
Cardwell Seafest delivered an ocean of entertainment on the weekend for the whole community, with families, visitors and locals enjoying a packed program of activities, markets and performances. Young festival-goers were among those enjoying the classic Punch and Judy show, with plenty of little eyes glued to the colourful performance and its hilarious characters. The hot rod car show also proved a major drawcard, with the polished vehicles turning heads and attracting plenty of attention throughout the day. Car enthusiasts and curious spectators alike took the opportunity to admire the impressive collection and chat with fellow motoring fans. The Seafest markets were another hit, with stalls offering plenty to browse, buy and discover. And amongst them on the foreshore was the kid’s fishing competition and other fish-related activities that added to the active Sunday market atmosphere. From children gathered around the puppet booth, to fishing off the jetty, to crowds stopping to admire the hot rods and families wandering between market stalls, there was plenty happening along the Cardwell foreshore. As the weekend unfolded, Seafest offered plenty to watch, something to browse, activities to do and many familiar faces to catch up with, capturing the easygoing atmosphere that makes Cardwell events such a drawcard. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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By Helen Cook With October signalling the approach of The Wet, children at Jumbun have been adding a splash of colour to a project that could make a big difference when the full force of the season arrives. Jumbun is a small Aboriginal community on Girramay Country, on the Cassowary Coast, home to people from the Girramay, Jirrbal and Gulnay nations, about 40km south-west of Tully. During the school holidays, community members have been painting power poles with colourful cassowaries, flowers, birds and other images inspired by their surroundings. But behind the painting is a bigger story. Heavy rain, storms, cyclones, fallen trees and vegetation can interrupt electricity supplies across the whole of the Wet Tropics. Jumbun is particularly vulnerable because it sits at the end of a powerline running from the Tully substation. “Every single power outage on that powerline, about 40 kms of it, the Jumbun community experiences,” Ergon Energy Senior Community Engagement Advisor Kate Austin said. This wet season, however, Jumbun has something new in its corner – a low-voltage microgrid designed to keep much of the community powered when the main supply is interrupted. At its heart is a large battery “box”. “If there’s a fault on the network upstream, we can isolate the residents here in community and power it from the battery,” Kate said, allowing Tully crews to make repairs while “keeping the power on to the community”. Around 25 homes, together with the health clinic and community hall, are connected to the system, while two houses outside the microgrid configuration have been fitted with rooftop solar. Jumbun is one of two Queensland First Nations communities involved in network-connected microgrid trials, alongside Mossman Gorge, where a high-voltage system has been installed. The trials will help determine whether the technology could benefit other communities at the edge of the grid. The pole painting is part of a wider program helping residents, particularly children, understand the new technology and the importance of conserving energy. And the biggest canvas is still to come. The microgrid box will be wrapped in artwork by local Jumbun artist Tonya Grant, depicting the story of Split Rock and giving the new infrastructure a distinctly local identity. The artwork is expected to be installed within the next month. Jumbun kids (and Chase, the dog) get creative with Ergon Energy’s Kate Austin and Karina Hoppe during a colourful school holiday art and power project. Photo credit: Helen Cook
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By Victoria Velton For some, a paint and sip is simply an afternoon out with a bit of bubbly. A recent Queensland Country Women Association (QCWA) event in Forrest Beach offered something a little deeper: an opportunity to talk about recovery, resilience and the importance of connection following disaster. Queensland Health Mental Health Clinician Jenna from the Disaster Recovery Team has been attending the CWA for around six months and helped organise the event as a way to bring people together. Jenna explained that the Disaster Recovery Team was formed following the region’s natural disasters, providing mental health support at a time when much of the immediate disaster assistance has already disappeared. “But that doesn’t mean people aren’t still struggling, still aren’t in their homes,” Jenna said. Jenna said community connection was a critical part of recovery, while her team also provides one-on-one support for people who may need additional help. “Stress during and immediately after a disaster is important as it helps us do what we need to do, however stress for long periods of time wreaks havoc on our body and mind and may be a sign to reach out for support,” she said. Beverley Hulme was one of those who shared her experience, recalling the floods at Forrest Beach, when she found herself isolated at home without power or communication. “I was really, really alone, and I had no resources because I wasn't prepared. Of course, I had never experienced rain coming down for 10 days,” Beverley said. Her experience changed when someone arrived at her home to conduct a welfare check, followed by women who offered to provide her with meals three times a day. “That’s what saved my mental health,” she said. For Beverley, the experience highlighted the importance of being prepared, but also the strength of a community coming together when people need it most. She also recognised that the emotional recovery does not necessarily end when the floodwaters recede. “You don’t just keep going. With that trauma inside you, you’ve got to get it out and talk about how you felt.” Another attendee shared her own experience of the disaster, explaining that while her husband was occupied helping others as part of the emergency response, she was often left alone at home. Her story highlighted a different side of disaster recovery, that even when someone has people around them, they can still feel isolated, particularly when family members are unaware of what they are experiencing. The discussion also raised concerns about residents in more isolated communities being forgotten during the floods, with attendees questioning whether emergency planning adequately considers those living further from major population centres. Jenna said the concerns raised were important and encouraged residents to continue providing feedback and directing their questions about how to get prepared before the wet season begins. “The HUB in Ingham might be able to answer those questions. Or even the councils as well, who are passionate about this. So that feedback is really important, both positive and constructive,” she said. As the community approaches another wet season, Jenna said preparedness and connection remain important parts of building resilience and supporting people through the longer-term impacts of disaster. As the conversation gave way to creativity, attendees picked up their brushes under the guidance of Tipsy-Doodle, a Townsville-based paint and sip program. The specially designed artwork showed the sun breaking through clouds over a grassy knoll, with a cut tree stump sprouting a new branch and leaves. The image was chosen to symbolise recovery and perseverance, reflecting the resilience of both nature and the community. Beginning with heavy conversation but finishing with bright artwork, the ladies of the Forrest Beach CWA’s Paint n Sip showcased canvases carrying a message that recovery takes time, and coming together is an important part of finding the strength to grow again. Photo credit: Victoria Velton Ladies of the Forrest Beach CWA Michelle and Joe Amanda and Beverley Anne, Vicky and Katrina Karen and Annie Pam and Alana Pauline and Wendy Valda's work Valerie
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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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Introducing Cinzia McEwen as il Capitana Italiano, in the upcoming Cruise Club theatre restaurant by Ingham Theatre Group. Image supplied
Climb aboard the infamous Costa Lotta cruise ship, packed with only the best of the worst crew, as the Ingham Theatre Group takes audiences on a 5-night mystery cruise from Miami through the Bermuda Triangle, and back again!
Ingham Theatre is presenting Cruise Club – a theatre restaurant experience with dinner, drinks and – wait – a murder?!
Expect themed entertainment, delicious food, and a full “on deck” experience, without the seasickness, in an immersive experience crafted for all who love a bit of flair.
Director, Steven Veltmeyer, said he was incredible excited to bring Cruise Club to Ingham.
“It has been wonderful watching the cast bring it all together,” Stephen said.
“Theatre Restaurant is always a special experience because the audience becomes part of the fun, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone aboard for a fantastic night of entertainment.”
Participants will be challenged to solve a whodunnit, survive the temper of a raging Italian captain and the mishaps of a pair of bumbling, incompetent stewards.
There’ll be questionably named drinks and steamy suggestions from the silver-tonged bartender, along with invitations to dominate the dance floor and take out the crown in karaoke.
Cruise Passes can be picked up from Barnes Sewing Centre for $70pp, and guests are requested to don their best vacation outfit, with a prize on offer for the best dressed.
The show will take place between 14th-29th August at the Ingham Bowls Club, Anne St, Ingham with boarding set for 7pm.
Please note there will be adult themes, smoke effects, and lighting effects.
“Cruise Club” by Liane Mills – David Spicer Productions.

Several Ingham Probus members have recently returned from a trip to North America including Canada and Alaska. Pictured here are the Ingham Members at Butchart Gardens BC Canada. Photo supplied
Across Queensland, thousands of retirees are discovering that retirement can be one of the most rewarding stages of life thanks to the Probus movement.
Founded on the principles of friendship, fellowship and fun, Probus Clubs provide opportunities for retired and semi-retired people to remain socially active, make new friends and enjoy a wide range of activities. The organisation has been operating in Australia for more than 50 years and now includes hundreds of clubs throughout Queensland and across the nation.
Probus began as an initiative supported by Rotary and has grown into an independent network of community clubs dedicated to enriching the lives of older Australians. The name "Probus" is derived from the words "professional" and "business," reflecting its origins among retired professionals and business people, although membership today is open to people from all walks of life.
The Probus Association of Queensland (PAQ), established in 1994, helps coordinate and support affiliated clubs throughout Queensland while preserving the independence of each local club. Its role is to assist clubs, encourage cooperation and provide resources for members.

Queensland's Probus clubs offer a diverse range of activities including guest speakers, social outings, travel opportunities, walking groups, dining events, hobby groups and community visits. These activities help retirees remain physically active, mentally stimulated and socially connected.
One of the organisation's most important contributions is combating social isolation among seniors. Regular meetings and activities provide members with meaningful social connections and a sense of belonging within their local communities. Probus clubs aim to provide an environment for maintaining social networks and foster community engagement and embracing a vibrant new chapter of life.

Today, Queensland is home to more than 150 Probus clubs and over 11,000 members and is one of the strongest Probus communities in Australia. Members often describe Probus as a gateway to new friendships, new experiences and an active retirement lifestyle.
Ingham Probus has a Facebook page for members and anyone interested is welcome to contact them through messenger or ask any member for information. Members meet on the first Wednesday of each month at the Herbert River RSL.

Gilroy’s Teaching and Arts Department Georgia Dametto, GSMC Principal Johanna Smith, and Gilroy’s Teaching and Arts Department Gemma Kennedy Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Gilroy Santa Maria College has officially opened its 2026 student art exhibition at Tyto Regional Gallery, unveiling a colourful and creative collection under the theme Threads of Growth.
The opening night on Friday, 3rd July brought together students, staff, families and community members to celebrate the work of Year 7 to Year 12 student artists, with the gallery transformed into a vibrant showcase of imagination and expression.

Councillor Donna Marbelli officially opened the exhibition, praising students for their creativity and willingness to share their work publicly.
"I know sharing your artwork with others can feel a little daunting, but every piece on display tells a story, reflects your unique perspective and showcases your creativity. You should all be incredibly proud of what you have achieved."

She also acknowledged the broader school community for supporting student learning and artistic development.
"I'd also like to sincerely thank the teachers, support staff, parents and carers. Thank you for the time, encouragement and dedication you invest in these students. Your support helps nurture confidence, creativity and a lifelong appreciation for the arts."
Student artist Charlotte DiBella said having her work, Day’s Last Sigh, displayed in a public gallery was both exciting and meaningful.
“My painting was a sunset that I took a picture of, and I just thought that it captured a very emotional image of the day's last sigh.”

Speaking about the experience of exhibiting her work, she said it represented an important step forward as an emerging artist.
“I think, as an emerging artist, it really just feels like I'm actually getting somewhere, and I get to show people my art, and they get to look at it, and enjoy it.”

She acknowledged the process was initially intimidating but ultimately rewarding.
“It was kind of a bit intimidating at first when my teacher told me that we were going to be hanging these in the gallery because I've never really shown off my artwork before, but I think that it's a pretty beautiful piece, and it deserves to be shared with people.”
The exhibition, titled Threads of Growth, features works from across the secondary school and was described on opening night as a “kaleidoscope of colours”, reflecting student imagination, experimentation and development.

The Arts Department, including Mrs Dametto, Ms Kennedy and Ms Fontana, were acknowledged for their work in coordinating the exhibition, with students and staff also contributing time during the school holidays to install the display.
Gilroy Santa Maria College encouraged the community to visit the exhibition during the school holidays, with works on display at Tyto Regional Gallery until 23rd July.

ISHS’s Rural Operations students having set up their cane for the Ingham Show. Photo supplied
Ingham State High School has once again proven its agricultural program is producing award-winning results, taking home top honours in the Schools Sugar Cane Competition at this year's Ingham Show.
The school's Rural Operations students showcased months of hard work, practical learning and hands-on experience, earning the prestigious Show Champion title for Best Stool of Any Variety, and was selected from all school cane entries.
The success didn't stop there. Students also claimed second place in Best Collection of Four Approved Varieties to Plant and second place in Six Heavy Stalks of Any Variety Other Than an Approved Variety, while also securing additional placings across the competition.

Preparing for the annual show was a major undertaking, with students and teachers spending months growing, maintaining and preparing their entries. The competition forms part of the school's Rural Operations program, giving students valuable real-world experience in one of the district's most important industries.
The school entered five categories in this year's competition, with support from industry partners CANEGROWERS, Sugar Research Australia (SRA) and Herbert Cane Productivity Services Limited (HCPSL), who supplied tissue culture plants through the school's initiative program.

The awards reflect the dedication of both students and staff, whose commitment to practical, industry-focused learning continues to produce outstanding results.
For many students, the competition provided the opportunity to develop practical agricultural skills, work alongside industry partners and gain valuable experience that can lead to future careers in one of the Hinchinbrook region's cornerstone industries.

Congratulations to everyone involved in preparing the award-winning cane entries and school display, and to the Ingham Show Society for another successful celebration of local agriculture, education and community.


Zoe Falls on Hinchinbrook Island doesn’t settle for single-angle beauty. At the base, a clear blue plunge pool invites a refreshing swim. Above, for experienced and careful climbers only, a natural infinity pool peers straight over Zoe Bay. Same waterfall, two unforgettable perspectives.
Access is by private vessel, guided tour or sea kayak, and the falls also sit along the Thorsborne Trail, which operates under a strict permit cap. Terrain here is steep and rocky, so solid footwear and confidence on uneven ground are essential.
Always check park alerts, tides and crocodile safety advice before visiting. This is wild country, not a theme park. When conditions align, Zoe delivers the kind of view that compresses a week-long holiday into a single, breath-stealing moment.
Plan a day: hinchinbrookway.com.au

Photo credit: Victoria Velton
The Ingham Show 2026 delivered another packed two days of competitions, community spirit and rural pride, drawing exhibitors and spectators from across the Herbert River district and beyond. From livestock and cane exhibits to photography, art, crafts, woodchopping and showjumping, the event showcased the region’s agricultural strength and creative talent.
Young competitors featured strongly across multiple sections, while seasoned exhibitors continued to set the standard in livestock and craft. The showgrounds came alive with friendly rivalry, local support and a strong volunteer effort that kept everything running smoothly. Despite the poor weather, most left the showgrounds smiling.


Birdie fluttered her wings and arrived into Lower Tully State School, Kennedy State School, and Cardwell State School this week, as Council’s Community Recovery and Resilience Officer delivered Birdie’s Tree books & plushies to support conversations about growing together through natural disasters.
Birdie’s Tree is an award winning set of storybooks, videos and resources created by the Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health (QCPIMH), in which Birdie and Frog learn about different natural disasters and find out how to cope and recover from stressful events.

The picture books were designed to provide children with the opportunity to learn about natural disasters in an age-appropriate way, exploring their feelings, and building resilience during challenging times.

Kennedy State School thanked the council for the delivery:
“They will be a great addition to our library and support our students when we are learning about natural disasters,” a spokesperson shared.

The Tully State High School Cattle team at the Ingham Show Cattle Arena. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Students from Tully State High School have been putting their livestock skills into practice at the 2026 Ingham Show’s Cattle Arena, taking on the responsibility of preparing and presenting cattle throughout the 2-day event.

The livestock handling experience gave students the opportunity to develop practical skills while gaining valuable insight required for the show ring.

Throughout the event, the students were responsible for all aspects of cattle presentation and care, including grooming, washing, feeding, watering, cleaning stalls and parading their animals. These hands-on tasks help students build confidence, improve their animal handling techniques and strengthen their understanding of livestock management. With teamwork, responsibility and a strong work ethic, the students ensured their cattle were well cared for and presented to the best of their ability.


The much-loved Cassowary Coast Talent Quest is returning this July. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Talent Quest
Young performers from across the Cassowary Coast are preparing to take centre stage, with the Cassowary Coast Talent Quest returning in July.
Now in its second year, the event provides a welcoming platform for young artists to showcase their talents across a range of performance styles.
With strong support from local businesses, community members and a recent $4,900 grant through the Cassowary Coast Regional Council’s Community Grants and Support Program, the event is set to bring another exciting showcase of local talent, providing meaningful opportunities for young creative performers in the region.

All the 2026 debutants and their partners. Photo credit: Shane Knuth MP
The tradition of the St Clare’s Tully Catholic Debutante Ball continued in 2026, bringing together young people, families and the wider community for a special evening of ‘Sparkle & Blooms’ themed celebration.
The event was held on Saturday 27th June 2026 at the Tully High School MPC, with 25 young ladies and gentlemen taking part.

“The tradition lives on. Congratulations to all those involved in making the 2026 Debutante Ball another wonderful evening. Twenty-five young ladies and gentlemen shared their evening with friends and family, creating forever memories,” said Councillor Trudi Tschui.

The young debutants showcased their dancing skills throughout the evening, performing the Maddison Line Dance and the traditional Wanderer Line Dance, before the dance floor filled up for crowd favourites including Cotton Eye Joe and the Nutbush.

The annual ball provided an opportunity for young people in Years 11 and 12 to participate in a formal celebration with their partners, while strengthening community connections. The event was open to young ladies and their partners of any religious denomination, welcoming participants from across the region.






Veronica Ferguson the Tully Library Supervisor, and two of her wonderful library staff, in the children’s reading corner at the Tully library. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
This week’s highlighted newspaper readers were the lovely staff of the Tully library. They enjoyed last week's articles on the installation of the free community Wi-Fi in the Cassowary Coast libraries, and the bright and joyful pictures of the Pasifica Festival.
Did you know your local libraries across the region are offering a range of creative school holiday activities for children of different ages?

Mission Beach Library
Small Worlds (Ages 5+) will be held on Tuesday 7th July from 10:00am to 11:00am.
Innisfail Library
Air Dry Creations (Ages 6+) will be held on Tuesday 7th July from 10:30am to 11:30am.
Cardwell Library
Clay Pinch Pots (Ages 5+) will be held on Wednesday 1st July from 10:00am to 11:00am.
Build a Bug House (Ages 5+) will be held on Thursday 9th July from 10:00am to 11:00am.
Tully Library
Dreamcatchers (Ages 5+) will be held on Thursday 2nd July from 10:30am to 11:30am.
DIY Library Bags & Bookmarks (Ages 5+) will be held on Thursday 9th July from 10:30am to 11:30am.
Booking Information: Bookings are essential. You can book by calling 1300 366 616 or visiting your local library branch.

A documentary celebrating the cultural significance of the native black dingo in the Murray Upper region is set to reach an international audience after being selected for the 2026 Melbourne Documentary Film Festival.
Ganibarra, directed and produced by Sonya Grant alongside Alix Livingstone and their production team, was chosen from thousands of entries and will screen at Cinema Nova in Melbourne on 11th July during NAIDOC Week celebrations.
The documentary explores the deep cultural connection between First Nations people and the native black dingo, known as Ganibarra in the Jirrbal language. For Ms Grant, whose family has longstanding ties to the Murray Upper area, the film is a deeply personal story about culture, identity and Country.
"Ganibarra is more than a film about dingoes. It is a story about culture, family, identity and the enduring connection between First Nations people and Country," she said.
Ms Grant works with the Girringun Aboriginal Corporation in Cardwell as the National First Nations Dingo Coordinator and hopes the documentary will raise awareness of the dingo's cultural significance while supporting efforts to protect the species.
Following its Melbourne screening, the film will also be shown in Brisbane before returning home for community screenings in Tully.
Ms Grant said she was honoured to have the documentary selected by one of Australia's leading documentary festivals.
"To have Ganibarra selected is an incredible honour," she said.
She also thanked her family for sharing their stories and the supporters who helped fund the project through the Traditional Knowledge Recording Project.
"This film would not exist without you," she said.
The selection marks a major achievement for the locally produced documentary and shines a spotlight on the Cassowary Coast's rich First Nations culture and storytelling.

QCWA Flying Fish Point will host a beginner-friendly Basket Making Workshop on 16th July. Photo source: Shutterstock
If you've ever admired a handcrafted basket and thought, “I'd love to make one of those”, then here's your chance!
QCWA Flying Fish Point is inviting the community to roll up their sleeves and get creative at its Basket Making Workshop on Thursday 16th July, with beginners encouraged to give the traditional craft a go.
Held from 9am at Girl Guides Hall, on the corner of Elizabeth and George streets in the picturesque Myra Jones Place parklands, the workshop promises a relaxed morning of creativity, conversation and community spirit.
Participants will be guided through the basket-making process, learning techniques to create their own handmade basket to take home. No experience is needed, making it the perfect opportunity for anyone keen to try something new.
Along with learning a practical skill, guests can enjoy a cuppa, meet new people and spend the morning crafting in a friendly atmosphere.
To take part, attendees should bring a three-pack of cotton twine, 30 metres of cotton rope and hand sewing needles, all available from Prices Plus Innisfail.
Places are limited, with a $5 workshop fee for non-members, while QCWA members can attend free.
Whether you're looking for a new hobby, a chance to get creative or simply an enjoyable morning out with friends, the Basket Making Workshop is set to weave together fun, friendship and handmade memories.

Movie poster of The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938), starring Errol Flynn. Photo sourced: IMDB
Twenty25 is returning to Mission Beach, bringing locals together for an evening of fast-paced storytelling, creativity and community connection.
The unique presentation format challenges participants to share their stories through 20 images, with each image displayed for just 25 seconds, creating a five-minute presentation packed with ideas, memories and insights.
The upcoming event will feature three local presenters sharing their fascinating stories in the gruelling Twenty25 format. Guests will have the chance to discover more about the people, places and moments that make Mission Beach unique.
Presentations will explore a range of topics, including the surprising connection between Hollywood superstar Errol Flynn and Dunk Island, what can happen when someone says yes instead of no, and the unexpected lessons learned from Cyclone Yasi.
The event provides an opportunity for the community to come together, enjoy a meal or drink, and experience the creativity of local storytellers.
Twenty25 will be held at Shanti Café, with doors opening at 5:00pm and presentations beginning at 6:00pm. Bookings are essential. To reserve a place, contact Patrick on 0435 166 656 (text preferred), via Messenger, or email shanticafe1@outlook.com.

Mac and Britt, the new owners of The Pocket with two of the goats you can see roaming around the property.
Since coming under new ownership in February 2026, the much-loved cafe, The Pocket in El Arish has been embracing a new chapter, with exciting plans focused on creating an even healthier, brighter and more connected community space.
Owners Mac and Britt are building on everything locals already love about The Pocket, while introducing new experiences for both residents and visitors. With plans to host weddings, community events, mum and bubs fitness classes, barbecue nights and more, The Pocket is becoming a place where people can gather, relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
The team is also preparing to launch their outdoor lifestyle, whole foods and health brand, Outscaper, bringing even more local products, artisan goods, handmade crafts and homemade treats to the venue. Pop in and fall in love with whimsical hand sculpted teapots, or bring home a bottle of tangy and smoky, locally made barbeque sauce.
Set across 10 acres, The Pocket offers a unique experience surrounded by nature. Visitors can enjoy a barista-made chai from the back deck while watching the goats, chickens, ducks and buffalo roam nearby, or relax with a homemade ice cream while taking in the local artwork on display.
A standout feature of the venue is the large, donated window wall, adding character and charm to the space while showcasing the creativity and community spirit that has always been part of The Pocket.
While the venue remains the familiar little haven locals know and love, Mac and Britt are adding new layers to the experience, creating a destination that celebrates local produce, creativity and connection.
“The Pocket is as you remember it, but better,” the team said.
With plenty on the horizon, visitors are encouraged to come and see what’s growing at this lush little retreat in the heart of El Arish, and experience the local flavours, products and community spirit for themselves.