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 storyCommunity spaces across the Hinchinbrook region could soon receive much-needed repairs, with the opening of a $19.2 million flood recovery fund to support North and Far North Queensland councils affected by this year’s summer weather disaster.
Under the Community Recreational Assets Recovery Program, eligible councils—including Hinchinbrook Shire Council—can now apply for funding to help clean up and restore vital recreational assets damaged during the North and Far North Tropical Low disaster event, which occurred between the 29th of January and the 28th of February.
Funded under the jointly funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) by the Australian and Queensland Governments, the program is being administered by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA).
The funding will assist in repairing community centres, clubhouses, walkways, bikeways, parks, playgrounds, picnic areas, and beach access points—assets that form the social and recreational heart of many communities.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said investing in community infrastructure was a proven way to lift community spirits.
“Programs like this deliver tangible outcomes and stand as visible reminders that no matter the scale and breadth of a disaster, we will overcome it,” Minister McBain said.
“By restoring community recreational assets we are helping return life to normal for residents affected, providing places for people to make positive memories once more.”
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the Crisafulli Government would support councils through the program from application to project completion.
“We are stronger when we work together, and I’m pleased all levels of government are partnering working to rebuild recreational assets in their communities,” Minister Leahy said.
“Just as flooding events evolve over time, our recovery does as well, and tailored funding channels like this reaffirm our unwavering support for disaster hit regions.”
Hinchinbrook is among 30 eligible council areas that can submit applications until the 11th of July, 2025, with all funded projects to be completed by the 30th of June, 2027.
More information and application details are available on the Queensland Reconstruction Authority website.