TOP NEWS

Government Inaction Has Flying Foxes In Fight For Survival

James Cook University (JCU) researchers are calling for urgent government support to protect the spectacled flying-fox from extinction as new and escalating threats push the species closer to the brink. Despite their reputation as noisy and messy neighbours, spectacled flying-foxes play a vital role in the survival of Australia’s rainforests, travelling vast distances to pollinate flowers and spread seeds at levels unmatched by any other species. JCU adjunct associate professor Noel Preece sai

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Ingham Pauses To Honour Fallen Police Officers

National Police Remembrance Day Today, the community of Ingham came together to pay tribute to the brave men and women of the Queensland Police Service who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The National Police Remembrance Day Service, held at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, offered a solemn and poignant moment for reflection, remembrance, and respect. Since 1861, 151 Queensland Police officers have lost their lives while protecting and serving communities across the state.

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HINCHINBROOK Cadets Shine At ESCAPE Week In Brisbane

Each year, a team of Hinchinbrook Emergency Services Cadets travels to Brisbane to attend the prestigious ESCAPE Week, a program that brings together cadets from across Queensland to experience life at multiple emergency services. This year, three Hinchinbrook cadets participated: two senior cadets attending as leaders and one as a program participant, accompanied by Cadet Coordinator Mark Regazzoli. The week kicked off at Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ), Bribie Island, where cadets underwent an

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Compassion On Wheels

The Hurley Bus Since launching in December last year, the Hurley Bus has already completed more than 400 bookings, providing free transport for elderly, frail, and palliative community members. The service, run entirely by volunteers through the Ingham Palliative Carers Committee, offers a safe, reliable, and compassionate way for people to stay connected and attend important appointments. The eight-seat bus is wheelchair accessible and travels throughout Ingham, the surrounding districts, Card

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Agricultural Voices Strengthen QRIDA Board With Historic Appointments

May 13, 2025

Queensland’s farmers and regional businesses will benefit from strengthened leadership at the state’s rural support agency, with four new appointments to the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) Board – each bringing deep roots in agriculture, regional development and the private sector.

The Queensland Government’s renewed focus on rural resilience and economic growth is reflected in the announcement by Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last, who has named a new-look QRIDA Board set to champion the needs of primary producers and rural enterprises across the state.

Among the new appointments is sixth-generation farmer and senior lawyer Caitlin McConnel, who has made history as QRIDA’s first female Chairperson. Joining her on the Board are agricultural machinery industry leader Bruce Vandersee, rural business banking expert Danica Olsen, and agribusiness lawyer Ari McCamley.

Ms McConnel, Mr Vandersee and Ms Olsen will serve three-year terms, while Mr McCamley has been appointed for approximately 16 months to provide continuity in governance.

Minister Last said the new Board brings strong agricultural credentials and practical insight that will be vital in steering QRIDA through challenges such as recovery from recent flooding in Western and North Queensland.

“Strong leadership at QRIDA is vital to support our long-term disaster recovery efforts, particularly after the recent flooding in Western Queensland and in North Queensland,” he said.

“These Board appointments will bring new perspectives and help the organisation explore new opportunities in developing Queensland’s rural and industry sectors.

“QRIDA plays a critical role assisting farmers, businesses, and non-profits, particularly through financial support during times of hardship,” Minister Last said. “With this refreshed Board, QRIDA is in a strong position to deliver for rural Queenslanders in the long-term recovery from this year’s natural disasters.”

Caitlin McConnel has made history as the first female Chairperson of QRIDA, bringing legal expertise and deep rural roots to the role. Photo source: Future Farmers Network

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Hinchinbrook Thanks Senior Sergeant Geoff Bormann For His Service
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Out of the Floods, Come the Warmbloods
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