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 storyCANEGROWERS has welcomed the renewed momentum in Australia-EU free trade negotiations, urging both sides to work towards a deal that delivers meaningful outcomes for Australian agriculture.
“We’re pleased to see talks are getting back on track,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said. “But success will depend on whether an agreement provides commercially realistic access for agricultural sectors like sugar.”
Negotiations stalled in late 2023 after proposed market access for key commodities – including sugar – fell well short of industry expectations.
CANEGROWERS was among the peak agricultural bodies that supported the government’s decision to pause discussions.
Mr Galligan was in Japan for the final round of talks in late 2023, where they urged Trade Minister Don Farrell not to sign a deal that would lock in poor outcomes for agriculture for decades to come.
We advised the Minister directly that no deal was better than a bad deal – and to his credit, the government listened,” Mr Galligan said. “It was a strong stance, and the right one.”
“The sugar industry is open to trade and wants a deal that works for both sides. But any agreement must recognise the value and competitiveness of Australian farm exports. We’re not looking for special treatment – just fair, practical, and commercially meaningful terms.”
Mr Galligan pointed to the Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement as a credible benchmark for what a modern deal can look like.
“With the right approach, an Australia-EU agreement can deliver long-term benefits for both our economies. We look forward to working with the government to help get it there.”