The Herbert River Orchid and Allied Plant Society’s annual Spring Show dazzled plant enthusiasts over two vibrant days, 19–20 September. Drawing visitors from near and far — including as far as Brisbane — the event transformed Ingham into a tropical paradise of colour, creativity, and community spirit. Officially opened by Mayor Ramon Jayo, the show was praised as a shining example of grassroots passion bringing people together. Spectacular orchid displays, expert growers, and heartfelt
Read the full storySingapore Airlines has ushered in a new era of comfort and connectivity for Far North Queensland with its upgraded Cairns–Singapore service, operating four times weekly on the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900. The A350 offers a premium experience, featuring lie-flat Business Class seats, in-flight connectivity, elevated dining, and generous storage space. But the real game-changer lies in the connections. Flights are timed to integrate smoothly with Singapore Airlines’ extensive global n
Read the full storyThe countdown to the 2025 Maraka Festival has begun, and time is running out to register as an entrant for the Maraka Queen and Princess competitions! This year is the 65th Maraka Festival, with the Parade theme Music Thru the Ages, promises an unforgettable experience and an opportunity to show your pride in our wonderful district. We encourage those considering entering to take the step and represent their individual spirit and creativity. If you have an interest in being crowned as our
Read the full storyThe recent flood is still very much on our minds as it wreaked so much loss and trauma. Residents still talk of past floods and compare flood heights each time a flood event occurs. There is now unlikely to be anybody alive who experienced the worst flood on record, the 1927 flood. poet Dan Sheahan wrote of that flood that the Herbert River: “poured over the countryside like a drunken demon … bringing death and destruction in its wake.” When a cyclone crossed the coast north of Cairns on Februa
Read the full storyThe real estate market at Forrest Beach remains quite fluid compared to the slowing of the market seen in the Southeast of the state. Venables Real Estate is still receiving many out-of-town enquiries from both investors and buyers looking to move to the area. There is a good mix of retirees and young families, as well as professionals looking to live in the friendly coastal community. Many feel that the area is a safe and welcoming community to either raise their family or retire to.
The owner of Venables Real Estate said a safe community is a huge reason why Forrest Beach is so popular.
“Being safe is a huge thing, especially for families and children growing up, but also with people on their own, or older people. Having a safe community in which to live is a major point in why they would stay.”
During COVID Venables Real Estate saw a positive impact on the real estate market at Forrest Beach with the median house price increasing to $360,000 (an increase of $120,000 over the past four years) and land valuations increasing across the region. Modern, low-set, concrete block homes are still in high demand, and they have a waiting list of buyers wanting to move to the area.
Increased interest from interstate investors is having a positive impact on Venables Real Estate. Mary said it allows for additional rental properties to be added to their listings.
Mary also said that the days of buyers looking for renovation projects are over.
“Many of our clients are looking for homes that they can walk in and put their feet up,” she said.
“Properties with renovated kitchens and bathrooms are seen favourably by buyers, as it reflects value for money; whilst large garages with high vehicle access are highly sought after for boat and caravan storage.
“Above all, buyers are looking to escape the flashy tourist beaches like the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Airlie Beach or Port Douglas. They enjoy the relaxed, friendly community and the pristine beach that Forrest Beach has to offer, while still being able to access all of the necessary amenities.”
Contributed with thanks to Venables Real Estate