Entertainment

Cardwell Seafest 2026

Cardwell Seafest 2026

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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Bringing Power And Colour To Jumbun

Bringing Power And Colour To Jumbun

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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PAINTING A PICTURE OF RECOVERY

PAINTING A PICTURE OF RECOVERY

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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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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Pasifika Celebration Brings Culture, Community & Colour To Innisfail

June 22, 2026

Senator for Queensland, Nita Green, described the Pasifika Celebration as a fantastic celebration of culture and a great opportunity to connect with the community. Photo source: Facebook

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The Cassowary Coast Pasifika Celebration was held at Warrina Lakes in Innisfail on Saturday 20th June, bringing together Pacific Island communities and visitors for a full day of cultural performances, traditional food, market stalls and community activities.

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Following a highly successful debut in 2025, which attracted close to 2,000 attendees, this year’s event once again showcased the cultural richness of the region and was warmly received by the community.

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The community-led celebration was supported by the Queensland Government’s Celebrating Multicultural Queensland Events program and continued its focus on recognising and sharing the cultures, traditions and contributions of Pacific Island communities across the Cassowary Coast, including participants in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme. The event also honoured the region’s South Sea Islander community, acknowledging their long-standing cultural and historical contribution to the district.

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood said the celebration played an important role in recognising the region’s diversity and shared history.

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“The Pasifika celebration is a wonderful opportunity to honour the contributions of Pacific Island communities who have chosen to call the Cassowary Coast home, as well as those who support our industries through temporary work visas,” she said.

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“It is also a chance to reflect on the strong heritage of South Sea Islanders who have shaped our region’s history and culture.”

See more photos here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/pasifika-celebration-brings-culture-community-colour-to-innisfail

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Silver Ball Makes a Comeback

June 22, 2026

The Silver Ball Comittee Photo credit: The Silver Ball

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After a seven-year hiatus, the Silver Ball returned over the weekend, welcoming 240 guests and raising more than $20,000 for brain cancer research at its sold-out event.

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Held at the Shire Hall in Innisfail, the masquerade-themed evening saw guests arrive in elegant masks, creating a fun, mysterious and sophisticated atmosphere for the night's festivities.

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Organiser Rachel Accatino said she was overwhelmed by the level of community support, particularly amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures.

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“There was such amazing support from the community. I’m speechless. It was such an incredible evening – thank you to everyone who came along and made it so special,” she said.

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Rachel lost her own father to brain cancer in 2017. The event was originally established in his honour, but he sadly passed away shortly before the inaugural ball.

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The Silver Ball continued in 2018 and 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic brought it to a halt in 2020.

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“People kept asking us to bring it back,” Rachel said.

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“One guy said he’d been waiting seven years for it to return!”

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Rachel said the event holds a special place in the hearts of many local families affected by brain cancer.

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She recalled one family who recently lost their father to the disease just one month after his diagnosis. The family purchased two tables for the event in support of the cause.

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Raffles were held in the lead-up to the evening, while guests also bid on auction items and silent auction prizes throughout the night.

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Although final figures are still being calculated, organisers have already confirmed the event raised at least $20,000.

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Funds will be donated directly to the Mark Hughes Foundation, which supports research aimed at finding a cure for brain cancer.

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“There is treatment, but there is no cure,” Rachel said.

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Following this year’s successful return, organisers hope to establish the Silver Ball as a biennial event.

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Rachel extended her gratitude to everyone who attended, the local businesses that donated prizes, Roscoe’s Catering and local band Beerbody for helping make the evening such a success.

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Pet Of The Week Meet Sir Phillip

June 22, 2026

Sir Phillip is an adorable 8-week-old male Tabby kitten searching for his forever kingdom.

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This tiny gentleman is full of kitten curiosity, playful energy and sweet cuddles. Whether he’s busy exploring, chasing toys or curling up for a nap, Sir Phillip is guaranteed to steal hearts wherever he goes.

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Adoption fee for Sir Phillip is $200. This includes his first and second vaccinations, vet check, microchipping, up to date parasite preventatives and desexing (desexing to be carried out when the kitten is 6 months old).

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Interested in meeting Sir Phillip? Please get in touch to arrange a meet and greet. Call: 0428 807 461 or come out to the Cassowary Coast Paws & Claws Refuge during open hours Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10am - 12 noon and 3pm - 5pm, also Saturday 10am – 1pm.

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Sex: Male

Colour: Tabby and White

Age: 8 Weeks

Sir Phillip is an indoor cat

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Reader Of The Week

June 22, 2026

Robyn Guest from Mt Isa with Jacki Dwyer from Tully Information Centre. Photo credit: Sherie Hensler-Adams

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This weeks’ Reader of the Week goes to Robyn Guest who is visiting the region from Mt Isa. Robyn caught up with our Sales Manager Sherie Hensler-Adams and Jacki Dwyer from Tully Information Centre when she was visiting the region last week.  

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Robyn explained that she loved reading Life Publishing Group papers. She is often travelling to the different townships up and down the coast and she picks up a Life paper wherever she goes. The Event Guide is her favourite section, where she can check out what’s going on in the region.

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Do you love reading your local paper? If so, tell us about it! Send a picture of you holding the latest edition with a note about yourself and the reason you like reading the paper to sherie@lifepublishinggroup.com.  

Or give Sherie a call on 0498 589 226. She’d love to pay you a visit!  

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Cassowary Coast Event Guide

June 22, 2026

Tuesday 23rd June

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

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Wednesday 24th June

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

Science in the Pub, 5:30pm, King Reef Resort, Kurrimine Beach

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Thursday 25th June

Oiled & Other Mediums Painting Group, 9am, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach

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

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Saturday 27th June

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

Cardwell parkrun, 7am, Cardwell Foreshore, Cardwell

Ladies Day (Innisfail Leprechauns VS Tully Tigers), 4pm-7pm, Callendar Park, Innisfail

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Sunday 28th June

Cardwell Sportfishing Club Monthly Sausage Sizzle & Presentation Day, 3pm-5:30pm, St Albans Street, Cardwell

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Monday 29th June

Author Talk with Frances Dall’Alba, 11am, Cardwell Library, Cardwell

Children’s Art Workshop (Foundational Skills), 3:30pm-5pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach

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Tuesday 30th June

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

Winter School Holidays Trashion Workshop (6+), 10:30am-11:30am, Innisfail Library, Innisfail

Winter School Holidays Photography Workshop with Susan Kelly (10+), 11am-12pm, Mission Beach Library, Wongaling Beach

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

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Wednesday 1st July

Community Open Day Training Session with Former NRL Players, 9:30am-12pm, Callendar Park, Innisfail

Winter School Holidays Clay Pinch Pots Workshop (5+), 10am-11am, Cardwell Library, Cardwell

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

Tully Ambulance Station Centenary Celebration, 10am-2pm, Tully Ambulance Station, 17 Bryant Street, Tully

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Thursday 2nd July

Winter School Holidays Dreamcatchers Workshop (5+), 10:30am-11:30am, Tully Library, Tully

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

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Saturday 4th July

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

Cardwell parkrun, 7am, Cardwell Foreshore, Cardwell

Mission Beach Film Club’s Screening of Beats, 6:30pm-9pm, C4 Theatrette, Porters Promenade, Mission Beach

4th of July Keg Party with DJ Cutloose, 8pm, 52 Porter Promenade, Mission Beach

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Sunday 5th July

Mission Beach Markets, 7am-12pm, Ulysses Park, Mission Beach

Coffee & Cars Monthly Meet Up, 9am, Flying Fish Point Beach Café, Innisfail

Emma Krause’s Spanx and the City, 3:30pm-4:30pm, Con Theatre, Innisfail

Monday 6th July

Amazons Australia Race Day One, 5:30am, various locations, Mission Beach

Children’s Art Workshop (Foundational Skills), 3:30pm-5pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach

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A Fair Feed For A Fair Price At Mrs B’s Cafe

June 22, 2026

With 38 years of cooking experience under her belt, Mrs B is no stranger to the food scene. For the owner of Mrs B’s Cafe, the philosophy behind her business is encapsulated in a long-held belief that good food must be served at a good price.

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“With my cafe, my food, I give a fair feed for a fair price, and that's what I've always said.” said Mrs B.

“We're here for longevity, not just as a fad. And that's the only way you can do it.”  

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Judging by the delighted customers chatting merrily around their tables, it is a formula that works. The menu offers a generous mix of classic favourites, from eggs benedict and hearty big breakfasts to classic burgers and an inviting display cabinet. Among the most popular treats are the cakes and fresh peach blossoms, which are sourced from a local baker.

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“We partner with a local lady so that we actually get fresh cheesecake, peach blossoms, which really walk out the door,” Mrs B says.  

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The pink treats are a distinct North Queensland delicacy, often causing a bit of confusion for visitors from down South.  

“A lot of people from the South just don't know what a peach blossom is,” she laughs.  

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“You’ll have to come into the café to find out!”

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Beyond the daytime trade, the cafe extends its hours later in the week to capture the popular twilight crowd, transforming into a bustling hub for end-of-week takeaways and relaxed family dinners.  

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“I stay open Thursday and Friday night to cater for fish and chips, so we've started to put meal deals on our menu in the afternoons,” Mrs B says.  

These evening sessions have fast become a local ritual, offering perfectly battered or grilled fish alongside classic hot chips, making it the ideal effortless option for busy families heading into the weekend.

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True to her regional focus, she sources her fresh produce directly from the community, purchasing meat from the local butchers, fresh local fish, milk from the local milk provider, and groceries from the IGA. This dedication to the region extends beyond the plate, turning the dining space into a hub for community talent.  

“We support local artists and local product,” Mrs B says, “At the moment, we're showcasing sugar cane syrup and we've also got a local lady that makes jewellery that we sell.”

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“We're about being local, supportive, and promoting local products.”

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Ultimately, Mrs B’s Cafe is designed as a welcoming environment where patrons are encouraged to slow down, catch up, and stay as long as they like.  

“We want people to be able to come in, sit down, and stay for as long as they like,” shared Mrs B says.  

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“That's what we encourage. We don't want you to have a coffee and make you go, so if you like your table, you've got it.”

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Coupled with incredibly reasonable coffee prices, the cafe remains a steadfast, welcoming staple of Tully hospitality.

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Regional Rewards Campaign To Drive Bookings For Local Experiences. 

June 22, 2026

A new government initiative is providing a $100 discount to holidaymakers booking local experiences such as exploring the rugged Thorsborne Trail. Photo credit: Emma Schmidt, QLD Government

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A new Regional Rewards initiative, created by the government in partnership with RACQ, is providing a $100 discount to travellers who spend $200 or more on local experiences.

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With 10,000 discounted bookings available across Queensland, the campaign is expected to generate more than $2 million in direct economic benefit for regional tourism businesses. 

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Bookings will be made via ExperienceOz.com.au/QLD100 until 31st July (or until sold out), with travel valid until 4th October 2026, driving visitation throughout the peak winter period. 

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Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the initiative will support tourism operators and strengthen regional economies.

“Queensland is the Home of the Holiday, and Regional Rewards is putting real money into our regions, driving bookings, supporting jobs and backing local businesses,” he said.  

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Explore the wonders of Hinchinbrook Island by kayak. Photo credit: Steven Nowakowski

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“With 10,000 incentives on offer, we’re giving Queenslanders every reason to holiday at home and deliver real economic benefits where it matters most. 

RACQ MD & CEO David Carter said boosting tourism in regional centres helps drive a better future for all Queenslanders. 

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“Tourism is crucial for our regional economy, and we wanted to play our part to ensure these communities, and our members who live in them, are supported,” Mr Carter said. 

Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) CEO Natassia Wheeler welcomed the initiative, which comes at a time when many tourism businesses continue to face challenging operating conditions. 

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“This is the type of initiative industry has been calling for,” Ms Wheeler said. 

“QTIC has been advocating for measures that encourage more visitors to book tours, attractions and experiences, and we're pleased to see those concerns reflected in this campaign. 

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“Queensland has an extraordinary range of tourism experiences on offer, and initiatives like this help convert intention into bookings, supporting local businesses, jobs and communities right across the State.” 

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Discover A New Way To Move - At Mind & Body: Reformed

June 22, 2026

The studio is a welcoming and comfortable space designed to support your physical and mental wellbeing. Photo supplied

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There is a fresh energy buzzing through Mission Beach, coming straight from The Hub Shopping Centre. If you have been searching for a way to revitalise your fitness routine whilst finding mental clarity, look no further than Mind & Body: Reformed.

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This welcoming boutique studio is dedicated to Reformer Pilates, offering a dynamic, low-impact workout that promises to transform how you feel from the inside out.

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For the uninitiated, Reformer Pilates utilises specialised resistance-based equipment to help build deep core strength, improve balance, and support better posture. It is a brilliant full-body conditioning method that tones muscles without putting unnecessary stress on your joints.

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What truly sets Mind & Body: Reformed apart, however, is its inclusive, tranquil atmosphere. The team has meticulously crafted a calm space where locals of all fitness levels feel completely supported.

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Whether you are a seasoned athlete looking to cross-train or a complete beginner taking your first steps towards wellness, the sessions are tailored to ensure you walk out feeling strong, energised, and wonderfully clear-headed.

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Operating from Monday to Thursday on Porter Promenade, Mission Beach, this local gem provides the perfect environment to focus on intentional movement and self-care. Supporting local businesses keeps our coastal community thriving, and this studio is a perfect addition to the local laid-back landscape. Why not pop in, meet the team, and experience the benefits of a reformed mind and body for yourself?

Book a class and see session timetables at www.mindbodyreformed.com.au

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Step Back In Time And Into Style - At Igguldens Tully

June 22, 2026

Igguldens in Tully cater to all including; menswear, womenswear, kidswear, babywear, footwear, workwear and sportswear. Photo supplied

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For decades, Igguldens has built a reputation on reliability, exceptional customer service, and an unmatched understanding of what the local community needs. Whether you are searching for durable, high-quality gear to handle a hard day’s work on the land, outfitting the kids for the new school term, or looking for a stylish, contemporary outfit for a weekend out, their curated collection has something for everyone.  

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What truly sets Igguldens apart is the warm, genuine hospitality that greets you the moment you walk in. In an era dominated by impersonal online shopping, the team at Igguldens brings back the joy of traditional service. Their knowledgeable staff are always on hand with a friendly smile, ready to help you find the perfect fit. It is the kind of local care that makes shopping feel like catching up with old friends.

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Next time you are updating your wardrobe or need gear you can rely on, make sure to pop into Igguldens on Butler Street in Tully and experience the unbeatable combination of quality clothing and country-style service that has kept locals looking their best for years.

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From The Rainforest To The Reef Katie Louise Bigg Transforms Rockingham Walls

June 22, 2026

Katie Louise Bigg with her recently unveiled large scale mural at Cardwell’s Rockingham Aged Care Centre. Photo supplied

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Katie Louise Bigg has once again left her artistic mark on the region, unveiling a stunning series of large-scale realism murals at Cardwell’s Rockingham Aged Care Centre.

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Inspired by the region's natural beauty, residents and staff worked closely to develop the theme of the artwork, which complements the facility's residential wings while celebrating the diverse landscapes of North Queensland. Spanning from rainforest to reef, the murals feature an array of iconic local flora and fauna, including cassowaries, flying foxes and wompoo fruit-doves, alongside recognisable landmarks such as the Cardwell Spa Pools and Murray Falls.

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Ms Bigg said she was overjoyed when she was commissioned to create the artwork, describing the opportunity to paint within an aged care facility as rewarding in many ways.

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“It was so meaningful and special to paint at the Rockingham Aged Care Centre,” she said.

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“The residents would walk by each day giving me encouragement, sit and watch me paint, or chat with me about their life experiences for hours. They really loved watching the works come to life, and I loved the whole experience. It was awesome to see them uplifted by the murals in their environment.”

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Beyond creating the artwork itself, Ms Bigg said one of the most memorable parts of the project was the relationships she formed with residents along the way.

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She particularly recalled a friendship that developed with one gentleman who visited her each day while she worked.

The realism mural illustrates beautiful flora and fauna native to the region. Photo supplied

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“We spoke for hours about different moments in his life,” Ms Bigg said.

“He said his late wife was an artist and he showed me some of her work. He gave me lots of encouragement, and we shared plenty of laughs. He was also very impressed with the murals and loved watching them come together.”

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Having brought colour to communities across the region for years, Ms Bigg has become known for her highly realistic murals and their emotional resonance; a painting style she says has always come naturally to her.

“I tend to lean towards highly saturated and high contract colours as with each piece I try to replicate the liveliness of the reference image I’m painting as best as I can,” she explained.

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“When people see my murals, my intention is for them to experience love and wonder at looking at creativity, and what art can do. I want them to feel happy and inspired.”

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With plans to continue exhibiting her talents across North Queensland, Ms Bigg cannot wait to commission her next piece to once again, share her love for art and storytelling with more regional communities.

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“Projects I’m most passionate about are people and places that uplift the community, make people happy, and make wall spaces and environments look better,” she said.

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“To reflect what people are proud about and love into a giant artwork, that makes me happy!”

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Did You Know? The Heaviest Insect In Australia Was Only Recently Discovered Nearby

June 22, 2026

Did You Know?

The Heaviest Insect In Australia Was Only Recently Discovered Nearby

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In 2025, scientists announced the discovery of Acrophylla alta, a giant stick insect from the Wet Tropics of North Queensland. Measuring up to 40 centimetres long and weighing around 44 grams, it may be Australia's heaviest insect. Researchers believe it remained undiscovered because it lives high in remote rainforest canopies.  

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It's a reminder that even today, North Queensland's rainforests are still revealing secrets. Universities and wildlife documentaries often find themselves beneath the ancient trees learning, discovering, and documenting many reclusive and widely unknown species.

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Curious? Take a walk on the wild side: cassowarycoasttourism.com.au

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Hinchinbrook Event Guide

June 22, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AgForce Family BBQ, 5:00pm start, Ingham Show Cattle Section arena, Ingham Showgrounds, Ingham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sunday 28 June

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 4 July
Parkrun, 7:00am, Palm Creek, Ingham & Cardwell Jetty Foreshore, Cardwell

Just A Farmer Free Community Screening, 5:00pm – 9:30pm Ingham Showgrounds Covered Arena, Ingham

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Sunday 5 July
Ingham Raintree Community Market, 7:00am – 12:00pm, Rotary Park, Ingham

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Tuesday 7 July
Hinchinbrook Island Clean Up 2026 Day 1, 8:00am – 2:00pm, Meeting at Public Boat Ramp, Dungeness Road, Lucinda

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

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Kids Fishing Classic Returns To Balgal Beach

June 22, 2026

Young anglers are invited to cast a line at the Fisherman’s Landing Fishing & Social Club Kids Fishing Classic on Saturday 4th July 2026.

The free event is open to children aged 16 and under, with no membership required, just a passion for fishing.

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The competition will run from 8am to 11am at Balgal Beach Park, with registration available from 7am at the registration tent.

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Early registration is also available by completing a registration form and returning it to the club.

Children aged 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Participants are asked to bring their own fishing gear and bait, with great prizes on offer throughout the competition. Please note that this is on shore fishing only, no boats to be used. Fishing can be done anywhere in Rollingstone Creek and along the foreshore of Belgal Beach.

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Following the fishing fun, an awards ceremony and free sausage sizzle will be held at Balgal Beach Park.

Registration forms are available through the Fisherman’s Landing Fishing & Social Club Facebook page.

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Photo Of The Week

June 22, 2026

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By Kylie Crisafulli

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By Marg Oxley

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(With thanks to the Ingham Photography Group)

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Get Rhythm Brings Johnny Cash Classics To Ingham

June 22, 2026

Fans of country music are invited to experience the timeless songs and unforgettable story of Johnny Cash and June Carter, when Get Rhythm arrives at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall.

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The show celebrates one of country music’s most iconic partnerships. Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash shared a musical connection that grew into a legendary personal and professional partnership, with June becoming a key influence in Cash’s life and career.

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Their chemistry was captured through famous duets, heartfelt performances and songs that showcased their unique blend of country, folk and gospel influences. Together, they became known for their powerful stage presence, storytelling and the way they brought audiences into their music.

This full-band tribute show captures the energy, humour and spirit of the pair, featuring a horn section and all the classic hits audiences know and love.

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Sing along to favourites including Folsom Prison Blues, I Walk the Line, Ring of Fire, Jackson and Long-Legged Guitar Pickin’ Man.

Adding to the afternoon’s excitement, ticket holders will also have the chance to win one of five $100 fuel vouchers, with winners drawn on the night.

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So get your dancing shoes ready and prepare for an afternoon of live music, memories and entertainment as Get Rhythm brings the spirit of Johnny Cash and June Carter to Ingham.

WHAT: Get Rhythm – Johnny Cash & June Carter Show
WHEN: Sunday, 12th July 2026, 3:00pm to 5:30pm
WHERE: Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham
TICKETS: www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1538277

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