1. Hinchinbrook has a volcano

Around 100,000 years ago, the landscape west of Ingham was transformed by a violent volcanic eruption. The eruption formed the Mount Fox volcanic cone and its shallow crater, leaving behind a striking feature in the landscape.

Today, Mount Fox is a dormant volcano, rising above the surrounding countryside as a reminder of the region’s past — and of just how recently volcanoes were active here.

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2. The ‘Cube’ that isn’t a cube

High among Hinchinbrook Island’s peaks is a natural rock formation that, from a distance, looks impossibly geometric. So much so, it sparked the tongue-in-cheek local suggestion that it was placed there by aliens.

But get closer and the illusion disappears. Shaped by weathering over enormous periods of time, the formation is not cube-like at all. It is a natural visual phenomenon created by the light and the angle from which the rock is viewed from the mainland.

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3. Hinchinbrook Island is enormous

Hinchinbrook Island is one of Australia's largest island national parks, covering around 39,900 hectares, or about 399 square kilometres. That’s bigger than the entire country of Malta! It’s roughly the equivalent of 56,000 standard soccer fields packed into one spectacular island.

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4. The soil was made for sugar

The first cane planted in the Herbert River Valley was in 1868m just 4 years after explorer George Dalrymple travelled through the region in 1864 where he described the area as “undoubtedly the best suited” for growing sugar in Queensland.

The combination of fertile alluvial soils, tropical rainfall and the Herbert River made the district ideal for cane, with the crop eventually becoming the backbone of the local economy.

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5. It’s home to Australia’s highest permanent single-drop waterfall

Wallaman Falls plunges an incredible 268 metres from Stony Creek into the gorge below, making it Australia's highest permanent single-drop waterfall. To put that into perspective, the Eiffel Tower stands at 330 metres to the tip of its antenna.

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When planning a family getaway, the best memories are often made around the table. A great coffee shared at sunrise, fresh seafood by the waterfront, homemade Italian treats enjoyed with the kids, or an ice cream stop that becomes a holiday tradition. In the Hinchinbrook region, food is more than a meal, it is part of the adventure.

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Nestled between tropical coastlines, fertile farmlands and the spectacular backdrop of Hinchinbrook Island, this North Queensland destination offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience authentic flavours, warm hospitality and unforgettable family moments.

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For food lovers, Hinchinbrook is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. The region's proud Italian heritage has shaped a vibrant food culture that continues to thrive today. Wander through local delicatessens filled with freshly made pasta, traditional sauces, artisan cheeses, cured meats and authentic sweets. Every bite tells a story of generations of families who have brought their traditions to the tropics and shared them with the community.

Food lovers will find plenty to savour throughout the region, particularly in Ingham, the heart of Hinchinbrook's dining scene. From family-run cafés and bakeries to restaurants showcasing local produce and multicultural flavours, Ingham offers a diverse range of dining experiences that reflect the community's rich heritage. Whether you're enjoying a relaxed breakfast, a long lunch or a hearty dinner, you'll discover welcoming venues and authentic country hospitality around every corner.

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Families will quickly discover that every stop along the foodie trail offers something special. Start the day with locally roasted coffee while the kids enjoy fresh pastries, smoothies or sweet treats from one of the region's welcoming cafés. Browse bakeries overflowing with handcrafted breads and cakes before heading off to explore beaches, walking trails and natural attractions.

Seafood lovers are especially spoilt for choice. Surrounded by the pristine waters of the Great Barrier Reef and the Hinchinbrook Channel, the region is renowned for its incredible seafood. From freshly caught prawns and mud crabs to local barramundi and reef fish, visitors can enjoy some of Australia's finest seafood served straight from ocean to plate.

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Beyond Ingham, the coastal communities of Lucinda, Dungeness and Forrest Beach add a distinctly tropical flavour to the foodie experience. Here, visitors can pair fresh seafood and local cuisine with stunning waterfront views, creating memorable dining moments just steps from the beach or boat harbour.

After exploring the cafés, bakeries and restaurants of Ingham, head to the coastal communities of Lucinda, Dungeness and Forrest Beach, where waterfront dining meets breathtaking scenery. Enjoy fresh local flavours while watching fishing boats glide across sparkling blue waters or soak up the relaxed beachside atmosphere with family and friends. It's the kind of experience that encourages visitors to slow down, put away their phones and simply enjoy quality time together.

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Along the way, travellers can sample tropical fruits, homemade desserts, gourmet produce and classic North Queensland favourites. Every stop offers a chance to discover something new, whether it's a family-owned café, a bustling bakery, a seafood market or a restaurant showcasing local ingredients.

What truly sets Hinchinbrook apart, however, is the people behind the food. Local business owners greet visitors with genuine country hospitality, chefs proudly showcase regional produce, and passionate food makers share recipes and traditions that have been treasured for generations. Visitors aren't treated like tourists; they're welcomed like friends.

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In a world where many destinations feel rushed and crowded, Hinchinbrook offers something refreshingly different. Here, meals are meant to be savoured, conversations linger longer, and every flavour is connected to the landscape, culture and community that created it.

So, if you're looking for a destination that offers more than just beautiful scenery, follow the foodie trail to Hinchinbrook. Bring your appetite, bring the family, and discover a place where every meal tells a story and every flavour creates a lasting memory.

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From Italian-inspired delicacies and tropical treats in Ingham and Halifax to fresh local seafood and waterfront dining in  Lucinda, Dungeness and Forrest Beach, Hinchinbrook is a destination best experienced one delicious bite at a time.

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By Victoria Velton

While many tourists know Wallaman Falls by their selling point, ‘the longest single drop waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere’, not many have experienced them in their entirety.  

Most visit the viewing platforms from the day-use area and look out and down over the falls, without realising just how much more awaits around the bend.

Wear a tough pair of shoes, douse yourself in mozzie spray, pack a water bottle and, once you reach the day viewing area, follow the Djyinda Track.

You will walk through the dry bush atop the mountain before turning around the bend, where the descent begins. From bushland and tourist crowds, the plunge into rainforest is immediate and serene. The chatter and talk are replaced by whooping and eerie birdsong, chirping insects and the rustle of leaves.

The further down you hike, the more you’ll feel like you’re passing through time. Lichen covers the trees and the ferns reach for you as you pass. The trail is a series of switchbacks. Steep in places and consistently narrow, if you do pass someone you may need to hop up onto a stone to let them pass. Be careful, as the moss can be slippery after rain. Each hiker follows the code that those coming down give way to those panting their way back up. The returning passers-by share a smile because they know what you will find at the end of the trail.

When you finally reach the last tunnel of trees, you arrive at some great rocks, and the path leads to a small viewing platform. From there, Wallaman stretches upwards.

The view is glorious. On clear days, rainbows stretch out through the mist, whilst you stretch your gaze to try to glimpse the tops of the cliffs. That ancient feeling comes back to you as you look at the layers of stone that build towards the sky.

And now for the return journey. Go on, off you go, back up the trail. Take a swig of water and roll your shoulders because this is the hardest part. It’s your turn to wind your way back up the trai. Keep the chatter light and smiles secretive for the people coming down, lest you spoil the surprise.

When you finally reach the top and emerge back into the mountain bushland, you will find your heart beating from more than the exhilaration of the climb alone.

As you return to the day area, look out over the platform once more and marvel at what you have accomplished: you trekked the same distance as the longest single drop waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere.

FOR THIS JOURNEY

• Pack an ample supply of water, sun protection and insect repellent.

• Wear good hiking shoes as the track is steep and sometimes slippery.

• Allocate ample time, as it is a two-hour return trek, plus an hour’s drive from Ingham township.

• This hike is classed as moderate to high difficulty. Do not attempt if you are not physically capable.

• Wallaman Falls is part of Girringun National Park and a World Heritage rainforest site. Do not litter or bring your pets.

• There is little to no phone coverage.

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Zoe Falls Delivers a Double “Wow”

Zoe Falls on Hinchinbrook Island doesn’t settle for single-angle beauty. At the base, a clear blue plunge pool invites a refreshing swim. Above, for experienced and careful climbers only, a natural infinity pool peers straight over Zoe Bay. Same waterfall, two unforgettable perspectives.

Access is by private vessel, guided tour or sea kayak, and the falls also sit along the Thorsborne Trail, which operates under a strict permit cap. Terrain here is steep and rocky, so solid footwear and confidence on uneven ground are essential.

Always check park alerts, tides and crocodile safety advice before visiting. This is wild country, not a theme park. When conditions align, Zoe delivers the kind of view that compresses a week-long holiday into a single, breath-stealing moment.

Walks Range From Five Minutes to Five Days

Hinchinbrook understands commitment levels. You can wander TYTO boardwalks for five minutes, loop the 1.9 km town walk, explore rainforest tracks — or disappear for days on the permit-limited Thorsborne Trail. Same region, wildly different energy settings.

No matter the distance, the basics stay the same. Carry water, wear proper shoes, check weather and park alerts, and respect wildlife and tides. The reward is automatic: fresh air, better moods and that quiet satisfaction walking delivers.

This is a destination where short walks don’t feel like consolation prizes and long hikes don’t feel compulsory. Choose your pace, collect smiles and let the scenery do the heavy lifting.

You Can Helicopter Into the Gorge

For anglers chasing something extraordinary, heli-fishing in the Herbert River Gorge rewrites the rulebook. A helicopter flight drops you into remote river pools rarely reached on foot, opening up a full day of fishing in jungle-lined country.

Trips typically allow around six hours on the water, hopping between pools targeting jungle perch, sooty grunter and barramundi when conditions allow. Quality tackle and a picnic are usually included, and flights only run in suitable dry-season weather, with river height and visibility guiding decisions.

Even if the fish play shy, the aerial views alone justify the sunscreen. Deep gorges, winding river systems and untouched forest unfold beneath you. It’s not everyday fishing — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime way to experience Hinchinbrook from above and below.

Lucinda Is Built for Family Reel-axation

Lucinda makes family days easy. Shaded foreshore areas, BBQ facilities and wide open space set the scene, while the public fishing jetty delivers safe, social casting beside that famous sugar jetty backdrop. Kids count pylons, adults relax — everyone wins.

Boaties can launch at nearby Dungeness for broader options, but plenty of memories are made without leaving the shore. Pack snacks, sunscreen and patience; fish are a bonus, not a requirement.

As the afternoon cools, salty hair and tired smiles signal success. Add a Coral Sea sunset and you’ve nailed the holy grail of family outings: low stress, high reward and minimal packing lists.

Planning Can Be the Fun Part

Good travel planning shouldn’t feel like homework. The Hinchinbrook Way website is designed to move you quickly from “maybe” to “let’s go,” with destinations, walks, stays and maps all in one place. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure builder, minus the stress.

hinchinbrookway.com.au

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Tranquility Guesthouse at Narragon Nature Park was created as a place to slow down - somewhere guests can step out of the noise of everyday life and settle into something much simpler. From the moment you arrive, there’s a shift. The air feels different, the pace softens, and nature quietly takes over.

Set amongst lush tropical surrounds in Mission Beach, the property is shaped by what’s already here: rainforest, towering palms, open skies, and the constant, calming presence of the ocean nearby. The landscape is our greatest asset, something we’ve chosen to protect and celebrate, allowing it to shape the experience. Rather than over-designing, we let nature lead. Guests wake to birdsong, wander through the trees, and discover quiet moments tucked throughout the property – whether it’s a secluded spot to read, time around the firepit – or simply the freedom to slow down and do very little at all.

The layout of Tranquility Guesthouse has been intentionally designed to feel open and unforced. It lends itself naturally to intimate weddings, small gatherings, and private retreats; the kind where people can truly connect, not just with each other, but with their surroundings. Whether you’re hosting a smaller group of 10 or bringing together 50 guests, the space adapts effortlessly. Still feeling warm, contained and personal, while offering enough room to explore, spread out, and experience a sense of openness and quiet adventure.

There’s a relaxed, unhurried feel to everything here, which reflects the wider Mission Beach lifestyle. Events don’t feel staged or rushed, they unfold organically, with nature as the backdrop rather than just decoration.

What makes a stay here feel different is that sense of being gently immersed in nature, rather than separated from it. There’s no hard line between indoors and outdoors, spaces flow, light moves freely, and guests are always aware of where they are. It’s subtle, but it changes how people show up. They slow down, switch off, and tend to leave feeling more grounded than when they arrived.

At its core, Tranquility blends luxury with a deep sense of calm. It offers space, stillness, and a feeling that’s often hard to hold onto for long. It’s the kind of place people come to reset, celebrate quietly, or simply breathe a little deeper.

What’s your favourite nature escape?

The forest. There’s something grounding about being surrounded by trees – the shade, the stillness, the birds – the way everything feels a little quieter. It’s where I go to slow down and reset.

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In Hinchinbrook Shire, wellbeing is not scheduled, it is experienced. Here in tropical north Queensland, rainforest, reef, river and rural landscapes come together to create a natural retreat where slowing down feels effortless.

Known as The Hinchinbrook Way, the region invites visitors to reconnect with nature through simple, grounding experiences. It is a place where the air feels lighter, the water clearer and time stretches just enough to breathe again.

In Ingham, the gateway to the region, TYTO Wetlands and its roaming parklands sets the tone. Just moments from town, this peaceful sanctuary offers boardwalks through paperbark forest, reflective lagoons and an ever-changing cast of birdlife. Morning walks here feel like a gentle reset, with soft light and still water creating a calm start to the day.

Beyond town, nature takes over completely.

Wallaman Falls, Australia’s highest single drop waterfall, delivers a powerful sense of scale and stillness. The sheer drop into rainforest below creates a natural moment of pause, where sound, mist and landscape combine into something deeply restorative. Jourama Falls offers a softer experience, with shaded swimming holes and flowing rock pools ideal for cooling off and unwinding.

Closer to the coast, the Hinchinbrook Channel winds through mangroves and calm waterways. Kayaking here becomes a meditative journey, with glassy reflections, coastal birdlife and the occasional dolphin passing through.

Every movement feels unhurried, guided by tide and rhythm rather than time. Offshore, Hinchinbrook Island remains untouched and wild. With no development or roads, it offers pure immersion in nature. Walking sections of the Thorsborne Trail reveals empty beaches, rainforest corridors and mountain backdrops that feel completely removed from modern noise. It is solitude in its most natural form.

Wellbeing in Hinchinbrook does not rely on luxury spas or structured retreats. Instead, it is found in the environment itself. A swim in a freshwater creek, a barefoot walk along Forrest Beach, or a quiet moment overlooking cane fields at sunset all become part of a natural wellness experience.

Local food completes the journey with tropical fruit, fresh seafood and simple regional dining reflect the land’s abundance and reinforce the slower pace of life. Nothing is rushed, everything feels connected.

What makes Hinchinbrook special is its balance. It's accessible, yet deeply immersive,

familiar, yet completely grounding. Visitors do not come here to escape life: they come to realign with it.

In Hinchinbrook Shire, wellbeing is not found in doing more, but in the deeper expirience. This is The Hinchinbrook Way.

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Meaningful Gifts & Magical Moments

As the cooler months settle in, there’s something special about slowing down and reconnecting with the simple beauty of nature. At Fiori With Love, that feeling is woven into every part of the experience.

Stepping inside, guests are greeted by a blend of café and florist, seasonal flowers fill the space, creating a soft, ever-changing backdrop that mirrors the natural rhythms of the region. It’s a place where time seems to slow, making it easy to step away from the rush of life and simply be in the moment.

Fiori With Love becomes a natural choice for both gifting and gathering, be it birthdays, Mother’s Day, or just to show someone you love them. Whether it’s “do it for them” with a carefully arranged bouquet of her favourites or “do it with them” over a relaxed catch-up in the café, the space offers something for every kind of celebration. Fresh and everlasting floral arrangements provide meaningful gifting options, while a curated selection of boutique homewares and gifts makes it easy to find something unique, personal and heartfelt.

More than just a place to shop or stop in, Fiori With Love encourages visitors to slow down and share time together. The atmosphere lends itself to connection, whether that’s a quiet moment choosing flowers for someone special or an afternoon spent simply enjoying each other’s company among the rustic, homey decor.

At its heart, Fiori With Love is about celebrating people in a way that feels genuine and unhurried. Whether looking to treat Mum, your partner, or even yourself, the most meaningful gifts are often the simplest: time, thoughtfulness, and the chance to pause together in a beautiful space.

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A Trip to Babinda Boulders

If anyone knows anything about the way I like to travel, it’s that I like to take it slow. Yes, an aeroplane can get me home in an hour and a half, but why would I do that when I can do the exact same journey in 96 hours? That’s four days for those already with a beer in hand sitting on their beach chairs, relaxing by the water.

I picked up a motorhome and hit the road travelling north. I wanted to finally stop and walk the sands of the baches I had always flown over or driven past in a hurry on my way to be somewhere else. At the time of this trip, I had no ‘tourist’ destination in mind, but I knew I wanted to cleanse myself and find that natural balance in my mind and body again.

Kinka beach was my first stop, I reached it in time to watch the sun set and see children flying their kites, dashing about the sandbars. A calm place for families and reflections.

Driving on the next day I reached Airlie beach, but I didn't stay long. The hustle and bustle felt counter intuitive to my mission, so I waved the Whitsundays goodbye.

Following the Bruce I touched down in Mission Beach, it’s since become a favourite stop of mine. The flat, palm lined shore stretches endlessly, and the people there walk about the town and markets with a light step and twinkle in their eye.

From the ocean, I travelled inland, keen to wash off the salt with the crystal-clear waters I had heard tales about. Brushing up against the dark green mountains and tunnelling my way through rainforest enclosed roads, I reached a true pause in my travels.

There is something ancient about the way the mist clings and swirls about Babinda’s mountains. The township is small but happily healthy, and when I pulled into the campground my fellow campers were kind and full of stories to share.

When I trekked down to the Boulders it was late afternoon and nobody else was there. Slipping into the still water, the initial chill couldn't take away from the peace of the place. I recall floating there in the pools watching a blue-winged butterfly lazily flutter overhead and feeling all my stress flow away with the tugging undercurrent.

I rose early the next morning and went down again. This time I clambered upon and jumped off the large boulders the place had been named for and felt greatly refreshed. Sitting in the shallows I saw a freshwater prawn scuttle about as little fish darted to and fro. Meditating as much as the mosquitos would allow me, I listened to the world around me, hearing the overlapping languages of a world I had become disconnected to.

It was a trip travelled slowly, one that let me wash away the weight of everyday and allowed me to centre myself. If you ever get the chance to, I encourage you to dig your toes deeper into the sand, dive deeper into the waters, and take a moment to listen. The natural world around you has plenty to say, if you but pause a moment and lend it an ear.

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From Thursday 6th to Sunday 9th August 2026, the coastal town of Cardwell in Far North Queensland will once again transform into Australia’s home of the unexplained as the Australian UFO Festival returns for an unforgettable four-day celebration of mystery, culture, curiosity and pure fun.

The festival launches on the breathtaking Cardwell Foreshore with Stories in the Stars: a powerful cultural opening honouring local Indigenous star knowledge. Experience traditional star stories shared by Traditional Owners, cultural dancers, and live music as the sun sets over the Coral Sea. It’s a magical, family-friendly beginning that connects ancient sky knowledge with modern curiosity.

For those with a genuine interest in the unexplained, the C-Files Forum runs across Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Researchers, authors, experiencers and investigators gather to explore UFOs, UAPs, and cosmic mysteries in a welcoming and open-minded environment. Whether you’re a seasoned researcher or simply curious, the forum offers thought-provoking presentations, discussions and opportunities to connect with others who share your fascination.

Guided tours will also be available for those wanting to dive deeper into local mystery hotspots and regional stories.

Saturday night is when the foreshore truly comes alive. The Alien Invasion Party is a high-energy costume celebration featuring live entertainment, a licensed bar, music and dancing under the stars. Families, friends, locals and visitors alike dress up in their best extraterrestrial outfits for a night of laughter, connection and unforgettable fun.

We wrap up the weekend with the much-loved Monster Market Day on Sunday. Browse quality market stalls, enjoy delicious food, meet quirky characters and soak up the vibrant festival atmosphere. It’s relaxed, inclusive and perfect for all ages.

The 2026 Australian UFO Festival is for families looking for something different, adventurers chasing fun, and curious minds seeking deeper conversations about the mysteries of our universe.

Mark your calendars now — 6–9 August 2026 — and prepare for a weekend where culture, community and cosmic curiosity collide in beautiful Cardwell.

The countdown has begun.

www.australianufofestival.com.au

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In a world increasingly seeking meaningful and sustainable travel experiences, Hinchinbrook Shire in North Queensland stands as one of Australia’s most authentic eco-friendly destinations. Framed by rainforest mountains, island landscapes and wetlands rich in biodiversity, the region invites visitors to slow down, reconnect with nature and travel with purpose.

Located between Townsville and Cairns, Hinchinbrook Shire remains refreshingly uncrowded. Its natural environment is not shaped for mass tourism but preserved through community stewardship, conservation practices and a deep respect for Country.

At the heart of the region lies the spectacular Hinchinbrook Island National Park, Australia’s largest island national park. Accessible only by boat, the island offers an immersive wilderness experience where rugged peaks rise from mangrove fringes and dense rainforest meets secluded beaches. The renowned Thorsborne Trail attracts eco-conscious hikers from around the world, limiting visitor numbers to protect fragile ecosystems while allowing travellers to experience nature at its purest.

Back on the mainland, the shire’s wetlands and waterways provide equally rich encounters. TYTO Wetlands is a model of environmental restoration, transforming former industrial land into a thriving habitat for birdlife and native species. Elevated boardwalks allow visitors to explore without disturbing wildlife, making it a perfect example of sustainable tourism in action. Interpretive signage and community education initiatives highlight how conservation and tourism can coexist.

Eco-friendly travel in Hinchinbrook also extends to local food and culture. The region’s strong agricultural heritage supports farm fresh produce, reducing food miles while celebrating local flavours. Visitors can experience paddock to plate dining, tropical fruit stalls and locally owned cafés that prioritise seasonal ingredients and low-waste practices.

Water-based experiences further showcase the shire’s commitment to sustainability. Guided fishing charters, reef exploration and kayaking tours operate with an emphasis on environmental responsibility, educating guests on marine ecosystems and responsible recreation within the Great Barrier Reef catchment.

RV and caravanning travellers are also well catered for across Hinchinbrook Shire, with nature-based stays that prioritise low-impact travel. Waterfront camping areas and relaxed coastal locations such as Lucinda Foreshore and Forrest Beach encourage visitors to immerse themselves in the landscape while minimising their environmental footprint. Travellers waking to mountain views or ocean breezes often find that slowing down, staying longer and travelling responsibly becomes a natural part of the Hinchinbrook experience.

Equally important is the cultural connection embedded throughout the landscape. Hinchinbrook Shire sits within the traditional lands of First Nations peoples whose knowledge of land and sea continues to influence conservation approaches today. Respectful travel encourages visitors to appreciate not only the scenery but the stories and heritage that shape the region.

What sets Hinchinbrook apart is its balance. There are no crowds competing for viewpoints, no overdeveloped coastlines and no need to rush. Instead, travellers find quiet walking trails, star filled night skies and genuine community hospitality. Sustainability here is not a marketing concept but a lived reality.

For travellers seeking an eco-friendly escape that values preservation over popularity, Hinchinbrook Shire offers something increasingly rare: a destination where nature leads and visitors follow gently behind.

To discover the Hinchinbrook Region, visit www.hinchinbrookway.com.au

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If you are looking for something delectable at a great price, Herbert River RSL is the place to be. Showcasing some of the best flavours of Hinchinbrook, this Ingham township favourite delivers everything from fresh seafood to flame-grilled porterhouse steaks, vibrant salads and generous weekly specials, with members enjoying even sharper value.

From grandchildren to grandparents, there is something on the menu to tempt every appetite. It is the kind of welcoming, open space where you can settle in for a long lunch, enjoy dinner with friends, or simply stop by for a cold one at the bar. Surrounded by leafy views that create a sense of seclusion, the venue manages to feel both spacious and comfortably snug at the same time.

Affordability and hearty portion sizes make it a standout for both lunch and dinner. Begin with the house made salt and pepper calamari, tender and lightly seasoned, each bite delivering that perfect balance of crunch and coastal flavour. For something fresh and bright, the Cove Summer Prawn Salad is a true taste of North Queensland. Crisp rocket forms the base, layered with sweet mango, creamy avocado and cherry tomatoes, all brought together with a zesty lime dressing and topped with beautiful summer prawns that taste as though they have just come in from the tide.

If you are craving something indulgent, add creamy garlic prawns to your flame grilled porterhouse and create your own reef and beef moment. Or opt for the Cove Harvest Salad, a colourful medley of roast pumpkin, beetroot and sweet potato tossed with rocket, pine nuts and black quinoa, finished with crumbly feta and a drizzle of balsamic that makes every flavour sing.

At Herbert River RSL, the taste of Hinchinbrook is served proudly on every plate.

www.herbertriverrsl.org.au

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Easter at Mick’s arrives with the scent of baked bread and fresh coffee drifting through the air. Here in Ingham, you will find their shelves glistening with freshly baked hot cross buns, their golden tops promising soft, fragrant centres best enjoyed with a generous spread of butter. Regulars know they do not last long, and early orders are strongly advised.

For something a little more playful, try a marshmallow bunny! With their sweet little faces and pillowy texture, they are as delightful to gift as they are to devour. Available in small and large sizes, they make the perfect addition to an Easter hamper or a thoughtful surprise alongside your morning coffee.

Beyond the seasonal treats, Mick’s continues to blend indulgence with intention. The arrival of handcrafted reusable cups from Pottery For The Planet offers customers a sustainable way to sip. Each pottery mug is individually handmade and designed, keeping drinks hot or cold for longer and safe for both the dishwasher and the microwave. They are practical and beautiful keepsakes for travellers and locals alike.

Coffee lovers will rejoice as a freshly brewed batch of cold brew and Nitro coffee is now pouring, including a bold Vietnamese-style option. The Nitro tap creates a creamy, velvety texture with higher caffeine and lower acidity than a traditional brew. Served straight, over ice, or with milk, it is a refreshing coastal pick-me-up.

For a plant-powered twist, Mick’s is now pouring Madame Tiger Barista Tiger Nut Milk. Dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free and FODMAP certified, this creamy, nutty alternative is rich in fibre and naturally sweet. It is available in-store for your favourite coffee or to take home by the carton.

This Easter, whether you are passing through or planning an Easter stay, Mick’s Bread Kitchen invites you to sip sustainably and leave with something deliciously memorable.

07 4776 3932

www.facebook.com/micksbreadkitcheningham

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Vista Hinchinbrook is the ultimate destination venue for your wedding or engagement celebration. Nestled on the Cardwell Range, a short drive from Ingham and set in lush tropical rainforest with spectacular views over Hinchinbrook Channel.

This family-owned and operated venue offers the perfect setting for weddings and elopements, accommodating up to 100 guests, and features a spacious covered deck with breathtaking views over Hinchinbrook Island.

Added to this, you can take in the established gardens, peaceful pond, purpose-built ceremony deck, and a sweeping vista over the best that Mother Nature can offer. The grounds are an ideal location for intimate wedding ceremonies, beautiful wedding photos, cocktail garden parties, elegantly seated receptions and dancing under the stars.

With on-site accommodation for the bridal party, including our prestigious honeymoon suite, where you can watch the sunrise not only from the bed, but from the shower as well!

Our packages range from 4 hours for the ceremony and reception to a two-night stay for all rooms, ensuring a relaxed and stress-free event. We also offer an in-house grazing table post ceremony and a wide variety of beverages from our veranda bar.

Our venue is a must-see, so call in and meet your hosts Ian and Trish and plan your perfect wedding at Vista Hinchinbrook.

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The Tropical Retreat For Adventurous Couples

Couples looking for a romantic getaway with a touch of adventure will find their ideal escape at Sans Souci. Positioned among North Queensland’s lush Hinchinbrook region, these art deco serviced apartments blend heritage charm with modern comfort, offering a stylish and private base for exploring the area’s natural beauty.

Beyond the doors of Sans Souci, couples can immerse themselves in everything the region has to offer. Try your hand at fishing along the Herbert River or Hinchinbrook Channel, take a 4WD adventure through lush tropical landscapes, or explore nearby hiking trails that reveal the beauty of the region’s rainforests and waterfalls. Ocean boating excursions and river cruises provide a unique perspective on the waterways, while day trips to nearby beaches and natural attractions showcase the tropical paradise that surrounds Ingham.

For those visiting the area to attend weddings, Sans Souci's apartments provide a convenient and comfortable home base, just a short distance from popular local venues. With its combination of modern comforts and proximity to the region’s most scenic attractions, the Sans Souci apartments offer couples a getaway that is both intimate and exhilarating.

Each apartment features spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and private balconies, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of adventure. Guests enjoy complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, private parking, and laundry facilities, making it easy to focus on the experiences outside the apartment rather than everyday logistics.

From peaceful mornings on a private balcony to action-packed days exploring North Queensland’s rivers, trails, and coasts, every stay at Sans Souci promises a perfect mix of romance and adventure.

www.sanssouciapartments.com.au

0412 215 920

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Live Music Every Sunday

At The Pinnacle Family Hotel
‍Shake off the routine and finish the week on a high note at the Pinnacle Family Hotel. From February, locals can look forward to live music every single Sunday, creating the perfect laid-back atmosphere to gather friends, enjoy great food, and relax in the heart of the community. Whether you’re settling in for a long lunch, unwinding with a cold drink, or simply soaking up the sounds, Sundays at the Pinnacle are all about good vibes and great company. Planning something special? The venue is also available for private functions and events, making it a fantastic local spot for celebrations of all kinds. Stay tuned to their socials for weekly updates, food specials, event information, and the latest live music line-ups at this much-loved local venue.
‍Pinnacle Family Hotel

Seaforth Mega Markets
‍Head north and soak up the seaside spirit at the Seaforth Mega Markets, held on the first Sunday of each month at the beautiful Seaforth foreshore. Running from 8am to 12pm, these lively markets offer a vibrant mix of fresh local produce, handmade crafts, delicious food, live music and plenty of family-friendly fun under the shady mango trees. Smaller weekly Sunday markets are also held at Seaforth, but the monthly Mega Markets bring an extra buzz with more stalls and entertainment. Dates can vary, so be sure to check the Seaforth Progress Association Facebook page to confirm details before heading along!

Seaforth Esplanade

4th February

Art Educators Preview 2026
‍Discover what’s ahead for creative learning in 2026 at the free art educators preview on Wednesday 4 February from 3:45pm–5pm at Artspace Mackay. It’s the perfect chance to uncover fresh ideas for excursions, curriculum links and classroom inspiration, while connecting with everything Artspace Mackay has to offer. Educators are encouraged to come along, plan ahead and be inspired for the year to come.
‍Artspace Mackay

6th February

U3A Mackay Open Day  
‍Discover a world of learning and connection at the U3A Mackay Open Day on Friday, 6 February 2026, from 9am to 12pm at the Senior Citizens Hall, 58 MacAlister St. Enjoy interactive displays, a cuppa and a chat, and enter the lucky door prize. With free entry and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect opportunity to connect, learn something new, and experience the vibrant spirit of Mackay U3A.  
‍Senior Citizens Hall, 58 MacAlister St

8th February  

Eungella Community Markets  
‍Escape to the top of the mountain for the Eungella Community Markets, held on Sunday, 8th of February 2026, and nine more dates throughout the year. From 9am to 1pm at Eungella Memorial Hall, discover a treasure trove of local delights — from home-style brunches and barista coffee to handmade preserves, fresh local produce, artisan soaps, crystals, jewellery and more. Enjoy family-friendly picnic areas, community stalls, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
‍Eungella Memorial Hall

14th February

Community Shorebirds Workshop
‍Join Reef Catchments for Life On Our Shores: Getting To Know Our Shorebirds, a free community workshop at Eimeo Surf Lifesaving Club on Saturday, February 14 from 10am–2pm. Hear from experts, learn to identify local shorebirds, discover conservation tips and explore birding apps. Perfect for ages 12+, families and nature lovers.
‍Eimeo Surf Lifesaving Club

15th March

Slade Point Community Markets
‍Enjoy a relaxed morning at the Slade Point Community Markets on Sunday 15 March from 8am–11am at the Slade Point Community Gardens. Hosted by the Slade Point Progress Association, these friendly monthly markets feature fresh local produce, handmade crafts, plants, coffee, treats, live entertainment, yoga sessions and kids activities. It’s a wonderful way to support local and connect with the community, with all profits going back into Slade Point.
‍Slade Point Community Gardens

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