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 devastating flooding event that impacted our region in February 2025 caused widespread damage, leaving homes and businesses reeling in its aftermath. One of the most serious consequences was the inundation and shutdown of the Ingham substation, which plunged the entire district into darkness and disrupted telecommunications at a time when we needed them most.
This significant power outage during a natural disaster made an already difficult situation even more challenging. The loss of electricity not only impacted homes and businesses but also vital communication and emergency response capabilities. In times of crisis, maintaining power should not be a luxury, it is a necessity. During a flooding event, our electrical distribution asset should be more resilient.
I recently submitted a Question on Notice to the Energy Minister, seeking clarity on what steps are being taken to flood-mitigate the Ingham substation. Specifically, I asked whether funding had been allocated, what planning was underway, and when we could expect to see tangible outcomes delivered.
In response, the Energy Minister has advised that Ergon Energy Corporation Limited (Ergon) has submitted a funding application to the Australian Government’s Disaster Ready Fund for flood mitigation works for the Ingham Substation.
More notably, Energy Queensland has also advised that provisions have been made in the 2025-26 Budget for Ergon’s expected share of the works, with Ergon expressing confidence that critical works will be completed before the 2025-26 summer period.
This is a timeframe that reflects the urgency and importance of ensuring that Hinchinbrook Shire isn’t left in the dark again during our next flooding event. I am hopeful that we will see construction at the Ingham substation commence soon, which is a favourable outcome for the whole community.
These works are not just infrastructure upgrades, they are a necessary investment in Hinchinbrook’s safety, resilience and ability to respond in times of crisis.
I would like to extend appreciation to those who have advocated and thank you to the relevant Ministers, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Ergon Energy and Energy Queensland for committing to deliver this flood resilience project.
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