Community Day last Thursday brought together everyone from juniors to seniors, and a few firemen, to enjoy the formal re-opening of the community facilities at TYTO. There was story time and robotics, along with computer classes and colouring. The cake was cut and councillors and community alike enjoyed the sweetness of jovial conversations among the stacks of the beloved library.
Read the full story
The countdown is officially on for the biggest race day in the Herbert River as the 2025 Ingham Gold Cup is set to thunder into 69 Marina Parade track on Saturday, the 12th of July! This popular 18+ event promises a full day of local racing action, fashion, food, and fun. With only a few days to go, preparations are in full swing, and the weather has been picture-perfect, setting the stage for another fantastic Ingham Gold Cup. Gates open at 11am, and racegoers are encouraged to pre-purchase
Read the full story
First Deaths to Johnstone Division Records show that the first death in Cardwell was on 7th March 1864, and the first burial in the cemetery was that of a six-month-old female child later in 1864. The first European baby born in Cardwell was George Cardwell Peters, on October 9th 1864, and in 1866 the Province of Cardwell was proclaimed. The telegraph line reached Cardwell in December 1869 after five men lost their lives from Jungle Fever during its construction from Townsville. Cardwell’s first
Read the full story
Fans of legendary American country rock are in for a real treat when the Kings of Country Rock Tour hits the Lucinda Hotel on Saturday, 13th September 2025. This two-hour stage spectacular is much more than a tribute show. It captures all the sounds, energy and excitement of two of the biggest bands of the 1970s — the Eagles and Creedence Clearwater Revival. Featuring a cast of internationally respected musicians, the show promises a high-energy, crowd-pleasing experience that will have audienc
Read the full storyHinchinbrook Shire Council has adopted its 2025–2026 Budget, shaped by the realities of recovery and the need to build stronger foundations for the future.
The $55.1 million Budget, handed down at Lannercost Street in Ingham, prioritises rebuilding critical infrastructure, renewing core services, and investing in the capacity to deliver for the Hinchinbrook community, both now and in years to come.
Mayor Ramon Jayo said Council is very aware that residents and businesses are doing it tough right now, and that’s been front of mind throughout the process.
“The reality is — costs are rising, infrastructure is ageing, and the pressure on councils is increasing. But we’re stepping up,” Mayor Jayo said.
“We’ve worked hard to keep rates affordable while still delivering what’s needed — from roads and drainage to parks, waste services, and disaster response.”
The overall increase in Council’s rates, charges and utility revenue will be 4.79%. On average, it’s about a $4.10 rise per week across general rates and utility charges combined. For around 79% of residential ratepayers, the general rates part of that works out to about $1.32 extra a week.
To ease cost-of-living pressure, Council is offering:
· $323,000 in rates discounts for not-for-profit organisations
· Continuation of the 20% pensioner rebate (up to $200), alongside the State Government concession
· A 10% rates cap for residential and farming properties
The Budget also includes a $7.4 million Capital Works Program featuring 50 projects, including $1.5 million in joint funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments.
Council is also renewing its fleet and plant, including equipment for open space maintenance, road and drainage works, and essential machinery and vehicles that enable more reliable service delivery across the region.
“The February flood event was a stark reminder that we must build resilience,, not just recover, but be better prepared for what comes next,” Mayor Jayo said.
“Much of our infrastructure is aged and in urgent need of attention. This Budget is honest about those realities — and focused on practical, long-term solutions.”
Visit hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/corporate-publications-and-reports for more information.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Life Publishing Group Ltd.
