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
Read the full storyA long-running NRL tipping competition in Ingham is celebrating its 25th year. Originally founded in 2000 by local businessmen George Croton and Grant Cartwright, the competition has evolved from a manual system reliant on paper entries and faxes to a modern, app-based format.
The competition, now known as IGC NRL Tipping, has continued to thrive under the stewardship of its current organiser, Geoff Gianotti, who took over four years ago. The transition to the NRL app has made the process more efficient. Despite the shift in format, the competition remains as strong as ever, including 59 participants this year.
Since it is the 25th anniversary, Geoff approached the North Queensland Cowboys, who have provided promotional packs containing merchandise such as footballs, caps, and jerseys. These items will be used as prizes.
One of the highlights of this milestone year is a special competition within the main event, titled ‘Simply the Best.’ This contest brings together 14 previous winners, in a unique challenge to determine the best of the best. The organiser hopes to secure a special prize from the Cowboys for this competition.
Another notable addition of this year's event is a charity raffle for a framed, signed ‘Maroon Commanders’ photograph featuring Queensland Origin legends, valued at $750. The raffle is open exclusively to competition participants, and all proceeds will be donated to a local charity, Meals on Wheels. The donation will be presented during the competition’s presentation night on September 13 at the Ingham RSL, where ticket sales will also take place.
Anyone can enter this competition and Geoff said someone that enters today can still win. This year, three young football enthusiasts have joined, with their grandfather proudly registering them.
The tipping competition, which costs $65 to join, is a non-profit initiative, with all funds going towards food, drinks, prizes, and a courtesy bus to ensure participants can enjoy the event safely. Each week, participants receive an email filled with witty commentary on team performances, adding an element of fun to the experience.
With strong community support and ongoing partnerships, the IGC NRL Tipping competition continues to bring locals together through their shared passion for rugby league, ensuring its legacy well beyond this milestone year.
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