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 storySunday, 30th March will see the culmination of the four-day Feast of the Senses Festival with the signature event, Australian Bananas River Feast, the biggest of all the events during the festival. Gates open at 9.00am on Sunday morning, and entry is free.
“We are thrilled that the Australian Bananas River Feast is almost here,” said committee President Rosi Jensen. “Our volunteer committee has worked incredibly hard to bring this event to the community, and it would not happen without the financial support of Australian Bananas and numerous other supporters, including the Cassowary Coast Council,” she said.
“We’re still looking for volunteers to assist the committee with set-up from 5am. Early birds can just turn up on the day to volunteer and will earn a free breakfast voucher. Just sign in at the volunteer tent first and remember to wear your closed-in shoes for safety.”
There will be an amazing array of food on offer, local produce, cooking demonstrations & tastings on the Brothers’ Leagues Club Canecutter Court stage and musical entertainment on the riverbank featuring local performers. There’s a great line-up of entertainment commencing at 9.30am.
The event will showcase arts, crafts, artisanal foods, and delicious treats, creating a vibrant tropical atmosphere. The highlight is the Rare & Tropical Fruit display by the Cassowary Coast Rare Fruits Association, sponsored by Paronella Park. Visitors can sample the fruits before bidding at the end-of-day auction. The marquee, sponsored by Murray Brothers, will host the display.
For families, the Feast of Fun Kid Zone at the skatepark end of the riverbank, sponsored by Soils First, offers inflatable rides, art and craft activities, and more. Rides are $5 each or $20 for an all-day wristband.
This amazing ‘top 10’ Queensland event is right on your doorstep, so don’t miss it!
For more information go to www.feastofthesenses.com.au/events/