as to improving their artistic skills.
The completed portraits will be formally presented to residents when the Year 9 students visit Tully Nursing Home on Wednesday, 13th August at 1:40pm.
In another opportunity for the community to connect with residents, Tully Nursing Home will also host a Market Day on Sunday, 9th August, from 10am to 2pm. The event will feature a barbecue sausage sizzle and drinks for $5, tea or coffee with a biscuit for $2, as well as resident-made crafts, books, plants and live music.
Community members are encouraged to attend and support the local aged care facility while celebrating the talents and connections that continue to bring generations together.
Contributed with thanks to Cherie Louise of Tully Nursing Home Inc.
Graeme Connors – What Next? Tour to hit the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall stage in August. Photo supplied: Rock This Country PR + RTC Records
Australian songwriting legend Graeme Connors will return to Ingham next month, bringing his What Next? Tour to the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall on Friday 14th August.
Fresh from his sell-out My Lyrical Life national tour, Connors is once again taking to the road with a performance celebrating his latest studio album while revisiting the songs that have become part of Australia's musical landscape.
With a career spanning five decades, Connors has built a reputation as one of the country's finest storytellers, but What Next? proves he is still looking ahead. Released in 2025, the album explores new musical and lyrical territory, reflecting an artist driven by curiosity and creativity.
The album's latest single, The Best Day of My Life, was inspired by a question Connors was asked while reflecting on his 50-year career in music. Instead of dwelling on past achievements, the experience led him towards a hopeful outlook and a fresh collection of songs.
"What Next? is different on several levels," Connors said.
Audiences can look forward to hearing new material alongside much-loved classics including A Little Further North Each Year, Let The Canefields Burn, The Road Less Travelled and The Ringer and the Princess.
Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering his music for the first time, the What Next? Tour promises an evening of heartfelt storytelling, memorable melodies and one of Australia's most enduring live performers.
Tickets are available via TryBooking at www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1579182 or through Graeme Connors' official website at graemeconnors.com/#tours
The Hinchinbrook Birdlife Awards draws large crowds every year to see the wonderful art on display. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Birdlife will take centre stage at TYTO Regional Art Gallery this week, with artists from across the region and beyond showcasing works inspired by Australia’s native birds, particularly those found throughout the Hinchinbrook region.
The 11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards will officially open on Friday 31st July, and feature entries across a range of artistic mediums.
Community and Cultural Services Portfolio Councillor Donna Marbelli said the exhibition is a highlight of the shire’s cultural calendar.
“The Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards celebrate the special connection between art and nature, inviting artists to capture the beauty, diversity and character of the birdlife and landscapes that make the Hinchinbrook Shire so unique,” Cr Marbelli said.
“Opening night is a chance for the community to come together, be inspired by the creativity on display, and recognise the artists whose work encourages us to see and appreciate the natural world in new ways.”
The opening night and awards ceremony will feature the presentation of awards, an opportunity to meet artists and supporters of the arts, view this year’s entries, vote in the People’s Choice Award, and hear from a special guest speaker from BirdLife Australia, who will explore the important relationship between art, nature and conservation.
Complimentary canapés will be served, with a cash-only bar available throughout the evening. Guests are encouraged to dress semi-formally. The event is free, but bookings are essential for catering purposes. Guests should note there are no EFTPOS facilities at the bar or ATM facilities within the TYTO Precinct. Bookings can be made online at www.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au.
The Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards are made possible through the generous support of event sponsors, whose ongoing commitment helps support the arts and community in the region. Following opening night, the exhibition will remain open daily from Saturday 1stAugust, to Saturday 29th August 2026, from 10am to 4pm.
Tones and I at her signed mural in the laneway beside the Hinchinbrook Shire Council building. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
The quiet laneway beside Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Lannercost Street building is set to become the latest addition to Ingham’s growing collection of public art and photo-worthy attractions.
The Community Interactive Laneway Project will see the laneway transformed through a new mural created in partnership with local visual art high school students, adding another colourful and interactive feature to the town’s streetscape.
The project builds on the existing Tones and I mural, with the vision of creating a series of artistic spaces where locals and visitors can stop, take photographs and experience another side of Ingham’s creative identity.
Work on the project will be carried out in stages throughout August and early September, with mural painting scheduled for August 17th to 19th.
The laneway will be temporarily closed during some stages of the project, including equipment installation from August 6th to 8th and the mural painting from August 17th to 19th.
The Community Interactive Laneway Project is funded by the Regional Arts Development Fund, a partnership between the Queensland Government and Hinchinbrook Shire Council supporting local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
Ingham State High School’s Year 10 cohort. Photo supplied: Ingham State High School
Students at Ingham State High School were encouraged to look beyond the classroom and start planning for life after school at the school's annual Pathways Expo and Year 10 Pathways Ceremony.
Held last week, the event brought together employers, training providers, universities, community organisations and teaching staff to showcase the wide range of career and study opportunities available to students.
Head of Department – Pathways, Technologies, RTO Management and Year 10 Kylee Rosenberger said one of the highlights was watching students grow in confidence as they stepped outside their comfort zones.
"I'm really proud of our senior students and the quality of conversations they've had," Kylee said.
"But it was also really exciting to watch the junior students introducing themselves to adults, shaking hands and engaging in those conversations. Some were standing back with their friends asking, 'What are we going to say?' before building up the confidence to walk over.
"I feel like we've had some wins there because they've overcome those initial fears, and that's all part of preparing for that next step when they go to apply for a job."
Students had the chance to speak directly with industry representatives about apprenticeships, university pathways and careers they may never have previously considered, while interactive displays gave them hands-on opportunities to explore different professions.
Kylee said the expo featured a diverse mix of local businesses, organisations and service providers, many of whom have long-standing connections with the school and the Hinchinbrook community.
"I put the invitation out to as many people as I can think of who have had something to do with our high school over the years or have something to do with our community, and then I ask them to spread it even further," she said.
"This is the result of that. There's a really good mix of industries here and everyone brings something interesting for the students to engage with."
Alongside the expo, the Year 10 Pathways Ceremony recognised students as they begin making important decisions about their senior schooling. Families were also invited to continue conversations with teachers, businesses and organisations throughout the evening.
A highlight of the ceremony was guest speaker Jesse Spina from SpinFX Electrical, who shared his own career journey and reminded students that success is not always a straight path, but can be achieved through hard work, resilience and embracing opportunities.
Kylee said even the subject displays sparked curiosity among younger students, giving them an insight into what senior schooling can offer before they begin making their own subject selections.
"You can't be what you can't see, but once you can see it, you can start planning for it, working towards it and creating your own pathway for the future," she said.
Secrets, suspicion and plenty of theatrical flair filled the Tully Masonic Centre when the Tully Arts and Culture Precinct Inc. (TA&CP) hosted its first-ever murder mystery evening, The Art of Murder, on Friday, 17th July.
The sold-out event invited guests to step into character for an evening of mystery, intrigue and laughter, with attendees taking on roles ranging from wealthy art collectors and gallery staff to aristocrats, critics, security guards and criminals.
As the mystery unfolded, players worked together to solve the theft of a priceless painting and uncover the identity of a murderer, with every guest considered a suspect. Dressed for the occasion and fully embracing their assigned characters, participants helped bring the interactive whodunnit to life, creating an entertaining and memorable evening.
Adding to the atmosphere, the event was held within the gallery space at the Tully Masonic Centre, surrounded by the Tradition, Ritual, Community exhibition, which remains on display until 1st August.
Following the success of its debut murder mystery, TA&CP plans to host more interactive events in the future, with updates to be shared via the organisation's social media page.
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