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 storyThe Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group (HDLMG) convened on January 30 to discuss the potential impact of approaching weather conditions and to begin preparations for any possible events.
Chair of the HDLMG, Mayor Ramon Jayo, stated, “While the exact path of the current low-pressure system remains uncertain, we can be sure that significant rainfall is expected across the district, including both the lower and upper catchment areas. Given the heavy rainfall we’ve experienced over the past few days, our drainage systems are already at capacity, so flooding is likely, particularly in some areas.”
The latest forecast from the Bureau of Meteorology indicates that monsoonal rain is expected to develop across North Queensland from Friday, with the potential for this to continue into next week.
As the wet conditions persist, flash flooding is also expected to become a heightened risk, especially as catchments become saturated and more responsive to heavy, short bursts of rainfall.
There are also concerns that the tropical low 13U, which is approaching the region, may bring intense rainfall and damaging winds. This could lead to life-threatening flash flooding along the tropical east coast between Cairns and Bowen starting Friday night and continuing through the weekend. A Severe Weather Warning may be issued as the system crosses the coast.
At this time, there is a moderate (25-35%) chance that a tropical cyclone could develop in the Coral Sea or Gulf of Carpentaria over the weekend or into next week.
Tides along much of the Queensland coast, including through the Torres Strait, are expected to reach the Highest Astronomical Tide level in the coming days. This could cause minor flooding in low-lying areas during the high tide on Friday and Saturday.
Preparedness Measures Underway
In response, the HLDMG has initiated the usual preliminary measures for potential flooding. Sand and sandbags will be made available for residents, and machinery will be deployed to assist isolated areas. The distribution sites are as follows:
• Site 1 – Halifax Petrol Station: Sand and bags (one pallet of premade sandbags)
• Site 2 – Taylors Beach (Progress Park): Sand and bags
• Site 3 – Cordelia (near Carr’s shed): Sand and bags
• Site 4 – Shire Hall Carpark: Sand and bags (two pallets of premade sandbags)
What Residents Need to Know
Residents are urged to prepare for potential flooding by assembling emergency kits and ensuring they have enough food and water in case of an extended event. For advice on how to prepare for emergencies, visit the Council’s Disaster and Emergency Information page.
As conditions develop, residents are reminded to stay informed through official sources, including the Bureau of Meteorology, the Council’s Disaster Dashboard, and local radio and television broadcasts.
For further assistance or information, please contact the Hinchinbrook Shire Council.
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