By Victoria Velton On Friday, 7 November, community members came together for a morning of hands-on environmental action. Volunteers planted native tree saplings that, once grown, will help shade out invasive parra grass and restore valuable habitat for the wetlands’ feathered and furry locals. Participants gathered beside two ute-loads of native trees. Some drilled holes into the clay-like soil, others prepared the saplings, and everyone planted as many trees as they could in the heat, each contributing to a greener future. The event highlighted the importance of community collaboration in tackling invasive species and supporting local biodiversity. It was a day not only about planting trees but also about nurturing long-term environmental stewardship in the region. The planting site adjoined another successfully revegetated area that had been established in a previous project, continuing the creation of a vital wildlife corridor through the TYTO Wetlands.
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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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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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Tuesday 25 November
Mayor’s Christmas Appeal 2025
Active until 5:00pm Wednesday 10 December 2025 at Hinchinbrook Shire Council, 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham.
Donate a new toy or non-perishable food item at Council’s Customer Service Centre to support local families in need this Christmas. Contributions go directly to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre-, which provides emergency relief, food assistance, counselling, and referral services to vulnerable residents across the region. For more info, phone 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au
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 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 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: 4776 1822.
Wednesday 26 November
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.
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.
Forrest Beach Community Shed Meeting
5:00pm at Forrest Beach SLSC, 9–23 Palm Street, Forrest Beach.
An open community discussion focusing on disaster preparedness, response, and resilience. These sessions are part of a regional series designed to help residents strengthen their homes, neighbourhoods, and communities ahead of the disaster season. Sessions will also be held in Trebonne, Taylors Beach, Macknade, and Ingham.
Social Darts
7:00pm in the Upstairs Area, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
Social darts have been back in full swing and the enthusiasm is stronger than ever. Be sure to check in before 7:00pm to join the competition and experience the friendly spirit of the game.
Thursday 27 November
Christmas in Hinchinbrook
9:00am – 9:00pm in the Hinchinbrook CBD, Ingham.
Celebrate the festive season at Christmas in Hinchinbrook, hosted by Council, local businesses, and community groups. Enjoy late-night shopping, market stalls, a Christmas photobooth, and plenty of festive cheer as the community comes together to sparkle and celebrate.
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? Free Computer Classes from 10:00am to 11:30am, followed by Technology Classes from 12:00pm to 1:30pm. Bookings are essential, please 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 St, 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.
Mummy’s Matter
1:00pm to 2:00pm at The Hub, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
A welcoming and judgement-free group for mums who may be feeling isolated, vulnerable, or at risk of postnatal depression. Expectant mothers are also encouraged to join. Sessions focus on connection, support and creating a sense of belonging, with children under school age welcome to attend alongside their mums. For more info, contact Shannen at the HCSC on 07 4776 1822.
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.
Late Night Shopping – Ingham
5:00pm to 9:00pm at Ingham CBD, Lannercost Street.
Celebrate Hinchinbrook this festive season by shopping local and enjoying a night of Christmas fun, great deals, and community spirit. Photos with Santa and The Grinch, live carollers, local produce markets, market stalls, gift wrapping, Black Thursday Night Sales, and plenty of food and festive fun. For more information, contact 4776 4600.
Friday 28 November
Green Thumbs Club
2:30pm at Community Garden, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
Join the Green Thumbs for an afternoon of planting, chatting and getting dirty in the soil. Whether you’re putting seedlings in the ground or just soaking up the fresh air, it’s all about community spirit and good vibes. No experience needed – just bring a smile and maybe a pair of garden gloves. Call the HSCS (07) 4776 1822 for more info!
Beers By The Beach
5pm at the Forrest Beach SLSC, 6 Palm st, Forrest Beach.
The SLSC is a place where everyone can unwind with a cold drink in hand while soaking up ocean views. Nibbles and occasional raffles add to the fun, with prizes like fresh prawns up for grabs. Bring the kids, there’s a park next door, or pop in before your evening beachside stroll. It’s a laid-back evening for everyone to enjoy.
Forrest Beach Progress Association's Christmas in the Park
6:00pm – 10:00pm at Progress Park, Palm Street, Forrest Beach.
Join the community for Carols in the Park 2025, a magical night under the stars! Sing your favourite Christmas carols, enjoy entertainment and market stalls, take part in the Best Dressed Christmas Competition, and try your luck in the mega raffle. Food, drinks, lollie bags, glow sticks, and festive fun await—bring a chair or picnic blanket and celebrate the season with family and friends.
Saturday 29 November
Parkrun
7:00am in Palm Creek, Ingham & The Cardwell foreshore.
A FREE weekly 5k exercising event for participants of all fitness levels, 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. Encouraging people to run, jog, walk and volunteer together!
Sunday 30 November
----------------------------NEW MONTH----------------------------------------------------
Monday 1 December
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!
Empowering Women Generations XYZ
9:30am to 11:30am at Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, Ingham.
This program is designed to support women through connection, confidence and community belonging. Each session provides opportunities to build skills, improve wellbeing, and access both formal and informal supports in a safe space. Transport assistance is available. For more info or to get involved, contact the HCSC on 4776 1822 or email donna@hcsc.org.au
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: 4776 1822.
Tuesday 2 December
Mayor’s Christmas Appeal 2025
Active until 5:00pm Wednesday 10 December 2025 at Hinchinbrook Shire Council, 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham.
Donate a new toy or non-perishable food item at Council’s Customer Service Centre to support local families in need this Christmas. Contributions go directly to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre-, which provides emergency relief, food assistance, counselling, and referral services to vulnerable residents across the region. For more info, phone 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au
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 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 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: 4776 1822.
Wednesday 3 December
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.
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.
Trebonne Community Shed Meeting
5:00pm at Trebonne Community Hall, Argaet Street, Trebonne.
An open community discussion focusing on disaster preparedness, response, and resilience. These sessions are part of a regional series designed to help residents strengthen their homes, neighbourhoods, and communities ahead of the disaster season. Sessions will also be held in Taylors Beach, Macknade, and Ingham.
Social Darts
7:00pm in the Upstairs Area, Brothers Sports and Community Club, Cooper St, Ingham.
Social darts have been back in full swing and the enthusiasm is stronger than ever. Be sure to check in before 7:00pm to join the competition and experience the friendly spirit of the game.
Thursday 4 December
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? Free Computer Classes from 10:00am to 11:30am, followed by Technology Classes from 12:00pm to 1:30pm. Bookings are essential, please 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 St, 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.
Mummy’s Matter
1:00pm to 2:00pm at The Hub, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham.
A welcoming and judgement-free group for mums who may be feeling isolated, vulnerable, or at risk of postnatal depression. Expectant mothers are also encouraged to join. Sessions focus on connection, support and creating a sense of belonging, with children under school age welcome to attend alongside their mums. For more info, contact Shannen at the HCSC on 07 4776 1822.
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.
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