Tasman Turtle Picnic Day Shire Success Scores of locals and travellers flocked to TYTO Wetlands as Tasman Turtle returned with craft, food, activities, and family fun. With a rock climbing wall, circus acts, laser tag, pony rides, and a petting zoo, there was something for everyone. Music filled the air, even getting Tasman dancing, and the park buzzed from start to finish. Faces were covered with ice cream and fairy floss, but most importantly big smiles. Deputy Mayor Mary Brown happily remark
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Two respected members of the Hinchinbrook region have been named in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours, receiving national recognition for their dedication to the community and their service over many years. Patrick Brown, Officer in Charge at the Ingham Ambulance Station, has been awarded the Ambulance Service Medal, one of the highest honours available to an Australian paramedic. With 46 years of experience, most of it in rural and regional Queensland, Mr Brown has long been regarded as a stea
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By Victoria Velton In the quiet coastal town of Taylor’s Beach, Jayden McNeill is solving more than just colorful puzzles; he’s solved his way to global recognition. A Rubik’s Cube champion with international acclaim, McNeill’s story is one of perseverance, precision, and passion. It all started when a seven-year-old Jayden received a Rubik’s Cube for Christmas. Like many, he shelved it after failing to solve it. But years later, inspired by classmates in high school, he revisited the cube and
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A Tool For Real-World Readiness When most people hear “LARPing” (Live Action Role-Playing), images of medieval knights and fantasy creatures might spring to mind. But for a growing community in Townsville, LARPing has evolved far beyond weekend cosplay, it’s becoming a valuable tool for real-world training and personal growth. The newly launched Townsville chapter of Swordcraft, Australia’s largest medieval battle and role-playing game, brings enthusiasts together every fortnight. What began as
Read the full storyThe temporary closure of Halifax Hotel marks the latest chapter in the community’s long recovery following February’s devastating events. Owners Joe Mikuletic and Luke Penning made the difficult decision to shut the doors after battling months of water ingress, structural damage, and electrical failures. With water having seeped in from the roof and compromised key infrastructure, the building was no longer safe nor financially viable to operate.
Many patrons were confused by the delayed closure, but the reality is simple: the bar alone couldn’t sustain operations. Without revenue from the hotel’s other facilities, costs quickly outpaced income. Like countless other local businesses, the owners are navigating a complex process involving insurance claims and construction assessments.
Despite the setback, this isn’t the end for Halifax Hotel. The team is actively planning repairs, aiming to reopen in the very near future. There’s even talk of improvements and upgrades to better serve the community.
"We're getting an opportunity to come back strong. To come back bigger and stronger and to open the doors again."
— Joe Mikuletic and Luke Penning
That message of resilience speaks volumes. Mikuletic and Penning aren’t just rebuilding a business—they’re preserving a local landmark and planning for its future. They’ve extended heartfelt thanks to the community for ongoing support and are determined to return better than before. Halifax Hotel may be closed for now, but its story is far from over.
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