Are they not the most gorgeously beautiful and courageous ladies you have seen? Taking that step out into the Maraka spotlight are our wonderful Queens and Princesses, each putting themselves out there for the chance to claim the crown. You’ll get to meet them at the Wine and Cheese Night, the Afternoon Tea, Kids Big Day Out, and Aquathon, all before Hinchinbrook comes together for the ultimate display of regional pride at the Maraka Festival Mardi Gras Parade and Crowning. Mark your calendars as October runs Maraka royal green, floats and fireworks are just the tip of the festival iceberg!
Read the full storyAre they not the most gorgeously beautiful and courageous ladies you have seen? Taking that step out into the Maraka spotlight are our wonderful Queens and Princesses, each putting themselves out there for the chance to claim the crown. You’ll get to meet them at the Wine and Cheese Night, the Afternoon Tea, Kids Big Day Out, and Aquathon, all before Hinchinbrook comes together for the ultimate display of regional pride at the Maraka Festival Mardi Gras Parade and Crowning. Mark your calendars as October runs Maraka royal green, floats and fireworks are just the tip of the festival iceberg!
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On Saturday 11 October, the Cardwell Coastguard hosted its annual Tropical Plant Expo, drawing plant lovers from near and far. The event featured an impressive range of plants for both display and sale, with many local sellers showcasing exceptional specimens. Visitors enjoyed browsing the stalls, chatting with growers, and picking up new additions for their gardens. Alongside the plants were home-grown fruit and vegetables, a delightful selection of prize-winning homemade jams, and beautiful artworks by Mandy. No Coastguard event would be complete without the classic BBQ, complemented by coffee and cake. It was a wonderful day enjoyed by all who attended.
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TYTO Regional Art Gallery is currently home to two thought-provoking exhibitions, each exploring the world around and beyond, through entirely different lenses. In the main gallery, Flies and Weevils and Cockroaches by Lorraine Lamothe invites visitors to see beauty where they might least expect it. At 75, Lorraine found herself yearning to reconnect with her creativity after a quiet spell. “I thought, well, that’s it, I’ve got to put myself out there again and see what can happen,” she said. When Tyto confirmed her exhibition, she recalls thinking, “You’re not done yet, girl. You’re not done yet.” That moment reignited her passion for creating work that not only excites but also makes people think. Her collection of sculptural insects and woven displays celebrates the misunderstood creatures most people prefer to avoid. “I chose insects that are really disliked,” Lorraine explained. “People need to understand that they’re not all bad. They break down decaying plant material and help the environment. Let’s not be prejudiced about these insects, let’s find joy in them.” Across the way, in the Niche Gallery, artist Ashleigh Jane takes visitors into the realm of myth and legend with Mythical Beasts. Her intricate illustrations breathe new life into creatures drawn from global folklore, from Egyptian hybrids to celestial goddesses. “I’ve always been fascinated by mythology and folklore,” she said. “I wanted to delve a little deeper and rediscover stories that lurk in the darkness, the ones people might not know.” Ashleigh’s exhibition features works from her upcoming second book. Each piece is both a visual story and a modern reimagining of ancient tales. “My favourite story is about Doddle, a rain goddess who milks her heavenly cows to make it rain,” she shared. “But my favourite drawing is the Ikenty, a bird with a cat’s head found in Egyptian hieroglyphs. No one really knows what it was for, but I loved bringing it to life.” Together, these two exhibitions celebrate the power of curiosity, whether it’s found in the smallest of creatures or the myths that have shaped cultures for centuries. Both artists remind us that inspiration can be rediscovered at any stage of life, and that beauty often hides in the unexpected.
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As the countdown to the beloved Maraka Festival and Street Parade begins, excitement is truly in the air! Kicking off this Friday morning, the “Spot the Window” competition invites participants to collect entry forms from Harvey Norman Ingham, with submissions due by 4 PM on Friday, October 24. This fun community activity sets the stage for a weekend packed with colour, music, and celebration.
Saturday, October 25 – A Day to Remember
The festivities burst into full swing on Saturday with the Maraka Kids Big Day Out at the Ingham Showgrounds. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring seven fantastic activities – all completely free for families. Young artists aged 1–12 are encouraged to bring their own water paints for the ever-popular Fence Painting activity, proudly sponsored by Guido’s Panel and Paint and McDonald's Ingham.
The Pet Parade, thanks to Tropical Vets, is another crowd favourite. Categories like Best Dressed Petand Fastest Eating Dog promise smiles and giggles for all. Families can also enjoy hands-on experiences at the Petting Zoo, brought to life by local farms. New this year are adrenaline-packed attractions including Laser Tag and Gel Blasters, sponsored by SpinFX Electrical NQ are sure to keep the kids buzzing with excitement.
Spotlight on the Maraka Queens and Princesses
No Maraka Festival would be complete without the presence of the Maraka Queens and Princesses, who proudly represent the heart and heritage of our community. These young ambassadors have been busy in the lead-up to the festival, attending Maraka events and spreading the Maraka spirit. Be sure to give them a wave during the Street Parade — they’ll be riding in style on beautifully decorated floats. Their involvement honours the long-standing traditions of the festival and celebrates the achievements and spirit of local youth.
Street Parade & Musical Magic
As the sun sets, the Maraka Street Parade proudly sponsored by Ergon Energy and BK Bartolini Concreting & Earthworks, will showcase a dazzling array of floats, embodying this year’s theme of “Music Thru the Ages.” Expect to see creative contributions from local schools, businesses, and community groups. The parade will be accompanied by the rousing sounds of the Thuringowa Brass Band, and the evening’s entertainment continues at Rotary Parkwith a live performance by country favourite Peter Cullen. This musical spectacle is a perfect way for the community to come together and celebrate.
The night wraps up with a festive Mardi Gras-style atmosphere, complete with fireworks, rides, and a family-friendly concert. Children under 16 can enjoy limited free tickets for rides, making this a truly inclusive event for all ages. Thanks to NQIB sponsoring the stage, QCAR the bar and co-sponsors Ingham Agencies and Townsville Lime & Gypsum the fireworks.
With delicious food, refreshing drinks, and endless entertainment, the 2025 Maraka Festival is set to be a highlight of the year for Ingham residents and visitors alike. Mark your calendars for October 25 – and get ready to enjoy a day of fun, music, and community pride!
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