Flags Raised In NAIDOC Tribute On 22 July 2025, a flag-raising ceremony marked a meaningful NAIDOC Week in Hinchinbrook. Community members gathered at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall in Ingham, led by Deputy Mayor Mary Brown and Traditional Owners, together, they proudly raised the flags in recognition of the Warrgamay, Nywaigi and Bandjin peoples — Traditional Custodians of the Hinchinbrook region. With around 70 people in attendance, the event offered a moment to reflect on this year’s NAID
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A peloton of dedicated cyclists rode through the Hinchinbrook Shire last week as part of the mighty Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride; an initiative established to make a difference in the lives of children affected by cancer. Held annually, the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride raises both valuable awareness and funds for the Children’s Cancer Institute to support comprehensive efforts focused on preventing and treating childhood cancer. The Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride was founded in 1999 by Sel
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On Saturday, the 26th of July, the Junior division of the Ingham Theatre Group debut in their first matinee. After 10 weeks of work-shopping improvisations, theatre sports, performance technique, stage craft, and most importantly fun and friendship, the Juniors stepped up and performed the wondrous adventure that was 'Princesses of a Feather'. Together, the cursed princesses-turned-birds, defeated the evil knight Sir Glimmerpants with the help of Charlie Cowgirl Cat In A Cape, while t
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On Thursday 10 July, the Cardwell RSL became a vital hub of information and support as more than 35 residents and service representatives gathered for the Cardwell Community Rebuild Info Session. Organised by Centacare FNQ, the evening brought together key organisations supporting North Queenslanders affected by the 2025 floods and now in the rebuilding phase. The session was hosted in partnership with Centacare’s Disaster Recovery and Resilience Hub, the Queensland Building and Construction Co
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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