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 storyA 12-year-old local boy Jack Larsen has been hitting the track as often as possible, his dedication and passion for the sport shining through as he zooms past his competitors on the track, bringing home a host of trophies.
Jack dreams of one day joining Formula 1 and loves the thrill of driving fast, winning races and beating his previous track times.
Jack’s 2024 calendar year has been full of accomplishments. He competed in the North Queensland Go Kart Events, the Queensland State Cup, Victorian State Titles but most importantly the Australian Kart Championships
At the Australian Kart Championships he competed in five different rounds of racing, in four states across the country.
Across the five rounds Jack secured an overall second place finish. Most excitingly for his second-place finish Jack was invited to ROK World Superfinal 2024 in Lonato, Italy.
In difficult conditions and with some setbacks during qualification, Jack started his race in Italy in 18th position but he managed to make up the distance, finishing sixth overall.
Jack’s Dad Darryl Larsen said it shows how fast Jack is out on the track, and with the limited time he has had practising he believes it is very impressive.
“Considering Jack only drives on weekends, whereas a lot of the guys he's against are at the track every day after school makes it even more impressive,” said Darryl.
“We are extremely proud of him, he's working hard, and has to keep working hard.”
Jack is currently supported by several local businesses and Jack and his entire family are grateful for their support.
Following his amazing performances this year, Jack has also been asked to compete in Italy again next year but as motorsport is considerably expensive it will only be possible if he has sponsorship or additional financial support.
If you would like to sponsor Jack in his efforts, please reach out to the family directly.
Jack Larsen with his Trophies, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Fighting hard in the rain
Jack ready to race
Out on the track passing other competitors
Jack keeping it together in difficult conditions
Jack out on the track
Photos sourced: Facebook
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