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 storyHello Hinchinbrook,
I thought I would mention a few areas in the Infrastructure Portfolio.
Stormwater is the run-off from rain that falls on a roof or paved area like a driveway, road or footpath that flows into a stormwater drain. Council maintains a complex stormwater drainage network which includes many different types of drainage structures such as: Unlined drains (including natural waterways) and concrete lined open drains, Underground pipes and culverts, grates and other inlet or outlet structures.
A drainage easement is a portion of land that a property owner has granted to Council to enable the carriage of stormwater through to the main drainage system.
Illegal dumping of green waste and household rubbish in waterways, easements and drains increases the risk of flooding to properties and costs millions of dollars in property damage across the region.
Under the conditions attached to an easement, detailed on a current title search, a property owner must not obstruct the free flow of water along the drainage pathway.
Dumping waste, planting garden beds or building fences across the flow path are all examples of activities that can obstruct stormwater flow.
Council is also responsible for maintaining approximately 9 kilometres of footpaths (not including parks) and numerous boardwalks and off-road recreational walking tracks. Most paths are concrete however, some may be other finishes such as pavers, asphalt, timber or compacted rock such as crusher dust.
All paths are shared facilities for pedestrians and cyclists unless signed otherwise.
Council allocates an annual budget for repairing existing paths and for construction of new paths. Repairs are programmed following annual footpath inspection results however, if other issues are reported, they are treated as a priority. Footpath maintenance activities include concrete patches and repairs, paver re-laying and repairs, pressure cleaning and chewing gum removal and sweeping.
To request a service, make an enquiry or report an issue, please visit Council’s website, Make a Request page https://bit.ly/3HqpQeP.
Once again it is great to be able to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read through what has been and what will be happening throughout our Shire. Thank you for the opportunity once again.