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 storyWhen 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 storyVictoria 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 storyA 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 storyTiles are more than just a practical flooring or wall covering, they are an artistic element that can elevate the aesthetics of your home. Whether you are designing a kitchen splashback, a bathroom feature wall, or a stylish outdoor patio, selecting the right tile can make all the difference. With endless designs, materials, and finishes available, it’s important to consider both function and style to create a space that reflects your personality and enhances your living environment.
The first step in selecting tiles is identifying the style you want to achieve. Are you drawn to modern minimalism, rustic charm, or vibrant Mediterranean patterns? Each tile type carries a unique character that can transform a space. The material of the tile plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. Ceramic tiles are a popular and versatile choice, offering durability and a wide range of colours and designs. They work well in kitchens and bathrooms due to their water resistance and ease of maintenance. Porcelain tiles are more robust and denser than ceramic, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and outdoor spaces. They come in matte, polished, and textured finishes to suit different design needs. Natural stone tiles, such as marble, granite, slate, and travertine, offer a luxurious and organic look. While they require more maintenance, their unique textures and variations add a timeless elegance to any space. Glass tiles are often used for mosaics and feature walls, creating a luminous effect by reflecting light and making spaces appear larger and more vibrant.
Colour and pattern play a significant role in setting the mood of a space. Lighter tiles, such as whites and pastels, create a sense of openness and airiness, making small rooms feel more spacious. Bold colours, intricate patterns, or geometric designs can add character and make a statement. Wood-look or stone-look tiles provide the warmth of natural materials with the benefits of durability and easy maintenance. The size and layout of tiles also impact the overall effect. Large-format tiles give a modern and seamless look, reducing grout lines and creating a sense of continuity. Subway tiles, when laid in different patterns, add a dynamic and stylish effect to walls, while mosaic tiles offer intricate details and are perfect for splashbacks or feature walls.
Tiles have the power to redefine a space, whether through colour, texture, or pattern. A well-chosen tile design can enhance visual appeal by serving as a focal point, drawing attention to a particular area such as a kitchen splashback or an entryway floor. High-quality tiles add sophistication and durability, increasing the value of a home and making it more attractive to potential buyers. Their water-resistant and easy-to-clean surfaces improve functionality, especially in high-moisture zones like bathrooms and kitchens. The right choice of tiles can also create a distinct mood and atmosphere, with dark, moody tones evoking a sense of luxury, while bright, patterned tiles inject energy and creativity into a space.
There is a large array of tiles available and with investing time in selecting the right tile for your home can lead to a stunning and long-lasting transformation. Whether your goal is a sleek modern look or a cozy rustic feel, the right tiles will bring your vision to life.