TOP NEWS

Feathers And Fine Art

Mark 10th Birdlife Art Awards More than 280 people gathered to celebrate Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s 10th Birdlife Art Awards at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery on Friday night, 1 August 2025. This milestone event continues to honour the rich birdlife of the Hinchinbrook region through the eyes of talented artists from across Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. It features an impressive 106 entries across various mediums, including drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, and m

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Flood-Affected North Queensland Sporting Clubs Eligible for $30 Million Recovery Funding

Sporting and recreation clubs across North and Far North Queensland impacted by early 2025’s severe flooding can now apply for a share in a $30 million funding package to help repair and rebuild their facilities. The Sport and Recreation Recovery Program (SRRG) — a joint initiative by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) — offers up to $1 million per facility for eligible not-for-profit sport and racing clubs, as well as local cou

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Bullocky Tom’s Legacy Lives On In New Mural

Locally loved artist, Katie Louise, has graced the region once again, painting a beautiful mural on the wall of the infamous Frosty Mango building located 40km South of Ingham along the mighty Bruce Highway. Hailing from Townsville, Katie’s paint brushes have coloured many surfaces across North Queensland where she has artistically captured the unique qualities of several communities including the Atherton Tablelands, Charters Towers, and now Cardwell. Katie’s recent piece within the shi

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Wallaman Reunion Brings A Club Back Together

Former players, supporters, and families reunited in Ingham over the weekend of 18–19 July 2025 to celebrate the 55-year-long legacy of the Wallaman Rugby League Club, with attendees travelling from across Western Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and all corners of Queensland. Though no longer active, the Wallaman club holds a proud place in local sporting history. Formed in 1970 under challenging circumstances, the club faced early struggles just getting a team on the field. With determina

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Italian Families Reunite For Annual Heritage Lunch

June 3, 2025

Twelve Italian families from the Herbert River district came together on Monday, the 26th of May, for a heartwarming Italian Family Lunch hosted by the Herbert River RSL, celebrating a tradition now spanning more than 15 years.

The annual event recognises the enduring cultural ties of the Hinchinbrook Shire’s Italian community, many of whom trace their roots to the Friuli and Carnia provinces in northern Italy, about two hours from Venice. These small towns, rich in history and heritage, continue to hold a special place in the hearts of local descendants.

Organised by Flavia and Vanda, the event provided a chance for families to reflect on their shared past and the importance of preserving their culture for future generations. Longtime community members Guido and Corrado led conversations that acknowledged the decline in local Italian families and the need to keep their stories and traditions alive.

Mario Cristante and Roberto Puntil were among those who shared personal stories of growing up in the small village of Friuli, offering touching memories that resonated deeply with the group.

One standout moment came with the story of Pesariis, a town renowned for its clockmakers. From crafting traditional clock towers to developing airport departure boards and fine watches, the legacy of Pesariis continues to shine as a symbol of innovation and craftsmanship.

Adding a visual dimension to the event, George displayed photographs from his recent trip to the region, sparking conversations and fond recollections among attendees.

The lunch was more than just a gathering, it was a celebration of family, memory, and cultural pride. As the families shared food, stories, and laughter, they also renewed their commitment to ensuring that the Italian legacy in the Herbert River region remains strong for generations to come.

12 families attended the 2025 Italian Family Lunch last Monday (Photo Supplied)
(back row) Roberto Puntil, Mario Cristante, Flavia Menegon and (front row) Guido and Nita Solari, Carol Strazzaboschi, and Vanda Raiteri (Photo Supplied)


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