Tasman Turtle Picnic Day Shire Success Scores of locals and travellers flocked to TYTO Wetlands as Tasman Turtle returned with craft, food, activities, and family fun. With a rock climbing wall, circus acts, laser tag, pony rides, and a petting zoo, there was something for everyone. Music filled the air, even getting Tasman dancing, and the park buzzed from start to finish. Faces were covered with ice cream and fairy floss, but most importantly big smiles. Deputy Mayor Mary Brown happily remark
Read the full storyTwo respected members of the Hinchinbrook region have been named in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours, receiving national recognition for their dedication to the community and their service over many years. Patrick Brown, Officer in Charge at the Ingham Ambulance Station, has been awarded the Ambulance Service Medal, one of the highest honours available to an Australian paramedic. With 46 years of experience, most of it in rural and regional Queensland, Mr Brown has long been regarded as a stea
Read the full storyBy Victoria Velton In the quiet coastal town of Taylor’s Beach, Jayden McNeill is solving more than just colorful puzzles; he’s solved his way to global recognition. A Rubik’s Cube champion with international acclaim, McNeill’s story is one of perseverance, precision, and passion. It all started when a seven-year-old Jayden received a Rubik’s Cube for Christmas. Like many, he shelved it after failing to solve it. But years later, inspired by classmates in high school, he revisited the cube and
Read the full storyA Tool For Real-World Readiness When most people hear “LARPing” (Live Action Role-Playing), images of medieval knights and fantasy creatures might spring to mind. But for a growing community in Townsville, LARPing has evolved far beyond weekend cosplay, it’s becoming a valuable tool for real-world training and personal growth. The newly launched Townsville chapter of Swordcraft, Australia’s largest medieval battle and role-playing game, brings enthusiasts together every fortnight. What began as
Read the full storyRegistrations are now open for one of the Burdekin’s most iconic events, and the excitement is building! The renowned Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships will take place on the 31st of May as part of the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival. This event continues to attract visitors from across the state and beyond, and cane farmers from the Hinchinbrook Shire are encouraged to take part.
The Championships are a true celebration of the Burdekin’s cane farming heritage, showcasing the strength, skill, and determination of the region's competitors. Whether experienced cane cutters or first-timers eager to take on the challenge, the event welcomes all participants.
Held at a historic cane paddock in Home Hill, this event is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of the Burdekin community, its culture, and the hardworking spirit that defines it.
There are multiple competition categories available, including the Under 35 Years Competition, 35 – 55 Years Competition, Over 55 Years Competition, Ladies Cup, Ladies Novice, Corporate Challenge (3 teams of 4), Cut, Top and Load Relay (4 teams of 4), and the prestigious Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships Final.
With plenty of action to keep the crowd captivated, this day is set to be a highlight of the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival. Gates open at 10:30am, with food stalls, entertainment, and activities for the whole family throughout the day.
To register, visit www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au, follow the links to the Hand Cane Cutting Championships, and don’t miss the chance to be part of something special to the Burdekin community.
The organisers look forward to seeing participants from Hinchinbrook join in the excitement!
WHAT: Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival
WHEN: 30-31 May
WHERE: Burdekin