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
Read the full storyNational 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.
Read the full storyEach 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
Read the full storyThe 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
Read the full storyEnsuring that all of Hinchinbrook has access to a doctor when they need it most is a priority of mine. Over two years, the former Cardwell Family Practice’s future has been in limbo with NQPHN, Cassowary Coast Regional Council, Federal Government and State Government working collaboratively to keep the doors open.
Finally, a long-term solution has been reached. I recently joined the Cardwell community to celebrate the transition of Cardwell Medical Practice back to a privately run service. The practice will now be supported by Ingham Family Medical Practice and staffed by a locally based team.
This achievement is the result of strong advocacy and collaboration among NQPHN, Townsville Hospital and Health Service, the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, the Hon. Bob Katter, and myself. These efforts began in 2023, following the announcement that the Cardwell Family Practice intended to close.
Now, with support from the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing’s Thin Markets initiative, Cardwell Medical Practice (formerly Cardwell Family Practice) officially transitioned to a private practice on 1 July 2025.
A sincere thank you goes to Dr. Brett Scott and his team for their dedication and efforts in making this transition possible, ensuring that local patients continue to have access to GP services in Cardwell.
This is a clear example of what can be achieved when all three levels of government work collaboratively for the benefit of the people they represent.
While this milestone is a celebration for Cardwell, the broader battle is not over. Patients across the electorate are still reporting wait times of over three weeks to see a GP. The current wave of winter illnesses is undoubtedly adding further pressure to the ongoing General Practitioner (GP) shortage being felt in Hinchinbrook and across the state.
GPs are facing challenges in recruiting doctors to regional areas, so we will continue working with the Federal Government, NQPHN, and other key stakeholders to focus on recruitment.