The Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Carnival took place over the 11th and 12th October weekend, bringing together clubs and competitors from across the region. Athletes of all ages battled the waves and sand in a range of surf lifesaving events, including sprints, surf races, board races and relays. The atmosphere was electric, with families, friends and community members cheering on participants throughout both days. Forrest Beach proved a fun and spectacular setting, with perfect weather, skills and endurance of all competitors were tested out on the beach. Congratulations to everyone who took part, and a special thanks to the volunteers and organisers for making the carnival such a success.
Read the full storyIt was a nail-biting finish for the 2025 Marbelli Cup, with Ingham State High School’s Open Girls Netball team narrowly defeated by a determined Gilroy Santa Maria College team. Heading into the final quarter trailing by five points, Ingham High fought back to reduce the margin to just one point with only two minutes remaining. Despite their efforts, Gilroy held on to claim a 23-21 victory, taking the series and the Marbelli Cup for 2025. Continued on page 31 Gilroy Takes The Marbelli Cup In A Nail-Biting Finish A special mention goes to Year 12 students Alisha, Amayah and Molly, who played their final game for Ingham High. Alisha was also named Ingham High’s Player of the Series, recognising her exceptional performance. The Senior Boys teams of both schools also took to the court in a spirited pre-game match, with Gilroy taking the win. Their enthusiasm and willingness to give it a go were commendable. The dedication and support from umpires Lauren Kopeshke and Aimee Seri, scorers, staff, students and community members created an incredible atmosphere for the players. Special thanks were given to the Marbelli family and the Castellaro and Gaggiano families for their continued support of the series, helping to foster netball in the district. Congratulations also to Gilroy Santa Maria College, who displayed skill and sportsmanship across the series. Maggie Pappin was awarded Most Valuable Player for GSMC, while Alicia Crisafulli received the honour for Ingham High. Both schools look forward to the rematch in 2026.
Read the full storyAs the winter coolness has finally melted away, you can truly feel the heat of summer when you go out for a Saturday morning Parkrun. It's definitely a factor that keeps me running to cross that finish line and cool down under the trees, that, and the Zooper Doopers. Very glad that Palm Creek adopted the Cardwell practice of having them at the end of a sweltering slog through the heat and the midgies, which seem to cloud around the lower return path at Palm Creek - I have gotten one of the little buggers in my eye on more than one occasion. Thank you volunteers, for keeping the runners cool and their blood sugar up after the runs. Nothing hits the spot better than an ice-cold treat in the heat. Parkrun Results: 11th October 2025 Palm Creek #94 – 30 participants Fastest time: Duncan (18:48) Final finisher: Lianne (1:00:53) PBs: Helen (28:02), Melissa (37:42), Judah (37:50), Edith (38:46) First-timers: Michelle, Marguerite, Natalie, Ashley, Lianne of WJR Latrobe Volunteers: Sandra Coco, Helen Digger, Bridgette Duffy, Matteo Mancuso, Lianne Smith Cardwell #356 – 13 participants Fastest time: Luke (23:28) Final finisher: Matthew (42:00) PBs: Fiona (37:48) First-timers: Paul, Richard of WazaConda, Jennifer of Wynfit, Karen Volunteers: Anita Davina, Bruce Ferguson, Jan Ferguson, Matthew Gardiner, Kerry Snell, Rachelle Warlond, Ward Weare
Read the full storyThe Hinchinbrook Sportfishing Festival showcases the skills of our region's anglers, displaying their expertise as they reel in the diverse collection of fish found in this region. Congratulations to all the participants. Champion Anglers Champion Male - Chris Bache (Cairns) Champion Female - Helen Johnson (Hinchinbrook) Champion Junior Male - Jackson Hodge (Hinchinbrook) Champion Junior Female - Rosie McArdle (Cardwell) Mystery Length Winners Rosie McArdle (Cod) Kylie Jackson (Coral trout) Sh
Read the full storyNorth Queensland Frosty Mango EQ Leader winner for 2025 is Tegan Coulter
Class 19 Grand Prix Championship E&I Firmi Engineering Works Official 105cm
1st Danielle Camp riding FREAKY FELIXi
2nd Natasha Dunworth riding ALL SPICE
3rd Charlotte Lee riding HAZARDOUS
Class 5 AM7 Feed Masters Fox Hunter 75cm
Open only to Horses that have never placed 1st in a showjumping round
1st Karen Sullivan riding RIVER DOWNS VIVIENNE
2nd Jenna Arnett riding ESTHER
3rd Ainslie Tonks riding CHAMPAGNE TILLY
Class 18 Grand Prix Championship Fert Trans Open 85cm
1st Jada Marsden riding HISASHOWMAN
2nd Misha O�E��E�E���E��EMalley riding TIGER KING
3rd Dallas Bailey riding WILARK QATAR
Class 17 Grand Prix Championship Liddles Air Service Open 75cm
1st Karen Sullivan riding RIVER DOWNS VIVIENNE
2nd Scarlet Whatley Eiding BOLD KINGSTON (BAMBI)
3rd Natasha Dunsworth riding AYE MARIO
Class 16 Grand Prix Championship Wilmar Junior 16 & under 75 cm
1st Madisen McKenzie riding NEGASI
2nd Mia Formilan riding SONG AND DANCE
3rd Jada Marsden riding HISASHOWMAN
Class 15 Grand Prix Championship McDonald�E��E�E���E��Es Ingham Open 60 cm
1st Mia Carr riding WYNARA VICTORY
2nd Natasha Dunworth ridng AYE MARIO
3rd Micaela Cairns riding DUAL �E��E�E���E��EN�E��E�E���E��E PISTOL PEP
Class 12 AM7 Official 130cm
1st Germaine Rogato riding BLUE NICKEL
Class 11 AM7 Official 120cm
1st Kalani Broderick riding FILLY ROCKS
2nd Germaine Rogato riding BLUE NICKEL
Class 10 AM7 Feedmasters Official 110cm
1st Kalani Broderick riding FILLY ROCKS
2nd Danielle Camp riding KANTAGA
3rd Danielle Camp riding FREAKY FELIX
Class 9 AM7 Glenara Park Stud and Finch Farm Official 105cm
1st Dallas Bailey riding TULARA BALLORA
2nd Danielle Camp riding KANTAGA
3rd Dallas Bailey riding WILARK KENTUCKY
Class 8 AM7 Garrards Open 95cm
1st Jada Marsden riding HISASHOWMAN
2nd Natasha Dunworth riding ALL SPICE
3rd Natasha Dunworth riding DRAGON WARRIOR
CLASS 5 FEEDMASTER Fox Hunter for horses who have never won a 1st Place.
1st Karen Sullivan riding River Downs
2nd Jenna Arnett riding Esther
3rd Ainslie Tonks riding Champagne
Class 2 AM7 Open McDonalds 60cm
1st Dakota Tonks riding Juliet
2nd Archer Carr riding Dynamite n Gold
3rd Mia Carr riding Wynara Victory
Class 1 Junior 12 & under 60 cm
1st Archer Carr riding DYNAMITE N GOLD
2nd Mia Carr riding WYNARA VICTORY
3rd Dakota Tonks riding JULIET
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By Victoria Velton
Next week is Seafest in Cardwell, and guess what? Park Run is on the official itinerary! This means long-term Cardwell volunteer Terry gets a goodbye with a bang, and everyone else gets to run with all the visitors in town for the festival. In Palm Creek, it was a day for PB's with 5 runners improving their times.
This week in Cardwell, runners enjoyed the morning despite the summer humidity, with a juicy watermelon at the finish line proving the perfect refreshment. Congratulations to Judy who reached her 25th Park Run. With Terry�E��Es farewell just around the corner, everyone is invited to join in, run together, and help send him off in true Cardwell style.
Parkrun Results: 27th September 2025
Palm Creek #92 �E��E 22 participants
Fastest time: Jayson (20:36)
Final finisher: Erin (57:17)
PBs: Eli (27:44), Marika (30:22), Courtney (31:31), Brett (31:53), Victoria (35:28)
First-timers: Evie (28:18), Amie (28:21), Michael (54:18)
Volunteers: Erin Cerutti, Sandra Coco, Ted Cogger, Bridgette Duffy, Julie Macpherson, Matteo Mancuso
Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club is excited to announce the launch of its first Silver Salties program, designed to support fitness, movement, and social connection for locals with a touch of silver in their hair.
The program will kick off with six weeks of Chair Aerobics classes held at the Surf Club. These sessions are designed to improve range of movement, muscle tone, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness, all in a friendly and supportive environment.
To get things started, classes will run on the following dates:
Tuesday 23 September, 8�E��E�E���E��E9am and 5�E��E�E���E��E6pm
Tuesday 30 September, 5�E��E�E���E��E6pm
Thursday 2 October, 5�E��E�E���E��E6pm
With a focus on fun, friendship, and wellbeing, Silver Salties is the perfect way to stay active while enjoying the company of others. For more information or to register, email fbslsc1@bigpond.com
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Last week, the Ingham Bridge Club recently welcomed players from across North Queensland for the annual Hinchinbrook Challenge Congress, proudly supported by Hinchinbrook Shire Council�E��E�E���E��Es Community Grants funding program.
Winners
Section A: Steve Vigh & Marlies Maussen (Ingham Club)
Section B: Korma Byrne & Sandy Mollenhagen (Tully Club)
Section C: Alan Giles & Ken Muhling (Ingham Club)
Congratulations to all competitors for making it a memorable weekend of bridge, camaraderie, and friendly rivalry.
Contributed with thanks by Donna Marbelli, Councillor of Hinchinbrook Shire
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Ingham Flames gymnasts Bella and Imogen Giorcelli shone at the recent Junior State Championships for Women's Artistic Gymnastics at the Sleeman Sports Complex in Brisbane.
Imogen competed in level 4 open and placed 18th for All Around, with a 9th placing on beam and Bella competed in level 6 under 13 and placed 21st for All Around.
The athletes have been preparing for the Championships for the last few months and inspire many children in the Club with their skills and determination.
Contributed with thanks by Helen Stanton
The Herbert River Netball Association has capped off a fantastic 2025 season, celebrating with its grand final and presentation night on Friday, September 5. The evening was a showcase of talent, teamwork, and community spirit, with exciting netball matches and plenty of support from the sidelines.
A Division
Winners: Marlins
Runners Up: Renegades
Player of the Final: Amberlee Hatcher
B Division Winners
Winners: Cyclones
Runners Up: Synergy
Player of the Final: Ella Bertucci
C Division
Winners: Yellow
Runners Up: Blue
Player of the Final: Ruby Myles
The night also celebrated individual excellence and dedication to the sport.
Players of the Year:
A Division: Montana Hanson & Meghan Marbelli
B Division: Maddison Giorcelli
C Division: Ruby Cockburn
Umpire Encouragement Award: Chloe Kopeshke
Club Person of the Year: Leanne Accornero
Champion Team: Cyclones
Just two days later, on the 7th of September, Herbert River teams travelled to Tully for the annual River Cup. Despite the rain, spirits were high and the players gave their all, proudly representing the association.
It has been a year to remember for Herbert River Netball �E��E�E���E��E both on and off the court. Congratulations to all players, coaches, umpires, and supporters who made the 2025 season such a success.
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The Ingham Tennis Association hosted a big weekend of competition with the Col Casswell Shield, a tournament held in honour of Col Casswell, a man who gave so much to tennis in North Queensland.
Among those who returned to Ingham for the event was former local Scott Kittle, who reflected on fond memories of growing up in the town. Standing in front of the honour boards bearing his parents�E��E�E���E��E names, Kittle said, "s great to be back in Ingham for the Col Casswell Shield, whom I knew for over forty years. It was good to see teams from across the regions come together for such an enjoyable day of tennis.
I have so many memories of growing up and playing tennis in Ingham. Saturday afternoon fixtures would be Dad, my two sisters and myself to play, and back then all fourteen courts would be full. The Ingham Open Tournaments would draw over 300 entries, and matches would run until midnight, using every court across the district just to get through the draw.
Seeing all the Honour Boards of the Closed and Open Tournament winners, plus photos with so many familiar names, brought back great memories from those times. Hope to be back on court in Ingham again soon."
The Col Casswell Shield was established in 2023 to reinvigorate interclub tennis in North Queensland. It honours Col Casswell, who played in Proserpine, Mackay, Ayr and Home Hill, and served the Home Hill Tennis Association as secretary, club and regional delegate, and as a Tennis Queensland Board member before sadly passing away at age 60 from brain cancer.
This year�E��E�E���E��Es shield was particularly significant, coming after devastating floods earlier in the year that sent water through the clubhouse and over every court. Despite the damage, Ingham has bounced back with determination and looks forward to upgrading its facilities.
Contributed with thanks by Kate Casswell and Geoff Caso.
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"Wow, the humidity certainly came to visit today after rain earlier in the week. Well done to the 16 participants who walked or ran along the beautiful foreshore. Welcome to the visitors and congratulations to Eva on her 1st parkrun." - Cardwell Parkrun
Palm Creek #91 �E��E 27 participants
Fastest time: Duncan (18:39)
Final finisher: Sandra (1:00:46)
PBs: Zeke (25:22), Marika (30:41), Katrina (37:25), Edith (41:20), Audra (41:28)
First-timers: Brent (26:29), Lydie (41:45)
Volunteers: rin Cerutti, Sandra Coco, Bridgette Duffy, Donna Panzenbock, Amanda Towner
Photos sourced from the Cardwell Parkrun Facebook page.
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In the Consistency, M. Owens defeated J. Fenoglio in a close game before going on to win the Final game against N.Evans with 152/148.
Marie Owens is new to our club this year and it appears we have gained a very experienced member, the game was very closely fought all the way and congratulations to both ladies for playing great final bowls.
In the Club Championship Fours, J.Petersen, M.Moore, L.Dibella, E.Piotto vs T.Ackink. B.Eddleston, j.casanovas, S.Ryan with a score of 19/13.
In Social bowls, M.Moore, K.Rotondo, J.Fenoglio vs B.Eddleston, L.DiBella, E.Piotto with a score of 21/12. Followed by a win from team Irene, M.Spano, J.Casanovas vs Irene, A.Foti, J.Craven scoring 23/8.
Contributed with thanks by Sandy and Elsa of the Ingham Bowls Club
On Saturday, 20 September, the Noorla Bowling Club proudly marked its 90th anniversary with a celebration that brought members, friends, and families together. The day began with a meet and greet before guests took to the green for 21 ends of lawn bowls, followed by time to reconnect ahead of dinner.
The evening�E��E�E���E��Es atmosphere was lifted by live entertainment from Tony Fracchia, whose music encouraged dancing and plenty of laughter. Special guest Mayor of Hinchinbrook, Ramon Jayo, delivered a heartfelt speech, while Club President Gary reflected on the club�E��E�E���E��Es proud history and the dedication of its members over the decades.
Contributed with thanks by the Noorla Bowls Club
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By Victoria Velton
At the last parkrun, I was invited to learn how to become an official Parkrun Director. Sadly, this meant I could not run like I love to, but I now know how to set up, course inspect, and pack down a Parkrun. It was fun cheering you all on at the lap-turnaround. Happy 90th Palm Creek, what a huge turnout for both Parkruns, great job everyone.
I would also like to put out a call for more volunteers. Parkrun has different types of volunteer positions that suit all types of Saturday morning-ers. If you want to be active, you can tail or park-walk: calling out encouragement to participants. Or if you prefer to be more stationary, there's timekeeping and scanning barcodes as the runners cross the finish line. Parkrun doesn't happen without our wonderful volunteers, so give it a go!
Parkrun Results: 13th September 2025
Palm Creek #90 – 32 articipants
Fastest time: Duncan (18:35) PB
Final finisher: Steven (1:02:15)
PBs: Marika (30:54), Melissa (37:51), Kristina (42:01)
First-timers: Heath (28:32), Henie of AussieWalk (39:14), Charlotte (42:15), Blake (56:48), Melanie (1:01:58)
Volunteers: Blake Badenoch, Helen Digger, Bridgette Duffy, Kym Hazelton, Julie Mac Pherson, Matteo Mancuso, Steven Veltmeyer, Victoria Velton
Cardwell #352 – 17 participants
Fastest time: Nicolas (19:23) First Timer.
Final finisher: Judith (47:46)
PBs: Fiona (40:29)
First timers: Jacques (26:49), Emma (29:22), Matthew of Blyth RC (20:42)
Volunteers: Dave Ball, Zoe Ball, Judith Clarke, Terry Curtin, Jan Ferguson, Kerry Snell
Photos sourced from the Cardwell Parkrun Facebook page.
Scott had an impressive weekend, finishing second in the Kalynda Chase JDS Division 3. Some of our junior players also travelled to compete in the tournament. Scott won four games, earning his place in the final, where he was narrowly beaten by a junior from Kalynda Chase. Well done to all our juniors for their effort and sportsmanship!
These school holidays, we’re offering free tennis coaching! Sessions will be held on Tuesday, 23 September and Tuesday, 30 September from 8:30am to 11:30am for ages 5–13. Racquets will be available if you don’t have your own.
Come along, get active, and try tennis with our fully qualified coach. Fun skills development and games are guaranteed! To register your interest, call Coach Tom Casey on 0413 199 702. Sessions take place at the Ingham Tennis Courts, next to the Showgrounds.
WHAT: Free tennis coaching
WHEN: 23 September & 30 September, 8:30 am – 11:30 am
WHERE: Ingham Tennis Courts
Contributed with thanks by Geoff Caso of the Ingham Tennis Association
Calling all basketball fanatics! The Ingham Basketball Association Inc. have excitingly announced two of the biggest names in Australian basketball are coming to Ingham next Thursday the 25th of September to host an unforgettable She Hoops clinic program!
Three-time WNBA MVP and four-time WNBA Champion, Lauren Jackson and former Opals Captain, Tess Madgen will grace the Ingham State School courts from 9am to 10:30am for the community clinic.
“These incredible athletes aren’t just passing through – they’ll be right here in Ingham, running programs, inspiring our kids, and showcasing the pathway from small towns to the world stage,” shared the Ingham Basketball Association Inc. in a post online.
“This is a huge deal for our community. To have legends like Lauren and Tess in our backyard is something special – an opportunity for our players, families, and aspiring coaches to connect directly with the best of the best.”
Commonly referred to one of the greatest to ever play the game, Jackson has accumulated four Olympic Medals over the course of her basketball career and has been prestigiously inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Madgen has won several Medals including Bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Silver and Bronze in the FIBA World Cup, and has been named a WNBL Champion (2021 – 2022).
“We are also inviting local female coaches to come along, meet them, and get involved in the She Hoops initiative, which is all about empowering women and girls through basketball,” added the Ingham Basketball Association Inc.
“Let’s show Lauren and Tess that Ingham is ready to roll out the red carpet – this is one event you won’t want to miss!”
Additional details and registration information can be found online via the Ingham Basketball Association Inc.’s social media pages or via the QR code.
WHAT: She Hoops Basketball Clinic
WHEN: 9am to 10:30am Thursday, the 25th of September
WHERE: Ingham State School
Over 100 competitors from Townsville, Burdekin and Tully joined host Club Ingham Flames for the 2025 Ingham Flames Gymnastics Comp. A massive crowd of spectators supported and cheered on the athletes competing in trampoline, double mini trampoline, women's artistic gymnastics and men's artistic gymnastics.
A highlight was tumbling and trampoline displays, which featured synchronised trampolining by Momentum Gymnastics athletes, soon to be competing at National Clubs.
Trampolining is ramping up at Ingham Flames and term 4 off the back of this successful competition, which would not have been possible without the leadership and support from Katrina Dingley at Momentum Gymnastics.
Ingham Training Centre manager, Helen Stanton said, "We are grateful for Hinchinbrook Shire Council for supporting local sport through their Community Activity grant. To be able to offer a regional event for our local gymnasts to experience in front of family and friends is an amazing opportunity. It was so great to see so many happy kids doing what they love."
Head Coach, Connor Decampo said, "This event wouldn't be possible without the dedication of our local coaches and judges. I am immensely proud of you."
Last Tuesday the 2nd of September, the Lions Club of Ingham held the Annual Sportstar of the Year Awards.
The Herbert River Sub-Branch RSL in Ingham hosted the Annual Event, with over 130 people in attendance, including Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo, Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto and guest speaker 3-time Olympian Suzy Batkovic.
This year, judges Cr. Donna Marbelli, Maurie Soars and Stephen Farrell, former CEO of NQ Sports Foundation, were overwhelmed with the quality of the nominees. The Guest Speaker, Suzy Batkovic, one of Australia’s most decorated Basketball Players, gave an inspiring presentation on her sporting journey and to never give up. The guests were treated to the privilege of holding her 2 Silver and 1 Bronze Olympic Medals. She gave the athletes the hope that with persistence and hard work, making it to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics might not just be a dream.
An event like this is not possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Townsville Lime and Gypsum, Hip Pocket Work Wear, Wilmar Sugar and Carey Group.
Lions Club of Ingham Chairperson Sharon Fighera also congratulated all nominees and encouraged the athletes to continue to shine. Not everyone can be a winner tonight, but you already are just for being nominated.
The winners of this year’s Awards will be nominated by the Lions Club of Ingham for the NQ Sports Foundation Sportstar of the Year Awards, which will be held on 25th October 2025.
PDG Des Rooker – Recognition of Service Award – Awarded to a volunteer
Winner: Lenny Chiesa - Forrest Beach Surf Lifesaving Club & Crushers Rugby League
Runner Up: Maureen Lahtinen - Ingham Squash Racquets Assoc.
Team of the Year
Winner: FBSLSC U/19 Beach Relay Team
2nd: GSMC U/13 Boys Futsal Team
3rd: GSMC U/13 Junior Mixed Touch Football Team
Sports Innovation Team of the Year: GSMC Velocity Raptors - Hydrogen Powered Grand Prix
Junior Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Julian Cohen: Winner
Brax Roveda: Runner Up
Ty O’Halloran: Runner Up
Millie Bartolini: Encouragement Award
Joshua Gurnick-Stagnitta: Encouragement Award
Mikinley Blewitt: Encouragement Award
Mia Carr
Aurora Blewitt
Senior Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Liam Fascetti: Winner
Jess Furber: Runner Up
Spencer Riys: Encouragement Award
Evandah Bann
Brandon Hamilton-Kaurila
Masters Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Kelli Carbone: Winner
Para-Athlete Sportstar of the Year Nominees
Carla Pizzi: Winner
Luke Rosadi: Runner Up
Story and Photos contributed with thanks by Sharon Fighera
Find more pics here: https://tinyurl.com/26qqy462