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 storyFlu and COVID-19 case numbers continue to climb across Queensland, with health authorities urging residents to practise good hygiene and get vaccinated to help curb the spread of respiratory illnesses.
In the last week of June alone, over 2,800 flu cases were recorded — the highest weekly number this year. Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll said hospital admissions remain high, with nearly 300 beds occupied daily by flu and COVID-19 patients.
“Around half of all flu hospitalisations and 65 per cent of COVID hospitalisations are among people aged 65 and over,” Dr Carroll said.
She noted that more than 90 per cent of hospitalised patients are not up to date with their vaccinations.
“Vaccination is especially important for anyone aged 65 years or older and people at higher risk of severe COVID-19. I encourage people to discuss their COVID vaccine and booster options with their vaccine provider,” she said.
“For influenza, nearly 3,000 people have been hospitalised this year, with almost all of these hospitalisations (92 per cent) among people who were not vaccinated.”
Children are also vulnerable, with nearly 450 hospitalised for flu so far in 2025.
“Children are more likely to catch and spread influenza, contributing to transmission in the community, but also young children are vulnerable to serious illness from the flu,” Dr Carroll said.
Queenslanders are encouraged to wash their hands, cover coughs, stay home when sick, and stay up to date with flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccinations.
For more details, visit www.health.qld.gov.au.