Famous for its sugar cane, its rich Italian heritage, and its proximity to many stunningly beautiful natural attractions, the north Queensland town of Ingham is a memorable addition to any Big Lap itinerary.
Located around 100 kilometres north of Townsville on the Bruce Highway, Ingham’s identity is very much tied up with sugar cane. After George Dalrymple led the first British expedition here in 1864, the area was quickly identified as being ideal sugar cane country.
The first local sugar mill was constructed in 1872 and the rest, as they say, is history. Two massive sugar mills owned by Wilmar Sugar Australia Limited – Victoria Sugar Mill and Macknade Mill – still process sugar cane from the many plantations in the area.
The spectacular Wallaman Falls are near Ingham. PIC: Hinchinbrook Shire Council
It was the sugar industry that attracted waves of Italian migrants to Ingham. Today, it is thought that more than half the population is of Italian descent, and that connection is celebrated every year with the annual Australian-Italian Festival which showcases Italian wine, cuisine, music and culture.
As a service centre for a large area, Ingham has good facilities for travellers and plenty of things to see and do.
Heritage-listed structures include the Gairloch Bridge, a road bridge over the old Bruce Highway; the Ingham Post Office built in 1935; and the Ingham Court House built in 1948.
Another headline attraction for grey nomads is the TYTO Wetlands and Information Centre. The 110-hectare wetlands themselves are home to more than 230 bird species, including the Eastern Grass Owl.
There’s an 11-metre observation tower and a series of walkways and bridges to enable visitors to get to grips with all that is here. The three main walks are the two-kilometre TYTO Wetlands Circuit; the 800-metre Pandanus Trail; and the 500-metre Whistler’s Walk.
The TYTO RV Camping Area is also right next to the information centre and offers 72-hour low-cost camping for self-contained travellers.
Other nearby camping options include the Ingham Tourist Park and, a little further afield, several national park areas.
As previously mentioned, Ingham sits in a magnificent part of the world. The stunning Wallaman Falls are about 50 kilometres to the west of town; Jourama Falls are about 30 kilometres to the south; and Hinchinbrook Island is about 20 kilometres to the north.
Most grey nomads also enjoy a drive to Lucinda, 25 kilometres to the north west, mainly to see the massive bulk sugar loading facility there, and the 5.76-kilometre long jetty. On the road to Lucinda, is the Herbert River Museum and Gallery which is also well worth a stop to get an insight into the history of this truly fascinating region.
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