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 storyIn the wake of the Federal Government’s Category D disaster declaration, QCAR remains on the ground, ensuring flood-affected growers receive the support they desperately need.
Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella has been meeting with industry and financial leaders, including senior NAB staff, to outline the long-term challenges rural businesses now face. While the $75,000 grants have provided a crucial lifeline, red tape is still preventing many from accessing essential funding.
QCAR is actively campaigning for changes to eligibility criteria, pushing for support to extend beyond primary income requirements so that growers supplementing their earnings—like Ingham’s Luke Roveda—aren’t unfairly excluded. Additionally, the fight continues to ensure replanting assistance includes ratoon crops, which make up the bulk of the region’s sugarcane.
Beyond financial aid, QCAR is advocating for urgent repairs to damaged creek banks and drainage systems, assistance for the harvesting and local business sectors, and the restoration of the rail network ahead of crushing season. Mental health remains a top priority, with QCAR calling for increased services to help struggling farmers.
“We’ve secured a win with the Category D funding, but there’s more to be done,” QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan said.
“We won’t stop fighting to make sure our growers and their communities get the help they deserve.”
For assistance, contact Lawrence Di Bella and the Herbert River team at 0448 084 252 or email ldibella@qcar.com.au.
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