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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MRQ Lucinda Spring Into Action For Pelorus Island Rescue

January 7, 2025

An early morning call on Monday, the 23rd of December 2024 alerted MRQ Lucinda (formerly Ingham Coast Guard) that a local Marine Assist member’s motor had failed while out near Pelorus Island. A concerning situation, the engine had given out in a plume of smoke, and assistance was urgently needed.

Despite the early hour, the Coast Guard team rallied, with a series of phone calls ensuring a crew was assembled. Missing their breakfasts, the volunteers had the rescue vessel, Snow Stafford, on the water by 8am!

The disabled boat was located to the north-east of Pelorus Island, and a tow line was quickly attached for a safe return to Dungeness.

2024 saw MRQ Lucinda respond to 32 calls and rescue 93 people, further displaying their unwavering dedication to keeping locals and visitors safe on the water.

Contributed with thanks to Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14, MRQ Lucinda.

As 2024 neared its end, MRQ Lucinda completed a Christmas rescue near Pelorus Island.

IN OTHER NEWS

Tasman Turtle Picnic Day
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Connect At The Senior Men's Social Group
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Farmers Demand Long-Term Disaster Plan
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Buy Local To Support Flood-Affected Soybean Growers
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Books And Stories Available All Year Round
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