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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‘The Hurley Bus’ Rolls Out Transforming Lives With Transport And Care

November 25, 2024

The quality of life for aged, frail and palliative patients living locally in Ingham is looking much improved thanks to a local couple’s incredible bequest and a kind-hearted committee that has implemented a new free transfer bus.  

The Ingham Palliative Carers Committee has been operating since 2009 doing great work in the community. When inaugural president Leslie Lowth OAM was informed that Brian and Theresa Hurley intended to leave money in their will to support the committee, she was overjoyed.

The Hurley’s left the committee an incredible $203,000 with the intention that this considerable amount of money would be used to help those in need.  

After careful consideration, the Palliative Carers Committee decided they would purchase a vehicle, which they would call the ‘The Hurley Bus’.

‘The Hurley Bus’ will be free and will offer transport to frail, aged and palliative people, giving them mobility and some lifestyle improvement at an otherwise challenging time in their lives.

President of Ingham Palliative Carers Committee Judy Cardillo said they will offer a broad range of services, while hoping to make peoples’ days better.

“We will be driving them to appointments, outings, family visits, shopping and anything else they want. It's entirely up to them,” said Judy.

“The service is for their comfort and to make their lives a little bit better if we can.”

For the bus to work functionally, the committee need volunteers: drivers and assistants.

Judy said they have many people interested in volunteering, but she wants more – 30 to 40 would be ideal.

To drive the bus, you must have a car license and a First Aid Certificate. The committee will organise for you to acquire your First Aid Certificate, and there will be an induction session for knowledge of the bus modifications.

“The crux of it all is the volunteers are there for the day and give their time and care with joy,” she said.

Judy and the rest of the committee acknowledge that ‘The Hurley Bus’ project was helped considerably by some key people.

They would like to say a huge thank you to Neil Brown from Significant Signs, who is wrapping the bus free of charge, Ann Vardanega - for helping with media and giving good advice, Pat Lynch – bus expert, Tracey and Chris Castles – financial advice, and Tony Iafano who will provide bus maintenance.

‘The Hurley Bus’ is currently in Townsville being outfitted for its special use. Ingham Palliative Carers Committee expect it to be ready in early December.

Ingham Palliative Carers Committee have purchased this bus to be used as ‘The Hurley Bus’. Image supplied

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