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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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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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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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
Read the full storyNew lifejacket laws have come into effect that all boat users must be aware of. The changes include stricter rules on when lifejackets must be worn as well as the phasing out of older Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) that do not meet modern Australian Standards.
While safety on the water is paramount, many North Queenslanders consider the new laws to be impractical as they fail to consider the realities of local boating conditions.
The laws came into effect on December 1, 2024, however there are still many people who are unaware of the new requirements. We are told that enforcement of the new rules will be delayed until July 1, 2025, as Marine Safety Queensland (MSQ) attempts to improve communication and education of the public about the requirements.
For those who aren’t yet aware, the changes now make it mandatory to wear a lifejacket in the following circumstances:
• When boating alone, or only with children under 12 on an open boat under 4.8m while underway.
• When crossing designated coastal bars on an open ship or in an open area of any boat.
• For children aged 1-12 who are on an open boat or in an open area of any boat while underway.
• During night-time boating (sunset to sunrise) on an open boat under 4.8m while underway.
In response to community concerns, I moved a disallowance motion in Parliament to scrap these heavy- handed changes which were introduced by the State Labor Government just prior to the 2024 State election. Although I had hoped for the current State Government’s support, the subordinate legislation was passed and will remain in force.
I will continue to push back against government over-regulation and fight to protect our cherished North Queensland freedoms. For more information about the new rules please visit https://www.msq.qld.gov.au/About-us/News-and-stories/New-rules-for-wearing-lifejackets or phone MSQ on 13 23 80.
Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook
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