The latest art exhibit at TYTO Art Gallery opened on Friday and is open until the end of July. This ‘n’ That by Sue Hollamby brings Sue’s art style to life, she shares a charming collection of heartfelt works that showcase her genuine passion for art and creativity. In the new exhibit expect a lively blend of colour, imagination, and character in this wonderfully eclectic collection. The exhibit’s opening night was an extraordinary success, and attendees said it was wonderful to see art
Read the full storyFirst Deaths to Johnstone Division Records show that the first death in Cardwell was on 7th March 1864, and the first burial in the cemetery was that of a six-month-old female child later in 1864. The first European baby born in Cardwell was George Cardwell Peters, on October 9th 1864, and in 1866 the Province of Cardwell was proclaimed. The telegraph line reached Cardwell in December 1869 after five men lost their lives from Jungle Fever during its construction from Townsville. Cardwell’s first
Read the full storyFans of legendary American country rock are in for a real treat when the Kings of Country Rock Tour hits the Lucinda Hotel on Saturday, 13th September 2025. This two-hour stage spectacular is much more than a tribute show. It captures all the sounds, energy and excitement of two of the biggest bands of the 1970s — the Eagles and Creedence Clearwater Revival. Featuring a cast of internationally respected musicians, the show promises a high-energy, crowd-pleasing experience that will have audienc
Read the full storyFrom the cane fields of Macknade to bookshelves across Australia, Angelina Mastrippolito’s debut memoir Le Seconde: Inheriting the Unspoken has made an inspiring impact. Her hometown launch, held at TYTO Conference Centre in Ingham, was a moving and memorable event, with more than seventy people gathering to celebrate her success. Friends, family, childhood neighbours and past classmates filled the room to show their support, purchase a signed copy, and hear Angie speak about her journey. The w
Read the full storyIn 2025, the Ingham Coast Guard will transition to the newly established Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ), in line with the Queensland government’s restructuring. As part of this change, theflotilla will adopt the new name MRQ Lucinda, effective February 1st.This marks a new chapter for the service after 52 years of dedicated operation, and is part of a state-wide effort to streamline marine rescue operations for better coordination and support.
The Ingham Coast Guard has long been a vital part of the local community, covering avast area from the northern tip of Hinchinbrook Island to Palm Island, and out to the surrounding reef. Their dedicated team of volunteers has provided rescue and safety services to boaters and maritime users across one of Queensland's most rugged and scenic coastal regions. The shift to MRQ Lucinda signals both a continuation of this proud legacy and an exciting new chapter for those who depend on their expertise and support.
The Ingham Coast Guard have been operational for 52 years from Lucinda and they cover a broad area, from all the way to the top of Hinchinbrook Island and down to Palm Island, plus out to the reef in that enclosed area.
The Ingham Coast Guard are equipped with two boats, one for smaller tides and lower crews and another larger boat, for rescues far out to the reef.
Both boats are equipped with Forward-looking infrared (FLIR) and Commander Steve Whipps said it is vital for night time dispatches.
“If someone is in the water, you can spot them by heat sensing. It's also got night vision on it and that helps us find things in the dark,” said Steve.
At the Ingham Coast Guard they do lots of training, to ensure that all volunteers are fit, able and qualified to conduct rescues.
They have some young volunteers but due to work, and other commitments it is hard for them to volunteer their time, that is why the Ingham Coast Guard are majority retirees and the average age is an impressive 72!
Steve said they are always looking for more people to help out.
“We need more people, we are always looking for new recruits around the 65 to 70 mark,” said Steve.
“We need that age group who've got the time and still got the fitness to do the job.
“If someone wants to come and join up, the first thing I say to them is that, if I ring you at three o'clock on a winter's night, are you going to get out of bed and come and do the job?”
Ingham Coast Guard also offer courses for people wishing to complete certifications.
They offer first-aid courses and certification renewal, a marine radio license course, and navigation courses.
In a move aligned with Queensland’s government restructuring, the Ingham Coast Guard is transitioning to the newly established Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) in 2025. As part of this change, the flotilla will adopt the new name MRQ Lucinda - effective on the 1st of February.
This change is being made to better align with marine navigation charts, which prominently feature Lucinda, reducing confusion among boating and yachting enthusiasts who frequently navigate the Hinchinbrook coastline. Currently, Ingham is not listed on marine charts, which can lead to complications for watercraft operators.
Since its formation in 1961, the Ingham Coast Guard has been supported by the local community, and that support remains unwavering. The name may be changing, but the Coast Guard’s core mission - ensuring the safety of lives on the water - will remain unchanged. The hardworking volunteers, who have always been a vital part of the team, look forward to this exciting new chapter and will continue to be there when needed.
Although the name change is a significant milestone, the commitment to safety, service, and community remains at the heart of everything the Coast Guard does. The team thanks the Ingham and surrounding communities for their ongoing support and looks forward to continuing to serve as MRQ Lucinda.
Contributed with thanks to Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14, MRQ Lucinda.