Hinchinbrook Shire Council Acting Mayor Mary Brown said the Crisafulli Government’s Residential Activation Fund would support the delivery of critical trunk infrastructure across two key growth areas in Hinchinbrook Shire. “These projects are a game-changer for Hinchinbrook, unlocking nearly 200 new housing lots on flood-resilient land and setting the stage for sustainable growth,” Cr Brown said. “We’re incredibly grateful to the Queensland Government for backing this vital infrastructure invest
Read the full storyThe Ingham Flotilla QF-14 of the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard has officially opened the Matthew White Wing, named in honour of Matthew White and his mother, Donna White, in memory of their service and dedicated support to the Coast Guard. Steve Whipps of QF-14 spoke with pride and gratitude, saying, “It's a special occasion for us. We don’t have many of them, but I would like to say that the funds for this shed all came out of public fundraising in the Shire of Hinchinbrook. Without t
Read the full storyAt Halifax’s Festival Of Small Halls On Wednesday, 9 July, the Halifax Progress Association hosted the Festival of Small Halls winter tour. This annual July festival begins in Cooktown and winds its way down the coast, ending at Macleay Island. Supported by local act Michelle from Halifax, Champagne Weather and Charm of Finches delivered a true communal atmosphere, with each band a family act and the audience filled with friends and family from across the district. Michelle, a performer
Read the full storyIngham State High School’s Relay for Resilience was a resounding success, with students clocking an incredible 3,081 laps, totalling 1,232km, the equivalent of running all the way to Bundaberg! This student-led initiative was more than just a physical challenge as it was a celebration of School spirit, determination, and resilience. From start to finish, the atmosphere was electric, with students donning vibrant costumes and body paint, embracing the event with enthusiasm and creativity. Bring
Read the full storyI believe all Queenslanders should have access to quality health services and medical professionals should have the equipment and facilities that support them to do so.
That’s why I recently asked a Question on Notice to the Minister for Health, the Hon. Timothy Nicholls, what steps the Government has taken to progress the proposed upgrades at the Ingham Hospital Emergency Department
(ED), and what the current status of the project is.
I am pleased to advise that the Minister has stated the Townsville Hospital and Health Service (THHS) has identified the need to upgrade Ingham Hospital’s ED as a local infrastructure priority. The first step will be for the THHS to develop a clinical service plan for Ingham Hospital, which is expected to be completed this year. This will then drive the development of a revised infrastructure master plan to set a roadmap for expansion.
Currently, Ingham Hospital’s ED is a small, confined space that does not allow for proper patient triaging. The absence of a designated waiting area and private consultation spaces means patients are often treated in an open space area which is sometimes in close contact with others.
The current open space design offers no segregation and very little protection for our healthcare workers, which can be particularly dangerous in situations involving an aggravated or violent patient.
Additionally, in the event of a cardiac arrest, for example, healthcare workers are required to perform medical care in an open area, with only curtains providing separation from others. This situation can be distressing not only for the patient’s family but also for others in the vicinity.
Ingham Hospital’s ED is in urgent need of upgrades to ensure it can deliver a high standard of care for patients and provide a safe, comfortable and productive working environment for staff.
While we are talking about upgrades for the Ingham Hospital, the Minister also advised that work is continuing to deliver the CT Scanner at the Ingham Hospital, and this is on track to be delivered in 2026.
I look forward to seeing the clinical service plan developed by THHS and will continue to keep the community updated as this important project progresses.
Contributed by Nick Dametto MP, Member for Hinchinbrook.
Nick Dametto MP at Ingham Hospital. Photo supplied.