TOP NEWS

For the Community, By The Community State Emergency Services

The State Emergency Service (SES) played a crucial role in the flood recovery across Hinchinbrook, leading rescue and evacuation efforts in Ingham, Halifax, and Lucinda. Working with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES), they helped residents in submerged homes, managed storm damage, and supported vulnerable individuals with food and medical aid. SES used aerial resources, including Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems, to assess damage. Area Controller John Forde praised the swift reco

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Recovery Group Kick Starts

Following the devastating flooding that hit the Hinchinbrook Shire, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council are now in the recovery stage of a natural disaster. Deputy Mayor Mary Brown is chair of the recovery group and she said that there are four subgroups - Human and Social, Economic Development, Infrastructure and Environment. “We've been working in the background for quite some time and that's how we established the community recovery here locally,” explained Deputy Mayor Mary Brown. “We have a p

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Australian Italian Festival Returns For 30th Anniversary

One of the state’s most infamous celebrations of Italian culture will grace the Hinchinbrook Shire once again when the Australian Italian Festival returns on the 7th and 8th of June 2025. Over the decades, the festival has attracted waves of support and interest across the nation and beyond, and a particular State Library of Queensland interview conducted in 2013 further cemented the festival’s deserving place in the state’s history. 2013 President of the Australian Italian Festival Commi

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Australia Day Pool Party 2025 – A Splashing Success!

The Australia Day Pool Party at the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre on Sunday 26 January 2025, was a fantastic community celebration, bringing together families and friends for a day filled with fun, laughter, and Aussie spirit! A True Blue Aussie Celebration The festivities kicked off at 9.30am with a lamington style cake-cutting, setting the tone for a day of enjoyment. By 10am, DJ Wayne Newton was spinning all the Aussie classics, keeping the energy high and the good vibes flowing until 3pm—cre

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Keep Your Pets Cool This Summer

As temperatures soar across the state, it's essential to take extra care of our furry, feathered, and scaly companions this summer. In accordance with the guidelines set out by the RSPCA Queensland, we have put together some important tips to keep your pets cool, comfortable, and safe in the heat.

DOGS
Dogs don’t sweat like humans, so they rely on panting and finding cool spots to regulate their body temperature. High humidity and heat can make this process less efficient, so always ensure your dog has access to fresh water.

Outside your home, make sure to provide plenty of shade, and avoid leaving your pups in confined hot areas like doghouses, however, in extreme heat, it’s best to keep your pets indoors in a well-ventilated space.

You can also create cool spots for your pets to lay by dampening their bed, using cool mats available in pet stores, or setting up a small kiddie pool in a shaded area. Another fun way to beat the heat is by making homemade frozen treats or ‘pupsicles’ to keep them entertained and cool.

It’s essential to remember to never leave your pet in a car during hot weather as it can be fatal, and always be mindful of heat stress symptoms, such as excessive panting or salivation.

CATS
Cats also need extra care during the heat, and simple tasks like keeping their water in a cool, shaded area and offering a fan or damp towels for them to lay on will go a long way.

SMALLER PETS
Guinea pigs and birds are also vulnerable to heat stress, and it’s highly beneficial to ensure they have plenty of fresh water, shade, and cool surfaces to rest on. For fish, monitor the water temperature closely, and for larger livestock, make sure they also always have access to shade and water.

In taking these simple steps, you can help ensure that your pets stay safe, comfortable, and healthy during the summer months. Remember to always monitor for signs of heat stress, and don’t hesitate to seek veterinary assistance if needed. Visit www.rspcaqld.org.au for more tips on how to keep your pets chill this summer.

IN OTHER NEWS

Drop in with Daniel
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Cardwell Lions Club Delivers Vital Donations to Community
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Halifax Progress Association Plays Vital Role in Flood Response
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Ministers Visit Region To Reassure Pathway Of Recovery
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On The Road To Recovery
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