Smiles all round as competitors hit the beach for the opening surf lifesaving carnival of the season Archie Towe, Joel Dixon, Lander Doolan, Samuel Lardi, Jimmy Felan, Eli Dixon, Owen Ruthos, Ronnie - Photo Credit Sian Bantock

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South Mission Beach was bursting with community spirit as Surf Life Savers kicked off their first carnival of the season.

Dunk Island was the perfect backdrop with bright blue skies and a gentle breeze; the stage was set for some friendly competition.  

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Around 170 Lifesavers took part in the carnival, hailing from five clubs between Mission Beach and Port Douglas. From nippers to masters, participants donned their team colours to compete in beach and water activities, showcasing the very best of their skills.  

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Camaraderie, resilience and team spirit were displayed in abundance across the two-day event, which showcased how integral Surf Life Savers are to their communities.  

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South Mission Beach was a hive of activity on Saturday, 18 July as 170 competitors from five Surf Life Saving clubs between Mission Beach and Port Douglas gathered for the first carnival of the season. With bright blue skies and the sun shining, Dunk Island framed the course and highlighted what a unique carnival this was set to be.  

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North Queensland Branch President Fiona Grant thought Mission Beach was the perfect place to kick-start the season.

“Mission Beach has one of the best beaches in the area and we tend to have it as our first carnival, conditions are always beautiful,” Ms Grant said.

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The two-day carnival featured a variety of challenges, during which Surf Life Savers from different clubs competed against one another. Competitors of different age categories - from Nippers up to Masters in their 70s - put their fitness to the test, demonstratingtheir skills in beach and water-based activities.  

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Irene Knight, President of the Port Douglas Club, won the Female Mass Board Race - a high-intensity event which sees competitors line up on the water’s edge with rescue boards, run through the surf, paddle around a set of buoys and race back to the beach.

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“It was a bit of a long range and it’s the first carnival of the season so we’re still a bit rough around the edges but otherwise that was beautiful,” Ms Knight said.

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“The sport was born out of making sure our lifesavers are fit and we’ve got the fitness and skills to actually rescue someone… and are ready to take action whenever we need to.”

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Beyond friendly competition, Ms Grant said the carnival highlighted a strong sense of community and connection within the Surf Life Saving clubs.  

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“It’s camaraderie, Surf Life Saving is really being part of a family. We all know each other and it’s a way of celebrating what we do,” she said.  

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“By joining [the surf lifesavers] you instantly have friends all around Australia, within any club wherever you go. You knock on the door and can join in with their training. It’s just one big community,” added Ms Knight.  

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The event reinforced how valuable Surf Life Savers are to local communities. If you come across them patrolling the beaches, be sure to thank them for the work they do.

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See more photos here: www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/surf-life-saving-carnival-kicks-off-season-in-south-mission-beach

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Ingham Bowls Weekend Winners

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The club has been encouraging members to catch and record as many different species as possible, and the friendly competition is clearly paying off. Great catch Greg!

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Cardwell Sportfishing Club is affiliated with the Australian National Sportfishing Association Queensland (ANSA Qld) - www.ansaqld.com.au

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(Contributed with thanks by the Cardwell Sportfishing Club)

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Best Dressed team winners

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Last weekend Macknade Bowls Club had their tropical fours carnival which brought in people from all over the region and everyone showed their tropical spirit with only the most vibrantly coloured team shirts.

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The Macknade Tropical Mixed Fours was played last weekend with teams travelling from as far as Tully and Giru, along with some of our southern visitors, competing for over $4000 in prizemoney.  

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Players were treated to our famous food fare over the weekend including a sit-down meal on Friday night and Anna’s Spaghetti on Sunday.  

It was great to see so many players dressed in tropical theme with 3 teams specifically vying for the best dressed prize.  

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After 5 rounds of hard-fought competition Dave Whiting’s team from Townsville took home first prize. Frank Ritchie’s team from Kerang came second and Elsa Piotto’s Ingham team came third.

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(Contributed with thanks by the Macknade Bowls Club)

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The Lions Club of Ingham is once again proud to present the Annual Ingham Sportstar of the Year Awards, celebrating the outstanding sporting achievements of local athletes, teams and volunteers.

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Nominations are now open, and the Club is calling on the community to help shine a spotlight on Hinchinbrook’s sporting heroes.

The awards recognize achievements from 1^st September 2025 to 1^st September 2026 and all nominees must be Hinchinbrook residents or represent a local sporting club. Categories include Junior, Senior, Masters and Para-Athlete of the Year, Team of the Year and Recognition of Service to Ingham Sport.

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We had the pleasure of our 2025 Recognition of Service winner, Lenny Chiesa, continue on to win the NQ and State Award, it’s something that we as a Club are very proud of.

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This is a unique opportunity to acknowledge not just elite performers, but also the dedication, sportsmanship and community spirit that defines Hinchinbrook’s vibrant sporting scene.

Nomination Forms are available by using the QR Code or by the link: https://dub.sh/2026Sportstar

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Further information can be obtained by contacting Sharon on 0402902887 or email sportstaringham@gmail.com

Nominations close on Tuesday, 18^th August 2026.

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Winners will be honoured at a special awards evening hosted at the RSL Ingham on Tuesday 25^th August 2026. It promises to be a night of celebration and pride as the community comes together to recognize those who have made a mark on local sport over the past year.

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Whether it’s a rising junior, a seasoned master, a dedicated volunteer, or an inspirational team, now is the time get behind our athletes and nominate Hinchinbrook’s sporting excellence.

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(Contributed with thanks by the Lions Club of Ingham)

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Photos sourced from Cardwell & Palm Creek Parkrun Facebook pages

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Palm Creek parkrun #134 – 39 participants
Fastest time: Julian Lee (26:05)
Final finisher: Kira Turner (56:28)
PBs: 6
First-timers: 7
Volunteers: V Velton, Gayle Bentley, Elliott Bentley, Matteo Mancuso, Kira Turner, Bridgette Duffy

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Cardwell parkrun #395 – 35 participants  
Fastest time: Paolo Tollennaire (18:36)  
Final finisher: Marcus Ritchie (55:24)  
PBs: 5
First-timers: 13
Volunteers: Kellie Ball, Terry McDonald, Jan Ferguson, Terry Curtin, Marcus Ritchie, Will Ritchie, Dave Ball, Jake Ball, Phoebe Pembroke, Kerry Snell

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The Herbert River Crushers vs Souths on Sunday. Photo credit: Donna Macarone

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By Peter Reitano

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Last weekend was a huge weekend of Rugby League in Ingham! Starting with Legends of League events, taking the legends around the district to visit schools, the Ingham Bowling Club, and Lee’s Hotel on Friday night. They then continued onto the Artie Gofton Oval on Saturday where 2,500 people gathered to watch several Junior Games followed by a group of NRL Legends made up with names such as Matt Bowen, Sam Thaiday, Ben Hannant plus many more players who have represented both state and country take on a team of Herbert River Rugby League Legends made up largely of players from the first 30 years of the Team's history and other big names from the district.  

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The game was evenly poised after the first half, with the NRL Legends having skipped away to a 16 – 6 lead. With approximately 10 minutes to go, young Sullivan Blanch came on the field and received the ball from 40 metres out and outran the defending tackles from many big-name players, such as one of the Cowboys' best fullbacks, Matt Bowen, to score. After his conversion, which sailed over the makeshift goalposts, the Crushers were only down by 4.  

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Jarrod Modder (a local fan who had joined the local Legends team via an Auction) then levelled the scores right at full-time. Modder had the kick to win the game for the Crushers, but he missed it, finishing the game with the score level.  

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The A-Grade Crushers then clashed with the table-topping South's Bulls on Sunday. The Bulls were too strong for the Crushers, running out winners 40 – 10. For the Crushers, tries were scored by prop Jayden Sharp, and winger Jerramaine Nean, while five-eight & Captain, Dylan Gaggiano, kicked 1 conversion.  

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The Crushers play away over the next 2 rounds against Burdekin Roosters & Western Lions.

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The Ingham Ladies Bowls Triples Championships have produced two fiercely contested games, with both matches going down to the final end.

The Rookie team of A. Burns, I. Byrns and N. Mammerella defeated G. Wright, L. DiBella and E. Piotto 23-18.

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Followed by the match of J. Johnson, D. Tomba and M. Owen edged out M. Spano, J. Fenoglio and N. Evans 19-18.

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Both games were closely fought, with the result still capable of going either way on the final end, setting up an exciting finish to the championships.

Social play also saw A. Foti, J. Casanovas and J. Craven defeat J. Bell, B. Eddleston, M. Moore and S. Ryan 20-12.

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(Contributed with thanks by Sandy Ryan)

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Before Kick off with Tully Tigers VS Cairns Kangaroo - Photo Credit Samantha_Emmi

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The Tully Tigers and Cairns Kangaroos came together on Sunday 12^th July for a special rugby match dedicated to raising awareness about Domestic and Family Violence.

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Councillor Trudy Tschui opened the event with a powerful speech that sent a clear message; “Domestic and Family Violence has no place in our homes, our communities or our future. Today we stand united in saying that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and free from fear.”  

Cr Tschui went on to acknowledge and thank the first responders; police, paramedics, firefighters and emergency personnel who are often the first to arrive in a moment of crisis and who do their jobs with courage and compassion.  

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Club President Anthony Emmi said he was honoured to have been asked to support the initiative for a second year running.  

“It makes us proud as a club that we can do something to help people within the community,” he said.

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The community turned out in full force, highlighting that clubs are about more than just the game, they are places where people come together to support one another.

A proud sponsor of the event was Tully Rotary Club, their club president Will Moran said he was delighted to see both the Tully Tigers and Cairns Kangaroos wearing purple socks in support of the initiative.  

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“The Rotary Club of Tully is proud to work with the Tully Support Centre to support this worthy cause,” said Mr Moran.  

The Tully Support Centre is a vital resource to the region and were established by community members back in 1989. They offer a variety of services including support for families and for those who require assistance with regards to Domestic and Family Violence services. You can reach out to them directly on: 07 4068 1004.

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National Resources:

1800 Respect - 1800 737 732  

Lifeline - 13 11 14  

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For Queensland Specific Support

DV Connect Womensline - 1800 811 811  

DV Connect Mensline - 1800 600 636  

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Residents are encouraged to line the route and cheer on cyclists as they journey through the Cassowary Coast this Friday in support of the Children's Cancer Institute. Photo source: Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride

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One of North Queensland's most inspiring fundraising traditions will return to the region this week, with hundreds of determined cyclists preparing to journey from Townsville to Cairns over three days, from Thursday, 23rd July, to Saturday, 25th July, in support of the Children's Cancer Institute.

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Since 1999, the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride has brought communities together through a shared commitment to making a difference, with thousands of riders helping raise millions of dollars for the nation's only independent medical research institute dedicated solely to finding the causes, prevention and cure of childhood cancer.

2026’s ride will begin at Mercure Townsville, with participants covering 112 kilometres before arriving at the Ingham Showgrounds to conclude the opening day.

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On Friday, 24th July, cyclists will make their way through the heart of the Cassowary Coast as they tackle the event's longest stage; a 169-kilometre journey from Ingham to Innisfail. Along the way, riders will conquer the iconic Cardwell Range before travelling through Cardwell, Bilyana, Tully, Silkwood and Mena Creek, stopping for lunch beneath Tully's famous Golden Gumboot.

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Residents are encouraged to line the route and cheer on the riders as they pass through the region, while motorists are reminded to take extra care and remain mindful of cyclists and support vehicles travelling along the Bruce Highway throughout the day.

Following a memorable day showcasing the beauty and hospitality of the Cassowary Coast, riders will rest overnight at the Innisfail PCYC before embarking on the final 93 kilometre leg to Cairns.

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To learn more about the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride or make a donation to the Children’s Cancer Institute, visit www.tcbr.org.au.

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What: Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride

When: Thursday, 23rd July, to Saturday, 25th July

Where: Townsville, Hinchinbrook Shire, Cassowary Coast Region, and Cairns Region

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Teachers and staff had the chance to practice key skills such as serving, rallying and positioning, while also becoming familiar with the rules and scoring. Photo supplied

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Pickleball is bouncing into our school this term, bringing plenty of energy, teamwork and fun to the courts. Over Weeks 1–5, students will be learning the skills, strategies and rules of pickleball during PE lessons, developing their coordination, fitness and game sense in a fast-paced sport that is easy to learn and enjoyable for all ages.

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The excitement started early in Week 1, when our teachers were treated to an afternoon of learning and laughter at the tennis courts. Staff had the chance to practice key skills such as serving, rallying and positioning, while also becoming familiar with the rules and scoring. It was a fantastic opportunity to build confidence and ensure students are supported by teachers who can coach the game with clarity and enthusiasm.

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Pickleball has quickly gained popularity around the world because it is accessible, inclusive and social. With smaller courts and simple rules, it encourages participation from beginners while still offering challenge and strategy as skills grow. Most importantly, it promotes good sportsmanship, communication and perseverance - qualities we value in our students both on and off the court.

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We are especially looking forward to our culminating family pickleball evening, where students will have the opportunity to showcase what they have learned by playing alongside their families. It will be a wonderful celebration of learning, movement and community, and a great way for families to share in the joy of PE.

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Jeff Skinner (2006 Reserve Grade Premiership winner & Player of GF) & Brenden Seri (2006 A-Grade Premiership winner)  

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By Peter Reitano

Photo credit: Peter Reitano

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In the A-Grade game Brothers skipped away to a 16 point lead-in, with the rest of the half ebbing and flowing both ways before Crushers winger Gausu Dau crossed out wide and with captain and five eighth Dylan Gaggiano's conversion, the Crushers were down 16 - 6.  

Secondrower Jaia Poppi then carried some defenders over the line and with another conversion by Gaggiano, the Crushers were down by 4 at halftime.  

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Lachlan Erba then showed the ‘Erba skill’ of his family by backing himself from 10 metres out to score, evening things. With Gaggiano's conversion, the Crushers hit the lead for the first time that game with 25 minutes to go.  

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Brothers then scored a try out wide that went unconverted, which meant Brothers led by 2 with eleven left.  

With 90 seconds to go, the Crushers were awarded a penalty that Gaggiano converted from 40 metres out to tie the scores 20-all.  The team had once again came back from adversity and a deficit to almost pull off the win.  

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In the Reserve grade, the Crushers were eager to continue on their winning streak, particularly after their close away game against Brothers earlier in the season, but they never really got going. They did have one final opportunity in the final minutes, but that was called back for a knock on with Brothers running out winners 38 nil.  

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This coming Saturday night the Legends of League game will be played. Then the Crushers play Souths on Sunday.  

On Friday night a group of the 2006 & 2016 Premiers gathered together to watch the games with a lot of them set to be joined by other past winners in the Local legends team this Saturday night.  

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Photo credit: Christopher Spencer

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The Herbert River Jockey Club welcomed racegoers back to the track on Saturday for another successful running of the Ingham Gold Cup, with locals and visitors enjoying an afternoon of speedy country racing and beautiful entrants in the fashions on the field competition.

Five local races kept punters entertained throughout the day, while friends and families gathered trackside to soak up the atmosphere that has made the Gold Cup one of the district's most anticipated annual events.

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2026 Ingham Gold Cup Racing Results

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Race 1 COSCA Accountant’s QTIS Maiden Plate 1200m

3 Shadyvale AI Trainer: Melissa Bieri Jockey: Jason Babarovich

6 Volare Trainer: Troy Clive Jockey: Rachel Shred

7 Bestov Trainer: Lachie Manzelmann Jockey: Ben Kennedy

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Race 2 Lahtinen Electrical Benchmark 50 Handicap 1200m

1 Hot Pursuit Trainer: Matthew McGuire Jockey: Mitch Goring

8 Shere Khan Trainer: Scott Cooper Jockey: Masayuki Abe

2 Maravillas Trainer: Lachie Manzelmann Jockey: Lacey Morrison

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Race 3 Ingham Mazda Benchmark 65 Handicap 1000m

8 Airborne Hotdog Trainer: Scott Cooper Jockey: Masayuki Abe

1 Cochrane Trainer: Lachie Manzelmann Jockey: Jaimee-Lee Devine

2 Midas Star Trainer: Stephen Bush Jockey: Ivo Fry

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Race 4 Win News Ratings Band 0-55 Handicap 1400m

5 Redlights On Trainer: Stephen Bush Jockey: Samantha Pointon

4 Sound The Bugle Trainer: Bob Davie Jockey: Tasha Chambers

1 Tymon Trainer: Matthew McGuire Jockey: Mitch Goring

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Race 5 Ingham Cellarbrations Ingham Gold Cup Benchmark 60 Handicap 1600m

4 Heir Jordan Trainer: Alex Maliff Jockey: Samantha Pointon

1 Mission House Trainer: Matthew McGuire Jockey: Mitch Goring

6 Yorokobi (NZ) Trainer: Lachie Manzelmann Jockey: Ben Kennedy

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Ingham Mazda Fashions on the Field Results

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Lifelong Supports Man of the Track

Runner Up: Hayden Martin

Winner: Phillip Burger

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The Bloom Room Townsville Millinery

Runner Up: Karen Lahtinen

Winner: Camilla Richardson

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NQ Travel & Cruise Classic Lady of the Track

Runner Up: Sara Adcock

Winner: Monique Appi

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INGHAM MAZDA Contemporary Lady of the Track

Runner Up: Rachel Pennisi

Winner: Taneale Engler

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Spotter's Choice Winners

Spotter's Choice Runner-up: Ashley Hiscox

Spotter's Choice Winner: Kymberlee Cockrem

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See more photos here: www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/gold-cup-glory-races-into-ingham

Runners of all ages and abilities will take to the sands of Mission Beach this Sunday. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Multisport Club Inc.

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Runners, walkers and families are invited to hit the sand this weekend as the annual BEACHRUNS event returns to Mission Beach on Sunday, 19th July.

Hosted by the Cassowary Coast Multisport Club, the popular event showcases the region's stunning coastline, with participants tackling scenic courses along the beaches of South Mission Beach, Wongaling Beach and Mission Beach, all with panoramic views of Dunk Island.

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Whether you're chasing a personal best or simply looking for a fun morning out, there is an event to suit all ages and abilities! Participants can choose from the 21-kilometre half marathon, 10km and 5km runs, a 12km team relay (4 x 3km), or the free 1km Children's Dash.

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New for 2026, the event's start and finish precinct will be based in North Mission Beach, with festivities kicking off bright and early from 7am.

Event organisers are encouraging locals and visitors alike to gather a team, lace up their running shoes and make a weekend of it in one of Tropical North Queensland's most picturesque destinations.

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Online registrations will close at 5pm on Friday, 17th July via cmclub.org.au/events/beach-runs-mission, while entries for the 1km Children's Dash will be available on the day!

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WHAT: BEACHRUNS

WHEN: Sunday 19^th July, 7am

WHERE: North Mission Beach

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Lions President Sue Patch, new Lions member Julie Stone, new Lions member Michael Bell, Lions Second Vice President Caroline Dyer. Photo supplied

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At the Cardwell Lions Changeover Meeting held recently at the Lions Hall, new members Julie Stone and Michael Bell were inducted and welcomed to the club by incoming Secretary and Treasurer Lion Thea Ormonde.

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The club's Board of Directors for 2026/2027 comprises Lion Sue Hart (President), Lion Thea Ormonde (Secretary/Treasurer), Lion Callan Ihle (First Vice President and Membership Officer), Lion Caroline Dyer (Second Vice President), and Directors Lion Billie Fletcher, Lion Maureen McGrath and Lion Lee Porter.

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Anyone interested in becoming a member of Cardwell Lions is encouraged to contact Membership Officer Lion Callan Ihle on 0424 079 925.

Meetings are held on the third Sunday of each month at the Lions Hall, commencing at 9am.

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Cardwell Lions will hold its annual Car Boot Sale on Saturday, August 8, from 8am to 12 noon, alongside the Lions Club's Biggest BBQ. All proceeds from the barbecue will be donated to Childhood Cancer. To book a stall, contact Caroline on 0407 168 004.

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(Contributed with thanks by Lee Porter, Cardwell Lions Member)

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