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 storyStatistics from Safe Work Australia continue to paint a sobering picture; Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing remains one of the most dangerous industries in the country, with an average of 38 workplace deaths reported each year.
The Australian Institute of Health and Safety (AIHS) used this year’s theme, ‘Second Chances’, to encourage farmers and agricultural workers to reflect on close calls as moments to learn and act before it’s too late.
“Farming is fast-paced and unpredictable. Every day, ag workers are operating heavy machinery, managing unpredictable animals, working at heights, mixing chemicals, or simply navigating long hours in tough conditions,” said AIHS CEO Julia Whitford.
“Near misses aren’t just lucky escapes – they’re important warnings. If we pause to reflect and act after a close call, we can mitigate that risk and prevent future incidents.”
Farm fatalities are often caused by vehicle rollovers, falls, equipment accidents, and being struck by moving objects, but Ms Whitford noted that safety concerns on farms go far beyond physical hazards.
“Long hours, financial pressures, and the mental strain of working in isolation or in extreme conditions also takes a toll,” she said.
“Many ag workers operate in remote areas without easy access to healthcare or support. Add to that the stress of unpredictable seasons, burn out, and market conditions, and you’ve got a perfect storm for both physical and psychological injury.”
National Farm Safety Week served as an important reminder to check in—not just with equipment and safety procedures, but with the wellbeing of oneself and others.
“We want farm workers to start asking: What went wrong? What nearly went wrong? And what can I do differently?” Ms Whitford said.
While Farm Safety Week is held each July, the call to action is year-round. Farmers are encouraged to keep safety front of mind and to treat every close call as a lesson that could save a life. More resources and safety tools are available at the AIHS website, www.aihs.org.au.
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