Learn from last year's Valentine's season when millions of dollars were scammed out of Queenslanders through ‘love scams’

The Government is warning Queenslanders to protect their hearts and bank accounts from scammers as last February, scammers raked in more than $1.4 million from 61 Queenslanders, which was quadruple the more than $296,000 lost in New South Wales, and more than triple the $380,000 lost in Victoria.

Data from the National Anti-Scam Centre register, Scamwatch, shows the top three methods used by scammers to contact their victims were websites, emails and text messages.

The age group most likely to be scammed in Queensland was 55-64 year olds, with a median loss of $7,000 reported per scam.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington urged Queenslanders to be cautious, especially if they receive a request for money from someone they’ve never met in person.

“It’s deeply concerning and disappointing to see February continue to be a peak time for scammers to target unsuspecting Queenslanders, with devastating consequences,” the Attorney-General said.

“More than 850 Queenslanders reported losing close to $6 million to dating and romance scammers last year, with around a quarter of those financial losses occurring in February alone.

“But we need to remember those victims are only the ones who reported being scammed, and there are likely to be many others who were too embarrassed or afraid to report the fact they were ripped off.

“If you do fall victim to a scam, contact your bank immediately, report it to police, and log the incident with Scamwatch to help prevent others from being impacted by these heartless scammers.”

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION – Signs it might be a scam (credit: Scamwatch)

• The relationship moves fast and they soon say they have strong feelings for you. They 'love bomb' you, messaging or calling a lot to make you feel very special.
• The scammer quickly tries to move your chat from a social media platform or online dating website to a free messaging platform like WeChat, LINE or WhatsApp.
• Once there's an emotional connection, the scammer encourages you to make money through different investments, often cryptocurrency. They may offer to spend time 'showing you' how to make 'easy money'.
• They may tell you they have an emergency and urgently need your money or ask you to set up accounts or transfer money they give you.
• They want you to only trust them and keep things secret. They may try to cut you off from family and friends
• There always seems to be some reason they can’t meet in person or video chat. Often they say they're overseas, somewhere remote, or their technology isn’t working.

Caption: Do not give your private and confidential information to “lovers” online, report scammers.

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A new statewide police operation targeting break-ins, robberies and stolen vehicles will begin this week as the government steps up efforts to reduce crime across Queensland.

The operation, known as Operation Forge, will officially commence on Friday, February 27, and will involve high-visibility policing across the state aimed at tackling property crime and high-risk offenders. The initiative is being rolled out in partnership with the Queensland Police Service and follows a reported 7.2 per cent reduction in the number of victims of crime in 2025 compared to the previous year.

Operation Forge will be led by district police, with support from specialist units including the Criminal Investigation Branch, Child Protection and Investigation Unit and tactical crime squads. Resources such as POLAIR, forensic services, surveillance operations and digital intelligence teams will also be deployed.

The government says the operation forms part of its broader commitment to restoring community safety and addressing what it describes as Labor’s “Youth Crime Crisis”. The crackdown will also focus on serious repeat offenders, following a 17 per cent reduction in repeat offending over the past year.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the operation would target the state’s most serious offenders.

“Operation Forge will target the worst of the worst as we continue to turn the tide of Labor’s Youth Crime Crisis and give our police the laws and resources they need to do their jobs,” Minister Purdie said.

Acting Police Commissioner Brett Pointing said the message to offenders was clear: those who cause harm in communities would be held to account.

“I want to send a clear message to criminals – if you cause harm in our communities, you will be held to account,” he said.

“I would like to thank our people for the incredible work they do each day and for their unwavering support to their communities during this operation.”

CAPTION: QPS’ latest operation forms part of its broader commitment to restoring community safety. Photo source: QPS

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Vegetables are a cornerstone of a healthy diet, yet most Queenslanders are falling well short of recommendations. Just 8 per cent of adults and 5 per cent of children eat the recommended five or more serves of vegetables each day, according to Queensland Health.

Guidelines from the National Health and Medical Research Council show that eating enough vegetables can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, weight gain and some cancers, while also improving gut health. Vegetables are rich in dietary fibre, including soluble and insoluble fibre and resistant starch, which helps people feel fuller for longer and supports digestion.

Even small changes can have a big impact. Increasing vegetable intake by just one serve a day could reduce the risk of death from all causes by five per cent, and deaths from heart disease and stroke by four per cent.

Cost and food waste are often barriers, but using more of what you buy — and embracing imperfect produce — can help overcome both.

Using the whole vegetable, including leaves, stems and skins, reduces waste and boosts nutrition. Carrot tops, broccoli and cauliflower leaves, and celery greens can be added to stir-fries, soups and salads. Leaving skins on vegetables such as carrots, zucchini and potatoes saves time and retains valuable fibre and nutrients.

Food waste remains a major issue, with around 70 per cent of household food waste in Australia still edible. Wilted or soft vegetables can often be rescued by roasting, adding to soups and curries, freezing for later use, making stock, pickling, or even rehydrating leafy greens in water.

Consumers can also help reduce waste by choosing imperfect vegetables. The National Farmers Federation estimates that 25 per cent of crops never leave farms due to cosmetic standards. These “imperfect” or “odd” vegetables are just as nutritious, often cheaper, and support farmers while cutting waste.

By buying smarter and using vegetables from root to leaf, households can save money, reduce waste and enjoy the full health benefits vegetables have to offer.

Are you making the most of your veggies? Photo source: Shutterstock

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Mick’s Bread Kitchen has something for every coffee lover, whether you’re after a sustainable sip, a plant-powered treat, or a bold caffeine kick.

Mick’s new Pottery For The Planet travel cups are now on the counter, ready to go to their new homes. Each cup is handmade and unique, available in beautiful earthy colours, including the stunning Ocean Jasper glaze. Buy one and get $0.50 off your coffee or tea every time you bring it in. Designed to keep drinks hot or cold longer, dishwasher and microwave safe, these cups are a gift for yourself or someone special, all while helping the planet.

Coffee lovers, a brewed fresh batch of cold brew and Nitro coffee, including Vietnamese style, is now available. The Nitro tap creates a creamy, velvety texture similar to Guinness, with higher caffeine and lower acidity than your usual brew. Enjoy it straight up, over ice, or with your choice of milk for a perfectly refreshing pick-me-up.

Pair your drink with the creamy, nutty delight of Madame Tiger Barista Tiger Nut Milk. This plant-powered, allergen-friendly milk is dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, and FODMAP certified. Rich in fibre, packed with vitamins and minerals, and sustainably grown, it’s the perfect addition to your coffee or to take home by the carton or box of six.

Come in today to Mick’s Bread Kitchen to try these delights. Sip sustainably, taste boldly, and take home something deliciously, uniquely yours.

Madame Tiger Barista Tiger Nut Milk is now available in-store for drinks and take-home cartons. Photo supplied

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council reminds employees and business owners on Lannercost Street and within the Ingham CBD to observe all signed parking conditions.

Under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995, vehicles must be parked in accordance with displayed signage.

It is an offence to:

• Park longer than the maximum time indicated
• Park outside the marked lines of a parking bay

Signed 2P (two hour) parking zones in the CBD are designed to support short term parking and customer access to local businesses. Employees are encouraged to use longer stay parking options, including:

• Johnson Street Car Park (9P)
• McIlwraith Street Car Park (9P) – behind the Lannercost Street Council building
• Unrestricted areas on Lannercost Street where 2P limits do not apply

Council also reminds drivers to strictly observe disability parking bays.

These spaces are essential for community members with limited mobility or other challenges who rely on close and accessible parking to safely go about their daily activities.

Parking in these bays without the appropriate permit can prevent people who genuinely need them from accessing local services.

Please ensure you check all parking signs carefully before leaving your vehicle.

Vehicles parked contrary to signage may receive a Penalty Infringement Notice.

The current penalty for overstaying the signed time limit is $83.00. Please note this amount does not apply to all parking offences — penalties vary depending on the type of offence.

For further information, contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4776 4600.

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Meet Sitka!

She's as sweet as a butterfly and as joyful as a pixie. This young pup is ready to bring joy and companionship into your life! Bursting with playful energy and abundant affection, Sitka is the perfect pet for those who love both adventure and cozy cuddles. Her enthusiastic nature and wagging tail are bound to make every day feel brighter.

Sitka thrives on interaction and is currently honing her training skills. She would benefit greatly from a family that can match her active lifestyle, incorporating engaging activities like long walks, hikes, or runs. At the end of an action-packed day, Sitka will happily curl up next to you, sharing her warmth and endearing charm.

If you're ready for a lovable, energetic companion who's eager to learn and be a part of your family adventures, consider bringing Sitka into your home. She's poised to be a loyal friend and an active participant in all your future escapades!

If you’re interested in meeting any of the Sitka please complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

Included in adoption fee of $545 Desexed, micro-chipped, up to date vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated & ProHeart.

DOB: 01/09/2025
Sex: Female
Breed: Bull Arab X
Colour: Brindle with white toes
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: No
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft
BIN: BIN0000268254643

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World Day of Prayer is an international movement led by Christian women from many cultures across the globe. All churches are invited to attend this years' service at the Uniting Church Hall on Herbert Street, Ingham.

While the event is usually held on the first Friday in March, in Ingham it will take place on Friday 27 March at 9:30am. The service has been composed by the Nigerian Women World Day of Prayer Committee.

More than 170 countries participate each year, promoting understanding of how different cultures interpret the Bible and fostering solidarity through the Christian faith.

The 2026 theme is: “I Will Give You Rest. Come”, composed by the Nigerian Women. The service will be followed by a morning tea, and all men and women are welcome.

What: World Day of Prayer Service
When: Friday, 27 March 2026, 9:30am
Where: Uniting Church Hall, Herbert Street, Ingham

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Join the World Day of Prayer service held at the Uniting Church Hall, Ingham. Photo sourced: Shutterstock

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AA Business Services offers trusted, local and affordable taxation support tailored to individuals and small business owners across the Hinchinbrook region. With more than 25 years in the industry, Alida Lee provides professional, yet approachable service focused on helping everyday clients achieve the best possible outcomes while keeping costs manageable.

Specialising in individual tax returns, rental properties, sole traders and small businesses, Alida understands that many clients simply want clear advice, reliable support and cost-effective solutions without the complexity or high fees often associated with larger firms. No job is too small, from straightforward personal returns to small business taxation needs, AA Business Services works closely with clients to ensure they remain organised, compliant and confident throughout the process.

Late tax returns are also welcome, with efficient systems allowing overdue lodgements to be completed quickly and without unnecessary stress or added expense. Locally based in Halifax, they proudly support the wider Hinchinbrook community with honest, dependable and affordable taxation services designed for the little guy, delivering big service and real results while helping clients keep more money in their pockets.

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For many small businesses, creatives, and early‑stage founders, digital marketing can feel crowded with options, yet short on clear answers.

This March, State Library of Queensland is offering free online workshops designed to bring clarity and confidence to your digital marketing. In just two hours, participants will learn which platforms matter most, how they fit together, and where to focus effort for tangible results.

The session breaks down how customers find, research, and choose businesses online—then maps those touchpoints to customer channels.

• Your website – turning visitors into enquiries with clear messaging, strong calls‑to‑action, and simple user journeys.
• Google Search & Maps (Google Business Profile) – being found at the exact moment people are actively looking.
• Facebook & Instagram – building visibility, trust, and credibility with the right content.
• Email marketing – staying connected and driving repeat business the smart, low‑cost way.
• Online reviews – shaping perception and influencing decisions with social proof.
• Paid advertising (Google Ads) – when ads are worth it and when they’re not.

The free online sessions run between 9 to 20 March with multiple time options available. Book through the Digital and You app or via Eventbrite.

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By Dr Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui

If only the mango trees lining the main street of Halifax could talk! Mango trees (Mangifera indica) were planted by the European pioneers of the Herbert River district for their fruit and shade. Farm gardens and riverbanks evidence their proliferation.

Lining the centre of the little township of Halifax is a stand of magnificent trees, including mango trees (originally numbering eight) planted by the six Herbert River Farmers Association founding members – Harald Hoffensetz, August Anderssen, Arthur W. Carr, Niels C. Rosendahl, John Alm and Francis Herron – in an effort to beautify the township. Today, listed on the Queensland Heritage Register because of their significant heritage value, they stand as an enduring physical legacy of those men’s investment in their adopted home and the sugar industry of the Herbert River Valley. The community is protective of the trees and has resisted past proposals for their removal.

Over time the mango trees became a gathering place and eavesdroppers of gossip, tall tales and true for Macrossan Street provided a regular meeting place for new immigrants. Older members of the Italian community maintained this tradition over decades, sweeping the surrounds of leaves and mangoes before settling down on the bench under one particular tree for gossip and lively discussions of world events and of course the state of the sugar industry.  Such gathering places under trees have come to be known as Trees of Knowledge or Seats of Knowledge and the practice can be traced back to the Roman Forum.

In time, in Halifax, the petrol station replaced the mango trees as a gathering place. Former proprietor of the petrol station, Andrew Lancini recalls a seat outside the station where elderly men would similarly gather to chat and solve the problems of the world. The seat was euphemistically called the ‘Departure Lounge’ for with the passing of the years fewer gathered.

Inghamites recall a similar Tree of Knowledge across from the East Ingham hotel.

But the Tree of Knowledge was not exclusive to the gathering of retired Italian farmers. For example, in Townsville the Tree of Knowledge (actually three trees planted in the 1890s and originally called the Shade Trees), on the corner of Flinders and Denham Streets was a gathering point for the opening rallies of all political campaigns – municipal, state and federal. There candidates would conduct “soapbox debates”. The last of those trees was removed in 1972.

Locals of the towns dotting the coast of north Queensland can identify such former Trees or Seats of Knowledge with some nostalgia. But recent investigation reveals the tradition lives on in places like Tully with its Seat of Knowledge and Kurrimine Beach with its popular Table of Knowledge.

This tradition had roots in the Italian communities that were established through migration to the region with the tradition possibly tracing back to the Roman forum. As the design of Italian piazzas reflect that forum construction landscape. being the main focal point of the village for everyone to gather.

Although many of those who originally gathered at certain 'places of knowledge' had passed, and the tradition had declined in some areas, there was a resurgence in other areas as new generations are picking up versions of that tradition and perhaps gathering outside a cafe to chat for a few hours.

Whether they take the form of benches, tables, or even a well-shaded mango tree, these spaces play an important role in the shared heritage of regional communities. They are places where stories are exchanged, memories are made, and a bit of local gossip flows freely, all adding to the knowledge gained and the friendships strengthened along the way.

Caption for Mango tree OLD: Mango trees, Macrossan Street Halifax, 1897. Image sourced: Hinchinbrook Shire Library Photographic collection.

Caption Mango tree 2025: Mango trees, Macrossan Street Halifax, 2026. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

Each year in February and early March our region experiences very high tides, and nowhere is this more evident than on the causeway of the Halifax to Lucinda road. The tide rises through the mangroves and will engulf the road with brackish salty water.

Driving through this water will cause salt to be trapped under your car, resulting in rust damage, as well as faulty wiring connections, creating expensive repairs.

At a tide height of 3.8 metres, water will reach the edge of the roadway. At 3.9 metres it will be across the road, and at 4+ metres can be 300mm deep in places between Gentle Annie Creek and Ferrero Street, Lucinda.

Residents and visitors are urged to check the tide height before driving to Lucinda in February and March. Once the tide falls below 3.8 metres, the road will be dry again.

Article contributed with thanks, written by Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard.

The flooded causeway dated 9th March 2024. Photo credit: Steve Whipps

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The Queensland Training Awards celebrate outstanding achievements, best practice and innovation across the vocational education and training (VET) sector.

Now in its 65th year, the Awards recognise the individuals, employers, training providers and community organisations who make a lasting contribution to skills development and workforce capability across Queensland.

From apprentices, trainees and vocational students to teachers, trainers and employers, the Queensland Training Awards showcase how skills and training change lives, strengthen communities and support Queensland’s economy.

Finalists and winners receive statewide recognition, with state-level winners progressing to represent Queensland at the Australian Training Awards.

Nominations close: 11:59pm (AEST), Sunday 22 March 2026

See the list of awards at https://dtet.qld.gov.au/training/qta/enter-awards/award-categories

For more information https://dtet.qld.gov.au/training/qta/enter-awards

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The Government is delivering a comprehensive package to crackdown on antisemitism and terrorist symbolism, bolster safety around places of worship, and make Queensland safer.  

The tough laws - recently introduced in Parliament - deliver a suite of changes focused on terrorist symbols and phrases, and safety around places of worship, and is the first of several strong measures being delivered by the Government in the wake of the Bondi beach terrorist attack.  

The reforms deliver on the Government’s commitment to stamp out antisemitism and terrorist extremism to ensure every Queenslander – including the Jewish community, which has experienced a rise in antisemitic attacks – can live, worship and gather safely.  

To address intimidation at places of worship, the Bill:

• Increases penalties for assaulting or threatening a person officiating a religious ceremony from 2 to 5 years’ imprisonment;
• Introduces new offences for impeding or harassing people attending religious services (maximum 3 years’ imprisonment);
• Creates a new special case of wilful damage for damage to a place of worship, with a maximum penalty of 7 years’ imprisonment.

The Bill introduces tougher measures to curb terrorist symbols, including:  

• Increasing penalties for displaying terrorist symbols from 6 months to 2 years’ imprisonment.
• Extending the existing prohibition on the display of symbols to include terrorist organisations or state sponsors of terrorism, including:

• the Hamas flag and emblem, the Islamic State flag, the Hizballah emblem and Nazi symbols.

To restrict terrorist slogans, the Bill:  

• Proposes a new offence prohibiting the public distribution, publication, public display or public recitation of a prescribed phrase to cause menace, harassment or offence, applicable to:

• “globalise the intifada”
• “from the river to the sea”

• Distributing, publishing, displaying or reciting a prohibited phrase imposes a 2 year maximum penalty.

Premier David Crisafulli said the reforms delivered the strongest possible protections to address the growing threats faced by the community and was making Queensland safer.  

“We called this out from the beginning, we said we’d act, and through this legislation, we are delivering a strong and considered response,” Premier Crisafulli said.  

“This is about drawing a clear line - and stamping out the embers of hatred that were allowed to burn unchecked for too long - to ensure we protect Queenslanders.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the Government was standing with the Jewish community - unwaveringly - in both words and action.

“This Bill represents a focused and practical step forward for Queensland. It introduces targeted reforms to ban terrorist symbols and phrases and improve safety around places of worship," the Attorney‑General said.

Full media statement: https://statements.qld.gov.au/

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The Government is delivering nation-leading penalties to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and terrorists, in the next steps of its reforms to make Queensland safer.  

The tough laws deliver a suite of strengthened powers targeting terrorists and criminals, including nation-leading penalties for illegal firearms, drive-by shootings at places of worship, emerging threats such as 3D-printed weapons, and are the next step in the Crisafulli Government’s calm and methodical response to the Bondi Beach terror attack.

The Bill includes:

• Increased penalties for trafficking firearms or ammunition, increasing the maximum penalty to a nation-leading life imprisonment;
• Strengthened police powers to disrupt illegal firearm trafficking;
• A new offence prohibiting the reckless discharge of a weapon towards a building or vehicle to crackdown on the rise in drive-by shootings, including those targeting places of worship, and;
• Expanded powers for police to consider a broader range of matters when determining weapons licence eligibility, including any history of violence, threatened violence or weapons-related offending;
• New requirements for Queensland weapons licence holders to be Australian citizens subject to limited exceptions;
• A new offence prohibiting the possession and distribution of blueprints for 3D-printed firearms.

This legislation follows the Crisafulli Government’s announced reforms to crackdown on intimidation at places of worship, tougher measures to curb terrorist symbols and chants, to ensure all Queenslanders can live, worship and gather safely.  

Premier David Crisafulli said the new legislation was about drawing a clear line and making Queensland safer.  

“We said we would go after criminals and terrorists, and through this strong reform, we are delivering exactly what we promised,” Premier Crisafulli said.  

“These laws are tough, targeted, and focused on criminals and terrorists as we work to make Queensland safer.”  

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the reforms would deliver nation-leading penalties for the misuse of firearms, while equipping police with modern tools to combat organised crime and extremism.

“This Bill is about making Queensland safer by ensuring criminals and terrorists with guns face the toughest consequences possible,” Minister Purdie said.

“We are giving police stronger powers to stop illegal firearms from entering our communities and strengthening the laws that determine who is fit and proper to hold a weapons licence.

“These reforms also target the alarming rise in drive-by shootings, including those targeting places of worship, and crackdown on emerging threats like 3D-printed firearms.

“These laws are squarely aimed at terrorists, criminals and organised crime syndicates, not law-abiding Queenslanders, as we continue to make Queensland safer.”

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The search on for the State's outstanding innovators in science, mathematics, engineering and technology, with applications open for the 2026 Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in STEM education.  

Queensland Year 12 students, teachers, support officers, schools and education partners (including volunteers, mentors, school clusters or other organisations) are encouraged to apply for the awards.

The prestigious awards have a total prize pool of $140,000.

Now in the 23rd year, the annual awards recognise outstanding and innovative contributions to STEM education in Queensland across eight categories:  

• Outstanding Senior STEM Student Awards;
• Outstanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Senior STEM Student Awards;  
• Outstanding Rural and Remote Senior STEM Student Awards;  
• Outstanding Teacher of STEM Awards;
• Outstanding Rural and Remote Teacher of STEM Awards;
• Outstanding STEM Support Officer Awards;
• Outstanding School STEM Awards; and
• STEM Education Partnership Awards.

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said students should feel encouraged to develop a lifelong passion for learning.  

“The Crisafulli Government is proud to deliver the 2026 Peter Doherty Awards to recognise and celebrate our high achievers across STEM,” Minister Langbroek said.

“There’s an awards category for everyone to reflect the breadth of STEM education we offer here in Queensland – so whether you’re a student, a teacher or school support officer – I encourage everyone to get involved!

“The Crisafulli Government is focused on reducing red tape for teachers by 25 percent, just like we promised, so they can get back to teaching and learning.”

Since 2004, 599 individuals, schools and organisations have received a Peter Doherty Award, including: 304 students; 184 teachers; 37 support officers; 37 schools; and 27 education partnerships.

28 prize winners across the eight categories will receive a $5,000 prize each, with the award ceremony to be held in Brisbane on Tuesday 18 August 2026.

For more information and to apply for the 2026 Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in STEM Education, visit: www.qld.gov.au\PeterDohertyAwards

Applications close on 30 March.

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