TOP NEWS

Turtle-y Epic!

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

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Hinchinbrook Heroes Honoured In King’s Birthday Awards

Two 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

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Jayden McNeill The Mindful Solver

By 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

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More Than Fantasy

A 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

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Chamber Coffee April Connect Update

April 30, 2025

Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism held their monthly Coffee Connect last week, being hosted by local business Wild Local. There was a very strong attendance at this event, with Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter and KAP Senate candidate, Robbie Lyon.

Rebecca and Dom Zaghini provided a delicious light snacks and gave the audience an overview of their business journey from inception to their current location, the diverse range of products they provide and some insight into their plans for future growth. There were many conversations, discussions and sharing throughout the group, with a strong focus on how the business community is fairing following the recent flood event.

Key issues identified during these conversations, focussed on the challenges of attracting applicants for the many employment opportunities currently on offer and how the lack of applicants is further impacting business recovery processes. Issues relating to transport connectivity during the flood event, both in relation to known hotspots that impact the community on a regular basis during weather events and also the exceptional situation that occurred as a result of Ollera Creek bridge being washed out. Once again the vulnerability of the whole of North Queensland supply chain being affected, when the Gairloch Washaway and Seymour River are flooded, was a very robust discussion point.

The Coffee Connect events provide an opportunity for any business owners, managers and employees to come together in a relaxed environment to gain a better understanding of the diversity of offerings available locally and to discuss with their piers some of the challenges and shared experiences of running a small business. An invitation is extended to anyone from the business community to attend this monthly event. Follow the Chamber socials for updates on when and where the next Coffee Connect event will be held.

IN OTHER NEWS

Vinnies Re-Opened!
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Halifax Hotel’s Closure Marks A Pause, Not An End
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Councillor Column councillor Kate Milton 17 June
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Did You Know 17 June
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Minute With The Mayor 17 June
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