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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Cardwell Community Comes Together For Rebuilding Support

July 24, 2025

On Thursday 10 July, the Cardwell RSL became a vital hub of information and support as more than 35 residents and service representatives gathered for the Cardwell Community Rebuild Info Session. Organised by Centacare FNQ, the evening brought together key organisations supporting North Queenslanders affected by the 2025 floods and now in the rebuilding phase.

The session was hosted in partnership with Centacare’s Disaster Recovery and Resilience Hub, the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC), Legal Aid Queensland, ICAN Financial Counselling, Community Recovery, Rural Financial Counselling Service, Tully Support Centre, and Cardwell RSL. Food and the venue were generously provided by the Cardwell RSL, with Centacare coordinating staff and logistics.

Attendees heard from expert speakers on a range of critical topics; including builder and contractor engagement, legal support for insurance negotiations, financial counselling, and access to grants through Queensland’s disaster recovery hubs. Mental health support was also available through Centacare staff.

The canteen area was transformed into an informal networking space where residents could speak directly with service providers following the presentations. Printed materials and note-taking tools helped residents retain key information, while discussions continued well after the formal part of the event concluded.

This session marked an important step in helping flood-affected residents navigate the complexities of rebuilding. Resources and advice were tailored to meet the practical needs of homeowners facing decisions around repairs, legal options, insurance processes, and financial assistance.

"The knowledge passed on to all attendees was invaluable. This, in turn, would be spread throughout the community. We are grateful for the information presented by these very professional instructors. And a special thanks to Patrick Sim for organising the event." - Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub-Branch

Future community sessions are already being explored, with an emphasis on topics such as navigating builder quotes and assessments, insurance timelines, and accessing temporary accommodation during extended rebuilds. The goal remains clear: support Cardwell locals with the knowledge, tools, and connections they need to confidently move forward.

With organisations working together and residents showing resilience and determination, Cardwell’s recovery is well underway, and this session is just one example of community-led progress in action.

FRONT ROW – Libby Carney (Community Recovery), Kathryn Lawson and Phoebe Odo (intake officer Centacare), Julie Maron (Legal Aid), Renee Richards (Tully Support Centre Community Connect Recovery Worker)SECOND ROW – Maxine Britton (Tully Support Centre Community Development Worker), Robert Lang (Cardwell RSL Sub-Branch President), Reegan Davis (Centacare case worker), May Mooka (Centacare Community Engagement/Caseworker), Karen Maitland (Centacare counsellor), Patrick Sim (Team Leader Centacare), Zack Wildy (iCan), William Courtney (QBCC), Lisa Alofa (Centacare Caseworker). Photo supplied.

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Lions Launch Disaster Recovery Fund For Flood-Affected Families
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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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