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
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The Hinchinbrook Channel, renowned for its natural beauty and abundant marine life, is facing increasing challenges due to the actions of professional crabbers, or "procrabbers," who are making crabbing harder for local residents.
Local fishermen and crabbers are concerned about the depletion of adult male crabs, with procrabbers reportedly overharvesting the population. The practice is affecting the balance of the marine ecosystem, with fewer crabs available for locals who rely on crabbing as both a recreational activity and a source of food.
Further compounding the issue, discarded crab pots are being left in the waters, often trapping crabs and fish. These animals are left to die from starvation or heat exposure under the harsh FNQ sun, adding to the environmental impact.
As the community continues to witness these concerning practices, many are calling for greater regulation and awareness surrounding sustainable crabbing practices to protect the local marine life and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the unique ecosystem of the Hinchinbrook Channel.
Dr Kirstie Broadfield
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