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 storyAt 21 years old, Cooper has been named the Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year (MAOTY) for the QLD/NT Zone, an award that reflects his commitment to mastering the craft of motorcycle mechanics.
Cooper’s journey into the world of motorcycles was practically predestined. Growing up in a family immersed in the trade, his father was a motorcycle mechanic who owned a local shop. This early exposure to bikes sparked a passion that evolved into a career. “Growing up, my dad was a motorcycle mechanic, so I was always around motorbikes,” Cooper shared. “And then I went for work experience at Dad's shop.”
What set Cooper apart from his peers was his hands-on experience, particularly when Cooper found himself running the workshop independently for part of his apprenticeship. “I was working alone, without a tradesman, because he unfortunately had an accident. He had to stand aside, so I was pretty much running the workshop. I got a better a feel for the industry and all aspects of it,” he explained. This experience honed his problem-solving skills and developed his ability to maintain consistent quality, a trait that impressed the MAOTY judges.
“You have to work to a certain quality because you're working on people's equipment. But to do that consistently can be hard,” he shared. Despite the challenges, Cooper believes his ability to adapt and maintain quality set him apart from the other contenders.
Recalling his old mentor, William Cross, Cooper credits with shaping his professional mindset. “Willie, my old tradesman, he's great in teaching the trade. Always saying, ‘There's never such thing as a dumb question,’ always helping me to work the situation out."
With his apprenticeship now complete, Cooper plans to continue working in the trade, driven by a love for motorcycles and a commitment to excellence. Hoping one day for the opportunity to work on his dream bike – the Kawasaki Ninja H2 – Cooper says, "It's the cream of the crop, fastest sports bike ever. It'd be pretty awesome to work on one."