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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Prioritise Respiratory Health This Flu Season

May 13, 2025

As North Queensland approaches its peak flu season, typically spanning from June to September, health authorities are urging residents to prioritise respiratory health. The 2025 influenza season has already seen a significant surge, with over 63,000 cases reported nationally to date, surpassing totals from previous years.

To combat this, Queensland Health has launched the 2025 Free Flu Vaccination Program, offering free influenza vaccines to all residents aged six months and over until 30 September. Vaccinations are available through over 2,500 providers, including GPs and pharmacies and health experts recommend getting vaccinated as early as possible to ensure protection throughout the season.

Understanding the difference between a common cold and the flu is crucial. While both can cause respiratory symptoms, the flu often presents more severe signs such as high fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and a dry cough. In contrast, colds typically involve milder symptoms like a runny nose and sore throat.

Individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, such as asthma, should be particularly vigilant as viral infections like influenza can exacerbate asthma symptoms, leading to increased risk of severe attacks. Maintaining an up-to-date Asthma Action Plan and ensuring regular use of prescribed preventer medications are essential strategies during the flu season.

In addition to vaccination, residents are encouraged to practice good hygiene, such as regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when unwell. These measures, combined with timely immunisation, can significantly reduce the spread of influenza and protect vulnerable populations within the community.

For more information on the 2025 Free Flu Vaccination Program and to find a vaccination provider near you, visit the Queensland Health website, www.health.qld.gov.au.

IN OTHER NEWS

Local MP Makes Bold Bid for Townsville Leadership
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Victoria's View | 30 September 2025
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Lions Launch Disaster Recovery Fund For Flood-Affected Families
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Hinchinbrook Thanks Senior Sergeant Geoff Bormann For His Service
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Out of the Floods, Come the Warmbloods
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