Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The May long weekend will see the Ingham Squash Courts become a hive of activity as players from across North Queensland compete in the Ingham Squash Club’s Northern Region Silver Junior Squash Tournament to be held over the Saturday and Sunday (2nd & 3rd) of the May weekend. This tournament is the final event in a 4-tournament series and will give players their last opportunity for selection in the Northern Region Redbacks team to compete at the Queensland Junior Squash Championships, which will be held during the June school holiday on the Gold Coast. In conjunction with the tournament, the Ingham Squash Club will celebrate the official opening of the newly air-conditioned courts with the attendance of the Honourable Member for Hinchinbrook, Mr Wayde Chiesa, and the Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor, Mr Ramon Jayo. The Ingham Squash Club was successful in obtaining a Queensland Government grant from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund for $90,000 to provide solar panels and air-conditioning of the squash courts and upgrading of light fixtures. The club is very honoured to have Mr Chiesa available to officially view the upgrades provided by that grant and to officially open the centre on behalf of the state government. The Squash Club has also been successful in obtaining from the Hinchinbrook Shire Council a local government Community Support Grant to assist with the running of the Junior Squash Tournament over the weekend, and this event will be officially opened by HSC Mayor, Mr Jayo. The club has received several grants over the past years to help with the running of Junior and Masters squash tournaments at the centre and the club is appreciative to have the Mayor attend the official opening. The official opening will take place at 9:30am, May 2, at the Ingham Squash Courts on McIllwraith Street. Members of the public are invited to attend and to stay and watch the top North Queensland junior squash players compete for selection in the Northern Redbacks Squash team. Contributed with thanks by Maureen Lahtinen, President of the Ingham Squash Club
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Residents across the region are being invited to reset, refocus and recharge at a free two-day workshop with Allan Parker, OAM, coming to Collinsville this May. Hosted by NQ Dry Tropics, the Regional Brain Reset workshop will be held on Friday 8 and Saturday 9 May at the Opal Ridge Motel Conference Room. The event is designed to equip attendees with practical tools to better manage pressure, improve communication and maintain mental resilience—both on-farm and in everyday life. Across the two days, participants will learn how to reset their thinking using five simple steps aimed at cutting through noise, handling pressure more effectively and reading people more clearly. The workshop will also introduce three practical skills to help people talk about pressure early, without situations escalating. Attendees can also expect to gain straightforward habits to support long-term mental wellbeing, alongside strategies to stay level-headed when things don’t go to plan and keep conversations on track when it matters most. The workshop forms part of the Landholders Driving Change (LDC2) project, funded by the Queensland Government through the Queensland Reef Water Quality Program. The initiative focuses on supporting landholders and regional communities with practical skills and knowledge that extend beyond the paddock. With places limited, locals are encouraged to secure their spot early and take advantage of this opportunity to build resilience, strengthen communication skills and invest in their mental wellbeing. The Collinsville workshop is one of a series of events aimed at supporting regional Queenslanders, providing tools that can make a real difference both professionally and personally. To find out more, visit www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1564970?utm_content=416225772&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&hss_channel=lcp-87151812. What: Regional Brain Reset Workshop When: Friday 8 and Saturday 9 May Where: Opal Ridge Motel Conference Room, Collinsville
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May marks Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, encourage conversations, and take meaningful steps toward creating safer homes and communities for everyone. Domestic and family violence can impact people of all ages, backgrounds and circumstances. It often goes unseen, and many individuals and families experience it in silence. This month is an opportunity to shine a light on the issue, reduce stigma, and remind our community that help is available. In the Hinchinbrook Shire, we are committed to fostering a community where people feel safe, valued and empowered to seek assistance when they need it. At Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, we work alongside individuals and families who may be experiencing or have been impacted by domestic and family violence. We offer a range of services designed to meet people where they are, recognising that every person’s experience is different. Through a compassionate, person-centred approach, the Centre assists individuals to connect with appropriate services, counselling support, and guidance to safely navigate their circumstances. We offer support for adults, including court assistance for victim-survivors, recognising that both emotional recovery and navigating legal processes can be complex. Our approach is flexible and delivered through centre-based sessions or outreach within the community. Our aim is to create safe, welcoming environments where people can build confidence, develop coping strategies, and begin to heal from their experiences. Domestic and family violence prevention is not only about responding to crisis - it is also about education, early intervention, and building strong, respectful relationships within our community. By working together, we can create environments where people feel safe, heard, and respected. In recognition of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month this May, our Domestic Violence team will be hosting the Ingham Community Legal Service Expo. This initiative aims to raise awareness, provide accessible information, and strengthen community understanding around domestic and family violence. The Expo will offer an opportunity for community members to learn more about the supports available at the Hub, as well as connect with a range of community legal organisations working together to support safety, wellbeing, and justice within the Hinchinbrook region. If you or someone you know may benefit from support, we encourage you to reach out. Taking the first step can feel difficult, but you do not have to do it alone. Please contact Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre on 4776 1822 or email communitysupport@hcsc.org.au for more information. _________________________________________________________________________________ Designer notes: please put this segment below in a box with a red border around it. HEADING: For Those Seeking Support, There Are A Number Of Free And Confidential Services Available 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732 Lifeline – 13 11 14 DVConnect Womensline – 1800 811 811 Women’s Legal Service QLD – 1800 957 957 Relationships Australia – 1300 364 277 Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre – 4776 1822 If you are in immediate danger, please call 000. To anyone experiencing domestic or family violence - you are not alone, and you deserve to feel safe, respected and supported. Help is available, and there are people who will walk alongside you when you’re ready.
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Caption: Photo credit: Palm Creek & Cardwell Parkrun Facebook pages
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Palm Creek Park Run
#111 – 16 participants
Fastest Time: Julian Lee (19:08)
Final Finisher: Kira Turner (55:22)
Volunteers: Sandra Coco, Bridgette Duffy, Matteo Mancuso, Donna Pazenbock, Edith Turner, Kira Turner
Cardwell Park Run
#373 – 14 participants
Fastest Time: Luke Tamblyn (22:12)
Final Finisher: Anita Davina (52:37)
PB: Grame Lake (52:31)
Volunteers: Dave Ball, Kellie Ball, Terry Curtin, Anita Davina, Luke Tamblyn
Photo source: Facebook
Noorla Bowls Club has enjoyed a lively start to the year, with strong participation across multiple events and competitions bringing members and local clubs together.
Twenty members took part in the club’s ladies’ first official day back, marking a successful return to the greens. The event was won by Jan Leech and Thomas Garate, while Rosemary extended a warm welcome to all participants and officially welcomed Jan and Colleen as dual members of the club.
The club continues to encourage community involvement, inviting anyone interested in a fun and social afternoon of lawn bowls to join Wednesday social bowls. Open to all genders, participants are asked to register by phoning 4776 2149 before 1pm, after which teams will be allocated. All affiliated club members are also welcome to attend.
Meanwhile, the Sunday Morning Jackpot Pairs competition is currently underway. Members wishing to take part are encouraged to find a partner and contact Joe Mugica or message the club on 4776 2149 before 12pm on Saturday for a chance to compete for the jackpot.
Looking ahead, Noorla Bowls Club will contest its first men’s interclub competition for 2026, taking on Ingham at Ingham on 14 February, with a 1.30pm start. Members available for selection are asked to nominate their availability on the club noticeboard or contact Albert on 0417 032 581 as soon as possible.
On Saturday, the club hosted a full green of rinks to commemorate the Juven and Johnny Accornero Memorial Day, creating an enjoyable afternoon of bowls and camaraderie among participating local clubs.
The winning team, led by Thomas Garate, included Jan Johnson, Gina Wright and Michael May. Tony Serra’s team, featuring Kev Lawlor, Gary Ketterer and Richard Crossman, finished second, followed by Michael Blake’s team with Brierly and David Guazzo in third place. Joe Mugica’s team, comprising Jim Dickerson, Keryn Haupt and David Scott, secured fourth place. The Sportsman’s Prize was awarded to Elsa Piotto’s team.
Gary thanked all attendees and volunteers who helped make the day a success and paid a heartfelt tribute to his parents, who were long-standing members of the club. The prizes were presented by Gary’s children and grandchildren, adding a special family touch to the commemorative event.
Gail and Rosemary dressed to impress in Aussie clothes! Photo source: Facebook
Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club is celebrating a proud achievement after several of its junior members were named in the North Barrier Branch (NBB) State Team late last year.
The talented group is now preparing to represent the region at the Surf Life Saving Queensland Youth State Championships, which will be held from 19 to 22 February at Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast.
Selected in the State Team were Shaniyah (Under 15), Antwoine (Under 15), Stephen (Under 15), and Jahmarley (Under 14), alongside coach Lenny Chiesa, whose leadership has played a key role in the athletes’ development.
The championships will see young surf lifesavers from across Queensland compete in a range of events, testing their skills, fitness and teamwork at the highest youth level.
Forrest Beach SLSC congratulated the athletes on their selection and wished them the very best as they prepare to take on the state’s top junior competitors.
The club said it was incredibly proud to see its juniors recognised for their hard work, dedication and commitment to surf lifesaving.
Shaniyah, Antwoine, Stephen, and Jahmarley will head to theQueensland Youth State Championships later this month. Photo source:Facebook
The Government is delivering cost-of-living relief Queenslanders can rely on, with Round 2 of the Play On! Sports Vouchers program opened on January 29th.
Queensland families can apply for a $200 voucher for each eligible child aged between 5 and 17 to help cover the cost of membership, registration or participation fees with registered sporting clubs.
It’s just one of the ways the Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy and helping more Queensland kids get active and involved in sport.
Each eligible child can receive one voucher per financial year, with a portion of vouchers reserved for children living with a disability and those living in regional and rural areas.
The Government committed $62.5 million each year for four years to help alleviate the rising cost of living across the State.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander encouraged Queensland families to take advantage of the program.
“Queensland is the home of Australian sport, and the start of a new school year is a great time for children to get active or try a new sport,” Minister Mander said.
“We know cost of living is a real concern for Queensland families, and we don’t want that to be a barrier to children being active.
“I encourage eligible parents, carers and guardians to apply as soon as possible for Round 2 and to kick off the school year being active and healthy.”
Children who received a voucher in Round 1 are not eligible to receive another voucher in Round 2.
More information about Play On! is available at: www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/playon
Activity providers can register here: www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/playon/providers/register
What Play On! Sports Vouchers can be used for:
Include: Activity provider membership and/or participation costs such as access to coaching, facility use and events, or weekly game fees.
Exclude: Individual items such as uniforms, jerseys, boots, equipment, etc.
The Ingham ladies enjoyed their 2026 Opening Day, playing in reasonably pleasant conditions.
In the matches, A. Burns, N. Mammerella, and M. Owen defeated J. Johnson, M. Moore, and J. Craven 27 to 10. A. Foti, K. Rotondo, and S. Ryan recorded an 18 to 11 win over B. Eddleston, M. Spano, and T. Rhodes. D. Toomba, A. Rutherford, and E. Piotto also had a strong performance, beating I. Byrnes, T. Mawson, and L. Melvin 20 to 16.
On Sunday, players hope to take to the greens for the re-scheduled Australia Day afternoon matches. Club Rink Championship nominations are now open!
(Contributed with thanks by Sandy of the Ingham Bowls Club)
By Victoria Velton
Both parkrun courses expirienced wonderful mornings last weekeknd. Cardwell had a lovely sunrise and the course was flowing with volunteer walkers, visitors and cute dogs. Palm Creek had such a lovely cool breeze that I wished I could have run the course that morning, but alas I was directing instead.
A special shout-out goes to Julian, a regular top-runner at Palm Creek, who not only shaved off seconds for a new PB but was also seen chasing down Tones & I. You’ll catch up to her one day, Julian!
Parkrun Results: 31st January 2026
Palm Creek #110 – 35 participants
Fastest time: Julian Lee (18:58)
Final finisher: Simon Niam (53:16)
PBs: Julian Lee (18:58), Eli Towner (27:37), Sean Krumin (31:24)
First-timers: Jesse Jayasuria, Matisse Scovazzi, Julie Pope, Sarah Jane Daly, Alex Meehan
Volunteers: Bridgette Duffy, Simon Niam, Donna Panzenbock, Amanda Towner, V Velton
Cardwell #372 – 21 participants
Fastest time: Dave Ball (25:33)
Final finisher: Joshua Shipard (56:55)
First-timers: Greg Huppatz, Lucas Ritchie Gan
Volunteers: Dave Ball, David Clarke, Terry Curtin, Anita Davina, Jan Ferguson, Joshua Shipard, Robyn Shipard
As 2026 begins, it’s the perfect time for locals over 50 to focus on health, fitness, and staying active. Donna’s Total Body Fitness is offering one-hour exercise classes designed to improve strength, mobility, and overall wellbeing, all in a friendly, supportive environment.
Over 50's classes start soon:
Ingham on 28th January (bookings essential due to limited spots)
Forrest Beach on 2nd February.
Halifax on 5th January
Both Halifax and Forrest Beach sessions have plenty of room, welcoming anyone looking to get moving while enjoying fun and friendship.
Personal training clients will also be contacted soon to restart individual sessions for 2026. Donna is excited to see familiar faces and welcome new participants as everyone works towards fresh fitness goals.
To secure your spot or find out more, call 0408 180 542 or visit Donna’s Total Body Fitness Facebook page and DM to book into a class today for your healthier, more active year starts here.
Are you looking for a sport that your child can play all year round? A sport that offers kids fantastic physical, mental, and social benefits, improving fitness, coordination, strategic thinking, and confidence while providing stress relief and sportsmanship, all in a fun, year-round indoor air-conditioned environment?
Then SQUASH is the sport for you!
Ingham Squash club is proud of its strong tradition of representative players stemming from local primary and secondary schools. Last year, the North Queensland School Team was represented by eleven club juniors with one junior member going on to represent Queensland. At club level, our juniors have also represented the Northern Region Redbacks team in 2025 as well as the Queensland Sharks team.
So, if you want a sport that ticks all the boxes: Fit body, sharp mind, great friendships and fun times - Try Squash!
By Victoria Velton
Last Saturday was a really nice start to the weekend for everyone who joined us at Parkrun. It wasn’t too hot, and there was a great, upbeat spirit on the course. It’s wonderful to see people keeping up with their New Year’s health goals and striving to set new personal bests with a minute here, a few seconds there. Ultimately, it all adds up to a healthier lifestyle.
Keep that positive mindset going, and thank you to all our volunteers!
Parkrun Results: 24th January 2026
Palm Creek #109 – 26 participants
Fastest time: Jayson Catasti (20:27)
Final finisher: Matteo Mancuso (55:15)
First-timers: Nicholas Ocarroll, Orlando Turner, Rohana Rogan-Darvill
Volunteers: Maria Bertocchi, Ted Cogger, Bridgette Duffy, Julie Mac Pherson, Matteo Mancuso, Amanda Towner, V Velton
Cardwell #371 – 20 participants
Fastest time: Thomas Ablett (19:34)
Final finisher: Matthew Gardiner (58:47)
PBs: Desiree Lake (45:02), Graeme Lake (54:36)
First-timers: Thomas Ablett, Gayle Walkom, Liz Nash, Lauren Hall, Jordan Brewer
Volunteers: Kellie Ball, David Clarke, Jan Ferguson, Matthew Gardiner, Kerry Snell, Luke Tamblyn
Photos sourced from Palm Creek and Cardwell Facebook pages.
photos: please use the ones where they're holding frames 1st.
Good news for swimmers at Forrest Beach, the stinger net is back in the water. After the recent wild weather, the net had been removed for safety, but it has now been restored, giving beachgoers an added layer of protection while enjoying a dip.
While the stinger net provides extra safety, the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club reminds everyone to remain cautious and follow simple safety tips when in the water.
Stay Safe Tips For Beachgoers:
Lifesaver Patrol Times:
Saturday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
With these precautions, everyone can enjoy a safe and fun weekend at Forrest Beach. Grab your stinger suit, head to the sand, and enjoy the sun and surf. If you spot any dangers in the water, be sure to alert one of the friendly lifesavers.
Squash is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding sports you can play, offering a perfect blend of fitness, fun and community. Played in a safe, friendly environment, squash welcomes all ages and skill levels, from beginners to experienced competitors. Games are fast-paced and engaging, making exercise feel less like a chore and more like a social activity you look forward to.
One of the great advantages of squash is that it’s played indoors, in air-conditioned comfort, so weather is never a barrier. This makes it an ideal year-round sport in North Queensland conditions. With coaching provided, new players can quickly build confidence, improve technique and enjoy the game from the very start.
Ingham Squash has a proud history, having produced many Queensland and North Queensland representatives over the years. This strong tradition reflects the quality of coaching, commitment and community spirit within the club. Whether you’re chasing fitness, friendships or future success, squash delivers on all fronts.
The rain stayed away for our two open days which was great as there hasn’t been too many gaps for the start of 2026. Its was great to see juniors coming out and supporting the open days getting active and learning some new skills.
Tom Casey and Richard Peeke guided the juniors through movement skills and hand and eye coordination skills. Hire of the courts has been popular and its great to see the community getting active in 2026! Thank you to Powerlink for their support!
(Contributed with thanks by Geoff Caso)
By Victoria Velton
Though I missed last weekend’s Parkrun, I’m glad to see that so many turned up. To showcase all their amazing efforts, this week’s results include lots more photos. I’ll be sure to come along next week, and I can’t wait to see you all out on the course!
Parkrun Results: 17th January 2026
Palm Creek #108 – 24 participants
Fastest time: Julian Lee (21:40)
Final finisher: Donna Panzenbock (49:18)
PBs: Amie Brown (28:22), Paula Rand (33:58), Bernard Di Bartolo (45:32)
First-timers: Erin Carmelito, Zainab Albadran
Volunteers: Lynda Amisano, Bridgette Duffy, Courtney Lee, Julie Mac Pherson, Matteo Mancuso, Donna Panzenbock
Cardwell #370 – 19 participants
Fastest time: Luke Tamblyn (23:41)
Final finisher: Kerry Snell (56:40)
First-timers: Desiree Lake, Graeme Lake
Volunteers: Kellie Ball, Terry Curtin, Anita Davina, Jan Ferguson, Kerry Snell, Luke Tamblyn
With the holidays behind them, members of the Ingham Bowls Club are looking forward to rolling into the new year in style!
In an announcement made late last week, the club welcomed all members to the Ann Street clubhouse to attend an official meeting this Sunday, the 18th of January commencing from 1pm. NDBA President, Michael Blake will lead the meeting to advise members of the new open pennant programme in preparation for the year ahead.
The Ingham Tennis Association is inviting local kids to get active these school holidays with two free tennis coaching sessions this week.
The sessions will be held on Thursday, 15 January from 8:30am to 11:00am and Saturday, 17 January from 8:30am to 11:00am, offering a fun and inclusive introduction to tennis for children aged 5 to 13 years.
No prior experience is required, and racquets will be provided, making it easy for beginners to take part. Qualified coaches will be on hand to guide participants through basic skills, drills, and games in a safe and supportive environment.
These free coaching days are a great opportunity for kids to enjoy the outdoors, stay active, and try a new sport during the school holidays.
The Ingham Tennis Association sincerely thanks Powerlink for sponsoring the sessions and supporting opportunities for young people in the local community.
What: Free Junior Tennis Coaching
When: 15 January & 17 January, 8:30am
Where: Ingham Tennis Association Courts
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