By Victoria Velton On Friday, 7 November, community members came together for a morning of hands-on environmental action. Volunteers planted native tree saplings that, once grown, will help shade out invasive parra grass and restore valuable habitat for the wetlands’ feathered and furry locals. Participants gathered beside two ute-loads of native trees. Some drilled holes into the clay-like soil, others prepared the saplings, and everyone planted as many trees as they could in the heat, each contributing to a greener future. The event highlighted the importance of community collaboration in tackling invasive species and supporting local biodiversity. It was a day not only about planting trees but also about nurturing long-term environmental stewardship in the region. The planting site adjoined another successfully revegetated area that had been established in a previous project, continuing the creation of a vital wildlife corridor through the TYTO Wetlands.
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Gilroy Santa Maria College marked a remarkable milestone on Wednesday, 30 October 2025, celebrating 75 years of education, faith, and community with a morning of reflection and festivity. Originally planned for last year but postponed due to severe weather, the long-awaited celebration brought together current and former students, staff, clergy, and community members to honour the College’s proud history and enduring legacy. The morning commenced with a liturgy led by Bishop Tim Harris of the Catholic Diocese of Townsville, setting a reverent tone for the occasion. Parish Priest Father John Kunnathumadappallil and Father Sylvester Emetuche from the Catholic Diocese of Townsville joined the ceremony, sharing in the blessings and prayers of the ceremonial mass. Among the many attendees was Bob Mitting, known affectionately as the “Barefoot Gilroy Boy”, who, along with several long-time past students, travelled from near and far to take part in the celebrations. Guests enjoyed guided tours of the College grounds, revisiting familiar spaces and exploring the many changes that have taken place over the decades. Inside the hall, displays of memorabilia, including vintage uniforms, old textbooks, alongside club and class photos, stirred fond memories and conversation, capturing the spirit of 75 years of growth and connection. The event provided an opportunity to celebrate the generations who have shaped Gilroy Santa Maria College into the vibrant learning community it is today, while also looking forward to the College’s future with pride and great optimism.
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The Hinchinbrook Festival of Events is entering week 3 of the event calendar, and the organisers are extremely pleased with the attendance and participation at the many events and celebrations delivered to date. The overwhelming and ongoing support from the local and visitor community has exceeded the organisers' expectations. Data recorded to date from each event indicates the majority of the ticketed events have been sell-outs, with the “free to enter” events exceeding previous attendance numbers. As the calendar continues to roll around, the next major event within the “Hinchinbrook Festival of Events” calendar is the NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier - Hinchinbrook Cup Race Day on the 15th November at the Ingham Race Course! This event promises a full day of horse racing, fashion, and socialising that will not disappoint! Being a family-friendly event, a day of exciting trackside entertainment for the whole family is assured. Gates open at 11:00am on Saturday morning, with five local races. Local and southern bookmakers and Sky Racing are onsite for those who want to have a flutter. Live music and a DJ will entertain the crowd, with a bar and canteen open to keep the revellers fed and thirst-quenched. The spectacular “Fashions on the Field” is always a highly contested event and children’s amusements provide entertainment for the younger audience. This year, there is a new fashion category - “Living the Hinchinbrook Way – 4850” - which will add another interesting aspect to the fashions. So get ready to enjoy a day at the races, Hinchinbrook style! Pre-purchase Adult Entry Tickets ($15 each) and Tables ($60 per table – seats 10) online. With kids 0-14 years being free, and teens 14-17 years only available at the gate on race day. For more information, or to purchase Entry Tickets and/or Tables, visit https://hinchinbrookchamber.com.au/hinchinbrook-cup-race-day-family-event/
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Anne-Marie – Admin Manager
Anne-Marie joined SpinFX in September 2025, bringing with her a wealth of experience from the construction industry. Her extensive knowledge has made her an invaluable part of the team, ensuring professionalism and efficiency in every task she undertakes.
Outside of work, Anne-Marie is a bushlands enthusiast who loves camping and would happily swap the office for a weekend immersed in nature. And for those with a sweet tooth, she’s hoping the staff kitchen might one day stock her favourite snack: dark chocolate.
Hayden – Ingham Branch Manager
Hayden joined SpinFX in August 2023 and quickly became a standout team member, demonstrating the dedication and skill the company values. A fully qualified electrician, he holds Solar Design & Installation accreditation as well as a Split Air-Con Installer licence, making him a versatile and trusted expert for clients across North Queensland.
Hayden enjoys spending weekends unwinding with mates, sharing drinks, and enjoying a good game of poker. He also has a soft spot for XXXX and chips, proving he knows how to enjoy the simple pleasures in life.
Chayse – Tradesman
Chayse joined SpinFX in March 2025 and has quickly become a valuable member of the team. With a broad knowledge across several areas of the electrical trade, he became a fully qualified tradesman recently after finishing his apprenticeship with SpinFX.
He is an enthusiast for weekends spent skiing. And for a sweet pick-me-up during the day, he wouldn’t say no to a stash of biscuits in the staff kitchen!
Jack – 3rd Year Apprentice
Jack joined SpinFX in October 2023 and quickly transitioned into full-time work, gaining hands-on experience alongside Jesse on trips out to Georgetown. Eager to learn, he has rapidly developed his skills and consistently seeks to improve, demonstrating a strong commitment to the trade.
Jack enjoys the beach in summer and the bush at other times of the year. His perfect weekend involves an early Friday knock-off with mates, a Saturday spent relaxing by the water, and a restful Sunday.
Ben – 3rd Year Apprentice
Ben joined SpinFX in November 2022 after a successful work experience trial and has since become a valued member of the team. Over the past few years, he’s gained extensive hands-on experience, from installing air-conditioning units and wiring sheds to hydro-cleaning systems, often out in the field alongside Hayden.
Beyond the office, Ben prefers the bush over the beach and enjoys spending weekends exploring in his ute. And for a snack boost during the day, he wouldn’t say no to salami sticks to keep him fuelled for the day’s tasks.
Dallas – 1st Year Apprentice
Dallas joined SpinFX in November 2024 after a successful work experience trial and is eager to learn everything about the electrical trade. From balancing school and hands-on experience, he’s now focused full-time on developing the skills he’ll need to become a qualified electrician.
Dallas is a huge beach enthusiast who enjoys spending weekends boating with friends in creeks or dams.
Luigi & Luna – The SpinFX Pups
No team is complete without a little furry support, and at SpinFX , Luigi and Luna bring plenty of character to the mix. Luigi, a brown and white Mini Dachshund, loves being the centre of attention. Luna, a black Jack Russell x Dachshund, is all about playtime, obsessively chasing her favourite ball until it’s found.
Both pups share a love for tasty treats like Schmackos and their playful personalities keep everyone smiling. After long days on the job, Jesse finds balance at home with Luigi and Luna. Their calming presence—and occasional chaos—adds a special spark to life at SpinFX.
New additions to the crew are Liam and Brooke. Liam has just started and is a 1st year apprentice, and Brooke has been part of the SpinFX team for a few months and is an office admin assistant. Both are eager to jump in and thrive alongside everyone on the SpinFX team.
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