Hospital upgrades a step closer with business case

  HINCHINBROOK MP Nick Dametto has revealed much-needed upgrades to Ingham Hospital are a step closer to reality after the finalising of key planning documents by Townsville Hospital and Health Service (THHS). THHS’s proposed “COVID-19 Recovery – Proposed Infrastructure Program” estimates Ingham Hospital will need $5.2 million for renal services, $3.6 million for a CT […] READ MORE

Federal housing scheme forgets regions

THE Federal Government’s new ‘HomeBuilder’ grant scheme does little to help regional families get a foot in the housing market due to narrow eligibility criteria, says Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto. Although Mr Dametto welcomed the boost the grant will give to the building industry, he was “incredibly disappointed” the $25,000 grant did not apply to […] READ MORE

Regional housing needs Federal focus

  HINCHINBROOK MP Nick Dametto has warned the Federal Government not to abandon regional Queensland’s housing market as speculation mounts over a new grants scheme. Mr Dametto said it was imperative the Federal Government’s proposed housing stimulus package included grants to both purchase existing homes in regional areas and the ability to do renovations. “Media […] READ MORE

Local journalism dealt a blow in newspaper closures

HINCHINBROOK MP Nick Dametto fears for the future of regional journalism following News Corp Australia’s decision to down the print editions of several regional newspapers, including the Herbert River Express. Mr Dametto said he was gutted for the thousands of employees at newspapers across the country who were told the heartbreaking news this morning. “Today […] READ MORE

Businesses left in the lurch after grant program closes

HINCHINBROOK MP Nick Dametto has called for an urgent funding boost to the State Government’s COVID-19 Adaption Grant Program, after thousands of businesses missed out due to funds being exhausted. Mr Dametto said his office had been inundated with calls from small business owners furious they had missed out on applying after the scheme was […] READ MORE

Labor misses mark in crime petition response

THE State Labor Government has failed to reassure North Queenslanders how it will keep them safe after thousands signed two parliamentary petitions demanding tougher penalties for criminals. Started by Take Back Townsville co-ordinator and Katter’s Australian Party’s candidate for Thuringowa Julianne Wood, the parliamentary e-petition and paper petition called on the House to “make significant […] READ MORE

Dametto pressures Minister over Reef regs

  HINCHINBROOK MP Nick Dametto has questioned Environment Minister Leeanne Enoch on Labor’s farm-destroying Reef regulations and the validity of the science used to impose them on growers. In a Question Without Notice in parliament this week, Mr Dametto asked whether Ms Enoch would commit to amending her government’s Reef regulations should the outcome of […] READ MORE

Dametto delivers message to parliament: Free the North

THE survival of thousands of North Queensland businesses hangs in the balance unless the State Labor Government acts to lift all COVID-19 restrictions in the region, says Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto. In a passionate speech to parliament on Tuesday, Mr Dametto said the government’s existing support measures available to small businesses would not replace the […] READ MORE

Residents strongly against youth home

ALMOST 500 local residents have thrown their support behind a petition against the establishment of a home for at-risk youth in Bushland Beach, which is set to be tabled in parliament this week. Started by resident Jennifer Jolly and sponsored by Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto, the parliamentary e-petition calls on the House to “find a […] READ MORE

Firearm trading restrictions finally lifted

RECREATIONAL and sport shooters will finally be able to purchase firearms and ammunition they need after the State Labor Government fully lifted trading restrictions on licensed dealers and armourers. Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto said he while he was thrilled for sport and recreational shooters, there was never any justification for the trading ban to have […] READ MORE