Students Shine At Annual Combined Secondary Schools’ Ball On Saturday, 6 September, the Ingham State High School auditorium shimmered with elegance and excitement, as almost 200 students from all secondary schools across the district gathered for the annual Combined Secondary Schools’ Ball. Students from Ingham State High School, Gilroy Santa Maria College, and St Teresa’s College, Abergowrie, came together for a night of celebration, friendship, and unforgettable memories. Representing Y
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Gilroy Santa Maria College is preparing to mark a major milestone, celebrating 75 years of excellence in education with a special event on Wednesday, 30 October 2025. Originally scheduled for last year but postponed due to severe weather events, this long-awaited celebration will bring together current and former students, staff, and members of the wider community to reflect on the College’s rich history and look ahead to an exciting future. It is a wonderful opportunity to honour the gen
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Keeping Queensland Homes Fire-Safe When it comes to protecting your family, a few simple precautions can make all the difference. That’s where Safehome, a free initiative by the Queensland Fire Department (QFD), comes in. Designed to help householders identify and eliminate fire and general safety hazards, Safehome offers personalised advice right where it matters most – in your own home. Upon request, firefighters will visit your property at a time that suits you, inspecting for potentia
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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 throu
Read the full storyIn a gallery filled with vibrant colours, bold brushstrokes, and imaginative interpretations of birdlife, one painting quietly drew people in — The Watcher by Lisa Bishop.
Over the past month, this tender tribute to the Tawny Frogmouth has captured the hearts of visitors to the TYTO Regional Art Gallery, earning Ms Bishop the coveted People’s Choice Award at the 10th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards.
Unlike the more flamboyant entries, The Watcher stood out for its stillness and soul.
With its masterful depiction of the Tawny Frogmouth’s natural camouflage and its signature sideways glance, the painting evoked a sense of intimacy and nostalgia.
For many, it wasn’t just a bird; it was a memory, a moment, a connection.
Ms Bishop, a Chiltern-based artist, is known for weaving elements of fantasy and whimsy into her work, with the occasional touch of darkness. Her art is deeply rooted in the landscapes and wildlife of North East Victoria, where she grew up on a family farm surrounded by national parks.
The Watcher is more than a painting, it’s a personal homage to the quiet observers of nature and a heartfelt nod to the bond she shared with her father.
“This piece honours the Tawny Frogmouth and the quiet joy of spotting these hidden birds with my dad,” Ms Bishop said.
“It’s about those small, magical moments in nature that stay with you.”
The People’s Choice Award, sponsored by Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto, was determined by public vote throughout the exhibition. Cr Donna Marbelli, who is Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Community and Culture Service Portfolio Councillor, praised the exhibition’s impact.
“It’s clear this work resonated deeply with our gallery visitors, and we’re so proud to see such meaningful art celebrated by the community." Cr Marbelli said.
“A huge thank you to everyone who visited the exhibition, cast their votes, and supported our local and interstate artists.
“We’re also incredibly grateful to our sponsors, including Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto, whose support helps make this event possible.
“We’re already looking forward to the 11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards and continuing to showcase the incredible talent and rich birdlife that make Hinchinbrook so special.”
With 106 entries from artists across Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria, the competition was fierce, but The Watcher resonated deeply, earning the most votes and widespread admiration.
The awards night, held on Friday, 1 August 2025, welcomed over 280 guests to celebrate a decade of the Birdlife Art Awards.
The event continues to shine a spotlight on the rich birdlife of the Hinchinbrook region, from the iconic TYTO Wetlands—home to over 230 bird species—to the broader natural landscapes that inspire artists far and wide.
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