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 storyFollowing the closure of the Community Recovery Hub at the TAFE Building on Townsville Rd, transitional arrangements have been made for officers to assist the community from the new office, which will be located at 73-81 Lannercost Street, commencing Tuesday, April 1st.
As the recovery process continues to progress forward, any local residents still seeking assistance have the opportunity to visit the Community Information and Referral Centre that will have staff available to respond to any enquires and assist with finalising provision of additional information relating to grant applications, that have now closed.
Throughout the time this weather and flooding event has impacted the Hinchinbrook Shire, Chamber has been working tirelessly to provide information, support and facilitate individual appointments for local business owners. Chamber will also have a presence at the Community Information and Referral Hub and will work alongside the Recovery Officers to continue to provide this support to the business and broader community.
As planning progresses, the community will have the opportunity visit the Centre and request referrals or schedule appointments with representatives from various agencies who have previously had a presence at the Community Recovery Hub. Private consulting rooms and office space will also be available for confidential and discreet appointments.
Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism will continue to play an integral role in the recovery process, recognising this journey will be more of a marathon, than a sprint. For those business owners still wanting to make individual appointments with QRIDA representative Sam Spina, Chamber is now taking bookings for appointments between 1.30-4.30pm, at this Centre.
For further information, please contact the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, industry & Tourism via email at admin@hinchinbrookchamber.com.au or phone 0407569550.