Galactic Gathering At The UFO Festival Cardwell was transformed into an intergalactic hotspot from 8 to 10 August 2025 as the Australian UFO Festival returned for its fourth year, attracting visitors from across the country. After a year’s absence in 2024, anticipation had been building for months, and the festival did not disappoint, offering three days packed with cosmic conversation, community fun, and unforgettable experiences. The action began on Friday with free community events
Read the full storyTec-NQ House grade 11 boarding student Max has his boots firmly planted in two very different worlds: the rugged, hands‑on life of a central Queensland cattle station, and the bustling day‑to‑day routine of boarding school in Townsville. “I live on a station north of Clermont called Mazeppa,” Max explained. “When I’m not here at school, I live there with my family.” Home for Max is anything but quiet. Mazeppa Station is a working property that runs both cattle and crops, keeping everyone on th
Read the full storyWhether you’re settling into a new home, revamping your garden, or simply refreshing your living space, the way we shape our surroundings has a powerful impact on how we feel. A well-loved home doesn’t have to be perfect – it just needs to reflect your personality, support your lifestyle, and offer a sense of comfort. In recent years, we’ve seen a growing trend towards practical and sustainable design choices in both homes and gardens. People are making the most of indoor-outdoor flow, bringing
Read the full storyBy Victoria Velton At Palm Creek, it was a bright and fresh morning for our 20 parkrunners, with a gentle breeze making the course all the more enjoyable. Welcoming three newcomers to the Palm Creek track, two from Team Veteran, four PBs were recorded, including the Fastest timer. Down on the foreshore, 22 parkrunners took to the scenic path under cool, clear skies. Joined by a great mix of locals and visitors, no doubt in town for the UFO festival, with six newcomers stepping onto the course f
Read the full storyThe Ingham Lions Club has wrapped up an incredible 2023-2024 Lions year, celebrating a range of achievements, community contributions, and milestones that showcase the club’s dedication to the Hinchinbrook region.
From July to June, the club was actively involved in numerous community events, including manning the gates at the Ingham Show, supporting the Townsville to Cairns Children’s Cancer Bike Ride, and hosting the Maraka Festival BBQ. The club also contributed to the Camp Kanga initiative, Tasman Turtle, and Christmas Cheer, among other events, spreading goodwill and fostering community spirit.
In addition to their long-standing projects, the Lions undertook new initiatives, including supporting the Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Get Out, Get Active and Connect program, celebrating Wilmar Macknade Mill’s 150th anniversary, and hosting Carols at Forrest Beach.
Beyond local efforts, the Ingham Lions were actively represented at conventions, attending district, national, and international events. Highlights included a group costume win at the Lions District Q2 Convention and marching alongside 11,000 members from 160 countries at the Lions International Convention in Melbourne.
The club celebrated its 62nd anniversary in March 2024 with a special dinner attended by the District Governor, where two new members were inducted. A successful membership drive saw the addition of seven new Lions, ensuring the club’s legacy continues to grow.
Over the year, the Lions raised $30,750 in donations, supporting vital causes such as the Ingham Hospital ($8,500 for equipment), Meals on Wheels ($16,000 for a cold room), Ronald McDonald House, flood disaster relief, and medical research.
The Ingham Lions Club remains a cornerstone of the community, thanks to generous support from local businesses, volunteers, and the wider Hinchinbrook community. Their efforts highlight the power of kindness and community spirit, ensuring a brighter future for all.