TOP NEWS

Government Inaction Has Flying Foxes In Fight For Survival

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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Ingham Pauses To Honour Fallen Police Officers

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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HINCHINBROOK Cadets Shine At ESCAPE Week In Brisbane

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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Compassion On Wheels

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

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Police Ramp Up Patrols For Easter School Holidays

April 7, 2025

With the Easter school holidays underway, Far North Queensland Police Services are ramping up their efforts on both land and sea to ensure locals and visitors stay safe throughout the busy holiday period.

From now until the 21st of April, drivers and boaters alike can expect to see a higher police presence as part of high-visibility operations across the region.

Cairns Water Police Officer in Charge, Sergeant Andrew Ibell, reminded locals to be prepared before hitting the water.

“It’s important to keep an eye on the weather conditions, and make sure you pack safety equipment including lifejackets and an EPRIB and always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return,” Sergeant Ibell said.

“Alerting family or friends or reporting your trip to the local Volunteer Marine Rescue group or Coast Guard could help save your life in the event of an emergency.”

His warning follows a recent rescue off the coast of Hope Vale, where three men were left stranded overnight on Boulder Reef after the propeller on their tinny fell into the water. The men were eventually located on a sand cay at around 2am by the Rescue 510 helicopter and taken to Cooktown for treatment.

“Fortunately, no one was seriously injured in this incident, but it highlights the importance of having safety equipment when venturing out to the reef,” Sergeant Ibell said.

The Queensland Police Service continues to stress the vast majority of serious crashes are avoidable and by being mindful of the Fatal Five, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death.

For more tips on staying safe this school holiday season, visit: www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads.

The QPS will increase land and water patrols over the next couple of weeks (Photo Source: QPS)

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