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 storyThe mayor for Hinchinbrook Shire, Ramon Jayo has addressed growing concerns regarding access to the Warrens Hill refuse facility, explaining that a combination of environmental and logistical challenges is currently limiting its availability.
The first point the Mayor addressed was that the council is tackling significant environmental issues at the site, particularly with leachate management and balancing waste deposits with water levels. The recent rainfall, totaling over 2000mm in just a few days, has further complicated matters.
In addition to these environmental concerns, the council is prioritising the urgent removal of flood-affected waste from the community. A large-scale effort is underway, with over twenty trucks and an equal number of excavators and loaders working tirelessly to clear the debris.
The high volume of truck movements means that access for smaller vehicles is currently limited. The Mayor explained that in order to clear waste efficiently, the trucks must not be delayed by conventional vehicles, which would slow down the overall process.
The Mayor urged residents to keep in mind that the bulk of the rubbish in flood-affected areas has yet to be cleared. While some may still have small amounts of debris, the council's priority is to clear larger quantities from those who are still awaiting service.
Mayor Raymon Jayo also reassured the public that a second round of pick-ups for flood-affected goods will take place if necessary.
The Mayor asked for patience and understanding, emphasising the need to consider the wider community and the challenges faced by all.