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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Councillor Column Councillor Mark Spina

April 1, 2025

Hello residents of Hinchinbrook,

The past few weeks have been challenging, but we continue to show resilience. Additional assistance from Federal and State Government Disaster Grant Funding has now increased to Category D for primary producers, not-for-profits, and small businesses. With no insurance covering crop damage, the increase to $75,000 for eligible primary producers to repair farmland or replace lost stock is a welcome relief.

While Disaster Grants have helped individuals, many now turn to insurers for support in areas not covered. If you are making a claim for personal contents or residential building insurance, I hope you are receiving positive outcomes. We pay significantly higher premiums than our southern friends, so we expect fair support. If premium costs rise beyond reason, we will call on state and federal representatives to hold insurers accountable.

Business insurance presents its own challenges, including building, equipment, and stock loss claims. As Chair of the Economic Recovery Sub Group and a local Real Estate Agent, I see firsthand the struggles businesses face. We must support them in getting back on their feet.

Recently, I met an insurance advocate working with a local insurance broking company at a Chamber of Commerce recovery meeting. Their service has helped business owners navigate claims for positive outcomes, even without flood cover.

The company specialises in claims preparation and advocacy, liaising with insurers to manage claims and ensure well-supported submissions. Many businesses have cover for the fees under their insurance, allowing them to access expert advice at no cost.

For further information regarding the Insurance Advocates, contact the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce at admin@hinchinbrookchamber.com.au.

Take care, be kind, and stay safe.

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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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