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 storyTuesday 21 January
Let’s Build a Roller Coaster School Holiday Activity
Tuesday 10:30am
Build a wild and wonderful roller coaster as part of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s FREE School Holiday Program!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library
Wednesday 22 January
Wellbeing Workshop
Wednesday 9am
Hosted by Wholebeing Initiative join in for a restorative experience that blends mindfulness, art therapy, and breathwork. This workshop offers tools to reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and nurture creativity in a safe, supportive space. Perfect for anyone looking to unwind, explore inner peace, and cultivate resilience through calming and expressive practices.
Wholebeing Initiative Studio
Thursday 23 January
Mahjong Group
Thursday 1pm
The first meeting of the newly established Mahjong Group will take place on Thursday the 23rd of January from 1pm to 3pm. Everyone welcome! Tea and coffee will be provided.
71 Townsville Road
Friday 24 January
Summer Reading Club Party
Friday 10am
Celebrate the end of the Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s School Holidays Summer Reading Club with a wonderful party!
Hinchinbrook Shire Library
Friday 24 January
2025 Australia Day Official Awards and Ceremony
Friday 6pm
The Hinchinbrook Shire Council will hold the 2025 Australia Day Awards and Ceremony from 6pm to 8pm on Friday the 24th of January.
Hinchinbrook Shire Hall
Sunday 26 January
Australia Day Pool Party
Sunday 9am
Continuing the school holiday fun, the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre will hold an Australia Day Pool Party!
Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre
Sunday 26 January
Australia Day Ambrose
Sunday 10am
Get your teams together for Cardwell’s Australia Day Ambrose! Call Coleen on 0411 509 630 for more information and registration.
Cardwell Golf Club
Saturday 1 February
Mt Fox Markets
Saturday 11am
Spend your Saturday browsing through the talents of local stallholders at the Mt Fox Markets! If you’re looking to become a stall holder yourself, contact Brandie on 0477 199 758.
Mt Fox Campgrounds
Saturday 1 February
Fall in Love with Forrest Beach
Saturday 1pm
Auction Open Days of properties to go on Auction with Felix Reitano Real Estate on Valentine’s Day.
Forrest Beach Properties