TOP NEWS

Spooky Fun At Seniors Morning Coffee Club

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) enjoyed a spooky twist on their Seniors Morning Coffee Club this week, celebrating Halloween on 24th October. The morning also included a special birthday celebration for October, with warm wishes to Joan Oldham — happy birthday, Joan! Attendees enjoyed a morning filled with Halloween-themed decorations, a few festive costumes, and plenty of laughter. Fun activities included a Halloween trivia challenge and several rounds of Bingo, making it a fantastic morning shared with wonderful company. The next Coffee Morning will be held on Thursday, 7th November. Anyone interested in joining in can contact Desley at the HUB for more details on (07) 4776 1822.

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Gilroy Santa Maria College Celebrates 75 Years Of Education Excellence

Gilroy Santa Maria College marked a remarkable milestone on Wednesday, 30 October 2025, celebrating 75 years of education, faith, and community with a morning of reflection and festivity. Originally planned for last year but postponed due to severe weather, the long-awaited celebration brought together current and former students, staff, clergy, and community members to honour the College’s proud history and enduring legacy. The morning commenced with a liturgy led by Bishop Tim Harris of the Catholic Diocese of Townsville, setting a reverent tone for the occasion. Parish Priest Father John Kunnathumadappallil and Father Sylvester Emetuche from the Catholic Diocese of Townsville joined the ceremony, sharing in the blessings and prayers of the ceremonial mass. Among the many attendees was Bob Mitting, known affectionately as the “Barefoot Gilroy Boy”, who, along with several long-time past students, travelled from near and far to take part in the celebrations. Guests enjoyed guided tours of the College grounds, revisiting familiar spaces and exploring the many changes that have taken place over the decades. Inside the hall, displays of memorabilia, including vintage uniforms, old textbooks, alongside club and class photos, stirred fond memories and conversation, capturing the spirit of 75 years of growth and connection. The event provided an opportunity to celebrate the generations who have shaped Gilroy Santa Maria College into the vibrant learning community it is today, while also looking forward to the College’s future with pride and great optimism.

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Hinchinbrook Festival Of Events Gallops Into Week Three

The Hinchinbrook Festival of Events is entering week 3 of the event calendar, and the organisers are extremely pleased with the attendance and participation at the many events and celebrations delivered to date. The overwhelming and ongoing support from the local and visitor community has exceeded the organisers' expectations. Data recorded to date from each event indicates the majority of the ticketed events have been sell-outs, with the “free to enter” events exceeding previous attendance numbers. As the calendar continues to roll around, the next major event within the “Hinchinbrook Festival of Events” calendar is the NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier - Hinchinbrook Cup Race Day on the 15th November at the Ingham Race Course! This event promises a full day of horse racing, fashion, and socialising that will not disappoint! Being a family-friendly event, a day of exciting trackside entertainment for the whole family is assured. Gates open at 11:00am on Saturday morning, with five local races. Local and southern bookmakers and Sky Racing are onsite for those who want to have a flutter. Live music and a DJ will entertain the crowd, with a bar and canteen open to keep the revellers fed and thirst-quenched. The spectacular “Fashions on the Field” is always a highly contested event and children’s amusements provide entertainment for the younger audience. This year, there is a new fashion category - “Living the Hinchinbrook Way – 4850” - which will add another interesting aspect to the fashions. So get ready to enjoy a day at the races, Hinchinbrook style! Pre-purchase Adult Entry Tickets ($15 each) and Tables ($60 per table – seats 10) online. With kids 0-14 years being free, and teens 14-17 years only available at the gate on race day. For more information, or to purchase Entry Tickets and/or Tables, visit https://hinchinbrookchamber.com.au/hinchinbrook-cup-race-day-family-event/

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Rescue Pet Of The Week: The Masked Zorro!

Just like the dashing masked vigilante, Zorro is a handsome, well-dressed young feline with a heart full of promise and the opportunity for a bright future. Zorro may initially seem a bit shy, but give him just thirty minutes, and you'll find yourself enchanted by his gentle nature and sweet demeanour. Once he trusts you, he transforms into a dedicated purr machine, letting you know you've won his heart with his melodic symphony of affection. Zorro will do best in an environment where patience and plenty of love are abundant. His progression from a shy feline to an endearing companion makes him a truly rewarding pet to welcome home. Will you be the one to offer Zorro the loving space to settle and thrive? Please fill in an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html. Included in adoption fee of $210 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated. DOB: 1/10/2024 Sex: Male Breed: DSH Colour: Tuxedo Kid friendly: Yes Cat Friendly: Yes Dog Friendly: Untested Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors

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July 17, 2025

Event Guide | 15 July 2025

Tuesday 15 July

Senior Men's Social Group
9:00am - 12:00pm at HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd, Ingham.
Are you a man over 60, or 55 if you identify as ATSI, looking for a place to belong, connect and share good times? Meet other men, enjoy meaningful conversations, and participate in fun activities. Please contact Desley at: 07 4776 1822.

Pavone Memoriam Special
9:00am - 2:00pm
Oasis Coffee Shop invites the community to come in and enjoy $4 hamburgers and a piece of cake, offered in bittersweet memoriam to the Pavone family – a heartfelt gesture that honours their legacy and lasting connection to Ingham.

Halifax QCWA Morning Teas
9:00am – 12:00pm at the QCWA Hall, Halifax.
Join the Halifax QCWA Branch for free morning teas on Tuesday 15 July, and Friday 18 July. Drop in for a cuppa, a chat, card games, board games, and a browse through bric-a-brac, clothing, and shoes. Bringing the community together one cuppa at a time!

Wednesday 16 July

Hinchinbrook Stitchers, Social Sewing Group
9:00am - 3:00pm at Victoria Mill Social Club Hall, Ingham.
Quilting, crocette, knitting and sewing, all crafts are enjoyed at at this club! Bring whatever you need and your own lunch and refreshments for a lovely day of being creative. Contact Jackie for further detials on: 04 2771 7605.

Brothers Bingo
9:30am at the Brothers Sports & Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
The beloved Brothers Bingo is ON! Running continuously since 1967, this event has been a cornerstone of the community, fostering a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Come along, reconnect with familiar faces, and enjoy the excitement of Bingo once again.

Canasta & Cards
1:30pm - 3:30pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd.
Enjoy games of canasta among other card games with your fellow card-players! Please call Desley to register your interest: 07 4776 1822.

Hinchinbrook Blue Light AGM & Volunteer Call-Out
6:30pm at the Blue Light Hall, Argaet Street, Halifax.
This much-loved community group urgently needs new volunteers and members to keep going. Without increased support, the group may have to fold. If you can spare some time or are interested in getting involved, please step forward and help keep this program running strong. For more information, come to the meeting or contact 0448 113 837 or email hinchinbrook@bluelightqld.org.

Social Darts
7:00pm in the Upstairs Area, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
Social darts have been back in full swing for five weeks, and the enthusiasm is stronger than ever. Players are enjoying the newly upgraded upstairs area and the fresh amenities. Be sure to check in before 7pm to join the competition and experience the friendly spirit of the game.

Thursday 17 July

CWA Craft Group
9:00am - 12:00pm at the Forrest Beach CWA Hall, 6 Palm St.
Everyone is welcome to do your own craft or join an organised craft activity. For just $2.00 enjoy the company of other crafters, all levels of experience and craft types welcome! Our gold coin donation library is also open with books aplenty, CDs, DVDs, and puzzles too!

Technology Classes
10:00am – 1:30pm, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Want to get more confident with computers, smartphones, tablets, or social media? These friendly, step-by-step classes are designed to help you navigate the digital world with ease. There are two free sessions available: Computer Classes from 10:00am to 11:30am, followed by Technology Classes from 12:00pm to 1:30pm. Bookings are essential, contact the Library on 07 4776 4600 or email: library@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

Sensory Storytime
10:30am - 12:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73-75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Babies and toddlers will enjoy play-based learning with hands-on sensory play activities designed to encourage development of fine and gross motor skills. Each session caregivers will have the opportunity to ask questions or discuss concerns with a Queensland Health Clinical Nurse.

Mahjong
1:00pm – 3:00pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd.
Join in friendly games of mahjong and test your tile skills with fellow enthusiasts! Please call Desley to register your interest: 07 4776 1822.

Friday 18 July

Halifax QCWA Morning Teas
9:00am – 12:00pm at the QCWA Hall, Halifax.
Join the Halifax QCWA Branch for free morning teas on Friday 18 July. Drop in for a cuppa, a chat, card games, board games, and a browse through bric-a-brac, clothing, and shoes. Bringing the community together one cuppa at a time!

Seniors Morning Coffee Club
9:30am - 11:30am at the Noorla Bowls Club, 32 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
Offering lovely morning tea, games, trivia, prizes, and can pick you up from your residence if required depending on your address. Currently doing bus pick-ups to Halifax and around Ingham. We charge a cover fee of $3pp. which goes towards morning tea. To register your interest and RSVP, please contact Desley at: 07 4776 1822.

Friday Trade
4:00pm - 11:00pm Upstairs Area, the Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
Join us as Friday trading returns, bringing the community back together after recent challenges. While the kitchen is still being restored, snacks will be available to ensure everyone feels welcome. Our usual jackpot games and raffles will continue, come along for good company, nibbles and fun games.

Saturday 19 July

Parkrun
7:00am in Palm Creek, Ingham & The Cardwell foreshore.
A FREE weekly 5k exercising event for participants of all standards, an opportunity for all the local community, regardless of age or gender, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy the outdoors and get physically active. We want to encourage people to run, jog, walk and volunteer together! Grab a post park run coffee at JK’s Café in Ingham or at the Seabreeze Café in Cardwell with us!

Markets at the Mosaic
8:00am - 12:00pm in Mercer Lane, Ingham.
Enjoy a fantastic morning at Markets at the Mosaic and browse a wonderful showcase of handmade and homemade products, entertainment, and delicious treats! You'll find something for everyone, there's jewellery, soft crafts, beautiful artwork and so much more!

Sunday 20 July

Ingham Raintree Community Markets
8:00am – 12:00pm at Rotary Park, Ingham.
Held under the shade of Ingham’s iconic raintrees in the heart of Rotary Park, this relaxed and friendly market offers a wonderful variety of stalls. Enjoy local crafts, bric-a-brac, fresh produce, real coffee, tropical plants, and local made treats! All stallholder fees are proudly donated to Palliative Care Ingham, supporting a vital local cause. For more information or to book a site, please contact Linda on 0436 047 358.

Monday 21 July

Chat Room
9:30am - 10:30am at the Community Support Centre, 52 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
A social group for like-minded adults who would like to gather, socialise and enjoy a chat with their coffee. No need to sign up, just drop in and have a cuppa!

Creative Corner Craft Group
2:00pm - 3:00pm at The HUB, 100 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
This crafty event is free and materials will mostly be provided. However on occasion, depending on the activity, members will be asked to bring consumables. Please contact Desley, Shannen or Mei at: 07 4776 1822.

Free Girls Squash Program
3:30pm – 4:30pm at the Ingham Squash Courts
All girls are invited to take part in a free 6-week squash training program with accredited coaches. Secondary school sessions run Mondays from 21 July; primary school sessions are on Wednesdays from 23 July. No experience needed and all equipment is provided. Come along, make new friends and enjoy a fun, active hour each week — rain, hail or shine! To register, contact Kim on 0427 579 196.

Tuesday 22 July

Cafe Crawl
9:00am - 11:00am Cafe location provided on RSVP.
Join us on a cafe adventure through our community. Come along as we explore the different cafes available to us within our community and have a chat, sip a coffee and a bite to eat. If interested please RSVP with Mei at: 07 4776 1822.

Senior Men's Social Group
9:00am - 12:00pm at HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd, Ingham.
Are you a man over 60, or 55 if you identify as ATSI, looking for a place to belong, connect and share good times? Meet other men, enjoy meaningful conversations, and participate in fun activities. Please contact Desley at: 07 4776 1822.

Wednesday 23 July

Hinchinbrook Stitchers, Social Sewing Group
9:00am - 3:00pm at Victoria Mill Social Club Hall, Ingham.
Quilting, crocette, knitting and sewing, all crafts are enjoyed at at this club! Bring whatever you need and your own lunch and refreshments for a lovely day of being creative. Contact Jackie for further detials on: 04 2771 7605.

Brothers Bingo
9:30am at the Brothers Sports & Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
The beloved Brothers Bingo is ON! Running continuously since 1967, this event has been a cornerstone of the community, fostering a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Come along, reconnect with familiar faces, and enjoy the excitement of Bingo once again.

Canasta & Cards
1:30pm - 3:30pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd.
Enjoy games of canasta among other card games with your fellow card-players! Please call Desley to register your interest: 07 4776 1822.

Free Girls Squash Program
3:30pm – 4:30pm at the Ingham Squash Courts, 98 Cartwright Street, Ingham
All girls are invited to take part in a free 6-week squash training program with accredited coaches. Secondary school sessions run Mondays from 21 July; primary school sessions are on Wednesdays from 23 July. No experience needed and all equipment is provided. Come along, make new friends and enjoy a fun, active hour each week — rain, hail or shine! To register, contact Kim on 0427 579 196.

Social Darts
7:00pm in the Upstairs Area, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
Social darts have been back in full swing for five weeks, and the enthusiasm is stronger than ever. Players are enjoying the newly upgraded upstairs area and the fresh amenities. Be sure to check in before 7pm to join the competition and experience the friendly spirit of the game.

Girls Only Sip 'n' Hit
7:30pm – 9:00pm at the Ingham Squash Courts, 98 Cartwright Street, Ingham
Join us for six weeks of social squash and socialising—just for the ladies! Whether you're new to the game or returning for more, you're welcome to come along for some fun, fitness and friendly vibes. Complimentary wine and nibbles are included each week, and all equipment is supplied. Come solo or bring a friend—either way, it's the perfect midweek break. For more information, contact Kim on 0427 579 196.

Thursday 24 July

CWA Craft Group
9:00am - 12:00pm at the Forrest Beach CWA Hall, 6 Palm St.
Everyone is welcome to do your own craft or join an organised craft activity. For just $2.00 enjoy the company of other crafters, all levels of experience and craft types welcome! Our gold coin donation library is also open with books aplenty, CDs, DVDs, and puzzles too!

Technology Classes
10:00am – 1:30pm, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Want to get more confident with computers, smartphones, tablets, or social media? These friendly, step-by-step classes are designed to help you navigate the digital world with ease. There are two free sessions available: Computer Classes from 10:00am to 11:30am, followed by Technology Classes from 12:00pm to 1:30pm. Bookings are essential, contact the Library on 07 4776 4600 or email: library@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

Playtime At The Library
10:30am - 12:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73-75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
A fun-filled learning session, which incorporates stories, songs and rhymes aimed at children 0-5 years of age. Each session caregivers will have the opportunity to ask questions or discuss concerns with a Queensland Health Clinical Nurse.

Mahjong
1:00pm – 3:00pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd.
Join in friendly games of mahjong and test your tile skills with fellow enthusiasts! Please call Desley to register your interest: 07 4776 1822.

Friday 25 July

Tea and Trivia
9:00am - 12:00pm at TYTO Conference and Events Centre, 73 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
Come along and join in the fun of trivia, bingo, raffles, locally baked delights, tea and coffee! It's $12pp and tickets can be purchased from Council's Main Office, but hurry! Tickets sell fast and bookings are essential! For more info call: 4776 4600 or email: events@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

Friday Trade
4:00pm - 11:00pm Upstairs Area, the Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
Join us as Friday trading returns, bringing the community back together after recent challenges. While the kitchen is still being restored, snacks will be available to ensure everyone feels welcome. Our usual jackpot games and raffles will continue, come along for good company, nibbles and fun games.

Saturday 26 July

Parkrun
7:00am in Palm Creek, Ingham & The Cardwell foreshore.
A FREE weekly 5k exercising event for participants of all standards, an opportunity for all the local community, regardless of age or gender, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy the outdoors and get physically active. We want to encourage people to run, jog, walk and volunteer together! Grab a post park run coffee at JK’s Café in Ingham or at the Seabreeze Café in Cardwell with us!

Ingham UpTown Markets
8:00am - 12:00pm at 34 Lannercost Street, Ingham.
Enjoy a morning browsing the talents of the Hinchinbrook community at the Ingham UpTown Markets featuring local handmade makers, growers and creators. Tasty treats, beautiful plants, and crafted delights! New stall holders are always welcome, contact Barbara for details at: 07 4776 1748.

Hoy & Cent Sale
1:30pm at the Halifax CWA Hall, 6-8 Rupp St, Halifax.
Fill your afternoon with a fun game of Hoy! It's just like bingo but with a deck of cards to match instead of numbers and everyone can have a go. There's also a lovely Cent Sale and afternoon tea nibbles available.

The Wedding Party Fundraiser
From 6:30pm at the RSL Ingham, 4 Hawkins Street.
Join the community for a wedding-themed night of live entertainment, dancing and laughs—all to raise vital funds for Ingham’s local palliative care service. Tickets are $50 and must be booked by 18 July—contact Tammy on 0431 066 782. Dress up as a bride, bridesmaid, flower girl, groom, groomsman, page boy or guest and enjoy a night to remember! Live music by local band Obsession. A great night out for the whole family!

2025 Ingham Toyota Forest Rally
Starting and Service Park at the CWA Hall, Long Pocket.
High-octane action returns to Long Pocket for the 2025 Forest Rally! Rally cars will be flying by on E85 ethanol “cane juice”, with all the thrills motorsport lovers expect. After Party: Location to be announced — check www.tcac.com.au Spectator times and updates available at: www.tcac.com.au For more announcements: facebook.com/Townsvillecityautosportsclub

Sunday 27 July

Forrest Beach Markets
8:00am – 12:00pm at Corbett Park, Forrest Beach.
Come and enjoy a relaxed Sunday by the sea. Browse a huge variety of stalls with great gifts, local goods, and yummy treats. Enjoy a BBQ breakfast or brunch, live music, entertainment, giveaways, and fun games and prizes for the kids – perfect for a fun day out with the family. Wiggle your toes in the sand, grab a coffee, let the kids play in the park, and soak up the sunshine! For stallholder enquiries, contact Ian Tutin on: 0488 295 088 or phone: 0437 297 370.

Monday 28 July
Chat Room.
9:30am - 10:30am at the Community Support Centre, 52 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
A social group for like-minded adults who wouldlike to gather, socialise and enjoy a chat with their coffee. No need to sign up, just drop in and have a cuppa!

Creative Corner Craft Group.
2:00pm - 3:00pm at The HUB, 100 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
This crafty event is free and materials will mostly be provided. However on occasion, depending on the activity, members will be asked to bring consumables. Please contact Desley, Shannen or Mei at: 07 4776 1822.

Tuesday 29 July
Senior Men's Social Group.
9:00am - 12:00pm at HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd, Ingham.
Are you a man over 60, or 55 if you identify as ATSI, looking for a place to belong, connect and share good times? Meet other men, enjoy meaningful conversations, and participate in fun activities. Please contact Desley at: 07 4776 1822.

Wednesday 30 July
Hinchinbrook Stitchers, Social Sewing Group
9:00am - 3:00pm at Victoria Mill Social Club Hall, Ingham.
Quilting, crocette, knitting and sewing, all crafts are enjoyed at at this club! Bring whatever you need and your own lunch and refreshments for a lovely day of being creative. Contact Jackie for further detials on: 04 2771 7605.

Brothers Bingo.
9:30am at the Brothers Sports & Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
The beloved Brothers Bingo is ON! Running continuously since 1967, this event has been a cornerstone of the community, fostering a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Come along, reconnect with familiar faces, and enjoy the excitement of Bingo once again.

Canasta & Cards.
1:30pm - 3:30pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd.
Enjoy games of canasta among other card games with your fellow card-players! Please call Desley to register your interest: 07 4776 1822.

Social Darts.
7:00pm in the Upstairs Area, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
Social darts have been back in full swing for five weeks, and the enthusiasm is stronger than ever. Players are enjoying the newly upgraded upstairs area and the fresh amenities. Be sure to check in before 7pm to join the competition and experience the friendly spirit of the game.

Thursday 31 July
CWA Craft Group.
9:00am - 12:00pm at the Forrest Beach CWA Hall, 6 Palm St.
Everyone is welcome to do your own craft or join an organised craft activity. For just $2.00 enjoy the company of other crafters, all levels of experience and craft types welcome! Our gold coin donation library is also open with books aplenty, CDs, DVDs, and puzzles too!

Technology Classes
10:00am – 1:30pm, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Want to get more confident with computers, smartphones, tablets, or social media? These friendly, step-by-step classes are designed to help you navigate the digital world with ease. There are two free sessions available: Computer Classes from 10:00am to 11:30am, followed by Technology Classes from 12:00pm to 1:30pm. Bookings are essential, contact the Library on 07 4776 4600 or email: library@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

Mahjong.
1:00pm – 3:00pm at The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd.
Join in friendly games of mahjong and test your tile skills with fellow enthusiasts! Please call Desley to register your interest: 07 4776 1822.

IN OTHER NEWS

Spreading Christmas Cheer One Bon Bon At A Time
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Editor's Note 4 November
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Hinchinbrook Gathers To Honour Remembrance Day
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George Murray’s 30 Years of Service
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Gawara Baya: A Wind Song For Hinchinbrook
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