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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2025 Maraka Queen entrants (L) Ainsley Dimaggio (Crowned Queen) and (R) Trista Kopeshke (Crowned Runner-Up), at the Afternoon Tea event. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Could You Be The Next Maraka Queen?
The Ingham Maraka Festival is calling on women aged 18 to 30 to step forward and nominate for the 2026 Maraka Queen Quest.
Whether you have always wanted to take part in a Queen Quest, were a Maraka Princess in the past, or simply want to try something new, organisers are encouraging eligible women to put their names forward.
Entrants will be invited to join the celebrations leading up to this year’s Mardi Gras, as well as being crowned Maraka Queen in front of the crowds, and riding atop their very own parade float.
Last year’s Maraka Queen Ainsley Dimaggio and runner-up Trista Kopeshke have shared what their Queen Quest journey meant to them and why they believe this year’s entrants should take the leap.
What made you decide to enter the Maraka Queen Quest last year?
Ainsley: “I thought it would be great to try something different, do something fun and get out of my comfort zone. I also thought it would be a great way to give back to my community and keep the tradition of our special festival going.
“At the time, I didn’t really know where the journey would take me, but I knew I wanted to get more involved in the community, meet new people and create meaningful connections.”
Looking back, what was the Queen Quest journey like for you?
Ainsley: “It challenged me in ways I didn’t expect and helped me grow in confidence, not only as a person but also in how I connected with others.
“For me, it was never just about the title. It was about trying something new and having the opportunity to represent and celebrate our community, whilst having some fun at the same time.
What did you take away from the experience personally that you didn’t expect going into it?
Trista: “I don’t think I expected to make so many connections around the community. You get the opportunity to engage with so many businesses, people and events that you wouldn’t have otherwise.
“I think it also opened my eyes to how much work goes into the Maraka Festival (...) I’ve been able to see the exact level of effort and detail that is considered, and I am so thankful that there are people willing to keep this going for our community.”
What would you say to this year’s potential entrants who might be nervous about putting themselves forward?
Trista: “You will not regret doing it! In addition to the connections that will grow between you and others, there are also things that will grow within yourself.
“And as a potential Maraka Queen, you do this by simply being you. It doesn’t matter what stage of life you’re in, nor if you consider yourself to be the quietest or most outgoing person in the room, you can bring your own flair to the quest.
“You will have the whole community behind you, cheering you on.”
Those interested in nominating or finding out more can contact Ainsley, the 2025 Maraka Queen, on 04 5565 6364, or Trista, the 2025 Maraka Queen runner-up, on 04 3474 4764.
Hinchinbrook Island sometimes delivers little miracles without warning. In late winter, flashes of electric blue Ulysses butterflies occasionally appear near rainforest pockets around Zoe Falls. There’s no schedule, no guarantee, and that’s exactly what makes it special.
Even without butterflies, Zoe Falls commands attention with lush rainforest, cascading water, and the quiet hum of nature provide drama and serenity in equal measure. Spotting a Ulysses here feels like unlocking a bonus level: fleeting, vibrant, and unforgettable. It’s a reminder that nature’s surprises don’t follow our calendars, but when they appear, they amplify everything around them.
Pack patience, wander slowly, and keep your camera ready. Whether the blues appear or not, the waterfall, forest and island silence guarantee a remarkable experience. Sometimes nature’s best moments are the ones you don’t plan for. Find the blue magic: Hinchinbrookway.com.au
Photo source: Cardwell & District Historical Society Inc.
After some high-spirited hard work from a team of dedicated volunteers, Cardwell Museum re-opened for visitors on September 1st.
The museum reopening has been a soft launch ahead of the wider historical precinct’s grand opening in October.
“It’s absolutely marvellous what they’ve done,” said Stephanie, a volunteer for the Cardwell & District Historical Society Inc.
Stephanie said the first week saw plenty of visitors come through the museum’s door, including twelve just in the morning that she spoke to us – including a group from the nursing home, and a gentleman who had been here in the historical cyclone.
“The theme of the reopening is Celebrating Cardwell’s History,” Stephanie shared.
“That's because we are the oldest town in North Queensland, north of Bowen. There was no Townsville or Cairns. Nothing here except our little settlement of Cardwell, from 1864.”
Those curious about Cardwell’s history are invited to visit the museum, between Monday to Friday, next to the Police station on Victoria Street.
Rock N Croc festival in Halifax, 2025. Photo credits: Victoria Velton
Halifax is set to croc n’ roll once again, with the Rock N Croc Festival returning to Riverview Parklands on Saturday 26th September.
Four local bands will be rocking out with live music all day, while food vans and a bar will keep festival-goers fuelled and refreshed.
Hosted by the Halifax Progress Association, the free community event is gearing up to be bigger than its launch in 2025.
There will be plenty to keep youngsters entertained, with a petting zoo and pony rides among the activities on offer. Workshops will cater for all ages, while market stalls will give visitors the chance to browse local goods and support community members and small businesses.
One of the more unusual attractions will see local fireys slicing their way through a car as part of the day's disaster preparedness focus.
Disaster management teams will also be on hand to provide information and advice, giving residents the opportunity to learn more about preparing for emergencies and severe weather events.
For those who want to settle in and make a weekend of it, camping will be available overnight, with visitors welcome to bring their own camping gear.
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The Halifax Progress Association is also inviting community members to get involved, with opportunities available for stallholders, workshop providers and people who have a craft or local story from the past they would like to share.
On the grassy banks of the Herbert River at Riverview Parklands, Rock N Croc promises a full day of rockin' with organisers describing it as “a whole lotta fun for everyone”.
By Victoria Velton
Welcome to the Cutting The Cane, a column where we have a chat with those supporting the backbone of the local economy: the farmers behind the sugar. This week Lawrence Di Bella of Di Bella Produce and Farming answered our questions about how the season is progressing.
By mid-week I will have just over 60% of my crop harvested. Our estimate is still holding at this stage.
For us it will be an average crop, with great CCS this far. Shame about the high fuel and fertiliser prices, because they are not going to leave much in the bank at the end of the season. Lucky the sugar price has risen in the past few weeks, because it was looking very sad to depressing earlier in the season.
As a farmer you ask yourself- “Why do I work and get nothing in return?”
The drier harvest season has allowed us to get cane off this year without bogging up fields too much in our neck of the woods (only a little bit earlier in the year).
The earlier start to the crush was great because it allowed us to get some cane off earlier, get money in the bank earlier, got ratoons away earlier, and allowed the harvesting and milling sectors time to settle in for the season. It will hopefully allow us to finish earlier (weather permitting).
It allowed us to apply fertiliser, lime and undertake spraying in a timely manner, allowed us to laser level fallow blocks as required, get cover crops in and give the mill time to commence maintenance before the Christmas New Year break. WIN-WIN for all! And maybe, we will get some time off just after Christmas New Year to recharge our batteries for another year.
We will yield slightly more cane than last year and definitely high CCS. The long-wet season and to many cloudy days earlier in the year hampered growth this year.
I know some parts of the district are wanting rain, but I would be happy to have it dry until the end of the crush. A good storm or two in October-November would be enough to set us up for next year. A late mild wet season for us who farm in Foresthomeand Victoria Estate areas generally means big crops to harvest that coming season.
Photo credits: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
The creativity and personal stories of Ingham State High School students drew crowds at the recent opening of the school’s 2026 visual art exhibition, Storytellers.
Held at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery, the exhibition showcases artwork created by students throughout the year, exploring themes of culture, identity, place, imagination and personal experience.
Senior student Georgia Minato officially opened the exhibition.
“For us Year 11 and 12 Art and Digital Art students, the focus has expanded beyond simply creating artwork. We have been encouraged to look at the world around us and explore the issues, limits and experiences that are important to us,” Georgia said.
One of her own works, featuring skeletal figures lying in grass, draws on personal experiences, strongly saying it was a 'coming to peace with whatever happens along the line'.
For fellow student Lori-Ann Smith, having her artwork selected for the exhibition's promotional material was a particularly special moment.
“I was really grateful for it, and I was grateful that someone saw beauty in my artwork. I was really flattered,” Lori-Ann said.
Her featured work, Can't Teach My Old Dog New Tricks, combines a vintage, blue Volkswagen Beetle with her own dog, exploring the idea of bringing new life to older things.
The exhibition also reflects the diverse ways students have explored storytelling, including First Nations art, cultural symbols, Australian landscapes, photography and digital art.
Hinchinbrook Shire Councillor Donna Marbelli praised the students and teachers for creating a space where young people could express themselves and build confidence.
“Ingham needs to know just how much talent we have in this town,” she said.
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Tuesday 8 September
Cardwell RSL BINGO, 9am, 36-38 Roma Street, Cardwell
BINGO at Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail, 9am, Brothers Leagues Club, Innisfail
Art from the Heart Acrylic Painting Group, 10am-12:30pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach
Financial Health, Planning and Empowerment Informative Session, 4pm-6pm, Kurrimine Progress Hall, 919 Murdering Point Road, Kurrimine Beach
Pottery Session with Michelle, 5pm-8:30pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach
Trivia Night at Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail, 7pm, Brothers Leagues Club, Innisfail
Wednesday 9 September
Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Run Speed Sessions, 6am, Bottom Oval, Mission Beach School, Mission Beach
Cardwell RSL Cardwell Craft Group, 9am-11:30am, 36-38 Roma Street, Cardwell
Pottery Session with Justin, 10am-2pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach
Queensland Child Protection Week BBQ Luncheon, 10:30am-1:30pm, Innisfail Community Support Centre, 13 Donald Street, Innisfail
Financial Health, Planning and Empowerment Informative Session, 4pm-6pm, Mission Beach Library, 2018 Tully Mission Beach Road, Wongaling Beach
Thursday 10 September
Mums Club Collective Coffee Catch Up, 9:30am, Castaways Beach Bar & Grill, Mission Beach
Oiled Painting Group, 10am-12:30pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach
Financial Health, Planning and Empowerment Informative Session, 4pm-6pm, Cardwell RSL, 36-38 Roma Street, 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
BINGO at Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail, 6:30pm, Brothers Leagues Club, Innisfail
Trivia Night at Innisfail RSL, 7pm, 18 – 28 Fitzgerald Esplanade, Innisfail
Friday 11 September
Cardwell Volksfest, activities running all day from Friday 11 September until Sunday 13 September, Cardwell
BINGO at Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail, 9am, Brothers Leagues Club, Innisfail
RAM Recreational Centre’s Monthly Indoor Movie Night, 7pm, 4 Stitt Street, Innisfail
Saturday 12 September
Paradise Run Mission Beach, 6:45am, Seaview Street, Mission Beach
Cardwell parkrun, 7am, Cardwell Foreshore, Cardwell
Cardwell RSL Cardwell Seaside Quilters, 9am-11am, 36-38 Roma Street, Cardwell
Craft in the Park, 3pm, Forrest Beach Park, Palm Street, Forrest Beach
St Clare’s School Fete, 5pm, St Clare’s School, 13 Mars Street, Tully
Hilarious Comedy Hypnosis Show, 6:30pm, The Con Theatre, Innisfail
Goldsborough Goldrush Trail Race, TBC, Goldsborough Valley Campground, Wooroonooran National Park, Goldsborough
Sunday 13 September
Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Long Run Group, 6am-7am, Casuarina Park, South Mission Beach
Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Sunday Cycling Group, 6am-8am, Mission Beach Police Station, Webb Road, Wongaling Beach
Kurrimine Beach Progress Association Markets, 7am-12pm, Kurrimine Beach Progress Hall, Kurrimine Beach
Cardwell Volksfest Market Day, 8am-12pm, Cardwell Foreshore, Cardwell
RAM Recreational Centre Indoor Monthly Markets, 9am-1pm, RAM Recreational Centre, 4 Stitt Street, Innisfail
Mission Mosaic Gathering Hands-On Creative Session, 9am-3pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach
Cardwell RSL Sunday BBQ Lunch, 12pm, 36-38 Roma Street, Cardwell
Monday 14 September
Lions Club of Tully Meet Up, 6:30pm, Mount Tyson Hotel, 23 Butler Street, Tully
Tuesday 15 September
BINGO at Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail, 9am, Brothers Leagues Club, Innisfail
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
Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network Inc. Who Am I? Beyond the Business Card Workshop, 6:30pm-9pm, El Arish Tavern, El Arish
Trivia Night at Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail, 7pm, Brothers Leagues Club, Innisfail
Wednesday 16 September
Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Run Speed Sessions, 6am, Bottom Oval, Mission Beach School, Mission Beach
Cardwell RSL Cardwell Craft Group, 9am-11:30am, 36-38 Roma Street, Cardwell
Pottery Session with Irene, 10am-2pm, Mission Arts Pottery Studio, Mission Beach
Rhythm, Indikah, Zephr, Inoa, Bee, and Oka with Principle Carolien and teacher Heather at the Rainforest School Stall. Photo Credit - Sian Bantock
By Sian Bantock
The Rainforest School hosted its annual spring fair on Saturday 5th September, transforming Frogs Hollow into a lively celebration.
Families spent the day moving between a variety of activities, including egg and spoon race, sports games, face-painting, badge making and palm leaf weaving. A variety of dishes were available throughout the day alongside a popular cake stall stocked with homemade treats generously made by parents. Local band Wait-A -Wyle provided a warm and gentle soundtrack to the proceedings as the crowds wandered around stalls.
Students proudly showcased their handmade projects at The Rainforest School stall, where their crafts were available for purchase. With the sun shining down and a strong community turnout, the fair offered a strong reminder of the support the school has.
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2. Wait-A-Wyle band serenaded the crowd throughout the fair Photo Credit - Sian Bantock
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Curator and organiser of Mission Beach All Stars Exhibition Bernard KC. Photo Supplied
By Sian Bantock
Bingil Bay Cafe is set to host its largest exhibition yet with Mission Beach All Stars bringing 22 artists and artisans under one roof in a vibrant celebration of the region’s creative talents.
Inspired by the beauty and charm of tropical North Queensland, the exhibition will showcase an impressive variety of work, including acrylic on canvas, framed photographer and wearable art.
Curated by local arts advocate Bernard KC, the exhibition highlights the thriving creative community that stretches across the local area. Bernard has become a leading voice in championing and supporting the regions artists through a range of community events.
“The exhibition will give emerging artists an opportunity to exhibit for the first time, meet other artists and become part of the creative community,” Bernard said.
As a long-time local, Bernard is passionate about showing off the abundance of local talent which exists within the region. His ongoing campaign, Support Our Local Artists & Artisans, aims to encourage residents and visitors to invest in local art.
“This campaign is helping remind visitors that Mission Beach is an arts town, where you can experience and buy local art alongside everything else this region has to offer.
“There is an enormous amount of creative talent in Mission Beach and I want to give those people a place to be seen, bring the community together and keep the creative spirit of Mission Beach alive.”
The grand opening of Mission Beach All Stars will take place on Thursday 11th September from 4pm at Bingil Bay Cafe. Visitors can enjoy live music, delicious food and drinks as well as an opportunity to meet many of the featured artists. Entry is free and everyone is welcome.
The Johnstone River will once again become the backdrop for one of Innisfail’s biggest community celebrations when Riverfest returns to Fitzgerald Esplanade on Saturday, 10th October.
Running from 3pm to 9pm, Innisfail Riverfest is a free, family-friendly celebration bringing together music, food, entertainment, local history, culture and plenty of activities for all ages.
This year’s entertainment line-up is set to be one of the biggest yet, with Australian rock favourites Eskimo Joe headlining the river stage. Local talent Beerbody and Locky Wayne will also take to the stage, showcasing the musical talent of the Cassowary Coast, while dance troupes will add plenty of movement and energy to the program.
The Riverfest Queen crowning will be another highlight, while visitors can browse an impressive display of vehicles ranging from classic cars to modern-day machines.
There will be plenty for families to discover throughout the afternoon, including kids’ rides, a reptile display and a Fire and Emergency Services kitchen fire demonstration, combining entertainment with an important lesson in fire safety.
Wildlife Rangers will also be on hand to share information about the region’s unique native wildlife and the natural environment that makes the Cassowary Coast so special.
The region’s rich sugar industry history will feature prominently, with an MSF Sugar locomotive and an original steam locomotive on display. Visitors will have the opportunity to climb aboard and get a closer look at two pieces of machinery connected to the district’s past.
Food will also be a major part of the festivities, with a selection of food stalls and international cuisine offering plenty of options throughout the evening.
As the sun sets over the Johnstone River, Riverfest will reach its finale with a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the sky above the Esplanade.
The event is proudly supported by local businesses and organisations, including FNQ Motor Group Pty Ltd, which is returning as a Diamond Sponsor for the third consecutive year.
Whether you have lived locally for years or are exploring the area for the first time, Riverfest offers the perfect reason to enjoy an afternoon along the Johnstone River. Join the celebration, experience the region and share in the vibrant spirit of Innisfail.
Hinchinbrook locals John Di Bella and Sandra Bison have been performing together as Obsession Duo since 2008, taking their feel-good sound to audiences across North Queensland. Photo supplied: Sandra Bison
A chance performance, a simple question and a little encouragement were all it took to set John Di Bella and Sandra Bison on a musical journey that is still going strong 18 years later.
The Hinchinbrook locals met through the Maraka Festival, where they were involved in a larger musical group, before being asked to perform together at a private function in 2008.
“We put a few songs together and obliged,” Sandra said.
“The manager of the venue at the time asked if we performed regularly. When we said no, her response was basically, ‘Why not? You should!’ And that was the beginning of Obsession Duo.”
From there, John and Sandra began building a repertoire, transforming what was meant to be a one-off performance into a partnership that has since taken them across North Queensland.
With John on guitar and Sandra on vocals, Obsession Duo has become a familiar act throughout the region, performing in Ingham, Cardwell, Tully, Mission Beach, Innisfail, Townsville, Ayr and Charters Towers.
Both born and raised in the Hinchinbrook region, the pair said performing close to home remained particularly special.
“We love being part of our community and seeing familiar faces,” Sandra said.
Despite being just two performers, the pair pride themselves on creating a full sound and adapting each show to the audience in front of them.
“Every crowd is different, and we try very hard to read the room and give audiences what we think they want,” Sandra said.
“We love playing feel-good songs that get toes tapping and sometimes interacting with the crowd. Hopefully people leave feeling a little happier than when they arrived.”
Over 18 years of performances at pubs, clubs, RSLs and private and corporate functions, the pair have also collected their fair share of stories.
As for their favourite part of performing together, there is at least one thing they can rule out.
“Definitely not the setting up or packing down,” Sandra joked.
“But honestly, we do love what we do. We’ve met some wonderful people along the way and many interesting characters. There are lots of stories and funny moments, and at the end of the day, we feel very lucky to do something we enjoy in the surrounding areas of the place we call home.”
Southern cassowaries consume a wide variety of rainforest fruits and distribute seeds across large areas.
Many rainforest plants rely on these birds to help maintain healthy ecosystems. Without cassowaries, some species would struggle to spread naturally.
It is one reason conservation efforts are so important and why every cassowary sighting should be treated with respect. Go birdwatching: cassowarycoasttourism.com.au
Lyn Kidd with a Golden Trevally fish. Photo supplied: Cardwell Sportfishing Club
Wow Lyn, stunning catch! This Golden Trevally measured at 81cm and was a notable catch on the Cardwell Sportfishing Club’s Weighmasters report for August. Well done!
Do you want to flex your fishing skills in the newspaper? Send your fishing photo along with your name and what you caught to victoria@lifepublishinggroup.com to be featured in Catch of The Week!
Tuesday 8 September
Cafe Crawl, 9:00am–12:00pm, RSVP the HUB, different cafe each week, Hinchinbrook
QCWA Forrest Beach Branch’s Connect & Chat, 9am-12pm, 6 Palm Street, Forrest Beach
Weekly Community Bingo (Tuesday Session), 10:30am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham
Creative Corner, 2:00pm–3:00pm, The HUB, 52 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Wednesday 9 September
Hinchinbrook Stitchers, Social Sewing Group, 9am-3pm, Victoria Mill Social Club Hall, Ingham
Tai Chi, 9am-10am, Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Forrest Beach
Friends of Forrest Beach, Conversation and Games, 9am-12pm, Progress Park Shelter, Forrest Beach
Brothers Bingo, 9:30am, Brothers Sports & Community Club, Cooper Street, Ingham
Canasta & Cards, 1:30pm-3:30pm, The Centre, 71 Townsville Road, Ingham
Social Darts, 7pm, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper Street, Ingham
Thursday 10 September
Active Explorers – Walk, Talk & Mingle, 9:00am–11:00am, RSVP HUB, Ingham
Senior Men's Social Group, 9am-12pm, HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Road, Ingham
CWA Craft Group, 9am-12pm, Forrest Beach CWA Hall, 6 Palm Street, Forrest Beach
QCWA Forrest Beach Meeting, 9am, QCWA Hall, Palm Street, Forrest Beach
Technology Classes, 10am-1:30pm, Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73-75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Playtime At The Library, 10:30am-12pm, Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73-75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Mahjong, 1pm-3pm, The Centre, 71 Townsville Road, Ingham
Weekly Community Bingo (Thursday Session), 6:45pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham
Friday 11 September
Seniors Morning Coffee Club, 9:30am-11:30am, Noorla Bowls Club, 32 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Green Thumb Club, from 2:00pm, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Live Music with Nev Milne, 6:30pm-9:30pm, Herbert River Sub Branch RSL, Ingham
Saturday 12 September
Parkrun, 7am, Palm Creek, Ingham & Cardwell Jetty Foreshore, Cardwell
Conroy Hall Markets, 7:30am-11:30am, Conroy Hall, Ingham
Forrest Beach HOY, 12:30pm, Forrest Beach Community Function Centre, Forrest Beach
Sunday 13 September
Lees Hotel Sunday Sessions, 1pm, Lees Hotel, 58 Lannercost Street, Ingham
Ingham Basketball Association Inc. Social Sundays, 3pm-5pm, Ingham State High School Auditorium, Ingham
Monday 14 September
Empowering Women Generations XYZ, 9:30am–11:30am, Contact the HUB, Ingham
QCWA Forrest Beach Branch’s Healthy Living Workshop, 9am-11:30am, 6 Palm Street, Forrest Beach
Ingham Probus Games Day, 10am, Herbert River RSL, Ingham
Ingham Basketball Association Inc. Monday Comp Night, 4:30pm-7pm, Ingham State High School Auditorium, Ingham
Tuesday 15 September
Cafe Crawl, 9:00am–12:00pm, RSVP the HUB, different cafe each week, Hinchinbrook
QCWA Forrest Beach Branch’s Connect & Chat, 9am-12pm, 6 Palm Street, Forrest Beach
Creative Corner, 2:00pm–3:00pm, The HUB, 52 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Weekly Community Bingo (Tuesday Session), 10:30am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham
Wednesday 16 September
Hinchinbrook Stitchers, Social Sewing Group, 9am-3pm, Victoria Mill Social Club Hall, Ingham
Tai Chi, 9am-10am, Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Forrest Beach
Friends of Forrest Beach, Conversation and Games, 9am-12pm, Progress Park Shelter, Forrest Beach
Brothers Bingo, 9:30am, Brothers Sports & Community Club, Cooper Street, Ingham
Morning Melodies: Paul Tabone salutes Andrea Bocelli, 10:30am, Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, Ingham
Canasta & Cards, 1:30pm-3:30pm, The Centre, 71 Townsville Road, Ingham
Social Darts, 7pm, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper Street, Ingham
Thursday 17 September
Active Explorers – Walk, Talk & Mingle, 9:00am–11:00am, RSVP HUB, Ingham
Senior Men's Social Group, 9am-12pm, HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Road, Ingham
CWA Craft Group, 9am-12pm, Forrest Beach CWA Hall, 6 Palm Street, Forrest Beach
Technology Classes, 10am-1:30pm, Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73-75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Sensory Storytime, 10:30am-11:30am, Hinchinbrook Shire Library, Ingham
Playtime At The Library, 10:30am-12pm, Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73-75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Mahjong, 1pm-3pm, The Centre, 71 Townsville Road, Ingham
Weekly Community Bingo (Thursday Session), 6:45pm, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham
Father and son duo (L) Felix Reitano and (R) Peter Reitano, carrying the Queens relay baton through Ingham’s main streets in 2018. Photo supplied: Peter Reitano
By Dr Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui
In this year of the 23rd Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, we look back on the 12th games, held in Brisbane from September 30th to October 9th 1982. The Brisbane Games hold special significance for the Hinchinbrook Shire, as one of only two occasions (the other being the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games) when local residents had the honour of participating in the Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay.
The Commonwealth Games is a sporting competition staged every four years for participants from the Commonwealth of Nations (previously known as the British Commonwealth). The British monarch is Head of the Commonwealth Games and Patron of the Commonwealth Games Federation.
To mark the beginning of the Commonwealth Games, a baton carrying a message from the Head of the Commonwealth embarks on a journey through the nations and territories of the Commonwealth before arriving in the host city for the opening ceremony.
On 8th March 1982, the Baton holding Queen Elizabeth II’s message left London.
The baton was designed by Gerald Hancock and crafted by five artisans from the wood of Australia’s national floral emblem, the wattle (acacia). Embellishments included Australian silver, 36 sapphire and 36 amethysts. The internal cavity which held the Queen’s message was crafted with silver plated brass, as were the double locking mechanism and key. In acknowledgement to First Nations peoples, the baton took its design inspiration from an Aboriginal fighting club (nulla nulla) and message stick.
The baton arrived in Perth on 3rd July and was then carried by relay runners, athletes and non-athletes, to arrive in Brisbane at the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Sports Stadium on 30th September. There, the Queen’s message was read at the opening ceremony by her representative, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh.
Forty-six nations participated in the 1982 Brisbane Games, with a then record total of 1,583 athletes.
But before the baton reached Brisbane, on Friday 10th September around 200 people gathered at the Cardwell Range Lookout to witness the last Cardwell Shire runner hand the baton to Richard Anderson of Ingham’s Amateur Athletics Club.
He was the first of a contingent of Ingham and district athletes of all ages, from the Athletics Club, the Rhee Tae Kwon Do Club and other individuals who had been nominated, including a squad of runners from the former Lucinda State Primary School: students Natalie Ashley, Trevor Giddins, William Bailey and Rick L’Green along with school principal, Trevor Shaw. Each runner was allotted at least a kilometre over which to carry the baton. The students completed their legs of the relay coming down to the Ripple Creek State School area while Trevor had a flat run near Bambaroo.
Chariots of Fire boomed out of the loudspeakers on the relay security bus behind him as he ran.
The final lap to the official dais in Rotary Park was made by Olavi Kaurila who 26 years earlier had carried the Olympic Torch. There the runners were welcomed by Shire Chairman, the Reverend A.J. Andrews and each runner was given a certificate to mark their participation. Councillors and local Member, Ted Row joined the Shire Chairman on the dais for the official welcome, and a commemorative plaque was presented by Mr Danny Burke, Relay Regional Director.
The relay recommenced on Saturday 11th September at 7:30am, with Ingham runners taking the baton to Rollingstone for the changeover to the Townsville relay runners.
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