TOP NEWS

Promises, Policies, And Polling Day 2025 Budget Breakdown

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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The Heroes Of Hinchinbrook

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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Meet Victoria Hinchinbrook Life’s New Journo

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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Raising Mental Health Awareness In Ingham

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

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Furry Friend Rescued From Floodwaters

February 25, 2025

A powerful image from the recent floodwaters in the region captures an act of compassion. Shane, a local resident, was photographed by Frances from Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre as he bravely rescued a stranded macropod from the deluge and raging waters.

The photo, which highlights the connection between Shane and the grateful animal, speaks volumes about the resilience and kindness of looking out for one another, even animals, during times of crisis. The tender eye contact between the rescuer and his furry, big-footed friend is a deeply moving reminder of the empathy that unites everyone when disaster strikes.

In a time when many were battling the effects of the severe flooding, Shane’s selfless act stands out as a beacon of hope. Thank you to the volunteers like Shane, along with emergency service personnel who continue to work tirelessly to assist those in need, both human and animal alike in the aftermath of the floods.

This moment of kindness was captured and shared as part of the ‘2025 Queensland Gives Photo Challenge’, dedicated by Frances to the Wilderness Society, and serves as a reminder that Queenslanders will always help one another, no matter the challenge. Much gratitude to all those making a difference in the wake of the floods.

Shane cradling his rescued, soggy animal friend. Photo Credit: Frances of the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre, Queensland Gives Facebook page.

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