The Tyto Conference Centre was filled with joy, pride, and absolute cuteness overload on Saturday May 17, as Hinchinbrook celebrated its annual Baby Welcome Ceremony. Held in the beautiful wetlands, the event marked a record turnout, with 50 newborns officially welcomed into the community. Mayor of Hinchinbrook, Ramon Jayo, expressed his delight at the overwhelming participation, saying, "It's amazing to see, we normally have in 30-40 but today we have 50 babies to welcome. We are very pleased
Read the full storyby Victoria Velton Harry Berger and Stephanie Hubinger’s lives are deeply intertwined with their hometown. From their humble beginnings to their impactful roles in the region, their story is one of dedication, resilience, and community spirit. Harry Berger, originally from Western Australia, arrived in the area in 1959 as part of his military service with the Army’s Survey Corps. His work in surveying and mapping was vital for opening up the region. Harry’s team played a pivotal role in recordi
Read the full storyLucinda recently found itself in the national spotlight as the Today Show rolled into town as part of their regional roadshow. Host Tim Davies and his crew brought a vibrant energy to the community, showcasing the unique charm and warmth that Lucinda and the surrounding areas have to offer. For Tim Davies, it was a welcome return to a place he holds dear. "It's my second time here, and it's been so good to come back and experience the lifestyle here," he said. "It's been great being in the regi
Read the full storyThe countdown is on! The highly anticipated Link2Country Expo, presented by CANEGROWERS, is just around the corner, making its debut on May 23rd and 24th at the Ingham Showgrounds. This action-packed, two-day event is set to bring the agricultural sector to life, connecting local communities to hands-on experiences, career opportunities, and much more. With just a week to go, excitement is building as preparations for the event come to a close. The expo will feature trade stalls hosted by indus
Read the full storyA colourful new curation of natural scenery has been splashed across the exterior of one of Cardwell’s most beloved cafes, showcasing the brilliant brushwork of the talented Louise Broadbent.
“I grew up practicing art, as my dad was an art teacher,” shared Louise.
“I’ve attended multiple private classes and workshops over the years, but you’d probably best describe me as a self-taught artist.”
Over the past 25 years, Louise has led an impressive career as an artist and educator, teaching high school students across North Queensland before opening her own private art school for children within the Cairns Shire where she taught over 60 students each week aging from 6 to 17 years. At present, Louise has taken up her paint brushes full-time, taking a break from teaching to focus on colouring the state, one mural at a time.
To date, Louise’s talents have been exhibited at businesses and establishments in Mission Beach, Yungaburra, Cairns, Townsville and now Cardwell at both Adrift Café and the Cardwell Library.
“I have won multiple prizes over the years, including first prize for the Cairns Regional Exhibition and held a solo exhibition at The Drill Hall Studio, Townsville in 2023, which was a great success,” added Louise.
“One of my biggest commissions was for Regis Aged Care, Redlynch, Cairns, with huge 2m paintings hanging in each ward!”
With plans to continue expanding her skillset and trialling different techniques, Louise hopes to incorporate new inspirations to produce pieces with a touch of magic intertwined with each brushstroke.