Last week, the R U OK? Conversation Convoy made its way through Hinchinbrook Shire on its way up the coast. The convoy gave people an opportunity to talk in a comfortable setting outside of their usual circle, opening up new ways to connect, and provided someone to listen and to understand what they’ve been through. Parked in Ingham's central Rotary Park, they had a great turn out - with many townspeople seizing the opportunity to stop by, grab a free hot drink, a snag, and have a chat or a game
Read the full storyWith heavy hearts, the Australian-Italian Festival Committee issued an official statement on Wednesday the 9th of April outlining 2025’s event will not go ahead as planned. The Committee made the decision last week following lengthy discussions in consideration of 2025’s destructive floods and the devastating impact the weather event had across the Hinchinbrook Shire earlier this year. “The Committee considered the extent of devastation and impact to the Ingham community following the February
Read the full storyThe Ingham Gold Cup Race Day (18+ event) returns to our local Herbert River Jockey Club track and events calendar on 12 July 2025 and promises a fun filled, action-packed day of horse racing, fashions on the field, music, food and beverages. With a less-than-ideal start to the 2025 year, we were adversely affected by the recent floods, with damage occurring in our Members Club House and one of the Jockey Rooms. The most significant damage however impacted the Inside and Outside Running Rails on
Read the full storyWhat a fantastic way to finish the final day of term, with a strong turnout despite the extreme heat. Thanks to the dedication and quick recovery efforts following recent flood damage, the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre was restored and ready just in time for the big event! Rice dominated the carnival, claiming the Overall House Championship, as well as the titles for Junior Boys, Senior Girls, and the coveted Spirit Trophy. McAuley also put on a strong performance, taking home victories in
Read the full storyWith heavy hearts, the Australian-Italian Festival Committee issued an official statement on Wednesday the 9th of April outlining 2025’s event will not go ahead as planned.
The Committee made the decision last week following lengthy discussions in consideration of 2025’s destructive floods and the devastating impact the weather event had across the Hinchinbrook Shire earlier this year.
“The Committee considered the extent of devastation and impact to the Ingham community following the February flooding and realised that there was no other option but to cancel the Festival for this 2025,” published the Australian-Italian Festival Committee.
In November of 2024, the community were overjoyed to read the Australian-Italian Festival would celebrate its 30th anniversary this June, especially following plenty of rumours the beloved celebration would not continue into the new year, however, following its cancellation, the future of the event remains uncertain.
Mr Pino Giandomenico, long term President of the Australian-Italian Festival Committee, was saddened to confirm 2025’s cancelation, and was particularly at a loss to call off the 30th anniversary celebrations.
“It was very sad to have to make this decision as the committee was looking forward to presenting our 30th Festival but the impact of the flooding on our sponsors, committee members and volunteers and the community in general left us no choice but to cancel," wrote Mr Giandomenico.
Plenty of hugs, messages of encouragement and words of support were sent Mr Giandomenico’s way from the Hinchinbrook Shire and beyond, with many extending their thanks to the Committee for dedicating so much time and effort into hosting such an iconic event.
“Let’s hope that the community stays strong and gets plenty of support to help rebuild so that the memories of the great contributions that the Italians have brought to this country by having these festivals are never forgotten by generations past, present and future - in bocco al lupo (good luck),” shared Domenico Taraborrelli.