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 storyWith heavy rains and flooding over the Bruce Highway last week, truckies were stuck in Ingham unable to travel north and south. Truckies in Cardwell were also stuck unable to travel south on their routes.
A frustrating delay for truckies, but Cardwell Swimming Pool opened their gates for truckies and stranded travellers, enabling them to use the full facilities free of charge.
Truck drivers enjoyed the showers and access to the pool…..
June Cotter Manager of Cardwell Swimming Pool said she was inspired to open the pool to stranded travellers and truck drivers because her nephew is a truckie, and she would like someone to look after him if he was stuck.
“There was nothing for them here in town so I said, just come and use the showers for free,” said June.
This isn’t the first time June has opened the pool and showers for travellers and truck drivers.
During the last flood in February she opened it once again.
“Last time it was so hot, and they're all out there sitting in the sun, and I had toilets and showers, so I just put it out there. Why don’t you just come and have a shower?”
“We fed them for three days at nighttime and breakfast until they left,” said June.
“The community bought stuff in and helped me and my staff and family. They bought soft drinks, so they didn't have to pay for them.”
June’s generosity and the support of the Cardwell community provided much-needed relief for stranded truck drivers and travellers. By opening the pool’s facilities, she not only offered comfort but also demonstrated the kindness and resilience that small towns are known for.
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