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 storyQueensland’s frontline disaster network reached an important milestone this month, celebrating the first anniversary of the State Emergency Service (SES) and Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) operating under the banner of the Queensland Police Service (QPS).
The SES formally transferred to QPS on the 3rd of June, with MRQ launched one month later. The realignment created the state’s first integrated marine rescue model and strengthened existing partnerships across emergency agencies.
Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy APM said the results speak for themselves.
“I’ve witnessed first hand the strength of collaboration between our agencies, and how it has transformed our approach to disaster management,” Acting Commissioner Chelepy said.
“Over the past year, the SES, MRQ and QPS have worked side by side to support communities through major weather events, including widespread flooding across the north and west, and the impact of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
“I’m proud of the difference our crews have made in the lives of Queenslanders who were deeply affected by these disasters.
“As we look ahead, I’m committed to continuing this close partnership with our emergency services as we strengthen our collective response in times of crisis.”
Throughout the year, SES volunteers answered thousands of calls for help, from evacuations and roof repairs to clearing fallen trees.
“Our volunteers made a significant difference in many communities, when we responded to the multiple disasters this year,” SES Chief Officer Dr Mark Armstrong CSC said.
“One year on from transition, the SES stands ready to support Queenslanders in times of need.”
For MRQ, the anniversary coincides with the first birthdays of its inaugural units in Mackay and Gladstone.
“From our first two units in Central Queensland, we’ve grown to 14 units … with more units scheduled to transition across before the end of 2025,” MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff said.
“We anticipate MRQ will ultimately grow to around 2,700 Queensland volunteers operating across 47 units, undertaking 4,000 activations across the state every year.”
Queenslanders are reminded to dial Triple Zero (000) for life‑threatening emergencies, call SES on 132 500 for storm or flood assistance, and stay informed via the Bureau of Meteorology’s warning summaries.