TOP NEWS

Meet the 2025 Maraka Queen & Princess Entrants

Are they not the most gorgeously beautiful and courageous ladies you have seen? Taking that step out into the Maraka spotlight are our wonderful Queens and Princesses, each putting themselves out there for the chance to claim the crown. You’ll get to meet them at the Wine and Cheese Night, the Afternoon Tea, Kids Big Day Out, and Aquathon, all before Hinchinbrook comes together for the ultimate display of regional pride at the Maraka Festival Mardi Gras Parade and Crowning. Mark your calendars as October runs Maraka royal green, floats and fireworks are just the tip of the festival iceberg!

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Meet the 2025 Maraka Queen & Princess Entrants

Are they not the most gorgeously beautiful and courageous ladies you have seen? Taking that step out into the Maraka spotlight are our wonderful Queens and Princesses, each putting themselves out there for the chance to claim the crown. You’ll get to meet them at the Wine and Cheese Night, the Afternoon Tea, Kids Big Day Out, and Aquathon, all before Hinchinbrook comes together for the ultimate display of regional pride at the Maraka Festival Mardi Gras Parade and Crowning. Mark your calendars as October runs Maraka royal green, floats and fireworks are just the tip of the festival iceberg!

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Tropical Plant Expo Blooms In Cardwell

On Saturday 11 October, the Cardwell Coastguard hosted its annual Tropical Plant Expo, drawing plant lovers from near and far. The event featured an impressive range of plants for both display and sale, with many local sellers showcasing exceptional specimens. Visitors enjoyed browsing the stalls, chatting with growers, and picking up new additions for their gardens. Alongside the plants were home-grown fruit and vegetables, a delightful selection of prize-winning homemade jams, and beautiful artworks by Mandy. No Coastguard event would be complete without the classic BBQ, complemented by coffee and cake. It was a wonderful day enjoyed by all who attended.

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Creatures And Crawlies On The Walls At Tyto

TYTO Regional Art Gallery is currently home to two thought-provoking exhibitions, each exploring the world around and beyond, through entirely different lenses. In the main gallery, Flies and Weevils and Cockroaches by Lorraine Lamothe invites visitors to see beauty where they might least expect it. At 75, Lorraine found herself yearning to reconnect with her creativity after a quiet spell. “I thought, well, that’s it, I’ve got to put myself out there again and see what can happen,” she said. When Tyto confirmed her exhibition, she recalls thinking, “You’re not done yet, girl. You’re not done yet.” That moment reignited her passion for creating work that not only excites but also makes people think. Her collection of sculptural insects and woven displays celebrates the misunderstood creatures most people prefer to avoid. “I chose insects that are really disliked,” Lorraine explained. “People need to understand that they’re not all bad. They break down decaying plant material and help the environment. Let’s not be prejudiced about these insects, let’s find joy in them.” Across the way, in the Niche Gallery, artist Ashleigh Jane takes visitors into the realm of myth and legend with Mythical Beasts. Her intricate illustrations breathe new life into creatures drawn from global folklore, from Egyptian hybrids to celestial goddesses. “I’ve always been fascinated by mythology and folklore,” she said. “I wanted to delve a little deeper and rediscover stories that lurk in the darkness, the ones people might not know.” Ashleigh’s exhibition features works from her upcoming second book. Each piece is both a visual story and a modern reimagining of ancient tales. “My favourite story is about Doddle, a rain goddess who milks her heavenly cows to make it rain,” she shared. “But my favourite drawing is the Ikenty, a bird with a cat’s head found in Egyptian hieroglyphs. No one really knows what it was for, but I loved bringing it to life.” Together, these two exhibitions celebrate the power of curiosity, whether it’s found in the smallest of creatures or the myths that have shaped cultures for centuries. Both artists remind us that inspiration can be rediscovered at any stage of life, and that beauty often hides in the unexpected.

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World Heritage Splendour

October 14, 2025

Oh Wow! Those are the two most common words guests say as they arrive at Vista Hinchinbrook.

After the steep drive through the rainforest, stroll along our side deck and past the beautiful pond. Then, as you step onto the front deck, the Hinchinbrook Channel bursts into view. Glory in the unique panorama of this World Heritage listed area adjoining Girringun National Park.

This is your breakfast arena, or perhaps you have come for one of our famed High Teas. Here, the sweeping outlook of one of the best views in North Queensland, pairs perfectly with homemade savouries, decadent cakes, and locally sourced tea and coffee. There is no rush to leave. Take your time, relax with friends, and enjoy a beer or wine from our bar.

Of course, you might be arriving for a night’s stay in one of our four luxury units. Perhaps a cabin tucked back among the rainforest, designed for comfort and seclusion. Or for a romantic escape, you may have reserved the Mahogany Cabin. Perched towards the front of the property, this stunningly designed apartment offers all you need, from the king bed where you will wake to uninterrupted panoramic views, to the bathroom… well, we will let you discover that for yourself.

Maybe you are one of the growing number of guests here for a special event. Whether private or corporate, our large deck means we can tailor the space to fit your needs.

And then, those words again: Oh Wow! You have come for a wedding. With this backdrop, your day will be truly unforgettable.

Do not miss the chance to make your special event extraordinary. Contact us, or better yet, pop up to see us in person. We would love to meet you. Vista are proud to have been nominated in the People’s Choice Awards Townsville Enterprise short stay category, along with a few other Hinchinbrook area businesses. It would be great to get behind these businesses with your vote, scan the QR code!

QR code: https://www.townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au/north-queensland-s-tourism-and-events-awards/

Have your wedding or function at Vista Hinchinbrook, host your special occasion backdropped by a stunning view. Photos supplied

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