Have you ever played Mahjong? Desley Di Bella’s passion for the fantastic game has led her to establish a local Mahjong Group for like-minded members of the community to come together for an afternoon of strategy and socialisation.

Beginning with a simple post online, Desley received over 50 comments from people interested in the fascinating game and decided to form a group debuting on Thursday the 23rd of January to get the ball rolling. Beginners and experienced players are warmly invited to meet at 1pm on Thursday at the Support Centre located at 71 Townsville Road, Ingham.

Tea and coffee will be on offer as well as guidance to those who are new to the game with Desley open to adding additional weekend sessions depending on Thursday’s turnout.

Happy playing!

What: Mahjong Group
When: Thursday the 23rd of January, 1pm to 3pm
Where: Support Centre, 71 Townsville Road
More Information: contact Desley Di Bella on 4776 1822 or 0405 458 633

A beloved monthly calendar event across the Hinchinbrook region, Markets at the Mosaic will make its 2025 debut on Saturday the 19th of April!

Held from 8am to 12pm in Mercers Lane towards the end of each month, Markets at the Mosaic provides local entrepreneurs with the opportunity to share their handmade pieces with the entire community.

2024 hosted another mammoth year of milestone achievements for the humble market group as they welcomed hundreds of new customers each market day and plenty of new and exciting vendors.

Riding the wave of momentous success, the group has opened applications for stallholders to be part of the first Markets at the Mosaic event for the new year! Interested stallholders are encouraged to email admin@hinchinbrookchamber.com.au to receive an information pack and organisers advise its essential to ensure all Public Liability Insurance documents are up to date.

“At Markets at the Mosaic, we are only about handmade, home grown, home designed, and hand built,” shared market organisers.

“So, if you’ve got your own little side hustle going with your won creativity on show, we’d love to see you!”

What: Markets at the Mosaic
When: Saturday the 19th of April from 8am to 12pm
Where: Mercer Lane
More Information: email admin@hinchinbrookchamber.com.au

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The Ingham Theatre Group is thrilled to announce an evening of one-act plays that
promise to entertain, inspire, and captivate audiences of all ages. Mark your calendars for 25th and 26th of March as the group transforms the J.L. Kelly Theatre into a hub of theatrical delight!

This year’s lineup features a diverse selection of short plays, showcasing the incredible talent of local actors, directors, and playwrights. From heartwarming comedies to thought-provoking dramas, there’s something for you, the good audience, to enjoy.

Nestled in the heart of our vibrant town, the Ingham Theatre Group has become a
cornerstone of local culture and creativity. With a history spanning over decades, this
passionate ensemble of performers, directors, and backstage wizards has transformed community theatre into a cherished tradition.

Beyond the stage, the Ingham Theatre Group has forged deep connections within the community. Fundraisers, workshops, and collaborations with local schools and charities have become integral to their mission.

Whether you’re a lifelong theatre lover or a curious newcomer, the Ingham Theatre Group invites you to become part of their story. Membership is open to all, and there are opportunities to contribute both on and off the stage. From acting and directing to set design and event planning, there’s a role for everyone in this vibrant community.

To learn more and join, visit https://www.inghamtheatregroup.org.au/

After all, the play isn’t complete without a good audience.

Contributed with thanks to Ingham Theatre Group President, Alan Giles

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is excited to announce the winners of the 46th Hinchinbrook Art Awards People's Choice Award, generously sponsored by Frosty Mango. This year's award is shared by two deserving artists: Joanne Bingham, for her drawing "Evening Light", which depicts a horse peacefully grazing, and Pete Marshall, for "Leopard Lazy", an artwork capturing the essence of wildlife. Both pieces received the highest number of votes from art enthusiasts and visitors to the TYTO Regional Art Gallery.
Congratulations to both Joanne and Pete for their outstanding achievements!
Council would also like to extend sincere thanks to all the talented artists who participated in this year's awards. Your contributions have truly enriched the local arts scene and helped make the 46th Hinchinbrook Art Awards a memorable event.
The 46th Hinchinbrook Art Awards celebrated artistic excellence across various media, providing a platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their creativity. This annual event continues to be a highlight of the region's cultural calendar, enriching the local arts scene.
Visitors to the TYTO Regional Art Gallery were invited to vote for their favourite artwork in the People's Choice category from Friday 8 November to Friday 20 December 2024. Council thanks all the art enthusiasts who participated in this year's voting.
Council also extends sincere gratitude to sponsors and local businesses whose generous support makes the Hinchinbrook Art Awards possible. Your contribution is vital to the continued success of the arts in our community.
For further information regarding the upcoming exhibitions, please visit the TYTO Regional Art Gallery website, Exhibitions page.

Tuesday 14 January
Earthquake at the Library School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 10:30am
Build a spaghetti tower and put your skills to the test at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE Earthquake at the Library school holiday activity.
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Wednesday 15 January & Thursday 16 January
Learn to Swim Sign On
Wednesday & Thursday 9am
Join the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre’s Learn-to-Swim Sign-On days. Perfect for building water safety and skills, plus a free swim session for new sign-ups. Don’t miss out—secure your child’s spot and make a splash this term!

Thursday 16 January
Basketball Clinic
Thursday 10am
Children aged between 8 to 17 years are invited to come along and learn some skills and drills with State Level Coach and ‘Own the Rock Academy’ Coach Travis Fisher. Mini tournament games will be held to put your new skills to the test and prizes are up for grabs!
Own the Rock

Thursday 16 January
Sensory Storytime
Thursday 10:30am
Babies and toddlers will enjoy play based learning with hands-on sensory play activities designed to encourage development of fine and gross motor skills.
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Friday 17 January
January Mega Movie Weekend
Friday Various Times
Indulge in freshly popped popcorn and refreshing slushies as you immerse yourself in the magic of the silver screen at the JL Kelly Theatre’s monthly weekend of movies! Running from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 of January, attendees can access the full program at www.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au.
JL Kelly Theatre

Saturday 18 January
Ingham Tennis Open Fun Day
Saturday 8am
The Ingham Tennis Courts will host an awesome, FREE open day for children aged between 3 to 17 years!
Ingham Tennis Courts

Monday 20 January
Ready. Aim. Fire! School Holiday Activity
Monday 10:30am
Build an awesome catapult as part of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE School Holiday Program!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Tuesday 21 January
Let’s Build a Roller Coaster School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 10:30am
Build a wild and wonderful roller coaster as part of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE School Holiday Program!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Wednesday 22 January
Wellbeing Workshop
Wednesday 9am
Hosted by Wholebeing Initiative join in for a restorative experience that blends mindfulness, art therapy, and breathwork. This workshop offers tools to reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and nurture creativity in a safe, supportive space. Perfect for anyone looking to unwind, explore inner peace, and cultivate resilience through calming and expressive practices.
Wholebeing Initiative Studio

Friday 24 January
Summer Reading Club Party
Friday 10am
Celebrate the end of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s School Holidays Summer Reading Club with a wonderful party!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Sunday 26 January
Australia Day Pool Party
Sunday 9am
Continuing the school holiday fun, the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre will hold an Australia Day Pool Party!
Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre

Saturday 1 February
Mt Fox Markets
Saturday 11am
Spend your Saturday browsing through the talents of local stallholders at the Mt Fox Markets! If you’re looking to become a stall holder yourself, contact Brandie on 0477 199 758.
Mt Fox Campgrounds

On Friday January 17 – Sunday 19 January, the JL Kelly Theatre in Ingham is showing a series of blockbusters.

Kicking off the weekend is Heretic. In Heretic, watch actor Hugh Grant reinvent himself as two young missionaries knock on his door and become captured within his home.

On Saturday the live-action Lion King prequel Mufasa: The Lion King hits the screens, and it shows Mufasu, Simba’s father’s upbringing and how he came to be king of the Pride Lands.

Saturday evening Ridley Scott’s Gladiator from 2000 starring Russell Crowe gets its long-awaited sequel. In Gladiator 2 Lucius is filled with rage in his heart and the future of the empire is at stake. He looks to the past to find the strength and honour needed to return the glory of Rome to its people.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is shown on Sunday. The highly anticipated third film in the live-action trilogy is now hitting Ingham. The film picks up right where Sonic the Hedgehog 2 left off, with it bringing back Doctor Ivo Robotnik alongside two new villains: Gerald Robotnik and Keanu Reeves' Shadow the Hedgehog.

Musical and theatre fans will not miss out during the Mega Movie Weekend, on Sunday and the last showing of the weekend is the stage show Wicked, which has been brought to cinema screens.

Heretic (MA15+)
6.30pm Friday 17 January 2025

Mufasa: The Lion king (PG)
2.30pm Saturday 18 January 2025

Gladiator II (MA15+)
6.30pm Saturday 18 January 2025

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (PG)
10.30am Sunday 19 January 2025

Wicked (PG)
2.30pm Sunday 19 January 2025

Searching for a special monthly outing to add to your calendar? On the second Saturday of each month between February and December, the Ingham Conroy Hall Markets will host a delightful display of wonderful goodies bright and early from 7:30am until 11:30am.
On Saturday the 8th of February, the first market for the new year will be held at Conroy Hall, located at 41 Mcilwraith Street, Ingham, with Rita Phillips and the entire market committee more than excited to welcome the community back to the treasured monthly event. One of many wonderful markets held within the Hinchinbtook Shire, the Ingham Conroy Hall Markets was once the only market in town, with its debut held just over 50 years ago.
Today, the all-weather market hosts a world of stalls, retailing a great selection of crafts, jewellery, plants, antiques, books, clothing and more.
“We sell cakes, and homemade goodies like jams, biscuits, and we serve a very good full breakfast as well with our bacon and egg toasties that are always a hit,” shared Rita.
To begin with a bang, Luke, the locally loved guitarist, will treat attendees to his talents throughout the market’s February debut with following markets to host performances by young music students.
Rita invites all those interested in becoming a stallholder to reach out to her on 0417 792 602 for more information. All upcoming market events for 2025 are outlined in our fantastic event guide!

WHAT: Conroy Hall Markets
WHERE: 41 Mcilwraith Street, Ingham
WHEN: Second Saturday of every month

The Ingham Theatre Group has been in the region for many years, with their first performance dating back to the 11th December 1958.

Over the years they have been providing great quality theatre productions to the Ingham crowd.

Current President Alan Giles has been in the group for 28 years and says he loves theatre.

“I love taking on different roles, in different characters in the different things that we do,” said Alan.

“I also enjoy working with the other people who are in the club, working with them on stage is phenomenal.

“I think it's always wonderful to take on a different persona in the play, it challenges you to get the best delivery so that the audience is taken in by your lines and enjoys the jokes.”

Alan has always been interested in the Arts and his passion, and the passion of other members in the Ingham Theatre Group, shines in their performances.

Ingham Theatre Group has over 20 members and they dedicate their time to perform great shows in front of their audiences.

They have many performances throughout the year, their main event is the ‘Theatre Restaurant’.

The ‘Theatre Restaurant’ is held at Ingham Bowls Club and guests enjoy a sit-down meal followed by act 1, a break and dessert and then act two.

Tuesday 7 January
Mad Science School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 10:30am
Children can enjoy a range of awesome scientific activities from volcanos to balloon explosions as part of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE School Holiday Program.
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Friday 10 January
Balloon Races School Holiday Activity
Friday 10:30am
On your marks. Get set. GO! As part of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE School Holiday Program, children can enjoy an awesome balloon race on Friday 10 January from 10:30am!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Monday 13 January
Ingham Tennis Open Fun Day
Monday 8am
The Ingham Tennis Courts will host an awesome, FREE open day for children aged between 3 to 17 years!
Ingham Tennis Courts

Tuesday 14 January
Earthquake at the Library School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 10:30am
Build a spaghetti tower and put your skills to the test at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE Earthquake at the Library school holiday activity.
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Thursday 16 January
Basketball Clinic
Thursday 10am
Children aged between 8 to 17 years are invited to come along and learn some skills and drills with State Level Coach and ‘Own the Rock Academy’ Coach Travis Fisher. Mini tournament games will be held to put your new skills to the test and prizes are up for grabs!
Own the Rock

Thursday 16 January
Sensory Storytime
Thursday 10:30am
Babies and toddlers will enjoy play based learning with hands-on sensory play activities designed to encourage development of fine and gross motor skills.
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Friday 17 January
January Mega Movie Weekend
Friday Various Times
Indulge in freshly popped popcorn and refreshing slushies as you immerse yourself in the magic of the silver screen at the JL Kelly Theatre’s monthly weekend of movies! Running from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 of January, attendees can access the full program at www.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au.
JL Kelly Theatre

Saturday 18 January
Ingham Tennis Open Fun Day
Saturday 8am
The Ingham Tennis Courts will host an awesome, FREE open day for children aged between 3 to 17 years!
Ingham Tennis Courts

Monday 20 January
Ready. Aim. Fire! School Holiday Activity
Monday 10:30am
Build an awesome catapult as part of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE School Holiday Program!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Tuesday 21 January
Let’s Build a Roller Coaster School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 10:30am
Build a wild and wonderful roller coaster as part of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE School Holiday Program!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Wednesday 22 January
Wellbeing Workshop
Wednesday 9am
Hosted by Wholebeing Initiative join in for a restorative experience that blends mindfulness, art therapy, and breathwork. This workshop offers tools to reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and nurture creativity in a safe, supportive space. Perfect for anyone looking to unwind, explore inner peace, and cultivate resilience through calming and expressive practices.
Wholebeing Initiative Studio

Friday 24 January
Summer Reading Club Party
Friday 10am
Celebrate the end of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s School Holidays Summer Reading Club with a wonderful party!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Sunday 26 January
Australia Day Pool Party
Sunday 9am
Continuing the school holiday fun, the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre will hold an Australia Day Pool Party!
Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre

Saturday 1 February
Mt Fox Markets
Saturday 11am
Spend your Saturday browsing through the talents of local stallholders at the Mt Fox Markets! If you’re looking to become a stall holder yourself, contact Brandie on 0477 199 758.
Mt Fox Campgrounds

Saturday 1 February
Fall in Love with Forrest Beach
Saturday 1pm
Auction Open Days of properties to go on Auction with Felix Reitano Real Estate on Valentine’s Day.
Forrest Beach Properties

Sunday 2 February
Ingham Raintree Community Markets
Sunday 7am
A morning of Sunday market fun awaits at Ingham’s Rotary Park with the Ingham Raintree Community Markets!
Rotary Park, Ingham

Saturday 8 February
Ingham Conroy Hall Markets
Saturday 7:30am
Celebrate the first Conroy Hall Market of 2025 and enjoy the musical talents of Luke the guitarist as well as a selection of handmade goodies, plants, clothes, treats, antiques and more from 7:30am to 11:30am!
Conroy Hall

Saturday 8 February
Jonny Cash and June Carter Tribute Show Matinee
Saturday 5pm
Step back in time and enjoy the songs you know and live with Get Rhythm The Jonny Cash and June Carter Show!
JL Kelly Theatre

Wednesday 12 February
Morning Melodies with ELVIS
Wednesday 10:30am
Prepare to be taken on a journey through the iconic hits of the 50s, 60s, and 70s, celebrating the King’s incredible legacy for an unforgettable Morning Melodies as BrisVegas’ own Tristan James, a UETA Top 20 finalist, brings the timeless sounds of Elvis Presley to the JL Kelly Theatre!
JL Kelly Theatre

Friday 14 February
Fall in Love with Forrest Beach
Friday 12pm
Auction of Forrest Beach properties by Felix Reitano Real Estate on Valentine’s Day.
Felix Reitano’s Auction Room

Sunday 16 February
Ingham Raintree Community Markets
Sunday 7am
A morning of Sunday market fun awaits at Ingham’s Rotary Park with the Ingham Raintree Community Markets!
Rotary Park, Ingham

Saturday 1 March
Mt Fox Markets
Saturday 11am
Spend your Saturday browsing through the talents of local stallholders at the Mt Fox Markets! If you’re looking to become a stall holder yourself, contact Brandie on 0477 199 758.
Mt Fox Campgrounds

Sunday 2 March
Clean Up Australia Day
Sunday All Day
Clean Up Australia Day has been helping keep Australia beautiful for over 35 years! Members of the Hinchinbrook community can either check with local groups and organisations or create their own clean-up crew to keep our streets, parklands, beaches, and surrounding areas pristine. For more information, visit www.cleanup.org.au.
Hinchinbrook Area

Sunday 2 March
Ingham Raintree Community Markets
Sunday 7am
A morning of Sunday market fun awaits at Ingham’s Rotary Park with the Ingham Raintree Community Markets!
Rotary Park, Ingham

Wednesday 5 March
Morning Melodies: Billy and Barry in Concert
Wednesday 10:30am
Thomas Armstrong-Robley starring in: Two of the greatest piano men of all time, Billy Joel and Barry Manilow come together in a unique and spectacular celebration of their beloved music & lyrics.
JL Kelly Theatre

Saturday 8 March
Ingham Conroy Hall Markets
Saturday 7:30am
Come one, come all to one of Hinchinbrook’s longest running market events, Conroy Hall Markets! Browse a selection of stalls retailing plants, antiques, clothes, handmade delights, and more!
Conroy Hall

Saturday 15 March
International Soprano Sensation Mirusia in Celebration
Saturday 5pm
International Soprano Sensation MIRUSIA in 40th Birthday Celebration Concert by Andre Rieu's Star Soprano!
JL Kelly Theatre

Sunday 16 March
Ingham Raintree Community Markets
Sunday 7am
A morning of Sunday market fun awaits at Ingham’s Rotary Park with the Ingham Raintree Community Markets!
Rotary Park, Ingham

Saturday 22 March
Baby Welcoming Ceremony
Saturday 9am
Each new baby that has arrived in the community over the past twelve months will receive a Welcoming Certificate, Sapling and a Gift Bag. Parents can plant their sapling to commemorate their new baby and watch as they both grow, providing for the future prosperity of the Hinchinbrook Shire. Enjoy a fun filled morning of yummy food, sensory play, arts and crafts for the whole family.
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Tuesday 25 March
An Evening of One Act Plays
Tuesday 7:30pm
The Ingham Theatre Group is excited to present an Evening of One Act Plays at the JL Kelly Theatre in March 2024.
JL Kelly Theatre

Wednesday 26 March
An Evening of One Act Plays
Wednesday 7:30pm
The Ingham Theatre Group is excited to present an Evening of One Act Plays at the JL Kelly Theatre in March 2024.
JL Kelly Theatre

The Halifax Progress Association is thrilled to announce the success of their community raffle event, which brought together locals for six rounds of excitement, prizes, and celebration. The atmosphere was filled with joy as many lucky winners took home fantastic prizes, spreading smiles and cheer throughout the day.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Slipway for the amazing venue and Halifax Meats for their generous delicious hams, which were a highlight of the prizes as well as Halifax Pharmacy, Halifax SPAR and BWS Ingham for your amazing prizes,” said a Halifax Progress Association spokesperson.

“Your support added so much value to our event, and we couldn’t have done it without you.

“A special mention goes to the Lucinda Cove Resort for their lovely and thoughtful donation. Your contribution truly reflects the strength of community spirit and collaboration in our region.

“We also want to give a huge shoutout to Michelle from The Halipad for providing the amazing music that kept everyone entertained and in high spirits. Your talent added a lively and festive vibe to the entire day!

“It was heartwarming to see everyone come together and have the best time at this successful event. From the buzzing excitement of the raffles to the friendly faces that make Halifax such a wonderful place, today was a true celebration of community connection. Special mention must go to "Santa" for coming to visit!

“Thank you to everyone who participated, donated, and volunteered to make this event unforgettable. Together, we continue to build a vibrant and supportive Halifax community.”
 

The Ingham Branch of the Leukemia Foundation held their Christmas Hoy at the Ingham Bowls Club on the 7th December and it was a huge success, with 125 people attending, money was raised to help families in the Townsville Hospital Freemasons Units.

The Christmas Hoy is the Ingham Branch of the Leukemia Foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and with the money raised the team usually buy hampers for patients battling Leukemia, but President Janice Leach said they did something different this year.

“For each family in the units, we have purchased a $50 gift voucher so they can purchase something of their choice,” she said.

“It is nice to be able to give to somebody and make a Christmas for everyone.”

Money for the gift vouchers was raised during the Christmas Hoy raffles.

There are 18 unis at the Townsville Hospital that the Ingham Leukemia Foundation support, and they do more than just Christmas gifts once a year. Recently, they assisted in getting a house cleaned for woman’s home that had been in the hospital for six months, so she arrived home to a clean house. They have also supplied units with televisions, or other home comforts that patients may need.

Janice added that they like to ensure all money raised is spent locally.

“We like to keep our money in our local district, because the business houses here are really wonderful,” said Janice.

“We are extremely grateful to our local businesses for their very generous donations towards our cause.”

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A photograph perfectly capturing a moment of quiet beauty and unexpected wonder, Amanda Griffiths’ “Whispers In The Wind” photography piece was awarded first prize in the 46th Hinchinbrook Art Awards.

Amanda taught herself the art of photography after perusing her love for observation and followed a journey of trial and error, constantly experimenting with her camera to capture the beauty around her.

“I’ve always felt an affinity for the natural world, noticing the textures, patterns and the small details that others might overlook,” shared Amanda.

“It brings me so much joy to be able to freeze those fleeting moments and share them with others.”

In owning a florist, Mandy’s Beauty In The Bush, Amanda often finds herself dipping her toe outside of the square when it comes to exploring her creative endeavours and finds enjoyment in focusing on the smallest details of her projects.

Amanda’s piece, “Whispers In The Wind” pictures a blooming Desert Rose seed pod and illustrates a meaningful message of both resilience and growth through her lens and technique.

“One afternoon, I was sitting on my front patio enjoying a cup of tea when I noticed something delicate floating in the air – it was almost like a whisper – light, fleeting and graceful,” explained Amanda.

“At first, I was struck by its fragility and elegance but as I looked at it more closely, I realised there was something powerful about it too.”

Understanding a Desert Rose’s ability to flourish under harsh conditions, Amanda hopes her piece communicates strength and the courage to endure despite the challenges life may present.

“The piece feels deeply personal to me, not just as an artist, but as a person navigating life’s ups and downs,” added Amanda.

“I hope it conveys a message of hope and faith – reminding us that even in moments of stillness, there is strength, growth, and the potential for something new to emerge.”

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With a lifelong love of the outdoors, David Wilkinson draws inspiration from both natural beauty and his treasured memories of the British countryside to create award-winning paintings, including a recently celebrated piece titled, “Wild Light”.

Venturing on a camping trip through the northwest coast of Scotland, David stumbled upon the picturesque Sandwood Bay and felt himself immediately inspired to capture the exquisite scene.

“The light and colours on show were terrific,” David reminisced.

“Wild Light was a bit of a change in style for me, more spontaneous and adventurous with colours and contrasts – I personally like it very much as there is a lot of feeling in it, but was less sure how it might stand up to public showing.”

With the encouragement of a few of David’s closest friends and family, he made the decision to enter his piece into the 46th Hinchinbrook Art Awards where he was absolutely delighted to be awarded first prize.

“Having been to the TYTO Regional Art Gallery to see the exhibition, I fully understand, and feel what other artists mean when they have won an award and speak of feeling humbled by all the other great works and talent on display, as that is exactly how I feel,” explained David.

“TYTO is a brilliant gallery, and I’m thrilled to have achieved my first career award here.”

David discovered his passion for painting in 2019 after dabbling with oils and acrylics. Embarking on a self-guided artistic journey, David captures both sun-soaked scenes from Australia as well as moody British settings – drawing from his memories of living in the United Kingdom.

Looking ahead, David has been offered the outstanding opportunity to showcase his artwork at the Gallery East in Sydney’s Clovelly in November of 2025, and cannot wait to continue exploring his passion.

“I feel very much on a journey, we will see where painting takes me!”

Mark Bishop, a talented artist with a love for a unique and intricate artform, was awarded the Local Artist Award at the 46th Hinchinbrook Art Awards for his piece titled “Youth and Beauty”.

A boilermaker and welder by trade, Mark began to explore metal art as a hobby following on from his retirement, and began to discover his hidden, artistic talents.

“I always wanted to try something different using metal but never had the time until I moved from Tasmania to Forrest Beach,” explained Mark.

With the encouragement of his friends, Mark decided to open a market stall to sell the art he had crafted from recycled cutlery, where he was then presented with the opportunity to install some pieces at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery.

“I entered the Hinchinbrook Bird Life Awards in 2022 and won the Local Artist Award with a black cockatoo made from recycled sheet metal,” Mark added.

Mark was honourably welcomed as a judge at 2023’s Hinchinbrook Art Awards, with his passion for the artform leading him to craft a piece to enter the Hinchinbrook Bird Life Awards, held earlier this year. Successfully winning the Sculpture Form Award led Mark to enter a fantastic peacock sculpture titled “Youth and Beauty” in November’s Hinchinbrook Art Awards exhibition.

“This piece took over 200 hours to craft, and every individual feather goes through five steps to complete,” shared Mark.

“Winning that award was totally unexpected as the quality of the entrant’s work is always of a high standard, and since winning a few awards and having my artwork at TYTO I have been asked to do various commission pieces which I really enjoyed!”

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at TYTO and all the people involved in these awards for all the work that goes on behind the scenes and would encourage other people to try their hand with various art works.”

Thursday 26 December
Computer Skills Class
Thursday 10am
Upgrade your computer skills with free classes at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library! Advanced classes run from 10am to 11:30am, and beginner classes from 12pm to 1:30pm every Thursday (excluding school holidays). RSVP essential. For details, email library@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or call 4776 4600.
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Saturday 28 December
Palm Creek parkrun
Saturday 7am
Held each Saturday, parkrun stands as a fantastic free community event where locals and visitors can walk, run or volunteer to achieve your goals for 2024 and beyond! Register for free at www.parkrun.com.au.
Palm Creek, Eleanor Street Ingham

Saturday 4 January
Mt Fox Markets
Saturday 11am
Spend your Saturday browsing through the talents of local stallholders at the Mt Fox Markets! If you’re looking to become a stall holder yourself, contact Brandie on 0477 199 758.
Mt Fox Campgrounds

Sunday 5 January
Ingham Raintree Community Markets
Sunday 7am
A morning of Sunday market fun awaits at Ingham’s Rotary Park with the Ingham Raintree Community Markets!
Rotary Park, Ingham

Tuesday 7 January
Mad Science School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 10:30am
Children can enjoy a range of awesome scientific activities from volcanos to balloon explosions as part of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE School Holiday Program.
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Friday 10 January
Balloon Races School Holiday Activity
Friday 10:30am
On your marks. Get set. GO! As part of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE School Holiday Program, children can enjoy an awesome balloon race on Friday 10 January from 10:30am!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Monday 13 January
Ingham Tennis Open Fun Day
Monday 8am
The Ingham Tennis Courts will host an awesome, FREE open day for children aged between 3 to 17 years!
Ingham Tennis Courts

Tuesday 14 January
Earthquake at the Library School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 10:30am
Build a spaghetti tower and put your skills to the test at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE Earthquake at the Library school holiday activity.
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Thursday 16 January
Basketball Clinic
Thursday 10am
Children aged between 8 to 17 years are invited to come along and learn some skills and drills with State Level Coach and ‘Own the Rock Academy’ Coach Travis Fisher. Mini tournament games will be held to put your new skills to the test and prizes are up for grabs!
Own the Rock

Thursday 16 January
Sensory Storytime
Thursday 10:30am
Babies and toddlers will enjoy play based learning with hands-on sensory play activities designed to encourage development of fine and gross motor skills.
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Friday 17 January
January Mega Movie Weekend
Friday Various Times
Indulge in freshly popped popcorn and refreshing slushies as you immerse yourself in the magic of the silver screen at the JL Kelly Theatre’s monthly weekend of movies! Running from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 of January, attendees can access the full program at www.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au.
JL Kelly Theatre

Saturday 18 January
Ingham Tennis Open Fun Day
Saturday 8am
The Ingham Tennis Courts will host an awesome, FREE open day for children aged between 3 to 17 years!
Ingham Tennis Courts

Sunday 19 January
Ingham Raintree Community Markets
Sunday 7am
A morning of Sunday market fun awaits at Ingham’s Rotary Park with the Ingham Raintree Community Markets!
Rotary Park, Ingham

Monday 20 January
Ready. Aim. Fire! School Holiday Activity
Monday 10:30am
Build an awesome catapult as part of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE School Holiday Program!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Tuesday 21 January
Let’s Build a Roller Coaster School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 10:30am
Build a wild and wonderful roller coaster as part of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE School Holiday Program!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Wednesday 22 January
Wellbeing Workshop
Wednesday 9am
Hosted by Wholebeing Initiative join in for a restorative experience that blends mindfulness, art therapy, and breathwork. This workshop offers tools to reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and nurture creativity in a safe, supportive space. Perfect for anyone looking to unwind, explore inner peace, and cultivate resilience through calming and expressive practices.
Wholebeing Initiative Studio

Friday 24 January
Summer Reading Club Party
Friday 10am
Celebrate the end of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s School Holidays Summer Reading Club with a wonderful party!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Sunday 26 January
Australia Day Pool Party
Sunday 9am
Continuing the school holiday fun, the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre will hold an Australia Day Pool Party!
Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre

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