General News
31 October, 2026
There’s life in the old girl for certain
THE historic timber beams of the Garradunga Hall haven’t rattled with this much joy in decades.
Over 250 lively locals, donning their finest hats and denim, swung through the doors for the recent ‘Back to Garradunga’ country and western night – a roaring, boot-scootin’ success aimed at rescuing the beloved community hub.
Years of tropical storms have taken their toll, leaving major repairs or a full replacement of its ageing roof as an urgent priority.
But if the electric atmosphere on that Saturday evening was anything to go by, the local community isn’t about to let their historic hall fade away without a fight. Organised by the tireless Garradunga Progress Association, the evening marked the pinnacle of a spirited fundraising campaign.
Over recent months, the dedicated committee has been working double-time – securing a vital council grant, firing up weekend sausage sizzles and driving a massive surge in local membership.
Live tunes from Double Impact Duo and Code Blue kept the dance floor busy, while a high-energy performance from Bev’s Babinda Dancers had the enthusiastic audience cheering for more. All three acts generously donated their time to support the cause, setting an infectious, joyful vibe that lasted late into the night.
Among the night’s most treasured guests was Innisfail local Angie Carbone, who celebrated her 95th birthday earlier in October.
Married in 1951, Mrs Carbone lived for five decades on their McCowatt Road sugar cane farm, raising three generations under one roof alongside her late husband, Santo.
For the farmer, returning to the hall was a heartwarming journey through time.
Association president Ian Richardson was thrilled with the overwhelming turnout and the community’s generosity.
“The Garradunga Progress Association would like to thank the 250-plus people who attended,” he said. “The ‘old girl’ would have been beside herself hosting such wonderful music. Conversation flowed freely with many recalling anecdotes from the hall’s past.
“Without a doubt, the hall is born again.”
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