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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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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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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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
Read the full storyCongratulations to local cane farmer and industry leader Steven Marbelli on his recent election as Vice Chair of the Queensland Canegrowers Board. This is a significant milestone not just for Steven, but for the entire Herbert River region, as one of our own steps into a key leadership role within Queensland’s peak sugarcane industry body.
Steven brings to the boardroom a wealth of firsthand experience and deep industry insight. He began farming in 1986 and currently manages over 500 hectares of sugarcane in the Herbert River district. In addition to his own farming enterprise, he has successfully operated a harvester contracting business for more than 30 years—giving him a unique and practical understanding of both the grower and harvesting sides of the industry.
Steven’s leadership journey with Canegrowers began in 2013 when he joined the board of Canegrowers Herbert River. Since then, he has continued to advocate for practical, grower-focused solutions to industry challenges. His strong voice and commitment to representing local growers saw him elected as Chairman of the Canegrowers Herbert River in 2025.
Further cementing his commitment to industry-wide improvement, Steven has also taken on the role as Chair of the Farm Inputs Committee. This committee reports to the Canegrowers Policy Council and is responsible for presenting recommendations on critical issues affecting farm input costs and availability—ensuring growers’ needs are front and centre in key policy discussions.
His election as Vice Chair of the Queensland Canegrowers Board is a reflection of the respect he has earned throughout the wider sugar industry. With his deep-rooted knowledge of farming and harvesting operations, Steven is well-positioned to contribute meaningfully at the state level. His practical approach, combined with years of leadership and advocacy experience, will strengthen efforts to ensure growers are not only heard, but supported through sound policy and effective representation.
As Vice Chair, Steven will play a vital role in shaping strategic decisions and advocating for policies that support a more sustainable and profitable sugar industry. His leadership will be invaluable as the industry navigates increasing demands for market competitiveness.
Steven’s dedication to the Herbert River region and to Queensland’s cane industry is unwavering. We are proud to see his contributions recognised on a broader stage and look forward to the positive impact he will make for growers across the state.
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