At the Ingham Sugar City Rodeo From the moment the gates opened, the air buzzed with the sound of hooves, cheering crowds, and the anticipation of more than 25 rodeo events. Tiny riders on ponies, fearless juniors, seasoned stock professionals, and the ever-popular charity bull ride had the crowd on their feet. With daring competitors and non-stop entertainment, this year’s rodeo once again proved why it is one of the most exciting events on the northern calendar. Cowboys and cowgirls
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Ergon Energy Network is urging gardeners to carefully consider what they plant near powerlines and other electrical assets, with fast-growing species like bamboo causing thousands of power outages and posing serious safety risks. Ergon Energy Network Area Manager Rick Madden said planting the wrong trees or plants too close to powerlines can lead to dangerous situations, including fallen powerlines, emergency power outages and electric shocks. “Bamboo is one of the worst offenders because it g
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Forrest Beach has always been a place where community and coastline meet, and now it has a new chapter in its real estate story. After more than 40 years of dedicated service, Mary Venables has retired, passing the torch of Venables Real Estate to Richard and Lisa, who have proudly launched Forrest Beach Real Estate. The change marks the end of an era, but also a fresh beginning for the township and its real estate landscape. Mary’s journey in the industry is nothing short of remarkable. Arrivi
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Walter W. Mason’s Book Launch in Ingham Ingham welcomed local author Walter W. Mason for the launch of his two highly anticipated books, Little Girl Beautiful and The Blue Bus, and the event was nothing short of a triumph. The community gathered in high spirits, catching up with Mason, sharing stories, and celebrating a lifetime of connection to the region. By the end of the launch, every copy of The Blue Bus had sold out, and Mason was down to his last box of Little Girl Beautiful. Those who mi
Read the full storyMaraka Festival 2025 Itinerary
Afternoon Tea
Sunday 29 September
Herbert River RSL, Hawkins Street, Ingham
From 2:00pm, enjoy sweet and savoury treats as this year’s Maraka Queen and Princess entrants are officially presented.
Fun Family Run Swim Run
Saturday 5 October
Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre, 31 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
From 9:00am, a brand-new fitness event encouraging families to get active with a fun and challenging Run Swim Run course. Ages 9+.
Wine And Cheese Night
Friday 11 October
Station Hotel, Cartwright Street, Ingham
6:00pm – 11:00pm, an elegant evening of wine, cocktails and finger food, hosted by Nick Dametto and former Maraka Queen Maddyn White.
Kids Big Day Out
Saturday 12 October
Ingham Showgrounds, Cooper Street, Ingham
From 9:00am, a family favourite with pet parade, face painting, balloon twisting and the exciting new addition of Laser Tag.
Street Parade And Mardi Gras
Saturday 12 October
Lannercost Street and Rotary Park, Ingham
From 4:00pm, a vibrant parade themed Music Thru The Ages, followed by live music, rides, food stalls, fireworks and the crowning of Maraka royalty.
As the President of the Ingham Maraka Festival, a member of the Lions Club of Ingham, together with the Committee that consists of members of Rotary, Lions and Apex, as well as our dedicated volunteers, Friends of Maraka - We are thrilled to announce that this year's festival will embrace the vibrant theme, Music Thru the Ages!
Set against the backdrop of our beloved Hinchinbrook Shire, the festival promises to be a spectacular celebration of community spirit, history, and creativity. With a packed event schedule for everyone with our Run Swim Run, Wine and Cheese Night, and Maraka Afternoon Tea. We're celebrating our youngsters with a Fence Painting event, Pet Parade and Laser Tag.
Join us for a dazzling Street Parade bursting with colour, energy, and sound! Expect floats that will be bigger, brighter, and louder than ever, along with participants dressed as their favourite musicians and iconic bands from every era. This year’s parade is shaping up to be a true showstopper—so let’s bring the music to life together!
We also invite all interested candidates to participate in our Queen and Princess competition or to apply for a spot in the parade or Mardi Gras. If you’re eager to get involved, please reach out via email at inghammarakafestival@gmail.com for nomination forms and more information.
Since its inception in 1959, the Maraka Festival has been a cherished tradition, celebrating the essence of our community. Let’s make this year’s festival unforgettable, honouring our heritage through the universal language of music!
A family favourite featuring the Pet Parade, Fence Painting, Face Painting, Balloon Twisting and plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained. New this year, Laser Tag will add even more excitement to the day.
Contributed with thanks by Pat Lynch, President of the Ingham Maraka Festival
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