TOP NEWS

Feathers And Fine Art

Mark 10th Birdlife Art Awards More than 280 people gathered to celebrate Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s 10th Birdlife Art Awards at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery on Friday night, 1 August 2025. This milestone event continues to honour the rich birdlife of the Hinchinbrook region through the eyes of talented artists from across Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. It features an impressive 106 entries across various mediums, including drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, and m

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Flood-Affected North Queensland Sporting Clubs Eligible for $30 Million Recovery Funding

Sporting and recreation clubs across North and Far North Queensland impacted by early 2025’s severe flooding can now apply for a share in a $30 million funding package to help repair and rebuild their facilities. The Sport and Recreation Recovery Program (SRRG) — a joint initiative by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) — offers up to $1 million per facility for eligible not-for-profit sport and racing clubs, as well as local cou

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Bullocky Tom’s Legacy Lives On In New Mural

Locally loved artist, Katie Louise, has graced the region once again, painting a beautiful mural on the wall of the infamous Frosty Mango building located 40km South of Ingham along the mighty Bruce Highway. Hailing from Townsville, Katie’s paint brushes have coloured many surfaces across North Queensland where she has artistically captured the unique qualities of several communities including the Atherton Tablelands, Charters Towers, and now Cardwell. Katie’s recent piece within the shi

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Wallaman Reunion Brings A Club Back Together

Former players, supporters, and families reunited in Ingham over the weekend of 18–19 July 2025 to celebrate the 55-year-long legacy of the Wallaman Rugby League Club, with attendees travelling from across Western Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and all corners of Queensland. Though no longer active, the Wallaman club holds a proud place in local sporting history. Formed in 1970 under challenging circumstances, the club faced early struggles just getting a team on the field. With determina

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Forrest Beach Remains High Value Spot

January 28, 2025

The 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

Georgina Elford and Mary Venables from Venables Real Estate. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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