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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April 15, 2025

Event Guide 15th April

Tuesday 15 April
5:00pm at Hinchinbrook Information and Referral Centre – 73-81 Lannercost Street, Ingham.
Legal Aid Queensland & Financial Counselling Australia Information Sessions.
Are you feeling financially stressed? Or Need assistance with Insurance Claims and Repairs? Legal Aid Queensland and Financial Counselling Australia are hosting 2 information sessions this week! With the opportunities for 1-on-1 sessions as well! All absolutely FREE!

Wednesday 16 April
10:00am at Hinchinbrook Information and Referral Centre – 73-81 Lannercost Street, Ingham.
Legal Aid Queensland & Financial Counselling Australia Information Sessions.
Are you feeling financially stressed? Or Need assistance with Insurance Claims and Repairs? Legal Aid Queensland and Financial Counselling Australia are hosting 2 information sessions this week! With the opportunities for 1-on-1 sessions as well! All absolutely FREE!

10:30am at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall.
Morning Melodies: Great Ladies of Jazz.
The Hinchinbrook Shire Hall will host a wonderful Morning Melodies session on Wednesday 16 April staging Great Ladies of Jazz by International Artist Simone Waddell.

Thursday 17 April
10:30am at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library.
Sensory Storytime with First 5 Forever
Babies and toddlers will enjoy play based learning with hands-on sensory play activities designed to encourage development of motor skills. Parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to chat with a Queensland Health Clinical Nurse. Baby scales are also supplied as well as educational material.

Saturday 19 April
7:00am in Palm Creek, Eleanor Street, Ingham.
Park Run.
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 parkrun coffee at JK’s Café, 78 Lannercost St, Ingham with us!

Sunday 20 April
7:00am at Rotary Park, Ingham.
Ingham Raintree Community Markets.
Your classic Sunday market, filled with local treats and goodies under the beautiful raintrees, great for the whole family.

Monday 21 April
1:00pm - 2:00pm at The HUB, 100 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
Creative Corner Craft Group.
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: 4776 1822

Tuesday 22 April
9:00am - 12:00pm at HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd, Ingham.
Senior Men's Social Group.
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: 4776 1822

2:30pm - 4:00pm at 100 Mcilwraith St, Ingham.
Green Thumbs Club.
Join us every Tuesday for a gardening adventure! Engage in small sustainable garden projects and grow and learn along with others. For more info, please call: 4776 1822

Wednesday 23 April
7:30am - 9:00am at  Wild Local, 52 Herbert Street, Ingham.
Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce Coffee Connections.
Join us for our April Coffee Connections morning as we go behind the scenes at Wild Local. A perfect opportunity to form connections, have a chat, and relax with a nice cup of coffee, before you start your day! Bookings are essential, see their Facebook page for link.

10:30am - 12:30pm at 11-13 Lannercost St, Ingham.
Selectability's Open Day.
We’re throwing open our (temporary) doors to the whole community! Drop in to meet the team and discover the range of services and programs we offer. See you at the Canegrowers Building in Ingham!

Thursday 24 April
10:30am - 12:00pm in the Jacana Room at TYTO Conference Centre.
Playtime At The Library.
A fun-filled, 30 minute 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.

Friday 25 April
9:30am - 10:30am at the HCSC Conference Room, 71 Townsville Rd, Ingham.
Seniors Morning Coffee Club.
Offering lovely morning tea, games, trivia, prizes, and can pick you up from your residence if required depending on your address. We currently take our bus to Halifax and around town. We charge a cover fee of $3pp. which goes towards morning tea. To register your interest, please contact Desley at: 4776 1822

Saturday 26 April
7:00am in Palm Creek, Eleanor Street, Ingham.
Park Run.
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 parkrun coffee at JK’s Café, 78 Lannercost St, Ingham with us!

8:00am in Lannercost Street.
Ingham Up Town Markets.
Enjoy a morning browsing the talents of the Hinchinbrook community at the Ingham Up Town Markets from 8:00am to midday!

Monday 26 April
1:00pm - 2:00pm at The HUB, 100 McIlwraith St, Ingham.
Creative Corner Craft Group.
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: 4776 1822

Tuesday 29 April
9:00am - 12:00pm Start location provided on RSVP.
Cafe Crawl.
Join us on a cafe adventure through our community. Come along as we explore the different cafe's we have available to us within our community and have a chat, sip a coffee and a bite to eat. If interested please RSVP at: 4776 1822.

9:00am - 12:00pm at HCSC The Centre, 71 Townsville Rd, Ingham.
Senior Men's Social Group.
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: 4776 1822

2:30pm - 4:00pm at 100 Mcilwraith St, Ingham.
Green Thumbs Club.
Join us every Tuesday for a gardening adventure! Engage in small sustainable garden projects and grow and learn along with others. For more info, please call: 4776 1822

-------------------------------NEW MONTH-------------------------------------------------

Thursday 1 May
10:30am - 12:00pm in the Jacana Room at TYTO Conference Centre.
Playtime At The Library.
A fun-filled, 30 minute 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.

Friday 2 May
9:00am - 12:00pm at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, 25 Lannercost St, Ingham.
Tea and Trivia.
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! Ticket sales close Tuesday 29 April, if not sold out before. For more info call: 4776 4600 or email: events@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au

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