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 storyWith the challenging start to the year, it is warming to see new shops opening, along with new ideas across the town.
Out of challenges, opportunities present themselves, and it is commendable that these new business owners have opened up shop at the best time of the year, when many travellers stop and sample what our great district has to offer.
We have also recently seen some business owners relocate to new locations, continuing to deliver their unique business services to the community and visitors. To existing business operators, it is also admirable, despite the challenges from the start of the year.
Our shire is known for its resilience and determination; we must continue to drive forward with positive outcomes being the goal. Whilst some buildings and shopfronts are amid restoration work or insurance repairs, there are still some businesses looking to reopen after being displaced.
Some of these businesses require particular shop requirements, with larger areas under roof. As restoration work progresses with repairs to buildings, we trust this may free up shop space for these businesses to reopen, or for more new businesses to seize the opportunity and open new shops.
Assistance for business remains in place, and if you wish to talk about what assistance is available, I would urge you to visit the Hinchinbrook Information and Referral Centre at 73–81 Lannercost Street.
On another note, I must congratulate our parks and gardens team for making the town look great. Unfortunately, there are some who don’t share the same sense of pride in our town, with some acts of senseless vandalism occurring lately. This is frustrating and takes time, effort, and money to repair.
If you happen to see any such negative activity taking place around the town, please report it to Police or to the Hinchinbrook Shire Council.
Until next time, take care and stay safe, everyone.