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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Bananas, papayas, rambutans, lychees and mangoes all thrive in the Cassowary Coast’s tropical climate. Sampling fruit close to where it is grown offers flavours and freshness that are difficult to match elsewhere.
Many local growers and markets showcase seasonal produce, creating opportunities to discover varieties you may never have tried before.
For food lovers, the region is every bit as rewarding as its beaches and rainforests. Taste it: cassowarycoasttourism.com.au
Tuesday 18 August
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
National Family History Day, 10:30am-2pm, Hinchinbrook Shire Library, Ingham
Vietnam Veterans Day Remembrance Service, 11am, RSL Herbert River Sub Branch, Ingham
Wednesday 19 August
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
Ingham Probus Games Day, 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 20 August
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
Friday 21 August
Seniors Morning Coffee Club, 9:30am-11:30am, Noorla Bowls Club, 32 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Parkinsons Support Group Morning Tea with Brendan Spina, 9:30am-11:30am, Lifelong Supports, 5 Palm Terrace, Ingham
Friday Night Music with Cassady Connection, 6pm, Herbert River Sub Branch RSL, Ingham
Ingham Theatre Group Inc. Cruise Club Theatre Restaurant, Ingham Bowls Club, Ingham
Saturday 22 August
Parkrun, 7am, Palm Creek, Ingham & Cardwell Jetty Foreshore, Cardwell
Halifax CWA & Ingham Leukemia Hoy, 1:30pm, CWA hall, Halifax
Bless the Bush Men’s Event with Pastor Steve Kennedy, 3pm, Mungalla Station, Forrest Beach
Community BBQ, 5:30pm-11:30pm, QCWA Hall, Long Pocket, 2346 Abergowrie Road, Long Pocket
Sunday 23 August
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
Ingham Theatre Group Inc. Cruise Club Theatre Restaurant, Ingham Bowls Club, Ingham
Monday 24 August
QCWA Forrest Beach Branch’s Healthy Living Workshop, 9am-11:30am, 6 Palm Street, Forrest Beach
Ingham Basketball Association Inc. Monday Comp Night, 4:30pm-7pm, Ingham State High School Auditorium, Ingham
Tuesday 25 August
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
Wednesday 26 August
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
Canasta & Cards, 1:30pm-3:30pm, The Centre, 71 Townsville Road, Ingham
Social Darts, 7pm, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper Street, Ingham
Ingham Probus Bus Trip, TBC, El Arish Hotel, El Arish
Thursday 27 August
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
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
Ingham Theatre Group Inc. Cruise Club Theatre Restaurant, Ingham Bowls Club, Ingham
Friday 28 August
August 2026 Tea and Trivia, 9am-12pm, TYTO Conference and Events Centre, 73 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Seniors Morning Coffee Club, 9:30am-11:30am, Noorla Bowls Club, 32 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Friday Night Music with Kevin Spencer, 6pm-9:30pm, Herbert River Sub Branch RSL, Ingham
Ingham Theatre Group Inc. Cruise Club Theatre Restaurant, Ingham Bowls Club, Ingham
On Friday 23 August 1895 a masquerade ball was held at the Halifax Hall to raise money for the Halifax Rifle Club.
A double-barred finch perched in a tree, by Cheryl Larsen
(With thanks to the Ingham Photography Group)
Reef Days Start With the Right Maps
Did you know that your best reef adventures start on dry land? Before visiting Orpheus or Pelorus Islands, downloading official public mooring and no-anchoring maps isn’t just smart, it’s reef etiquette.
These maps tell you exactly where to tie up, drift safely and avoid fragile coral, protecting both the reef and your boat. Anchors in the wrong place can crush coral that’s been growing for decades in minutes, while careful planning gives more time to snorkel, watch marine life and float calmly among colourful fish.
Knowing the rules ahead of time means no second-guessing, no stress, and healthier reefs for everyone who comes after you. Small preparation creates big impact, your attention and respect ensure these underwater gardens remain vibrant, productive and magical. A little effort before departure goes a long way underwater. Map it first: hinchinbrookway.com.au
Greg Andrews as Elton John (Centre) with members of the Ingham Lions Club, who came because they saw him perform in Melbourne during a Lions International event and had to see him again because they enjoyed that show so much. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
Australia's Rocketman Greg Andrews brought his show Elton John Experience: Rocketman Flying Solo to the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall on Saturday 8th August, giving local audiences the chance to get up close and personal with the music, storiesand spectacle of one of the world's most recognisable performers.
Greg said he loved the opportunity to perform his solo show, regardless of the size of the audience.
“The people that come to see the show, regardless of the number, are fans of the music, and that's what we're all celebrating.” Greg said.
“It's beautiful music, and I'm glad I can shed some light on these wonderful songs as well as tell a few stories about it.”
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Part of Greg's appeal is his striking resemblance to Elton John, something audiences have commented on throughout his career.
“It's definitely not a hindrance. It's very lucky, and it's been one of my signature things,” Greg said.
“I think that's why people have got me from all around the world to do it, because of just my natural resemblance. No cosmetic surgery, just natural.”
“Even where I live, people yell out, ‘Hi, Elton!’ It happens quite a bit,” Greg said with a laugh.
But the show was about much more than simply looking the part. Greg’s performance combined Elton John's iconic music with stories about the songs, costumes, history and the experiences that come with portraying such a famous artist.
The Hinchinbrook audience certainly got involved. The crowd clapped and sang along throughout the performance, with the energy eventually lifting people from their seats to dance to “Crocodile Rock”.
The Ingham performance marked the end of this leg of Greg's solo tour before he headed home to the Sunshine Coast for a short break. After that, Greg will reunite with his full eight-piece band for the larger Rocket Man in Concert shows, with performances planned for Melbourne and New Zealand later this year.
The BBQ crew of the Cardwell RSL Sub-branch. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Cardwell RSL gave a warm welcome to the earthlings who had flocked to Cardwell to enjoy the Australian UFO festival this weekend. Once the Monster Market Day had wrapped up, the Cardwell RSL Sub-branch saw locals and festival visitors fill the space for their signature Sunday BBQ lunch.
Rissoles and sausages were on the menu, alongside a healthy collection of salads and sides all prepared by the RSL men and women. A great filling feed with the option for dessert had the tables full and bellies happy.
Raffles for chocolate and roast chickens drew crowds to the BBQ. Whether visitors had travelled from outer space, across the region or down the road, everyone was treated to the same warm Cardwell hospitality.
From the legendary Tully Saucer Nests to UFO sightings, unexplained encounters and questions about what may exist beyond Earth, the C-Files Forum once again gave curious minds plenty to discuss during the Australian UFO Festival in Cardwell.
Held across three days, the forum brought researchers, investigators, authors and experiencers together to examine some of Australia’s most enduring mysteries.
Among this year’s presenters were Shane Pennisi, Bill Chalker, Grant Lavac, Leigh Phillips, Sheryl Gottschall, Anthony Goodall, Lynette J Rule, George Simpson and David Lovegrove, with topics ranging from historic Australian cases to emerging theories and the future of disclosure.
During this weekend’s Australian UFO festival, the C-Files Forum brought together crowds of earthlings interested in investigating the unexplained.
While the subject matter ranged from UFO and UAP sightings to ancient mysteries, paranormal experiences, consciousness and emerging technologies, the forum was ultimately built around the simple idea of asking questions.
This year’s program placed particular emphasis on some of Australia’s own UFO history, including the 60th anniversary of the famous Tully Saucer Nest incident. The C-Files also provided an opportunity for people with firsthand experiences to share their stories, with the final day including an open microphone session where attendees could discuss their own encounters and perspectives.
A willingness to hear from both experienced researchers and ordinary people is part of what made the forum unique. Defying the usual conference structure, believers, sceptics and the simply curious were all invited to share their perspectives, whatever the level of their formal expertise.
Beyond the C-Files forum, the festival brought the community together for a weekend of space-themed entertainment, markets, tours, films, art and family-friendly activities, combining serious discussion of unexplained phenomena with a distinctly fun and community-forward atmosphere.
Whether attendees arrived hoping to uncover proof of extraterrestrial life, investigate a decades-old Australian mystery or simply enjoy a weekend of something a little different, the festival offered plenty to talk about and invited visitors leave earth behind and take to the stars.
Part 1: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/ufo-festival-part-1
Part 2: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/ufo-festival-part-2
Part 3: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/ufo-festival-part-3
Award-winning Australian comedian Vanessa Larry Mitchell will return to Innisfail this week with the biggest version of her hit stand-up show yet. Photo supplied
By Chelsea Ravizza
Award-winning Australian comedian Vanessa Larry Mitchell will bring her latest national tour to Innisfail this week, giving Cassowary Coast audiences the chance to experience one of the country's most acclaimed stand-up performers.
Straight from winning Best Stand Up at the 2026 Newcastle Fringe, Vanessa has built a reputation for delivering fast-paced, laugh-out-loud performances to audiences across Australia and internationally. Her latest tour includes shows throughout Australia before heading to Canada, the United Kingdom and Ireland later this year, with Innisfail one of only a handful of Queensland stops.
Having sold out The Con Theatre with her original solo show five years ago, Vanessa said she’s excited to return to the region for a fourth time with one of the biggest versions of her show yet!
“This will be my fourth time performing in Innisfail," she enthused.
"The show I’m bringing this time is the two-hour marathon show [and] it's essentially two shows combined as one big, kick-ass two-hour special. The second show really takes things up a notch from the first, so combining them together like this just makes the whole night hit differently!"
Despite performing around the country and overseas, Vanessa said regional audiences remained among her favourites.
"I'm a country girl from Central Victoria originally, so I relate well to people from country or regional areas," she said.
"Last time I was in Innisfail I ended up back at the pub laughing and partying with the locals!"
With shows also scheduled in Townsville and Cairns, Vanessa said it was the connections she made off stage that kept her coming back.
"There’s nothing quite like these regional gigs where I make real connections off stage. The people who run these venues are all amazing too. I'll keep coming back forever if people keep buying tickets! Why wouldn't I!"
The performance will take place at The Con Theatre on Thursday 13th August from 7pm, with audiences encouraged to secure their tickets early via www.larrylaughsloud.com.
Tuesday 11 August
Read to Me Day, 9:30am-11:30am, Butler Street, Tully
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
Wednesday 12 August
Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Run Speed Sessions, 6am, Bottom Oval, Mission Beach School, Mission Beach
Pottery Session with Justin, 10am-2pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach
NDIS Farm Fun Day, 10am-2pm, The Pocket, 60840 Bruce Highway, El Arish
Thursday 13 August
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
Tully Nursing Home Inc. & Tully High School’s Presentation of Water Colour Portraits, 1:40pm, Tully Nursing Home, Tully
Pottery Session with Trudy, 5pm-8:30pm, Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, Mission Beach
Innisfail Community & Services Club Trivia Night, 6pm, 18 Fitzgerald Esplanade, Innisfail
Vanessa Larry Mitchell the Endurance Edition, 7pm, The Con Theatre, Innisfail
Friday 14 August
QCWA Far North Division Craft Display, 10am-1pm, Innisfail QCWA Hall, Innisfail
The Rainforest School’s Frogs Hollow Lease Celebration, 10:30am-12pm, Frogs Hollow, South Mission Beach Road, South Mission Beach
RAM Recreational Centre’s Monthly Indoor Movie Night, 7pm, 4 Stitt Street, Innisfail
Saturday 15 August
Paradise Run Mission Beach, 6:45am, Seaview Street, Mission Beach
Cardwell parkrun, 7am, Cardwell Foreshore, Cardwell
Innisfail Markets, 8am-1pm, Anzac Memorial Park, Innisfail
Mission Beach Tavern’s Jungle Party, 8pm, 52 Porter Promenade, Mission Beach
Sunday 16 August
Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Long Run Group, 6am-7am, Casuarina Park, South Mission Beach
Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Sunday Cycling Group, 6am-8am, Mission Beach Police Station, Webb Road, Wongaling Beach
Mission Beach Markets, 7am-12pm, Ulysses Park, Mission Beach
Cardwell RSL Sunday BBQ Lunch, 12pm, 36-38 Roma Street, Cardwell
Monday 17 August
Cassowary Coast Yarners, 10am-12pm, C4 Community for Coastal & Cassowary Conservation, Mission Beach
With more than 700 songs in his repertoire, Andy Graham continues to entertain audiences across the Cassowary Coast as Andy G. Photo supplied
By Chelsea Ravizza
A hopeless dancer may not seem destined for a career in music, but that's exactly where Andy Graham's journey began. Decades after picking up a guitar in the hope of impressing girls on the dance floor, the Mission Beach musician, better known as Andy G, has become a familiar face on stages across the Cassowary Coast, entertaining audiences with everything from rock and pop to country and blues.
Gifted his first guitar by his mother, Mr Graham taught himself to play using a Beatles songbook, spending countless hours practising until he mastered the classics. Today, his repertoire spans more than 700 songs, earning him a reputation for delivering crowd-pleasing performances that appeal to audiences of all ages.
"My sister was a Beatles fan, so I stole some of her records and kept practicing till I got it right," Andy said.
"I still can't read music sheets but if someone hums me a few bars, I can generally play the song."
Andy spent years performing with bands in Brisbane pubs and clubs before 1992, sharing the stage with legendary Australian entertainers, including Johnny O'Keefe. After work commitments took priority in the early 1990s, however, he stepped away from music until relocating to Mission Beach in 2022, where the region's thriving live music scene rekindled his passion.
"When we settled in, I found that the Cassowary Coast area has a good little music scene going on," he recalled.
While watching local band Cassady Connections, Andy mentioned to lead singer Viv that he had been thinking about returning to the stage but was nervous about performing as a solo artist.
"She said to me, 'We're playing at the Silkwood Hotel tomorrow. Be there at one and bring your guitar.'"
Joining the band the following day proved to be the turning point, and Andy has been entertaining local audiences ever since.
"I just enjoy seeing people singing along and dancing to the music I play."
He credits much of his motivation to his wife, Jenni, whose unwavering support has helped fuel his return to live performance.
"My wife Jenni is a great support and one of the main reasons I keep going. Seeing the enjoyment and fun that she has at gigs gives me the inspiration to be the best I can."
With the catchphrase, "I know lots of songs, just not every song," Andy has become a sought-after performer, tailoring his extensive repertoire to suit every venue and audience.
"I must be doing something right – they keep asking me back!"
Just as important to him are the local venues that continue to champion live entertainment. With the words "Where words fail, music speaks" emblazoned across his promotional banner, Andy hopes the community continues to support the businesses that help keep the region's live music scene alive.
"We need to get out and support those venues when we can – if we don't use them, we'll lose them," he said.
"Music touches people in many ways. Songs always take you back to a moment in time and seeing the crowd singing along, tapping their feet or up dancing is what keeps me going."
Andy encourages anyone who hasn't yet seen him perform to check out his social media pages for upcoming gig dates, explaining he hopes to continue sharing his love of music with audiences across the Cassowary Coast for as long as he's enjoying himself, and the crowds are enjoying the music too.
This week’s reader of the week is Name Hollie Pavan from Bingil Bay Café.
Make sure to stop by and try out their fish taco- and pick up a paper whilst you’re at it!
The historic jetty at South Mission Beach has become a favourite location for photographers, walkers and sunset chasers.
At sunrise and sunset, changing colours reflect across the water while distant islands create dramatic silhouettes. Even on ordinary days, the simple act of strolling out above the ocean can reset your perspective.
Sometimes the best attraction is not a major landmark. It is a place that encourages you to pause for a while. Bring binoculors: cassowarycoasttourism.com.au
Discover your family history and share memories with others at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library this National Family History Day. Photo supplied
Curious about where your family came from or who lived in the Hinchinbrook district before you? National Family History Day is offering locals an opportunity to uncover stories from the past and explore the records that help piece together a family tree.
Hosted by the Ingham Family History Association, the event will be held at Hinchinbrook Shire Library on Tuesday 18th August, bringing together a range of historical resources and knowledgeable helpers to guide visitors through their research.
Attendees can explore maps, burial registers, family photo albums, Pugh’s Almanac and local history books documenting families from across the district.
The Ingham Family History Association will also be on hand throughout the event to answer questions and offer guidance to those beginning their family history journey or looking to take their research further.
For those who already have photographs, documents or memories connected to the district, the morning also provides an opportunity to share stories and connect with others with an interest in preserving local and family history.
Whether you are an experienced family historian or have never searched for a relative before, National Family History Day offers a chance to discover more about the people and places that shaped the community.
Tuesday 11 August
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
Wednesday 12 August
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
Morning Melodies: The Great British Songbook Volume 2, 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 13 August
QCWA Forrest Beach Meeting, 9am, QCWA Hall, Palm Street, Forrest Beach
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
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 14 August
Seniors Morning Coffee Club, 9:30am-11:30am, Noorla Bowls Club, 32 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
Friday Night Music with Andy G, 6pm, Herbert River Sub Branch RSL, Ingham
GRAEME CONNORS: What Next, 7pm-10pm, Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham
Ingham Theatre Group Inc. Cruise Club Theatre Restaurant, TBC, Ingham Bowls Club, Ingham
Saturday 15 August
Parkrun, 7am, Palm Creek, Ingham & Cardwell Jetty Foreshore, Cardwell
Markets at the Mosaic, 8am-12pm, Mercer Lane, 78 Lannercost Street, Ingham
Ingham Theatre Group Inc. Cruise Club Theatre Restaurant, TBC, Ingham Bowls Club, Ingham
Sunday 16 August
Lucinda Markets, 7am-11am, Borello Park, Lucinda
Bella Dance Studio’s 2026 Showcase, 10am, Santa Maria Centre, Ingham
Lees Hotel Sunday Sessions, 1pm, Lees Hotel, 58 Lannercost Street, Ingham
Bella Dance Studio’s 2026 Showcase, 2pm, Santa Maria Centre, Ingham
Ingham Basketball Association Inc. Social Sundays, 3pm-5pm, Ingham State High School Auditorium, Ingham
Monday 17 August
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
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