TOP NEWS

Rescue Pet Of The Week Hug-able Harvey!

He's a lively and affectionate guy with a beaming, big smile that will instantly win your heart. Harvey is all about giving and receiving love. He's super protective of his home and family, ensuring that his humans feel safe and secure at all times. Harvey is a burst of energy and playfulness, always up for a romp in the yard. He thrives on human interaction so that he can soak up all the attention and love you have to offer. Ideal for a family or individual looking for a devoted companion, Harvey promises a lifetime of loyalty and affectionate moments. If you're seeking a spirited friend who will double as your home's guardian and your go-to for joyful playtimes, Harvey is the one for you. His enthusiasm for life and his endearing personality will make an enchanting addition to your household, creating a bond that grows stronger with each passing day. Would you like to meet Harvey? Please complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html. Included in adoption fee of $490: DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated & on PROHEART DOB: 27/10/2022 Sex: Male Breed: Australian Cattle X American Staffy Kid friendly: Yes, Older kids Cat Friendly: Untested Other dogs: No Fences: 6ft

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Nominate Your Flood Heros

The February 2025 floods left an undeniable mark on Hinchinbrook Shire, affecting every corner of the community and testing resilience like never before. In response, Hinchinbrook Shire Council is introducing a new category in the 2026 Australia Day Awards — the Flood Hero Recognition — to honour the countless individuals who selflessly stood up to support their neighbours and help rebuild our community. Mayor Ramon Jayo said the overwhelming spirit shown during those difficult days. “These floods impacted us all, and throughout the crisis, ordinary people showed extraordinary kindness and courage,” Mayor Jayo said. “They didn’t seek recognition; they acted out of love and a deep sense of responsibility to their community. “This award is about recognising their quiet heroism and the strength they gave us when we needed it most. “This is the community’s chance to thank those who gave so much without expecting anything in return.” The Flood Hero Recognition category is unique. It’s not about a single winner but about honouring the many hands that held us together. Council invites the community to nominate anyone who inspired them from volunteers to emergency responders to neighbours who simply helped in small but meaningful ways. From celebrating outstanding citizens of all ages, to recognising cultural and sporting achievements, community events, and acts of heroism during the 2025 floods — there’s a category for every kind of contribution. Judges may reassign nominations to ensure they’re recognised in the most fitting category. Nominations across all categories are now open and will close at 5.00pm on Monday 15 December 2025. Visit www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/community-environment/australia-day-celebrations/how-to-nominate/ for more information, visit the Council office at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham or call 4774 4600. Award recipients will be celebrated at the Australia Day event on 26 January 2026 at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall.

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Record Turnout For 2025 Tilapia Tournament Helps Protect Waterways

Warrina Lakes came alive from 2–4 October as families and anglers of all ages gathered for the annual Tilapia Tournament — a much-loved Cassowary Coast tradition that unites the community while protecting the local environment. A record 710 participants took part in this year’s event, reeling in 604 tilapia, an invasive pest fish species that threatens native aquatic habitats. Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood said removing tilapia from local waterways plays an important role in restoring the health of Warrina Lakes and protecting native species. All fish caught were deep-buried on site to ensure safe disposal. “The Tilapia Tournament shows how local events like this can have a real impact, not just by removing tilapia from our waterways, but by bringing people together to learn, work as a team and care for our rivers and lakes for years to come,” Mayor Millwood said. Mayor Millwood and Councillors Nick Pervan, Renee McLeod and Jeff Baines joined participants throughout the event, encouraging catch efforts and discussing future opportunities for Warrina Lakes. Warrina Lakes is a great open space, and once you have been there you can’t wait to return,” Councillor Pervan said. “Seeing families, including mums, dads, aunties, uncles, and grandparents down there and catching fish shows how much the community and in particular the kids love attending each year,” he said Travelling families from Brisbane, Tully and Mission Beach also joined in, highlighting the event’s regional appeal. Councillor Baines presented 32 prizes across 18 categories, recognising the skills and enthusiasm of the region’s most dedicated young anglers. The tournament’s success was made possible through 32 local sponsors, who contributed over $9,600 in prizes and helped run activities such as face painting and a sausage sizzle. Special thanks were extended to Bek & Joe’s Donuts, Innisfail Mini Rail, and Goodstart Early Learning for helping create a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. As the last fish were measured and buried, one message was clear: that events like the Tilapia Tournament not only bring people together but help safeguard the Cassowary Coast’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

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Our Lady Of Lourdes Shines At Frank Fraser Lecturette Finals

Our Lady of Lourdes students have once again demonstrated their outstanding public speaking skills at the annual Frank Fraser Lecturette District Final, held on 16 October and hosted by Ingham State School. Sponsored by Rotary, the event brought together talented young speakers from across the district to showcase their confidence, preparation, and creativity. Representing Our Lady of Lourdes were Asha Goldfinch, Ruby Gori and Cianne Lyons, who each delivered carefully crafted speeches that reflected their strong communication skills and thoughtful perspectives. The judges faced a difficult task, with every student presenting their work to an exceptionally high standard. In a proud moment for the school, Cianne was announced as the 2026 Frank Fraser Lecturette Competition winner for her inspiring speech titled “The Power of Positive Thinking.” Her performance captivated both the audience and the judging panel, earning well-deserved praise. Staff and families played an important role in supporting the students’ success, with special thanks extended to Ms Phillips, Mr Cianciullo, and Mrs Quabba for their guidance and encouragement throughout the preparation process. The school congratulates all three students on their dedication, confidence, and success in representing Our Lady of Lourdes with pride and excellence.

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July 8, 2025

Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival Announces 2025 Dates and Coral Kingdom Program!

Mark your calendars! The highly anticipated Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival is set to ignite Airlie Beach from Friday, August 1st to Sunday, August 3rd, 2025, promising an immersive weekend of celebration and Reef themed events and art. The 2025 Festival theme is Coral Kingdom.

This beloved annual event invites locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the magic of the Whitsundays, showcasing the region's vibrant culture and its unique connection to the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef.

Festival Committee Chair, Margie Murphy, expressed the committee’s excitement for the new dates and program release.

"This year's lineup celebrates everything that makes the Whitsundays extraordinary, offering a unique blend of entertainment, community engagement, and a deep appreciation for our incredible Great Barrier Reef. We’re inviting everyone to join us for a truly unforgettable experience," Margie said.

The 2025 festival is packed with a dazzling array of FREE events for all ages, including:

● Whitsunday Regional Council Fireworks on the Foreshore: Kick off the festival with a spectacular display lighting up the night sky while browsing night markets and enjoying the array of finger-licking food on offer.

● Rotary Street Parade: This colourful procession through the main town brings together schools, businesses and non-profits to showcase their passion for the reef.

● Revvin' the Reef Car Show powered by Enzed Whitsunday and Hogs Breath Cafe: Lining the main street of Airlie Beach is an extensive collection of cars, bikes and trucks, all shined to perfection and proudly displayed by owners both locally and from away.

● Ark Energy Family Fun Day: Enjoy a day dedicated to smiles and laughter with activities for the whole family, join Reef Custodians and learn more about sea country and the connection we all share with this natural wonder.

● Tassal Immerse Art Installation: Experience the 8m humpback whale and calf installation and recycled artwork transform the Airlie Beach foreshore into a reef on land. Showcasing local artists and their innovative and sustainable works deepen the Festival’s connection to the reef.

● Coral Sea Marina Resort Lantern Parade: Children and adults alike join this procession that weaves along the water’s edge arriving into the festival precinct on dark. A breathtaking procession to watch.

Live Entertainment

Part of the Great Barrier Reef Festival’s mission is to deliver exceptional FREE live entertainment for the community. In 2025, that mission has been taken to another level with the support of Main Stage sponsor, at Hotel Group.

Friday Night Entertainment

● Kicking off the festival will be a Welcome to Country leading into a musical theatre performance from Proserpine High School Seagrass Theatre Group.

● Taking the stage late into the night, and continuing the showcase of outstanding youth talent, are DJ’s and high energy family trio Obisun.

Saturday Night Entertainment

● Live on the Main Stage for their first Whitsundays appearance is Caravana Sun, hailing from Southern Sydney, they are renowned for their captivating live shows, blending driving atmospheric guitar riffs with swirling analogue synthesis to create an irresistible party atmosphere. With over 500 global performances since their formation in 2010, this four-piece delivers an energetic sound that has evolved from ska and reggae to build powerful, unique musical crescendos.

● Flanking Caravana Sun on the main stage and sponsored by longtime festival supporter, Magnums Airlie Beach, is a taste of the brand new, electrifying cabaret show, Nostalgia.

Sunday Entertainment

● Encapsulating the Airlie Beach vibe, Sunday afternoon entertainment is laid back and features festival favourite David Flower, two time Golden Guitar Award Winner Brad Butcher, Indie Australian Folk Fusion JC and the Tree.

Whitsunday Regional Council Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright said The Great Barrier Reef Festival is one of the most vibrant celebrations on our region’s calendar, showcasing not just our stunning reef but the heart and spirit of our community.

"This festival brings locals and visitors together to share in what makes the Whitsundays truly special — our natural beauty, our creative energy, and our strong community pride,” she said.

"With the Coral Kingdom theme, we’re inviting everyone to dive even deeper into the magic of the reef and celebrate the connections we all share to this global treasure.

"Events like this are vital for supporting our local economy, inspiring community pride, and reminding us all why the Whitsundays is the heart of the Great Barrier Reef."

Save the Dates! Great Barrier Reef Festival August 1st – August 3rd, 2025 Airlie Beach, The Whitsundays For full program details visit www.greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au

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