Get ready for an exciting year of track and field action across North Queensland in 2025! From February to October, athletes of all ages and abilities will have the chance to compete in a variety of exciting meets.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the upcoming events:
February:
   • North Star Summer Series Meet 1 – 1 February, Townsville (State Permit Meet)

March:
   • North Star Summer Series Meet 2 – 1 March, Townsville (State Permit Meet)

May:
   • Mackay Track & Field Carnival – 3 – 4 May, Mackay
   • Mulgrave Relay Day – 18 May, Gordonvale
   • Great Barrier Reef Masters Games – 30 May to 1 June, Cairns
   • Cairns Twilight Carnival – 30 May, Cairns

June:
   • Outback Pentathlon – 14 June, Normanton
   • Central Queensland Track & Field Carnival – 28 – 29 June, Rockhampton

July:
   • Festival of Athletics – 5 – 6 July, Townsville (National Permit Meet)
   • The Challenge Games – 23 – 24 July, Townsville
   • Coral Coast Carnival – 26 – 27 July, Cairns

August:
   • Tablelands Pentathlon – 10 August, Tolga
   • Outback Sunset Carnival – 23 – 24 August, Longreach
   • Bowen Track & Field Carnival – 30 – 31 August, Bowen

September:
   • Douglas Rainforest Rush – 7 September, Mossman
   • North Queensland Championships – 26 – 28 September, Townsville (National Permit Meet)

October:
   • QRSS Track & Field Championships – 13 – 19 October, Townsville

These events provide excellent opportunities for athletes to qualify for state and national competitions, including national permit meets such as the Festival of Athletics and North Queensland Championships. Make sure to mark your calendars and get ready to compete in 2025!

The Inghamvale Housos are a cricket team that compete in the Goldfield Ashes competition in Charters Towers every single year, but did you know that in the most recent team that played at the competition there was three generations of a family involved?

January 17th to 19th 126 teams participated in the Charters Towers Goldfield Ashes, in the Inghamvale Housos team the Camp family runs through it.

Inghamvale Housos Manager Debbie Camp said that her husband is in the team, as well as sons, sons-in-law, and her grandchildren. Ages span from 68, to 40’s, 30’s and 14 and 15. A wide arrange of ages, all brought together by their love for cricket.

The rest of the team is filled with friends, cousins, and other family members, all with various ages.

Debbie said members of the team have been a part of it for a very long time.

“My husband's been going for 51 years. One of our sons has been going for 20 years, and the other one not much less than that. And this is the first year that my grandsons have gone,” said Debbie.

In the Goldfield Ashes competition, the Inghamvale Housos finished 42nd out of the 126 teams, with two wins and one loss.

Debbie enjoys the weekend and said her favourite part is watching her boys play cricket and having a good time doing it.

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An Associate Professor at La Trobe University, Hamsa Puthalakath has recently found himself “living the life” exploring the waterways of Hinchinbrook Island.

“I have been living the life over a large swathe of this piece land called Hinchinbrook Island and its territorial waters, flush with creatures young and old, beautiful and beastly, tasty and not so tasty,” shared Mr. Puthalakath.

Originally from Melbourne, the change of scenery, paired with a good old Hinchinbrook crocodile sighting, has left Mr. Puthalakath breathless, and he believes many more people should embark on a journey north.

“Folks, what are you waiting for? Hit the road to Hinchinbrook with your hook, line and sinker!”

OPINION PIECE
The Hinchinbrook Channel, renowned for its natural beauty and abundant marine life, is facing increasing challenges due to the actions of professional crabbers, or "procrabbers," who are making crabbing harder for local residents.

Local fishermen and crabbers are concerned about the depletion of adult male crabs, with procrabbers reportedly overharvesting the population. The practice is affecting the balance of the marine ecosystem, with fewer crabs available for locals who rely on crabbing as both a recreational activity and a source of food.

Further compounding the issue, discarded crab pots are being left in the waters, often trapping crabs and fish. These animals are left to die from starvation or heat exposure under the harsh FNQ sun, adding to the environmental impact.

As the community continues to witness these concerning practices, many are calling for greater regulation and awareness surrounding sustainable crabbing practices to protect the local marine life and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the unique ecosystem of the Hinchinbrook Channel.

Dr Kirstie Broadfield

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Check out these pics submitted by Georgia Dametto out on the water at Hinchinbrook Reef with the fish she has caught.

Submit your photos to daniel@lifepubshlinggroup.com to be included in the newspaper.

The Queensland Kids Fishing Classic (QKFC) is back this January, running from the 11th to the 27th, and it’s the perfect opportunity for young anglers to get outdoors, enjoy some fishing, and compete for over $6,000 in prizes! The competition is open to kids across Queensland, with three age groups: 3-7 years, 8-12 years, and 13-17 years.

This is a kids-only competition where participants can fish anywhere that is legal (excluding offshore areas). With 12 species categories, there’s something for everyone - whether you're fishing in rivers, lakes, or the coast. Plus, even if you don’t catch a fish, you can still win as the major prize, a kayak, is awarded through a random draw, so everyone has a chance to win!

In addition to the fishing categories, there’s also a special prize for collecting rubbish while fishing, encouraging kids to keep our waterways clean. Over the holidays, young anglers helped remove more than 240 invasive species like carp and tilapia, showing the positive impact they can have on the environment.

The competition is easy to enter through the 2 Bent Rods app, where kids and parents can upload their catches, track progress, and view leaderboards. Stay up to date by joining the Qld Kids Fishing Classic Facebook group.

Don’t miss out - download the app today and join the fun this January!

Come one, come all to another fantastic Australia Day Ambrose event as hosted by the Cardwell Golf Club on Sunday the 26th of January!

A monthly attraction, the Cardwell Golf Club’s regular Ambrose events continue to provide attendees with a wonderful day of both socialisation and sport on the green, however, this Sunday’s spectacular will be one of the biggest days on record!

With the help and support of fellow Cardwell Golf Club members, Coleen Mikkelsen has been busily organising the Australia Day Ambrose, ensuring all the t’s are crossed and i’s are dotted ahead of the event.

“Monthly it’s a big day, but this event is a BIG one,” explained Coleen.

“This has been my first Ambrose that I have taken on from previous organisers, and I’m only a new girl at this game but I’m right into it - it’s a lot of teamwork which is good, and many people like to put their hand up to help.”

With less than a week to go until the event, energy levels are certainly high in anticipation of the competition with teams having travelled from Atherton, Mission Beach, Ingham, and Tully to have a swing.

“We have really awesome sponsors, and raffles, and this event will have the best-dressed buggy competition, which will be a little bit different for a bit of fun,” Coleen added.

“I’m absolutely looking forward to the day!”

18 teams comprising of four people each will take to the green for the nine-hole competition teeing off at 10:30am on Sunday morning. Players of all abilities are welcome to register, and with only a few team spots left, golfers interested in being part of Sunday’s event are strongly encouraged to call or email Coleen on 0411 509 630 or onel11@bigpond.com to secure their registration.

What: Australia Day Ambrose
When: Sunday the 26th of January from 10am
Where: Cardwell Golf Club
More Information: Call or email Coleen on 0411 509 630 or onel11@bigpond.com

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In February, the Queensland Firebirds will be hitting the road once again as part of a spectacular Regional Tour to deliver comprehensive netball clinics across five locations in the Burdekin, Laidley, Murwillumbah, Townsville and the Whitsundays!

On Sunday the 2nd of February, the Queensland Firebirds will host a clinic the Townsville Netball Association from 3:30pm to 5pm. Children aged 6 to 17 are invited to participate in the clinic with the hour-long session set to focus on improving passing, defence, agility and shooting skills. After the clinic concludes, attendees will have the opportunity to meet the players for photos and autographs.

As well as the clinic, little ones aged 3 to 4 are also allowed to come along for a free Little Nettys come and try session on the same day!

Registrations are essential and clinics are priced at $45 per person. Visit https://firebirds.net.au/regional-tours for registrations and more information.

What: Queensland Firebirds Regional Tour
When: Sunday the 2nd of February 3:30pm to 5pm
Where: Townsville Netball Club
More Information: https://firebirds.net.au/regional-tours

The Ingham Tennis Association’s Tennis Open Day held on Monday the 13th of January, was a great success, with over 30 kids of all ages participating. The event saw a fantastic mix of boys and girls enjoying the sport, along with a great turnout for free court hire as local residents took advantage of the holiday offer.
Tom Casey, the club’s coach, led the sessions, starting with the younger participants (under 7 years) on the mini courts, before moving to the open courts with the older kids. The day was packed with fun games and drills designed to improve fitness and coordination. Tom was joined by a team of enthusiastic helpers who made the event a hit, finishing off with cold drinks and sausages generously provided by the Ingham Tennis Association.
In addition, the Ingham Tennis Association will be running Junior Social Fixtures starting on Tuesday, the 4th of February, at 3:30pm. This is a fantastic opportunity for kids to continue developing their skills in a friendly, supportive environment. For more details, contact Richard at 0428 152 125.
Tom also offers coaching lessons for individuals or groups on Saturday mornings and Thursday afternoons. For coaching details, call Tom at 0413 199 702.
Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports, has also kicked off for the year with Monday night sessions at 6:30pm - everyone is welcome! For more details, contact Gordon at 0409 092 058.
Tennis fixtures are also starting soon on Tuesday and Thursday nights, with mixed teams. For more information or to book your spot, contact Steve at 0488 763 270. Ladies’ tennis is held on Wednesday mornings, with Belinda handling enquiries at 0417 782 227.
It’s shaping up to be an exciting year for tennis and pickleball in Ingham, so get involved and enjoy the fun!

Contributed with thanks to Geoff Caso.

Join the Ingham Bowls Club on Sunday, January 26, to celebrate the spirit of Australia with an afternoon of bowls, great food, and festive fun. All men and ladies are invited to don their Aussie outfits for a social game of bowls with mates, starting at 1:30 pm.

The day will feature a traditional Aussie barbecue with sausages and pavlova served after play, creating the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the celebrations. Additionally, the Men’s 2024 competition presentations will take place during the event. Visitors are warmly welcomed, and nominations can be made by calling 4776 2117 or 0487 240 397. Ensure your name is on the board by 12:30 pm on the day.

Weekly Club Events
The Ingham Bowls Club has a busy schedule this week, with several events and ongoing games:
   • Barefoot Bowls: Resumes on Thursday, January 16.
   • Men’s Pairs: Played every Friday at 1:30 pm. Names must be submitted to the club by 12:45 pm. G. Brierley is on duty for January 10.
   • Mixed Social Bowls: Played every Sunday at 1:30 pm. Names should be on the board by 12:30 pm.
To nominate for any of these games, call 4776 2112 or 0487 240 397.

Contributed with thanks to Ingham Bowls Club

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Parents and guardians, it's time to dive into the new year with confidence! The Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre is hosting its Term One Learn-to-Swim Sign-On days this Wednesday, January 15, and Thursday, January 16, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.

This is a fantastic opportunity for families to discover what the centre's swim school can offer young swimmers. Whether your child is just starting or ready to build on existing skills, the Learn-to-Swim program is designed to foster water safety, skill development, and fun in the pool.

As an added bonus, every swimmer who signs up during the event will enjoy a free swim session—perfect for getting a taste of the program and cooling off from the summer heat.

So, why not make a splash and secure your child's spot in this essential program? Head down to the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre and let their experienced team help your child gain confidence in the water.

Learning to swim can save lives, and it’s a low impact exercise with a variety of benefits including:

   • Increasing lung capacity 
   • Improving heart health 
   • Building strength and endurance 
   • Improving flexibility and coordination

Best of all, swimming is fun for all ages!
See you at the pool!

What: Term One – Learn to Swim Sign On
Where: Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre
When: Wednesday 15 January and Thursday 16 January (9am – 11am)

The club enjoyed a perfect day for social bowls today, with a refreshing breeze, dry conditions, and a strong turnout of 12 players. The afternoon was filled with camaraderie and competitive spirit, as members participated in a mixed social bowls session that was a highlight of the summer season.

Looking ahead, the Early Bird Mixed Pairs competition is scheduled for Sunday, January 19, 2025. Members are encouraged to pair up and register, or simply submit their names to be matched with a partner. Entries close on Friday, January 17 and can be submitted to Joe Mugica, Thomas, or directly at the club.

Another special event on the horizon is the Australia Day celebration on Sunday, January 26, 2025, featuring the G & G Accornero Memorial Day. Starting at 12:45 pm, the day promises to be a wonderful opportunity to honour the Accornero family and celebrate Australian pride. To participate, members are asked to register their names by Friday, January 24, with Joe Mugica, Thomas, or at the club.

The club is looking forward to these upcoming events, promising more afternoons of fun, friendship, and friendly competition.

Contriubted with thanks to Noorla Bowls Club

The Mixed Pairs final at Ingham Bowls Club took place on Sunday the 22nd of December to officially close the book on the 2024 season.

After a hard-fought match, Maria Spano and Frank Pallanza emerged as the celebrated 2024 victors!

A special mention was extended to Janice Johnson and Phill Kite, who played an excellent game, with the final score being a close 23-19.

Players and Club members hung around after the competitions were completed to enjoy an afternoon of socialisation in celebration of their 2024 efforts whilst embracing a bit of festive cheer!

Noorla Bowls Club wrapped up the year with a festive Christmas Party, marking the end of a successful 2024 season. The event was well-attended, with a delicious dinner prepared by Dora and her dedicated kitchen team, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Four life memberships were awarded to Vanda Raiteri, Diane Spina, Nella Mancuso, and Carlo Cavallo, in recognition of their many years of dedicated service to the club. Their contributions were celebrated, and they were warmly acknowledged for their hard work and commitment.

Club President Gary expressed gratitude to everyone for attending and congratulated the day's winners: Andrew Cole, Richard Crossman, and Robert Raiteri, who were drawn from the hat. Special awards for best dressed went to Richard Crossman and Janice Craven.

The Club has already begun planning for 2025 and is eager to welcome members back for another year of action and comradery.

An early morning call on Monday, the 23rd of December 2024 alerted MRQ Lucinda (formerly Ingham Coast Guard) that a local Marine Assist member’s motor had failed while out near Pelorus Island. A concerning situation, the engine had given out in a plume of smoke, and assistance was urgently needed.

Despite the early hour, the Coast Guard team rallied, with a series of phone calls ensuring a crew was assembled. Missing their breakfasts, the volunteers had the rescue vessel, Snow Stafford, on the water by 8am!

The disabled boat was located to the north-east of Pelorus Island, and a tow line was quickly attached for a safe return to Dungeness.

2024 saw MRQ Lucinda respond to 32 calls and rescue 93 people, further displaying their unwavering dedication to keeping locals and visitors safe on the water.

Contributed with thanks to Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14, MRQ Lucinda.