What’s happening?
Ingham secured a live concert by Tones And I, after a strong community-led campaign gained widespread support across the Hinchinbrook region.
The announcement was confirmed on the artist’s Facebook page, where Ingham was revealed as the first stop of five newly added shows, scheduled for 20 February.
The Ingham Showgrounds were identified as the preferred venue, with council continuing discussions with event organisers on final arrangements.
The news was met with excitement across the district, as residents celebrated a major win for the community.
Why it matters
For Ingham, securing a major Australian artist highlighted the strength of local action.
The campaign showed how a united community could influence decisions often made in larger centres.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said the outcome reflected the spirit of the region.
“We’ve got ordinary people doing extraordinary things, and that’s the magic of this place,” Mayor Jayo said.
Local impact
The announcement brought a wave of local pride, with businesses and residents recognising the collective effort behind the campaign.
Local support played a central role, with strong online engagement helping push the town into the national spotlight.
Mayor Jayo thanked everyone involved.
“This was a whole-of-community effort. A round of applause to our Chamber, our businesses and every local who clicked, shared, voted and cheered this on,” he said.
“When Hinchinbrook pulls together, there’s nothing we can’t do.”
By the numbers
-
20 February was confirmed as the concert date for Ingham.
-
5 additional shows were announced by the artist, with Ingham named first.
-
10 seconds was how long tickets took to sell out when sales opened.
Zoom in
Mayor Jayo paid tribute to campaign lead Justine Stoddart for driving the idea forward.
“A huge congratulations to Justine Stoddart. From serving pizzas to sparking a community-wide movement, she’s shown what one passionate local can achieve,” he said.
“Justine, take a bow.”
Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce Industry and Tourism President Mary Brown said the campaign showed the power of collaboration.
“This is what happens when we unite behind a common goal,” Ms Brown said.
“The energy and determination from every corner of the community has been incredible, and now we get to celebrate with an event that will put Ingham on the map.”
Ms Stoddart said the response exceeded expectations.
“I’m just blown away,” she said.
“What started as a simple idea turned into something much bigger because everyone jumped in to help. This is for Hinchinbrook, and I can’t wait to see the joy it brings.”
Zoom out
The outcome added to a growing list of regional towns showing how local backing could influence major event decisions.
Ingham’s success reflected the impact of organised, community-driven support.
What to look for next?
Tickets went on sale and sold out almost immediately.
The artist later confirmed a second ticket release would follow, once weather and capacity planning were finalised.
“Ingham. That sold out in 10 seconds,” Tones And I wrote.
“We will release more. We just need to make sure we can accommodate everyone due to weather, but there will be a second release. I will let you know when.”
Earlier, she shared her excitement about visiting the town.
“So we have decided to add 5 more shows. However, the first show on the 20th of February was in Ingham,” she wrote.
“I have seen it all. You guys went HARD. I can’t wait to come to your beautiful town.”
“We can’t wait to meet you all. We’ll visit as many small businesses as possible too.”
For now, Ingham and the wider Hinchinbrook region continued to savour the moment and prepare for a major night of live music.
