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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Changes to Life Jacket Rules

April 22, 2025

With the winter boating season approaching, all boaters are reminded to be aware of the latest life jacket regulations to ensure everyone's safety on the water.

If you are operating an open boat that is less than 4.8 metres in length and you are boating alone, you are required to wear a life jacket at all times. Children under the age of 12 must also wear a life jacket at all times when on these smaller vessels. Additionally, if you are boating at night, wearing a life jacket at all times is mandatory, regardless of whether you are alone or accompanied.

For boats that are larger than 4.8 metres in length, children over one year old but under the age of 12 must wear a life jacket if the boat is open or has an open area.

These updated regulations have been introduced to protect your life and the lives of your passengers. Life jackets are a simple but essential safety measure that can prevent tragedy in the event of an emergency. Make sure your equipment is compliant, your jackets are accessible and well-fitted, and that everyone on board understands the rules. Stay safe on the water this season, and happy boating!

Contributed with thanks by Steve Whipps of the Australian Coast Guard Association

IN OTHER NEWS

Local MP Makes Bold Bid for Townsville Leadership
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Victoria's View | 30 September 2025
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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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