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
Read the full storyWhen 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
Read the full storyVictoria 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
Read the full storyA 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 storyHi everyone,
I hope you have all had a great week.
This weekend, I enjoyed a trip to Wallaman Falls. It probably wasn’t the greatest idea because it was roasting hot, but I enjoyed the walk, and the waterfall was spectacular. I’m looking forward to continuing to explore the region and especially to finding nice swimming spots during the hot months ahead.
In other news, I’m thrilled that both political parties have allocated funding to the Bruce Highway, regardless of the election outcome. I have travelled on the Bruce Highway often, mainly on my drive south to the Whitsundays, but I have seen enough of it to know that it needs to be updated. Floodproofing and widening the road are what are needed most in our region, and with the new funding, let’s hope that our issues are resolved.
I also want to mention the fires that are currently in Los Angeles. Although they are far away from here, they remind us that it is vital that we are prepared for natural disasters in our region, particularly floods and cyclones.
It is particularly hot this week so I want to finish by saying stay cool and enjoy the paper!
Quote of the week
"When in doubt, look intelligent" - Garrison Keillor