Hinchinbrook’s Kylee Frankee has been awarded the Exceptional Tradeswoman, Technician, and Operator Award at the 2025 BMA Mitsubishi Alliance Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) Awards. With 16 years of experience as an Electrical and Instrument Technician, Kylee has earned a reputation for her expertise, leadership, and dedication to supporting apprentices and advocating for mental health in the workplace. A passionate mentor, she also champi
Read the full storyIf your child was born after March 2024, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council warmly invites your family to attend the 2025 Baby Welcoming Ceremony at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library. At this special event, your little one will be officially welcomed as a member of the Hinchinbrook community by the Mayor. Each family will receive a gift bag, a personalised certificate, and a commemorative sapling to symbolise the setting down of new roots and the special new bud added to your family tree. Parents and
Read the full storyThis year, Ingham Post Office is celebrating 90 years of service and keeping regional Queensland connected. Built in 1935, the post office has become one of the region’s most prominent community hubs and was added to the Australian Commonwealth Heritage List in 2012. Over the decades, it has connected generations of locals through letters, telegrams, phone calls, and now digital services. The region’s postal history dates back to 1871, when services began with a steamer mail run from Cardwell a
Read the full storyDawn Service - Ingham 4:15am the DAWN PARADE will assemble at Mafeking Tree, opposite the Police Station. At the service conclusion all those attending are invited to the RSL Club for breakfast. RSL Remembrance Ceremony - Ingham 6:00am a ceremony will be conducted at the Ingham War Cemetery by the Herbert River Sub-branch of the Returned Service League of Australia. Commemoration Ceremony - Forrest Beach 7:00am a commemoration ceremony will be conducted at the Forrest Beach Memorial. Parade a
Read the full storyHome improvements can be a rewarding investment, but they can also come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, with a bit of planning, you can achieve your dream home without breaking the bank.
Here are some essential tips for budgeting home improvements effectively:
- Prioritise Your Projects:
Start by determining which improvements will provide the most value to your home and your lifestyle. Tackle the essential repairs first, like fixing plumbing or updating worn-out electrical systems, then move on to cosmetic changes like painting or landscaping.
- Create a Detailed Budget:
Set a realistic budget that includes a buffer for unexpected costs. Break down your budget by materials, labour, and any permits you may need. A detailed plan will prevent you from overspending and allow you to stay on track.
- DIY When Possible:
If you’re handy, taking on some of the work yourself can save a lot of money. Tasks like painting, landscaping, or installing basic fixtures are often manageable for homeowners with basic skills. Just be realistic about your abilities to avoid costly mistakes.
- Shop for Deals:
Look for sales or discounted materials, and consider purchasing second-hand items for furniture or fixtures. Many home improvement stores offer seasonal discounts, so planning your project during a sale can yield significant savings.
- Tiling Tip:
When tiling, choose a timeless style and purchase tiles in bulk. Often, ordering extra tiles upfront can save you money on per-tile costs. Additionally, opting for porcelain or ceramic tiles, which are durable yet affordable, can stretch your budget further.
By planning wisely and prioritising, you can make the most of your home improvement budget.