By Amanda Wright The 2025 Federal Budget was never just about dollars and cents—it was about the direction Australia takes in the years ahead. Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ latest budget, delivered on 25 March, makes clear where the Albanese government believes that the future lies: in cost-of-living relief, housing, and a transition to a more sustainable economy. But with an election now set for 3 May, it’s impossible to ignore the political stakes. Is this a responsible economic plan or a budget de
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When disastrous floods swept through the region in February, the town of Ingham found itself in a crisis unlike any it had seen in recent memory with devastating flood waters surpassing the levels they reached in the historic floods of 1967. Amidst the chaos of the floods the local medical practices Hinchinbrook Healthcare and Ingham Family Medical Practice banded together in times of uncertainty and provided a glimmer of light to Ingham residents, demonstrating remarkable resilience and resour
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Victoria grew up in Brisbane and went on to pursue a Cert III in Business Administration while also qualifying as a swimming teacher through AustSwim. Their career path led them to roles as a receptionist and swimming instructor, where they worked hard to fund their Diploma of Arts. Later serving as an editor for a medical journal at Queensland University of Technology, Victoria further sharpened their writing and editorial skills. Victoria's family live in Macknade and moving to the reg
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A striking symbol of resilience and awareness now stands along the highway in Ingham—its vivid blue branches reaching out as a reminder that no one has to struggle in silence. The Blue Tree Project, a national initiative aimed at breaking the stigma around mental health, found a home in the town in July 2023, thanks to a collaborative community effort. Councillor Donna Marbelli first saw a Blue Tree while driving between Townsville and Ingham and knew the town needed one of its own. The search
Read the full storyIt was wonderful to see the many local business managers and owners who turned up at the meet and greet to see the Small Business Commissioner, Dominique Lamb that was held last Wednesday night at Lee’s Hotel. Unfortunately, due to the impending cyclone Alfred looming off the Brisbane coast, her trip was cut short. But the evening proved to be a valuable source of connection, as she heard stories and hardship from the attendees, while exchanging contact details and words of sympathy.
The Hinchinbrook Shire Council organised a wonderful night, where after the formal speeches and introductions, there was chatter and story swapping, while other leading organisations such as Rural Financial Counselling Services and the Department of Small and Family Business were introduced once again.
On the Chamber side of operations, 1-on-1 sessions with QRIDA representatives Sam Spina and Bill Fletcher are booked out at full capacity. More interest is being shown from businesses in the local community, and more sessions are currently being organised as a result.
Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce is also working closely with Officers from Rural Financial Counselling Services (RFCS) to organise 1-on-1 sessions, allowing business owners the chance to have their conversations in a private and discreet setting. RFCS work hand in hand with your already allocated financial advisors and accountants, while also offering the services of a Business Wellness Coach, who will assist where there is overwhelming stress and angst. More details of these sessions will come once preparations have been finalised. If you are interested in attending these sessions, please contact the Chamber to express your interest.
The Hinchinbrook community is now coming up to 6 weeks post flood, and it’s been fantastic to see, from Chamber’s side the determination and resilience radiating from the business community. Striving to not give up, and open those doors no matter what, to once again serve their community. Chamber commend you all! With each passing day, more and more shops are reopening; and with Easter fast approaching, getting the word out that Ingham is “open for business” has never been so important. Chamber has recently taken on a tourism based social media campaign stating these details, as they try to invite tourists back to our town.
Contributed with thanks to Chamber President Mary Brown
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