North Queenslanders warned to watch out for scams

First Optus then Telstra, now Ergon Energy customers are among the latest to be targeted.

Mandatory Covid isolation ends today

For more than two and half years, we've been getting tested for covid and isolating with positive results. From today, mandatory iso is a thing of the past.

Heads up: Your Local News podcast is on the move.

Townsville police announce break in year-old investigation

In October last year, a woman in her 80s was allegedly struck by a car while walking in an underground car park.

Fuel prices in Townsville two weeks after excise cut

It's now been two weeks since the fuel excise cut ended, and prices in Townsville have climbed.

Luciano Leilua will challenge domestic violence assault case

The 26-year-old was charged after allegedly assaulting a woman known to him, and smashing her mobile phone in an incident in Sydney earlier this month. 

Townsville's crime rate has risen for a second month

According to police data, Townsville has reached it's highest crime level in at least 12 months. 

State government called on to release quarterly ambulance ramping data.

Opposition Leader David Crisafulli says Queenslanders deserve to know the truth about what's happening inside our hospitals. 

North Queensland's housing crisis could worsen

Around 30-thousand affordable proprieties will be lost over the next four years as the Federal Government scraps the National Rental Affordability Scheme. 

Townsville teens charged following alleged stabbing

A man has allegedly been stabbed during a robbery at an AItkenvale shopping centre.

Police investigating an unlawful wounding in Mundingburra

Police have established a crime scene and confirmed investigations are ongoing. 

North Queensland names Bruce Highway as worst road in the state

RACQ's unroadworthy roads survey has so far identified the road as a concern for drivers in every region along the coastline. 

Backpackers are back in North Queensland

According to the department of home affairs there are more than 63,000 working holiday makers in Australia. 

Cowboy Luciano Leilua stood down from NRL

The 26-year-old was charged with common assault following in incident in South Sydney on Monday. 

North Queensland patients forced to wait longer for elective surgeries

More than 3,500 patients are on the Townsville Hospital waiting list for elective surgeries. 

North Queensland bowser prices slow to rise

Unleaded this morning has increased by one cent since the excise climb. 

National Headspace Day

Figures show two in five young Aussies are now affected by mental ill-health. 

North Queensland GP's represented in Canberra Crisis Summit

Doctor Maria Boulton is one of dozens who will meet in Canberra today to discuss the health system. 

Townsville police keeping busy with Operation Casuarina

Since September 27, officers have charged 34 adults with 68 offences and 24 juveniles with 24 offences.

Cowboys star Luciano Leilua charged with domestic violence offences

The 26 year old was arrested yesterday afternoon at a home in Sydney’s South West following an alleged domestic violence incident.

Police patrolling school zones this morning

Although, officers warn speeding isn't the only thing they'll be looking for in school zones.

New Queensland Police aircraft to arrive next year

Organ retrieval, search and rescue operations and community safety will all be bolstered by a new fleet of Queensland Police aircraft. 

New protections for pets in rentals

New tenant protection laws have come into effect over the weekend, giving people more protections for pets in rentals.

Crime fighting drone training begins in Townsville

The $400,000 investment from the state government will be equipped with enhanced intelligence to track stolen vehicles and locate lost people.

New tenancy laws for pet owners come in tomorrow

The new laws won't allow landlords to decline tenants based upon their pet ownership status.

North Queensland told to prepare for bushfire season

The Rural Fire Service says we need to be prepared for bushfire season following a spate of recent fires across the Townsville region.

Queensland's new multi-billion green energy plan

The Premier's announced a $62 billion Energy and Jobs plan which includes Queensland ending it's reliance on coal by 2035. 

Call for battle honours for local troops

Herbert MP Phillip Thompson is calling for battle honours to be bestowed upon local troops involved in the 2021 Afghan evacuation. 

Townsville residents prepare to pay more at the bowser

After six months, the temporary fuel excise cut will come to an end tonight. 

95 pages of State's health briefings leaked

State Opposition Leader David Crisafulli, along with his government, have leaked a 95 page document saying the papers suggest the complete opposite of what the government is doing.

Day one of DNA inquiry wraps up

The inquiry has been deemed the "most important event" the state's criminal justice system has ever seen.

Concern for North Queensland doctors among new survey results

A survey of more than 700 Queensland resident doctors reveals an alarmingly high number aren't being trained properly and are working 70 hour weeks.

Inquiry into forensic DNA testing begins today

Public hearings this week after a preliminary report concluded there were serious shortfalls in the state's lab. 

Multi-asset search for missing South Townsville man

The 32-year from South Townsville was last seen leaving a hotel in Pentland on September 14.

Former Cancer Council Ambassador charged with fraud

32-year-old Amanda Power allegedly lied about her own illness to receive money. 

Concerns over North Queensland healthcare facilities

AMA Queensland's president claims the system is under crisis. 

Small child in critical condition after being hit by car

A young child has been flown to Townsville University Hospital in a serous condition after being hit by a car in Ayr last night. 

Townsville pauses to remember Queen Elizabeth II

A National memorial service and a minute silence will be held at 11am, as Australia marks a day of mourner for The Queen.

Queensland Police ban safety hoods

Acting Deputy Commissioner Mark Wheeler says the hoods were originally designed to stop detainees spitting on officers.

Townsville ambulance wait times revealed

It's been revealed one patient waited more than five hours to be offloaded from an ambulance at Townsville Hospital in June.

North Queensland told to brace for wet summer

Locals are being urged not to become complacent with risks associated with heavy rain and flooding.

North Queensland says farewell to Queen Elizabeth

The world has paused to say goodbye to the Queen, with thousands lining the streets for a moving funeral service held at Westminster Abbey overnight.

Snake season is underway in Townsville

Catchers say the reptiles can been seen out of an afternoon, enjoying the sun and looking for mates following a mild winter.

More police on our roads these school holidays

Police plead with drivers as more than 10 lives have been lost on local roads so far this year.

Our final goodbye to Queen Elizabeth II

The countdown continues for the UK and the world to farewell Queen Elizabeth the second.

Road safety messages and new rules to know these holidays

Drivers are being told to take safety seriously, while a new rule begins today. Also - housing crisis roundtable underway, and warning from Parks and Wildlife.

Charges over Hyde Park armed robbery

A Roma man has been charged following the armed robbery of a servo in July. Also - search continues for missing man, and Townsville labelled a drowning blackspot.

Search continues for man missing at Ayr

Police divers have been brought in, as the search continues for Selwyn Malayta last seen in Plantation Creek. Also - mackerel rules not getting bites from fishos and the new road rule beginning today.

Townsville's supermarkets able to trade during next Thursday's holiday

The Industrial Relations Minister says it'll be like an Australia Day Public Holiday in Queensland. Also - search continues for missing man, and The Cowboys resting up ahead of finals footy.

Search and rescue underway at Ayr

Police say the man entered Plantation Creek yesterday morning, and wasn't seen getting out of the creek. Also - fuel prices about to climb, and arrest over alleged theft.

Townsville's drivers told to plan ahead, before fuel prices rise

The fuel excise tax cut ends in around a fortnight, expecting to add 25c to a litre of unleaded. Also - new limits on Spanish mackerel catches, and Ring Road closures from tomorrow.

Townsville's heart health reminder

Our city has a higher than average rate of heart disease. Also - why Townsville's crime rate may not be as bad as you think, and the final teams to be determined in the local soccer comp.

Townsville's illegal dumpers put on notice

Council says it's a blight on our city, and causes serious ramifications for the health of our ecosystem. Also - The Queen arrives at Buckingham Palace, and claims crime rate could be exaggerated by social media.

Is Townsville's crime rate as bad as we think?

Researchers say social media community groups are hyping up and exaggerating minor crime. Also - reaction to Queensland's housing summit, and our city's illegal dumpers put on notice.

What will our Aussie coins look like now?

We'll get an update today on what Australian coins will look like after the passing of The Queen.

Albo under fire from public holiday announcement

The PM is under pressure from business groups for calling a public holiday at short notice and, for suspending Parliament for two-weeks

Retailers raise concern ahead of the Queen's Day of Mourning

Doctors and businesses are waiting for news from the Premier today on the details of opening times for next Thursday's public holiday to mourn the Queen.

King Charles III proclaimed Queensland's Head of State

It comes as thousands of mourners lined the road to watch The Queen's coffin travel from Balmoral to Edinburgh overnight. 

Shock and sadness in North Queensland following The Queen's death

Tributes from all around the world are pouring in for The Queen who has sadly died at the age of 96.

North Queensland remembers Queen Elizabeth II

Queen Elizabeth II, the longest serving monarch, has passed away after a 70 year reign 

Warning to e-scooter riders following spate of crashes

At least three people have been injured in Townsville this week. Also - local crime rate remains stable, and a reminder to check in this R U OK Day.

Townsville's crime stats show drop in property offences

While our overall crime rate remains stable, August saw a increase in drug offences. Also - safety concerns for e-scooter riders, and today's big question - R U OK?

Townsville's early educators to walk off the job this afternoon

Rallies will be held at the Charles Street oval from 3pm. Also - push to drive up our region's weak covid booster uptake, and a chance to name and shame the worst local roads.

Townsville still lagging in covid booster uptake

Only 65% of locals have had a least three shots, compared to the national rate of 72%. Also - investigations into aviation incidents, and a new record for our ag sector.

Another rate rise on the cards for Townsville’s homeowners

The RBA is expected to increase the cash rate again today, at a time when the REIQ claims land tax will see the cost of renting rise.

Claims mining investors are losing faith in Queensland

The Shadow Resources Minister says the new coal royalties scheme is making it 'too hard'. Also - KAP asking for money to protect homeowners from crime, and why a new tax could see rent rises.

Pitch to help NQ homeowners beef up security

KAP wants $1,500 to be given to home and business owners for security measures in high crime areas. Also - police appeal following highway smash, and our local film industry gets its voice.

The Cowboys' best players recognised

The club held its awards dinner, off the back of a win against minor premiers Penrith Panthers. Also - increase in welfare payments on the way, and Queensland's road toll continues to climb.

Police plead with drivers to take care as road toll soars

While fatalities in NQ are trending downwards, more than 200 people have lost their lives on our state's roads so far this year. Also - homeowners told to prepare for bushfires, and concerns from the mining industry.

Calls for Townsville locals to prepare NOW for bushfire season

Council says its completed its final controlled burns, and we need to get prepared too. Also - police plead with drivers to make sensible choices, and talks continue over our region's mining future.

Townsville residents told to stop throwing hazardous items in their bins

The reminder comes after a waste truck was forced to dump its contents in Aitkenvale last Thursday after items inside caught fire.

Daily Covid reports from Queensland Health to be scaled back

The Australian Medical Association is concerned a change to reporting around Covid stats might lead to complacency about the virus. 

Police issue warning to parents as temperatures rise in Townsville

With temperatures back on the rise, Queensland police are warning parents and careers to never leave children in a car unattended, even with the windows down. 

It's magpie swooping season in Townsville

More than 150 attacks have already been reported in Queensland so far this year, with more than a dozen resulting in injury. 

Townsville told "not to worry" about property value decreases

While the big smoke should worry about their property value decreases last month, real estate experts say regional Queenslanders shouldn't be too phased.

Covid isolation rules to be reduced in Townsville

The decision comes from yesterdays National Cabinet meeting.

Male patient in serious condition following two-vehicle crash

A male patient in his 70s has been transported under lights and sirens to Ayr Hospital following a serious two-vehicle crash reported on the Bruce Highway near Barratta this morning.

Ayr house fire claims another life

A 65-year-old man has died with injuries caused by a house fire in Ayr on August 9. 

Domestic violence under the spotlight in Townsville

Over the last 12 months, 800 domestic violence offences have been lodged through the Townsville Magistrates Court. 

Should medicinal cannabis users be able to drive?

The Queensland Government will investigate whether medicinal cannabis users should be allowed to drive on Queensland roads as part of a review of the state's drug driving rules. 

Foot and mouth disease still threatening Australia

With threats of foot and mouth disease still at the front of Queensland farmers minds, we're being warned to stay vigilant when travelling back into the country.

Townsville house prices continue to rise

House prices are still going up in Queensland, but the market is slowing down according to quarterly median sales results released by REIQ.

Weather bureau predicts a wet September for Townsville

Townsville could be in line for a wetter than average September, with a 75% of our wet season starting before it usually does in mid November.

Car theft continues to rise in Townsville

New statistics from the RACQ show there's been a 4.2 percent increase in car thefts in Townsville over the last year.

Women in North Queensland facing abortion barriers

Women across regional Queensland are struggling to access safe abortions following the shutdown of dozens of regional centres last year.

Queensland police slammed for alleged gun check failures

The Shooting Industry Foundation of Australia are slamming Queensland police over alleged  failures to do their gun check admin properly, leaving firearms dealer business in strife.

New road rules to keep emergency vehicles safe

New road rules come into effect next month that'll require motorists to move over and slow down to keep emergency response workers safe.

Binge drinking glamorised in new Tiktok trend

The viral challenge features users filming other people consuming their first and last drink of the night, often consuming over ten to fifteen drinks.

Three-year-old greyhound first to die on Townsville track

The death of a three-year-old greyhound at Townsville has sparked called for the State Government to stop funding the greyhound racing industry. 

Chopper teams participate in road safety week

They're the crew in the skies keeping us on the ground safe and the QG Air team is adding its voice to road safety week.

Financial strain the most common reason to stop smoking

Financial strain is now the most common reason for people to quit smoking, according to the University of Queensland's newest research.

RACQ welcome new speed cameras

The RACQ is welcoming the State Government's plan to roll out new, mobile speed cameras at high risk school zones and roadworks.

North Queensland man left in critical condition following alleged stabbing

A 27-year-old man has been airlifted to Townsville Hospital following an alleged stabbing on Palm Island yesterday. 

Students with disability predicted to be affected by teacher shortages

University experts say students living with disability will be heavily affected by Teacher shortages if state governments around Australia don't support their workers.

Staff shortages still an issue as state unemployment drops

New data from the Australian Bureau of statistics has revealed that the rate fell to 3-point-8 percent last month, the lowest rate it's been in more than 13 years. 

Townsville locals encouraged to take part in drowning survey

Water safety experts throughout North and Far North Queensland are gathering in Townsville to progress the water safety plan to help reduce fatal and non-fatal drownings. 

More concerns raised over Queensland's coal royalties scheme

BHP is pausing work on a proposed mine near Blackwater and reassessing its plans within Queensland.

No changes to age of Criminal Responsibility

Both the Government and the Opposition spoke against the Bill to raise the age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 14. 

Police charge Townsville man with murder

A 38-year-old Deeragun man has been charged with the murder of a 44-year-old Townsville woman. 

Federal government invests in protecting our reef

A 162 million dollar investment by the Federal Government is set to expand the Crown of Thorns starfish Control Program.