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 storyOn 17 September, Hinchinbrook welcomed four new citizens in a heartfelt ceremony. After a welcome message, they were sworn in, the national anthem was sung, and little aussie flags were waved as four ladies officially became Australian citizens. Many had already called the region home for over a decade, with some living locally for up to 12 years.
Mayor Ramon Jayo led the proceedings and warmly shared, "It's always good to welcome new citizens to Australia. These people have been in Hinchinbrook for quite a substantial period of time and they've contributed to our community through their work."
He continued, "It's good that we recognise their contribution by granting them Australian citizenship and it's wonderful to finally see it happen for their families."
The ceremony not only marked a milestone in the lives of the new citizens but also highlighted the strength of Hinchinbrook’s diverse community, now with new additions in Katie Butler (England), Denise Sartor (Germany), and Maria Flett and Miguelita McKeough (Philippines). With their commitment and long-standing ties to the region, the newest Australians were warmly celebrated as part of the Hinchinbrook family.