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 storyHello residents of Hinchinbrook,
The past few weeks have been challenging, but we continue to show resilience. Additional assistance from Federal and State Government Disaster Grant Funding has now increased to Category D for primary producers, not-for-profits, and small businesses. With no insurance covering crop damage, the increase to $75,000 for eligible primary producers to repair farmland or replace lost stock is a welcome relief.
While Disaster Grants have helped individuals, many now turn to insurers for support in areas not covered. If you are making a claim for personal contents or residential building insurance, I hope you are receiving positive outcomes. We pay significantly higher premiums than our southern friends, so we expect fair support. If premium costs rise beyond reason, we will call on state and federal representatives to hold insurers accountable.
Business insurance presents its own challenges, including building, equipment, and stock loss claims. As Chair of the Economic Recovery Sub Group and a local Real Estate Agent, I see firsthand the struggles businesses face. We must support them in getting back on their feet.
Recently, I met an insurance advocate working with a local insurance broking company at a Chamber of Commerce recovery meeting. Their service has helped business owners navigate claims for positive outcomes, even without flood cover.
The company specialises in claims preparation and advocacy, liaising with insurers to manage claims and ensure well-supported submissions. Many businesses have cover for the fees under their insurance, allowing them to access expert advice at no cost.
For further information regarding the Insurance Advocates, contact the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce at admin@hinchinbrookchamber.com.au.
Take care, be kind, and stay safe.
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