Tasman Turtle Picnic Day Shire Success Scores of locals and travellers flocked to TYTO Wetlands as Tasman Turtle returned with craft, food, activities, and family fun. With a rock climbing wall, circus acts, laser tag, pony rides, and a petting zoo, there was something for everyone. Music filled the air, even getting Tasman dancing, and the park buzzed from start to finish. Faces were covered with ice cream and fairy floss, but most importantly big smiles. Deputy Mayor Mary Brown happily remark
Read the full storyTwo respected members of the Hinchinbrook region have been named in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours, receiving national recognition for their dedication to the community and their service over many years. Patrick Brown, Officer in Charge at the Ingham Ambulance Station, has been awarded the Ambulance Service Medal, one of the highest honours available to an Australian paramedic. With 46 years of experience, most of it in rural and regional Queensland, Mr Brown has long been regarded as a stea
Read the full storyBy Victoria Velton In the quiet coastal town of Taylor’s Beach, Jayden McNeill is solving more than just colorful puzzles; he’s solved his way to global recognition. A Rubik’s Cube champion with international acclaim, McNeill’s story is one of perseverance, precision, and passion. It all started when a seven-year-old Jayden received a Rubik’s Cube for Christmas. Like many, he shelved it after failing to solve it. But years later, inspired by classmates in high school, he revisited the cube and
Read the full storyA Tool For Real-World Readiness When most people hear “LARPing” (Live Action Role-Playing), images of medieval knights and fantasy creatures might spring to mind. But for a growing community in Townsville, LARPing has evolved far beyond weekend cosplay, it’s becoming a valuable tool for real-world training and personal growth. The newly launched Townsville chapter of Swordcraft, Australia’s largest medieval battle and role-playing game, brings enthusiasts together every fortnight. What began as
Read the full storyA heartwarming new initiative in North Queensland has already begun changing lives, giving young people in Townsville and the Hinchinbrook Shire the support they need to build bright futures. Set to Succeed, a Townsville-based not-for-profit, has launched a life-changing pilot program that not only helps young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people kick-start their careers in automotive, construction, and energy - but also ensures they have a safe and supportive place to call home.
The program has been made possible through partnerships with Mike Carney Toyota, AMA Group, and the Rotary Club of Thuringowa Central and aims to remove the housing barriers that often deter young people from staying within the Hinchinbrook region to peruse employment opportunities. Two houses have been provided to offer safe and supportive accommodation for five young people, along with a live-in support coordinator who will provide mentorship, life skills, and daily assistance.
Local businesses and community organisations have rallied behind the project in recognition of the urgent need for housing solutions to complement the region’s growing job market.
“Housing, Life Skills, Financial Literacy and Wellbeing are key challenges facing young people who want to continue their employment and training in Townsville (and Hinchinbrook),” shared Chris Carney of Mike Carney Group.
Antonio Winterstein founded Set to Succeed to further support the professional development and training of North Queensland’s future leaders, and he hopes the program will continue to flourish in the coming years.
“I founded Set to Succeed alongside others that have a drive to change the future of young people in North Queensland,” shared Antonio.
“We are so grateful to our industry and community supporters who understand our vision and want to be part of the solution.”
The pilot program will serve as a stepping stone for a larger, purpose-built facility in the future. With strong community and industry backing, Set to Succeed is paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for young people in North Queensland.
To learn more or support the initiative, visit www.settosucceed.com.au.