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 story
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
Read the full story
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
Read the full story
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 storyOur Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, Ingham, has welcomed new Principal Jo Desailly,
who has returned to her hometown after seven years in Mount Isa.
Mrs Desailly’s homecoming is a significant moment for the school and wider
community, bringing her wealth of experience and passion for Catholic education to the
role. With a deep connection to Ingham, she is eager to build on the school’s strong
foundation of Faith, Education, Mercy, and Hope.
“I feel incredibly blessed to return home and serve the community that shaped me,”
Principal Jo Desailly said. “Our Lady of Lourdes has always had a reputation for
excellence, and I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff, students, and
families to continue fostering a culture of learning, growth, and faith.”
For decades, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School has been a cornerstone of the
Ingham community, delivering quality education that nurtures the whole child -
academically, spiritually, emotionally, socially, and physically. The school’s
commitment to high expectations, equal opportunities, and a supportive pastoral care
structure ensures that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
“We are focused on providing a nurturing and inclusive environment where students
feel valued and supported,” Mrs Desailly said. “By working closely with parents, carers,
the parish, and the wider community, we can ensure that each student experiences
success and develops the skills they need to thrive in life.”
With a strong tradition of academic, sporting, and cultural success, Our Lady of Lourdes
continues to foster a love of learning while upholding the values of the Catholic faith.
The school’s mission is deeply embedded in daily life, creating a space where students
are encouraged to develop into compassionate, confident, and capable individuals.
“I am excited to lead this vibrant school community and to continue strengthening the
links between education, faith, and family,” she said. “Together, we will build on the rich
traditions of Our Lady of Lourdes and embrace the future with faith and hope.”
The Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School community warmly welcomes Jo Desailly and
looks forward to the new chapter ahead under her leadership.
Contributed with thanks to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, Ingham
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Life Publishing Group Ltd.
