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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On 12 September 1888 James Morgan Kavanagh died and was the first recorded person to be buried in the Old Ingham Cemetery.
Brown Cuckoo Doves at Hasties Swamp in Atherton, by Rae Morley
(With thanks to the Ingham Photography Group)
Did You Know? Hinchinbrook Island Is Wild On Purpose
Hinchinbrook Island’s wilderness isn’t accidental? Australia’s largest island national park is intentionally roadless, resort-free and mostly untouched. A short boat ride delivers rainforest-draped peaks, pristine beaches, mangroves and silence so deep it feels rare in modern life. Whether you’re here for a day trip or hiking the Thorsborne Trail, the island asks one thing: slow down. Every step along winding creeks or sandy bays reminds you that wildness isn’t a backdrop here but the main event.
You’ll see how ecosystems thrive when humans step lightly and listen, not build. Even small visits leave a lasting impression; extended treks reward patience, preparation and respect. The point isn’t to rush to the “next view,” it’s to let the island’s natural rhythm reshape your sense of space, time and wonder. Find your angle: hinchinbrookway.com.au
This week’s reader of the week is Life Publishing’s very own Finn Smith, resident cuddle officer and garbage truck alarm! Though Finn can’t read, we like to think he enjoys looking at the pictures…
Photo credit: Victoria Velton Ingham Forest Toyota Rally cars in Ingham for the meet and greet the afternoon before the rally.
Phil Mason and Greg Fitzgerald have taken victory in the Ingham Toyota Forest Rally, holding onto their overnight lead to finish first in their Subaru WRX.
The pair began the final stages with a 25-second advantage and managed to maintain their lead to claim the overall win.
Tom Dermody and John Doble put in a strong performance in their Mk2 Escort RS2500, flying the flag for two-wheel drive and finishing as the leading 2WD crew.
The rally attracted 23 participants, with competitors putting their cars and skills to the test across a challenging course that quickly became a favourite among spectators.
Interest in the event extended beyond the track, with crowds gathering in central Ingham the afternoon before the rally to get a close look at the competing cars and meet the drivers and crews.
Once the action got underway, the course provided plenty for spectators to watch, including a difficult water crossing that proved too much for a car or two.
The corners were another crowd favourite, with cars kicking up waves of dust as they powered through the turns, sending spectators into cheers as the crews attacked each section.
For those lining the course, the combination of speed, dust, water and close competition provided a spectacular showcase of rallying in the Hinchinbrook region.
Mason and Fitzgerald ultimately had enough in hand to secure the win, while Dermody and Doble’s Mk2 Escort demonstrated that the 2WD competitors could also put on a strong showing against the four-wheel-drive machinery.
Tuesday 1 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 2 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
Ingham Probus Meeting and Bring & Buy, 10am, Herbert River RSL, 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 3 September
Senior Men's Social Group, 9am-12pm, HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Road, Ingham
Active Explorers – Walk, Talk & Mingle, 9:00am–11:00am, RSVP HUB, 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
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 4 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
Exhibition Opening Night: Fairytales – A Student Exhibition by Ingham State High School, 6pm-8:30pm, TYTO Regional Art Gallery, 73 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Live Music with Obsession Duo, 6:30pm-9:30pm, Herbert River Sub Branch RSL, Ingham
Saturday 5 September
Parkrun, 7am, Palm Creek, Ingham & Cardwell Jetty Foreshore, Cardwell
Dean Schifilliti Shield Under 8’s Carnival, 8:30am-6pm, Crushers Grounds, Sportsman Parade, Ingham
Sunday 6 September
Ingham Raintree Community Market, 7am-12pm, Rotary Park, Ingham
Herbert River Sub Branch RSL Father’s Day Celebration, 12pm-3pm, Herbert River Sub Branch RSL, Ingham
Lees Hotel Sunday Sessions, 1pm, Lees Hotel, 58 Lannercost Street, Ingham
Herbert River Orchid & Allied Plant Society Meeting, 1:30pm, Conroy Hall, Ingham
Ingham Basketball Association Inc. Social Sundays, 3pm-5pm, Ingham State High School Auditorium, Ingham
Monday 7 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
Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc. General Monthly Meeting, 1:30pm-3pm, Old Suncorp Building, Ingham
Ingham Basketball Association Inc. Monday Comp Night, 4:30pm-7pm, Ingham State High School Auditorium, Ingham
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
Father’s Day raffle baskets are packed with goodies for dad. Photo credit: Herbert River RSL
There is plenty happening at the Herbert River RSL this September, with live entertainment, raffles, family celebrations and the chance to win some impressive prizes all on the calendar.
Father’s Day will be celebrated at the club on Sunday, 6th September, with families invited to enjoy a day of food, fun and entertainment. The Father’s Day celebration will feature a free sausage sizzle, plenty of meat trays up for grabs and live entertainment from Andy G.
The Father’s Day raffle will also be drawn on the day, with tickets priced at $2 each and available from the bar. There are a number of prizes to be won, making it worth getting your tickets before the draw.
Bookings are preferred for the Father’s Day celebration to help the club cater for numbers.
The RSL will also be keeping the entertainment going on Friday nights, with Friday night raffles, live music from Obsession and a Members Draw that’s almost $2000.
Members only need to be a member to enter the draw, with membership costing $10. Bookings are essential for Friday night, with tables expected to fill quickly.
Looking further into September, the RSL will welcome SUPER SWEET – LIVE & LOUD! on Saturday, 19th September.
Tickets for the show are just $10 and are on sale now, with families and friends encouraged to book a table and secure their tickets. For bookings or more information, contact the RSL on (07) 4776 5157.
WHAT: Father’s Day BBQ, with entertainment by Andy G
WHEN: Sunday, 6th September, 2026
WHERE: Herbert River RSL
WHAT: Friday night raffles, live entertainment, Members Draw
WHEN: Every Friday night
WHERE: Herbert River RSL
Your Guide To A Father’s Day BBQ.
Father’s Day is the perfect excuse to fire up the BBQ. If you want to make your spread a little more special for the occasion, try these easy recipes that are guaranteed to put a smile on Dad’s face.
Sticky BBQ Chicken Thighs
Combine barbecue sauce with a little honey, garlic and soy sauce, then brush over the chicken as it cooks until caramelised and golden. Serve with a squeeze of lime and plenty of napkins.
Grilled Corn With Chilli Butter
Take classic corn on the cob to the next level. Grill the corn until lightly charred, then brush with butter mixed with chilli flakes, lime zest and a little salt. It’s an easy side that brings plenty of flavour.
Loaded BBQ Potatoes
Wrap small potatoes in foil and cook them on the BBQ until tender. Pick a starchy or all-rounder variety like Sebago or Kennebec for a fluffy inside and crisp skin. When baked, split them open and pile on grated cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream and spring onion.
Honey-Soy BBQ Prawns
If you’re looking to chuck a few shrimp on the barbie, toss peeled prawns in a quick marinade of soy sauce, honey, garlic and lime juice. Thread onto skewers and cook for just a few minutes until pink and lightly charred.
Grilled Fish Tacos With Mango-Lime Salsa
Start by marinating a firm white fish, such as barramundi, in olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chilli powder, crushed garlic and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper and set aside for 10–15 minutes. For the salsa, combine one diced mango with finely diced red onion, cucumber, fresh coriander, lime juice and sliced chilli. Lightly oil the grill and cook the fish for around 3–5 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until cooked through and flaky. Warm small flour or corn tortillas on the BBQ, then fill with shredded cabbage, pieces of grilled fish, mango-lime salsa and a dollop of sour cream or natural yoghurt. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime and serve immediately.
Grilled Banana Boats
For a dessert that requires almost no effort, slice a banana lengthways without cutting all the way through, stuff with a few squares of chocolate and wrap in foil. Place on the BBQ until the chocolate melts and the banana is soft. Open carefully and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Lifelong Supports is celebrating Father’s Day with the chance to win a Traeger Pro 22 BBQ. Image credit: Lifelong Supports
Lifelong Supports is celebrating Father’s Day with the chance to win a Traeger Pro 22 BBQ in its annual Father’s Day Raffle.
For the dad who loves firing up the barbecue, this prize could be the perfect addition to the backyard. The Traeger Pro 22 is a wood-pellet grill designed to make outdoor cooking easy, whether Dad is slow-cooking, roasting, grilling or simply enjoying a relaxed afternoon around the barbecue. It could be the perfect excuse to invite family and friends over for a weekend cook-up.
Tickets are just $2 each, or three for $5, and can be purchased from Lifelong Supports reception at 5 Palm Terrace, Ingham, Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm.
The raffle will be drawn on 4th September, giving one lucky local dad a brand-new barbecue to enjoy for many Father’s Days to come.
The Hinchinbrook Shire Hall was packed with booths from all areas of supportive services. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
People across Hinchinbrook and the wider region had the opportunity to connect with a wide range of government agencies, community organisations and support services at the Hinchinbrook ID & Essentials Expo.
Held at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, the event brought services together in one location to help residents access identification, essential services, employment assistance, health and wellbeing support, legal advice and more.
Workforce Australia Local Jobs event organiser Steph McLean said the expo’s broad range of participating organisations meant visitors could speak directly with services relevant to their individual needs.
“It’s great to see the community come together to support people in accessing ID and essential services in Hinchinbrook, but also across the wider region,” Ms McLean said.
“We’ve got a great mix of state and federal government agencies, community organisations, all of our support services and our employment service providers, so that we can help on all bases of anybody looking for any kind of access to support,” Ms McLean said.
For people who were unable to attend the expo, Ms McLean said support could still be accessed through local community organisations, including the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre. The event provided a valuable opportunity for residents to discover that support is available locally and, importantly, to meet the people and organisations able to help them navigate it.
For those seeking help in any areas, the expo highlighted the breadth of assistance available locally, with services attending including:
APM
Australian Pacific Indigenous Personnel
On Common Country
Bamara
Blue Card Services and Department of Justice
Busy at Work
Disability Worker Screening
Digital Access Team
Epilepsy Queensland
Ergon Energy Retail
Feros Care NDIS
Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre
Hinchinbrook Shire Council
ICAN
Legal Aid Queensland
Mind Your Admin
TARDISS
Lifeline Telephone Crisis Support NQ
MS Queensland
Rights in Action
selectability
Services Australia
St Vincent de Paul AOD Recovery Service Townsville
TAFE Queensland
Telstra
Wellways
Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism
Workforce Australia Local Jobs Townsville
Department of Education, Early Childhood Division
The Women’s Centre
Tuesday 1 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
Trivia Night at Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail, 7pm, Brothers Leagues Club, Innisfail
Wednesday 2 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
Haha’s Trivia, 6:30pm, Silkwood Hotel, 1 Edward Street, Silkwood
Thursday 3 September
Diggers Day at Innisfail RSL, 3pm-7pm, 18 – 28 Fitzgerald Esplanade, Innisfail
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 4 September
BINGO at Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail, 9am, Brothers Leagues Club, Innisfail
Tully Arts & Cultural Precinct Inc. NAIDOC Community Event, 10:30am-12:30pm, Tully Masonic Centre, Tully
Pizza for Hearts Charity Night, 5:30pm, Social Coffee Co, 35 Ponzo Street, Woree
Cassady Connections live at Innisfail RSL, 6pm, 18 – 28 Fitzgerald Esplanade, Innisfail
Saturday 5 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
Cardwell RSL BINGO, 2pm, 36-38 Roma Street, Cardwell
Mission Beach Film Club’s Screening of An Unfinished Film, 6:30pm-9pm, C4 Theatrette, Porters Promenade, Mission Beach
Sunday 6 September
Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Long Run Group, 6am-7am, Casuarina Park, South Mission Beach
ONA Mission Multisport Adventure, 6:15am, Mission Beach Outrigger Canoe Club, Mission Beach
Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Sunday Cycling Group, 6am-8am, Mission Beach Police Station, Webb Road, Wongaling Beach
Mission Beach Markets, 7am-12pm, Ulysses Park, Mission Beach
Coffee & Cars Monthly Meet Up, 9am, Flying Fish Point Beach Café, Innisfail
Cardwell RSL Sunday BBQ Lunch, 12pm, 36-38 Roma Street, Cardwell
Monday 7 September
Cassowary Coast Yarners & Threads, 10am-12pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach
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
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
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
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
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
Thursday 17 September
Annual Tropical Art Deco Festival Art Deco Guided Town Walk, 10am, Innisfail Shire Hall, Innisfail
Annual Tropical Art Deco Festival Paint & Sip Art Workshop, 2pm-5pm, Innisfail Rowing Club, Innisfail
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
Annual Tropical Art Deco Festival Art Deco Trivia, 7pm, Innisfail RSL Club, Innisfail
Trivia Night at Innisfail RSL, 7pm, 18 – 28 Fitzgerald Esplanade, Innisfail
Friday 18 September
BINGO at Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail, 9am, Brothers Leagues Club, Innisfail
Annual Tropical Art Deco Festival Art Deco 101 Presentation, 10:30am, Innisfail Library, Innisfail
Annual Tropical Art Deco Festival Shire Hall Tour, 12:30pm, Innisfail Shire Hall, Innisfail
Annual Tropical Art Deco Festival 1920s “Caribbean Cruise” Murder Mystery Dinner, 6pm, Brothers Leagues Club, Innisfail
Set within a lush tropical oasis, Shanti Cafe is once again hosting the popular evening event: Twenty25 - an inspiring night of fast paced presentations, engaging topics and tasty food.
The much-loved event provides Shanti’s talented chefs with the opportunity to showcase their evening menu, offering something different from the cafe’s delicious breakfast and brunch menu.
For one night only, on Tuesday 1st September, guests can enjoy a flavour filled burrito bowl featuring either savoury mince or a vegetarian- friendly spicy bean option. Both are served with fresh avocado, red cabbage, tomato and sweet corn, tasty cheese, aromatic rice and sour cream.
Adding to the charm of the event are two captivating presentations, one is an account from Dr David Hyland-Wood who will share his remarkable story of surviving a life-threatening case of the Bends while Lynda and Paul Williams are set to provide an insight into their new world-class gin distillery at Bingil Bay.
The format is simple. Each presentation is short, sharp and engaging; featuring 20 images and lasting no more than 500 seconds. The event has become a favourite within the town as it highlights the diverse backgrounds, storiesand experiences of Mission Beach locals.
Bookings are essential and can be made at shanticafe.com.au or phone/ text Patrick on 0435 166 656 (texts preferred), via messenger or at shanticafe1@outlook.com.
Doors open 5pm with presentations commencing at 6pm at 37 Porter Prom, Mission Beach.
A selection of what’s on offer at The Bowerbird’s Pantry. Photo Supplied
Tucked away in the heart of South Mission Beach is a hidden gem; The Bowerbird’s Pantry, a Gourmet Grocery Store that stocks the very best local artisanal produce.
The shelves are filled with carefully curated goods from Gallo Dairyland, Charley's Chocolate, Wondaree Macadamias, and The WholeFOOD Co to My Habitat from Malanda for their non-toxic household products
Owner Fiona Davison is the talented pastry chef who creates an irresistible selection of homemade treats available in store, using locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can indulge in cookies, cakes, desserts, quiche, pies and pantry items - all a celebration of regional flavours.
The Bowerbird’s Pantry also serves a delicious range of brunch items; daily toasties made with The Mad Baker sourdough, cheese from the Atherton Tablelands, locally made small-goods and chutneys, and Quiche using Mungallidairy products.
The Bowerbird’s Pantry is the perfect place to soak up the calm nature of South Mission where visitors can enjoy a freshly brewed coffee made with NQ Coffee beans or sip a soothing organic Tielka Tea.
Regular shoppers can take advantage of the recent rewards program; Bowerbird Bonus which is available daily ‘Flock, Stock & Save’ promotion, customers receive $10 off when they spend $100+ In one transaction (conditions apply).
Whether you’re grabbing brunch on the go, searching for a unique gift or need a last-minute birthday cake, Bowerbird’s Pantry offer something for every occasion.
The Bowerbird’s Pantry is located at U 3/2 Commodore Street South Mission Beach. Their opening hours are Tues - Fri 8am - 2pm and Saturday’s 8am - 11am.
Eggs Benedict are a popular choice amongst locals during the breakfast service at Mrs B’s
Mrs B’s Cafe sits in the heart of Tully, offering a cozy, welcoming spot with bold flavours on the menu that caters to all ages. Open throughout the week for breakfast, lunch and dinner (selected nights only) they have become a reliable stop for locals and travelers alike.
Whether you’re looking for a morning coffee, a hearty breakfast, or dinner for the whole family, Mrs B’s is the go-to choice.
The breakfast menu highlights eggs Benedict or avo on toast, whilst the lunch menu offers a variety of burgers and sandwiches.
Saturday mornings are popular for breakfast and early lunches run from 8am - 1pm. Mrs B’s is also open in the evenings, serving classic fish and chips along with great- value family packs for $42 available on Thursday’s and Friday’s until 7pm.
Located in Banyan Plaza on Morris Street, Mrs B’s shares regular updates on opening hours and new menu additions via its Facebook Page
Jarron Andy on Horseback, on-set for My Brilliant Career. Photo supplied
From the banana farms of Innisfail to screens around the world, Far North Queensland actor Jarron Andy is helping bring a First Nations perspective to one of Australia’s most recognisable stories.
The Yalanji Yidinji actor stars as Charlie in Netflix’s new six-part adaptation of My Brilliant Career, a reimagining of Miles Franklin’s classic 1901 novel.
Before pursuing acting, Andy worked on banana farms and as a painter in Far North Queensland but said film and television had captured his imagination from an early age.
“Film and TV was one of those outlets I had as a kid growing up in my small little country town,” Andy told Ngaarda Media.
Eventually, he took a leap of faith and moved to Sydney to pursue acting professionally.
“As a small country town kid, it’s a big ask to just pack up and buy a one-way ticket and head down to Sydney,” he said.
“But if I didn’t give it a go, it would be a big regret I’d have for the rest of my life.”
His latest role sees him play Charlie, a character created specifically for the new adaptation, which expands the original story to include First Nations characters and perspectives. Andy said the inclusion was particularly meaningful given Aboriginal people were largely absent from previous versions of the story, with the role also carrying an important message for young people growing up in regional communities.
“Mob were around and unfortunately we didn’t get a mention in the original storytelling and as well as the film,” he said.
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