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 storyIf you’re an avid reader of Hinchinbrook Life, you might not have seen my byline too often—but I’ve been here since the beginning. While Rachael steers the ship and Daniel is our man on the ground, I’ve been working behind the scenes covering rural affairs. And as the federal election race heats up, you’ll be seeing more from me outside the rural pages, too.
Politics has always fascinated me—not just the policies, but the passion. I love a good debate, the fiery exchanges, and watching our politicians go to battle for their local regions. With an election on the horizon, expect plenty of political coverage alongside my usual dive into all things agriculture.
A bit about me: I’m Amanda, the newspaper’s rural journalist, and if there’s one thing I love, it’s getting to the heart of a good story—whether that’s in the paddock, Parliament, or somewhere in between. When I’m not chasing down stories, I’m chasing down my almost-two-year-old, who has the energy of a category-five cyclone and a talent for making me question why I buy him toys, when he gets as much delight from rocks from the garden or a cardboard box.
Last year threw a challenge my way in the form of bowel cancer, but after eight rounds of chemo, I got to ring the bell just before Christmas to celebrate being in remission. A quick PSA—do those bowel screen tests, even if you think you’re ‘too young.’ I was 43 when diagnosed with stage 3B colon cancer, and I’m beyond grateful that we caught it when we did.
I moved from New Zealand to Queensland 13 years ago, and while I’ll always have a soft spot for an All Blacks v Wallabies clash, these days, you’ll find me watching more rugby league than union. (Queensland loyalty might be rubbing off on me.)
While my home is in the rural pages, you’ll start seeing more of my work in the lead-up to the election across Hinchinbrook Life, and our sister publiations; Burdekin Life, and Mackay Life. So, if you’re passionate about agriculture, politics, or just want to argue footy codes—let’s talk.
Looking forward to bringing you more of the stories that shape our region.
Amanda
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