Bushwalkers rescued from Mount Field National Park during inclement weather
Monday, 19 May 2025 – 2:24 pm.
Police are reiterating warnings to bushwalkers after another search and rescue response was launched to rescue two bushwalkers near Lake Newdegate in the Mount Field National Park. “Around 10pm last night, police were alerted via a satellite messaging device, that two bushwalkers required assistance after becoming stranded at the Newdegate Hut due to suffering from the effects of exposure,” said Acting Inspector Paul Johns from Marine and Rescue Services. “The weather prevented the party from walking out of the area and concerns were held due to further deterioration of weather conditions.” “The Westpac Rescue Helicopter was dispatched, however, due to weather conditions and cloud it was unable to safely land, and a search and rescue team was deployed to walk to the area.” “Just prior to 3.30am this morning rescue personnel, consisting of two police rescue officers and two wilderness paramedics, reached the bushwalkers. The bushwalkers were treated at the hut and extracted by helicopter at 9am this morning, after the weather conditions improved.” “Last week we saw several bushwalker weather alerts issued by the Bureau of Meteorology, and this rescue is an example of how it’s imperative to only bushwalk if you are prepared – both with physical capability, and equipment to keep you safe.” “Bushwalkers should always prepare for the worst, and carry sufficient warm clothing and food, and emergency communication devices.” “Police and other emergency services will always respond to requests for assistance, but it’s important to remember that if you require assistance in bad weather, aircraft are often not able to fly due to conditions and ground crews could be hours away. Carrying suitable equipment will ensure you can remain safe until help arrives if required.” Police again remind those venturing outdoors to monitor weather warnings and consider the impact of the weather on their activities. Other essential safety considerations include:
Taking sufficient communication devices including mobile phones, charging banks and Personal Locator Beacons (PLB’s). Ensuring sufficient emergency food, water, spare clothing and shelter is carried in the event the length of the trip extends. Research impending weather conditions for the area and do not continue with plans where inclement weather is due.
Australians are expected to spend over A$2 billion booking holidays online in 2024–25.
Big name platforms such as Booking.com and Expedia account for about 60% of this activity. But many travellers are also turning to smaller or lesser-known providers offering flashy deals and lower prices, often with fewer safeguards.
So, how can you protect yourself? Start with these five checks.
1. Don’t be swayed by slick websites or social media ads
It’s a common tactic, and one that’s hard to resist. You’re scrolling, you see a dreamy image, the price is tempting, and suddenly you’re halfway through checkout.
Check for a verifiable business address, phone number and customer support. If the deal feels vague, under-priced or overly urgent, that’s a red flag.
Look for independent reviews (on Trustpilot, Tripadvisor or Google), and check Scamwatch for known issues.
2. Look at how the company engages with customers
A company’s reputation isn’t just about what it promises: it’s built on how it responds to questions and complaints. Before booking, take a moment to see how the business interacts with customers online.
Do they reply constructively to complaints? Do they offer updates or explanations when issues arise?
Also notice the tone. Does it feel human and responsive, or generic and hands-off? That can suggest how they’ll treat you after the sale.
Small signs can speak volumes. A page with thousands of followers but no visible engagement may indicate a paid audience – and a company that vanishes when things get difficult.
3. Check if the company is accredited
Another way to assess a travel company’s credibility is to check if it holds formal accreditation. This signals the company has met standards in financial security, customer service and dispute resolution.
Accreditation offers extra reassurance, but it’s not the whole picture. Some large, reputable companies, such as Expedia, operate without it. If a company isn’t accredited, proceed with caution and focus on how bookings and payments are handled.
4. Scrutinise policies carefully
Before booking, check what happens if the provider goes bust, whether you can cancel or reschedule, and how your booking will be confirmed. Where possible, follow up directly with the hotel, airline or tour operator to make sure reservations are secured.
Booking directly with a hotel or tour provider can ensure you are getting up-to-date availability. Media_Photos/Shutterstock
Company insolvency is one of the most common exclusions. Unless a policy includes “end supplier failure” or a similar clause (most don’t), you may not be able to claim a refund. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement to check exactly where you stand.
Another safeguard is to pay with protection in mind. Although conditions vary by provider, credit cards may offer chargebacks if the goods or services aren’t delivered.
5. Book direct where feasible
While accredited travel agencies can be helpful for complex itineraries, like overseas trips with multiple stops or bundled services, it’s often worth booking directly with the provider when making travel arrangements online, whether that’s a hotel, airline or tour company.
Cutting out the intermediary can offer better value, including complimentary extras, flexible cancellation and full access to loyalty programs.
Direct bookings usually reflect real-time availability and pricing, reducing the risk of outdated information. You’ll benefit from direct communication and confirmation, making it easier to customise or resolve issues.
If something goes wrong, there’s also greater clarity about who’s responsible – offering stronger recourse under Australian Consumer Law.
The bottom line?
As more Australians book holidays online, it’s becoming harder to tell what’s trustworthy and what could leave you out of pocket.
Traveldream’s collapse is a reminder. Even in the world of digital travel deals, it pays to ask: is this company built to last, not just until your trip departs, but until you return home?
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Professor Rebekah Russell-Bennett, Associate Dean Research, Faculty of Business, Government and Law, University of Canberra
When the new parliament convenes after the recent election, it will feature a rarity in Australian politics. Women will lead two significant political parties at the same time: the Liberal Party’s Sussan Ley and the Greens’ Larissa Waters.
When female political leaders show ambition, they are often portrayed in the media as grasping, selfish and power-seeking. In other words, they are the embodiment of Shakespeare’s Lady Macbeth.
The recent negative media coverage of Jacinta Nampijinpa Price’s move to the Liberal Party was reminiscent of the depiction of Julia Gillard when she became Labor leader. Price’s ambition reportedly made her selfish, while Gillard’s ambition was framed as a “moral wrong”.
The pervasive misrepresentation of female politicians who display ambition can be thought of as “the Lady Macbeth bias”. This negative framing of ambition associates female politicians with ruthlessness and power at any cost. The prejudice reflects the central character theme in Shakespeare’s tragic play, Macbeth, of a woman whose scheming was her undoing.
Lady Macbeth’s ambition is depicted as morally suspect and unnatural. This ambition leads to her demise.
Highly gendered ambition
With two new women leaders rising to the top and a record number of new female politicians in the 48th parliament, how will they be portrayed as their ambition plays out?
The media representation of women who aspire to leadership typically depicts female ambition as a negative. This is a distraction from any objective criticism of the person. This kind of gendered approach to female politicians could be a deterrent for women who have political aspirations.
There is a significant evidence base in academic literature that demonstrates ambition is a social construct that is highly gendered. Women politicians who show ambition are seen as unrelatable and unfeminine, while ambitious male politicians are described as visionary or strong.
Take, for example, this recent article on Paul Keating, whose ambition is lauded, making him a “rare leader”. Let us not forgot that Keating became prime minister by challenging Bob Hawke.
Compare the praise of Keating to the demonising of Gillard, who also challenged a sitting prime minister (Kevin Rudd) and you will see the opposite commentary. Ambition featured strongly in analysis of Gillard’s rise to power. Instead of praise for her ambition, she was often vilified, with her morality called into question.
Rudd’s comment to her in 2010 typifies this perspective: “Julia, you’re a good person, why are you doing this?”
The double bind
So what is the outcome of this negative media portrayal of women in politics?
Female politicians with ambition are perceived as less likeable and take a hit in popularity and electoral success. This phenomena has been termed the double bind, which is a paradox experienced by women leaders. To be viewed as competent, they need to display traits typically associated with men, such as ambition, competitiveness and drive. However, when they do, this in turn makes them appear not feminine enough.
The result of this violation of gender stereotypes ranges from negative perceptions to backlash. Women can be overlooked for roles, receive less money and in the case of politics, face electoral retaliation.
So like Lady Macbeth, ambitious leaders are punished for defying the natural order of femininity. A lose-lose situation.
Normalise female ambition
So what should be done? First the media need to take responsibility for the language used in headlines and stories about female politicians. A more androgynous approach to reporting on political leaders would go a long way to addressing this problem.
Second, we the public need to decry the use of overused stereotypes in media coverage, such as the Lady Macbeth tropes, when our female leaders are critiqued. While politicians should be held to high standards of accountability, transparency and ethics, a gendered approach undermines this scrutiny and weakens our democratic system.
Finally, we can limit “the Lady Macbeth bias” by showcasing ambitious female politicians across the political spectrum. When we normalise ambition in women, we break the association between ambition and masculinity. It is time to decouple leadership qualities from gendered stereotypes, not just for current female politicians but for the girls who are our future politicians.
Shifting perceptions
The Lady Macbeth theme of ambitious women being unnatural, morally bankrupt, ruthless and manipulative is a serious misrepresentation of female politicians.
This negative portrayal is a barrier to women entering politics. Or surviving in politics.
Politicians such as Ley, Waters and Price should be held to account, but not on gendered terms. We must stop treating female politicians as Lady Macbeth. If we do not, gender inequality in politics will prevail.
That would be a sad future for all Australians.
Rebekah Russell-Bennett is affiliated with the Liberal party
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.
Released 19/05/2025
This National Volunteer Week (19–25 May), the ACT Government is proud to celebrate the thousands of volunteers across Canberra who dedicate their time, energy and care to making our community stronger, more inclusive and more connected.
Minister for Disability, Carers and Community Services, Suzanne Orr, acknowledged the extraordinary contributions of volunteers across the ACT and encouraged Canberrans to explore the many ways they can get involved.
“We’re lucky to have many committed volunteers here in the ACT: three out of four Canberrans aged over 15 years volunteer in our community, either formally or informally,” Minister Orr said.
“From helping people in crisis to supporting environmental and animal welfare, Canberra’s volunteers are the quiet achievers who bring compassion, resilience and hope to our community.”
One of those volunteers is Manar Ahmad, co-founder of HelpingACT, which provides food, clothing and essential services to people in need.
“My life is richer because of volunteering. Despite the hours, I don’t see it as a cost – it’s brought me into contact with wonderful people and stretched my capabilities,” Mr Ahmad said.
“If you’re nervous, start small. Then go deeper as your confidence grows.”
Madison (Casey) Barancewicz, recipient of the 2024 ACT Young Volunteer of the Year Award, volunteers with the National Arboretum, MIEACT, and WaterWatch.
“Volunteering has taught me to take initiative – and it gives me hope. You’re giving your time to something meaningful. It helps you. It helps others. It helps the world.”
Christine Johnston, a long-serving volunteer with Victim Support ACT, offers vital assistance to victims navigating the criminal justice system.
“When someone’s anxious or overwhelmed, just being there matters. I enjoy helping others, and it’s also helped me feel connected since moving to Canberra.”
Adrian Manning, who volunteers with the ACT State Emergency Service, highlighted the dual personal and professional rewards of volunteering.
“Not only do I get to help my community, but I’ve learned new skills that have benefited me in my work life as well.”
For Pearl Ansley, volunteering with Domestic Animal Services is a joyful part of her routine.
“It’s the best way to start the day – walking the dogs through the bush trail, surrounded by nature and sunshine. The dogs love it, and I do too.”
CEO of VolunteeringACT, Jean Giese, reflected on the power of collective action, “National Volunteer Week is a time to say thank you to the incredible individuals who give their time so generously.
“Canberrans contribute around 63 million hours of volunteering each year. According to the ACT State of Volunteering Report, 61% of people volunteer to help others. Their contributions strengthen the social fabric of our community and help create a kinder, more inclusive region. To all past, current, and future volunteers – thank you.”
The ACT Government, in partnership with VolunteeringACT, is implementing the ACT Volunteering Strategy 2024–2034, which focuses on strengthening the sector by enhancing the volunteer experience, improving recognition, and building better connections across government and the community.
The high-profile director of a Melbourne real estate agency is facing criminal charges for unlicensed trading and trust account breaches, as Consumer Affairs Victoria continues to crack down on agents who break the law.
Mark Alexander Reuben, 47, of Greenvale, is the sole director of Reuben Family Pty Ltd (trading as Mark Reuben Projects).
It is alleged that between August 2022 and October 2024, Reuben and his company:
operated without a licence
failed to properly manage $400,000 in trust money
failed to complete trust account audits.
Agents who trade without a licence face up to 12 months’ imprisonment or up to $100,000 in fines. Those who fail to deposit trust money into a trust fund or fail to complete audits, risk up to $23,710 per breach, for each year that this applies.
The matter is listed for a hearing on 23 June 2025.
Members of Bacchus Marsh, Ballan and Melton fire brigades involved, ACFO David Maxwell and Commander Mal Hayes with ACFO Lachlan Redman and Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook. Credit: Uniform Photography
Seventeen firefighters from Bacchus Marsh, Ballan and Melton Fire Brigades have received one of CFA’s highest honours for their response to a serious school bus crash in 2022.
Acting CFA Chief Officer Garry Cook AFSM presented the distinguished Unit Citation for Service to the members at a ceremony in Myrniong on Sunday (18 May).
At 3.20am on 21 September 2022, CFA crews were called to a major crash on the Western Freeway in Pentland Hills, where a school bus carrying 27 students and four staff from Loreto College Ballarat had been struck at speed by a truck with a semi-trailer.
The bus veered off the road and rolled down a steep embankment, coming to rest in dense scrub with many occupants trapped. The truck with a semi-trailer came to a stop around 400 metres further down the freeway, with the driver pinned inside the cab.
CFA firefighters were among the first emergency services to arrive. Crews descended the slope using a secured hose reel, carrying rescue tools to reach and assist injured and disoriented students.
Simultaneously, other CFA crews helped extricate the truck driver and managed a significant diesel spill, while several members supported Ambulance Victoria to attend to the students.
Fifteen students and one staff member were hospitalised. Fortunately, there were no fatalities.
“This was an incredibly complex and emotionally charged scene, and our members showed true professionalism under pressure,” Garry said.
“Their ability to respond quickly, work alongside other emergency services and provide reassurance to young people in distress is something we as an organisation are very proud of.”
Captain of Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigade Ryan O’Shannessy, who was the CFA Incident Controller, said it was one of the most confronting incidents his crew had faced.
“It was a call-out that really showed the heart of our members, stepping in with empathy, skill and care to help a busload of young students and teachers who’d just been through something terrifying,” Ryan said.
“The injuries we saw were confronting, but everyone did what they could to help, drawing on our CFA training, life experience and the support of all the agencies working together.
“Seeing our crews comfort those kids, assess injuries and stay calm under pressure made me incredibly proud. It was a true team effort — not just from the three CFA brigades, but also from Fire Rescue Victoria, VICSES, Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria.
“We are grateful for this acknowledgement by the Victorian community and CFA, and while it was one incident of significance, we humbly accept this Unit Citation on behalf of our brigades for all the incidents we have and will continue to attend when called upon to help our local and wider communities in protecting life and property.”
Captain of Ballan Fire Brigade Ben Hatfield said the recognition meant a great deal.
“We’re proud to receive this on behalf of our brigades, but more importantly, we’re proud of how our members responded that day,” Ben said.
“This citation may recognise one moment, but it reflects the work we do every time we’re called to help, especially when it’s our youngest community members who need us most.”
Ballan Fire Brigade members with ACFO Lachlan Redman and Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook. Credit: Uniform Photography
Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigade members with ACFO Lachlan Redman and Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook. Credit: Uniform Photography
Melton Fire Brigade members with ACFO Lachlan Redman and Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook. Credit: Uniform Photography
Chief Officer Commendation recipients Commander Malcolm Hayes and ACFO David Maxwell. Credit: Uniform Photography
Attribute to Detective Inspector Christiaan Barnard
Police have restrained more than $650,000 in assets, following the arrest of a Wellington-based man on Friday as part of an FBI investigation.
The man appeared in the Auckland District Court on Friday for his alleged involvement in an organised criminal group that stole cryptocurrency from seven victims valued at US$265M (NZD$450M).
The Wellington High Court has now issued restraining orders under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act 2009 for assets valued at $670,000 including cash held in bank accounts, cash held in a lawyer’s trust account for the purchase of a property, cryptocurrency, and high value goods.
We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners in the United States to recover assets alleged to have been stolen by the organised criminal group.
An interim name suppression order remains in place.
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 19, 2025.
What does it mean to ‘accept’ or ‘reject’ all cookies, and which should I choose? Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ahmed Ibrahim, Senior Lecturer, Computing and Security, Edith Cowan University Shutterstock/The Conversation It’s nearly impossible to use the internet without being asked about cookies. A typical pop-up will offer to either “accept all” or “reject all”. Sometimes, there may be a third option, or a link to
What causes ADHD? What we know, don’t know and suspect Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alison Poulton, Senior Lecturer, Brain Mind Centre Nepean, University of Sydney Sergey Novikov/Shutterstock Neurodevelopmental disorders are a diverse group of conditions that affect the brain from early development. They include attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism and learning disabilities, such as dyslexia. These conditions usually become more evident
Pacific children as young as 6 adopted, made to work as house slaves By Gill Bonnett, RNZ immigration reporter This story discusses graphic details of slavery, sexual abuse and violence Pacific children as young as six are being adopted overseas and being made to work as house slaves, suffering threats, beatings and rape. Kris Teikamata — a social worker at a community agency — spoke about the harrowing
Australia launches ‘landmark’ UN police peacekeeping course for Pacific region Australia has launched the world’s first UN Police Peacekeeping Training course tailored specifically for the Pacific region. The five-week programme, hosted by the Australian Federal Police (AFP), is underway at the state-of-the-art Pacific Policing Development and Coordination Hub in Pinkenba, Brisbane. AFP said “a landmark step” was developed in partnership with the United Nations, and
AI is moving fast. Climate policy provides valuable lessons for how to keep it in check Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milica Stilinovic, PhD Candidate, School of Media and Communications; Managing Editor, Policy & Internet journal, University of Sydney cybermagician/Shutterstock Artificial intelligence (AI) might not have been created to enable new forms of sexual violence such as deepfake pornography. But that has been an unfortunate byproduct of the
1 in 5 Gazans face starvation. Can the law force Israel to act? Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law, Australian National University As Israel continues to pound Gaza with airstrikes, killing scores of people a day, the two-month ceasefire that brought a halt to the violence earlier this year feels like a distant memory. Israel’s overall military and political objective
More people are trying medicinal cannabis for chronic pain. But does it work? Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Suzanne Nielsen, Professor and Deputy Director, Monash Addiction Research Centre, Monash University PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock More Australians than ever are being prescribed medicinal cannabis. Medicinal cannabis refers to legally prescribed cannabis products. These are either the plant itself, or naturally occurring ingredients extracted from the plant.
Why is southern Australia in drought – and when will it end? Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chiara Holgate, Senior Research Fellow, ARC Centre of Excellence for Weather of the 21st Century, Australian National University Artic_photo/Shutterstock Swathes of South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and Western Australia are in the grip of drought as they experience some of the lowest rainfall totals on record. Farmers are
Wine is still Australia’s most popular alcoholic drink – but many producers face an uncertain future Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Chad, Honorary Fellow, Faculty of Business and Law, School of Business, University of Wollongong kwest/Shutterstock Australia has become world-famous for its wine, but the industry faces an uncertain future. Too many grapes grown amid falling consumer demand, an oversupply of budget wine, and an undersupply of
Something borrowed, something blue? Why the reign of the traditional wedding dress may be over Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jye Marshall, Lecturer, Fashion Design, School of Design and Architecture, Swinburne University of Technology Wedding Rebellion Workshop, London Ellie Cooper/unsplash The family and friends are all gathered, wedding bells are ringing, and the bride walks down the aisle in her beautiful bubblegum pink wedding dress. Twenty years
NZ Budget 2025: economic forecasting is notoriously difficult, but global uncertainty is making it harder Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Ryan, Lecturer in Economics, University of Waikato Javier Ghersi/Getty Images This year’s budget will be one of the tightest in a decade, with the New Zealand government halving its operating allowance – the new money it has available to spend – from NZ$2.4 billion to $1.3
Why the wall of silence on the Gaza genocide is finally starting to crack Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – As Israel unveils its final genocide push, and mass death from starvation looms in Gaza, Western media and politicians are tentatively starting to speak up ANALYSIS: By Jonathan Cook Who could have imagined 19 months ago that it would take more than a year and a
This story discusses graphic details of slavery, sexual abuse and violence
Pacific children as young as six are being adopted overseas and being made to work as house slaves, suffering threats, beatings and rape.
Kris Teikamata — a social worker at a community agency — spoke about the harrowing cases she encountered in her work, from 2019 to 2024, with children who had escaped their abusers in Auckland and Wellington.
“They’re incredibly traumatised because it’s years and years and years of physical abuse, physical labour and and a lot of the time, sexual abuse, either by the siblings or other family members,” she said.
“They were definitely threatened, they were definitely coerced and they had no freedom.
“When I met each girl, [by then] 17, 18, 19 years old, it was like meeting a 50-year-old. The light had gone out of their eyes. They were just really withdrawn and shut down.”
In one case a church minister raped his adopted daughter and got her pregnant.
Teikamata and her team helped 10 Samoan teenagers who had managed to escape their homes, and slavery — two boys and eight girls — with health, housing and counselling. She fears they are the tip of the iceberg, and that many remain under lock and key.
“They were brought over as a child or a teenager, sometimes they knew the family in Samoa, sometimes they didn’t — they had promised them a better life over here, an education and citizenship.
Social worker Kris Teikamata . . . “They were brought over as a child or a teenager, sometimes they knew the family in Samoa, sometimes they didn’t .” Image: RNZ Pacific
“When they arrived they would generally always be put into slavery. They would have to get up at 5, 6 in the morning, start cleaning, start breakfast, do the washing, then go to school and then after school again do cleaning and dinner and the chores — and do that everyday until a certain age, until they were workable.
“Then they were sent out to factories in Auckland or Wellington and their bank account was taken away from them and their Eftpos card. They were given $20 a week.
“From the age of 16 they were put to work. And they were also not allowed to have a phone — most of them had no contact with family back in Samoa.”
‘A thousand kids a year… and it’s still going on’ Nothing stopped the abusive families from being able to adopt again and they did, she said.
A recent briefing to ministers reiterated that New Zealanders with criminal histories or significant child welfare records have used overseas courts to approve adoptions, which were recognised under New Zealand law without further checks.
“When I delved more into it, I just found out that it was a very easy process to adopt from Samoa,” she said.
“There’s no checks, it’s a very easy process. So about a thousand kids [a year] are today being adopted from Samoa. It’s such a high number — whereas other countries have checks or very robust systems. And it’s still going on.”
As children, they could not play with friends and all of their movements were controlled.
Oranga Tamariki uplifted younger children, who were sometimes siblings of older children who had escaped.
“The ones that I met had escaped and found a friend or were homeless or had reached out to the police.”
Loving families When they were reunited with their birth parents on video calls, it was clear they came from loving families who had been deceived, she said.
While some adoptive parents faced court for assault, only one has been prosecuted for trafficking.
Government, police and Oranga Tamariki were aware and in talks with the Samoan government, she said.
Adoption Action member and researcher Anne Else said several opportunities to overhaul the 70-year-old Adoption Act had been thwarted, and the whole legislation needed ripping up.
“The entire law needs to be redone, it dates back to 1955 for goodness sake,” she said.
“But there’s a big difference between understanding how badly and urgently the law needs changing and actually getting it done.
“Oranga Tamariki are trying, I know, to work with for example Tonga to try and make sure that their law is a bit more conformant with ours, and ensure there are more checks done to avoid these exploitative cases.”
Sold for adoption Children from other countries had been sold for adoption, she said, and the adoption rules depended on which country they came from. Even the Hague Convention, which is supposed to provide safeguards between countries, was no guarantee.
Immigration minister Erica Stanford said other ministers were looking at what could be done to crack down on trafficking through international adoption.
“If there are non-genuine adoptions and and potential trafficking, we need to get on top of that,” she sad.
“It falls outside of the legislation that I am responsible for, but there are other ministers who have it on their radars because we’re all worried about it. I’ve read a recent report on it and it was pretty horrifying. So it is being looked at.”
A meeting was held between New Zealand and Samoan authorities in March. A summary of discussions said it focused on aligning policies, information sharing, and “culturally grounded frameworks” that uphold the rights, identity, and wellbeing of children, following earlier work in 2018 and 2021.
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
Northland Police are continuing an appeal for information in relation to the death of Whangārei man Geoffrey Ware.
A homicide investigation has been underway since the 55-year-old’s body was found at his Parakao home on May 9.
Detective Senior Sergeant Michelle Harris, of Whangārei CIB, says a portal has been set up for any photos or video that could assist the case.
“Police are still seeking information and sightings in the areas Mangakahia Road, Otaika Valley Road and State Highway 14 towards Whangārei, between 2pm and 8pm on Friday, May 9,” she says.
“We are also interested in sightings of a 1999 blue and silver Mitsubishi L200 ute, and a man reportedly seen walking along SH14 that afternoon and evening.”That portal link is https://cossar.nc3.govt.nz/
Detective Senior Sergeant Harris says the enquiry team is continuing to follow strong lines of enquiry.
“Police would like to thank members of the public who’ve provided information to the enquiry team to date.”
Anyone with additional information can also update Police online now or call 105 using the file number 250509/6749.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
While her peers shuttle between China’s megacities chasing lucrative careers, 23-year-old Huang Huiru veers off the beaten track — immersing herself in the rugged terrain of the Pamir Plateau in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region for a gap year.
As a law graduate from Gansu University of Political Science and Law, Huang is among a growing group of Chinese youth who volunteer to turn classroom knowledge into practical solutions for developing the region.
Stationed in government departments in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Huang and fellow volunteers revamped local job fairs through social media campaigns. In March, their efforts attracted over 80 employers offering more than 1,000 jobs, up from just five employers and a few job seekers in 2024.
“This is more than a job; it’s a calling,” she said.
Jobseekers exchange information on openings during a job fair in Urumqi, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Han)
ANSWERING THE CALL
Since 2003, the “Go West” program has offered 540,000 young Chinese a chance to spend a year or more volunteering in the country’s vast western regions, and around 55,000 participants have been recruited in Xinjiang, according to the Communist Youth League of China. The talent program aims to inject new ideas and vigor into the regions with huge development potential.
In 2024 alone, more than 11,900 young professionals joined the program in Xinjiang, according to the regional Communist Youth League Committee.
Like Huang, they have taught in classrooms near the Taklamakan Desert, helped rebuild rural infrastructure, supported poverty-alleviation projects, and upgraded power grids, leaving a lasting impact on communities while forging their own career paths.
Though often a challenging experience, individuals find profound sense of fulfillment in their service and express a willingness to extend their commitments. Data showed that since 2003, more than 15,000 people have opted to remain in Xinjiang after completing their volunteer service.
Wu Xiaofang, a 30-year-old power grid engineer, relocated to Xinjiang after earning her PhD from the prestigious Xi’an Jiaotong University in 2023. She now pioneers stability solutions for the West-to-East Power Transmission Project that leverages the region’s abundant wind and solar resources and its surplus power generation capacity. With transmission channels in place, Xinjiang can deliver excess clean electricity to other parts of China.
“Xinjiang’s power grid offers vast potential to apply my expertise where the nation needs it most,” said Wu. Her efforts, including breakthroughs in maintaining ultra-high-voltage lines amid extreme weather, earned her recognition in Xinjiang’s talent program, a regional top professional honor.
Workers perform installation work at the Barkol convertor station of the Hami-Chongqing ±800 kilovolt ultra-high voltage direct current (UHV DC) power transmission project in Hami, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, March 21, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Lei)
Yan Luming, a Master’s student from the People’s Public Security University of China, has brought innovative anti-fraud awareness campaigns to the city of Kashgar through the “Go West” program.
Assigned to the anti-fraud center of the Kashgar public security bureau, she creates educational content featuring witty dialogue and relatable scenarios popular on social media platforms. Her videos have garnered up to 400,000 views per episode, helping prevent numerous potential scams.
Wei Tao, head of the organization department of Kuqa City, said that targeted recruitment of students, graduates, and volunteers assigned to grassroots roles has become a pivotal force in advancing local governance and development.
VAST OPPORTUNITIES
Xinjiang has rolled out enhanced talent policies and a 10-billion-yuan (around 1.4 billion U.S. dollars) talent development fund to address workforce demands in building its 10 major industrial clusters.
In January this year, for example, the region launched the PhD recruitment initiative, aiming to attract over 1,000 global doctoral experts, signalling intensified efforts to bridge expertise gaps.
“Xinjiang’s expansive airspace and industrial needs align with our research goals, allowing us to translate research achievements into tangible productivity,” said Fan Yaoyao, a mechanical engineering postdoctoral researcher who works at an intelligent equipment research institute in Xinjiang.
Volunteers Nurbiyem Japar (L) and Ruzikeri Musa (R) help a villager trim seabuckthorn branches in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, April 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Han)
In its latest recruitment drive this year, the “Go West” program attracted 410,000 applicants, with nearly 90,000 selecting Xinjiang as their first-choice destination.
Zhang Xin, a data communication graduate student at Tsinghua University, has chosen to temporarily suspend his postgraduate studies to pursue career opportunities in Xinjiang, drawn by the region’s burgeoning digital economy.
The student in his 20s from Hubei Province now works in Aksu Prefecture of Xinjiang, applying his expertise in talent recruitment and employment strategy optimization.
For Zhang, the turning point came during a 2022 internship in Xinjiang. “What struck me was the region’s vitality and untapped potential in information technology,” he said. “Unlike saturated first-tier job markets, Xinjiang offers a frontier where my data analytics skills can directly drive transformative projects.”
Zhang Xin (C), a volunteer working in Aksu Prefecture of Xinjiang, speaks during a volunteer recruiting event for the “Go West” program in north China’s Shanxi Province, April 18, 2025. (Xinhua)
Here, young professionals can accelerate both skill development and career progression while making substantive contributions through position-matched work, he added.
Australia has launched the world’s first UN Police Peacekeeping Training course tailored specifically for the Pacific region.
The five-week programme, hosted by the Australian Federal Police (AFP), is underway at the state-of-the-art Pacific Policing Development and Coordination Hub in Pinkenba, Brisbane.
AFP said “a landmark step” was developed in partnership with the United Nations, and brings together 100 police officers for training.
AFP Deputy Commissioner Lesa Gale said the programme was the result of a long-standing, productive relationship between Australia and the United Nations.
Gale said it was launched in response to growing regional ambitions to contribute more actively to international peacekeeping efforts.
Participating nations are Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
“This course supports your enduring contribution and commitment to UN missions in supporting global peace and security efforts,” AFP Northern Command acting assistant commissioner Caroline Taylor said.
Pacific Command commander Phillippa Connel said the AFP had been in peacekeeping for more than four decades “and it is wonderful to be asked to undertake what is a first for the United Nations”.
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
Source: Police investigating after shots fired at Hastings house
By Sarah Wilcox
Volunteers atop Big Sandhill looking south to the Ernest Islands and The Gutter | Riki Everest
In January 2025, I was part of a volunteer crew doing maintenance work on the Island Hill Homestead near Rakiura Stewart Island’s west coast.
As one of the oldest buildings on the island it holds a significant place in local history. It’s named after Island Hill, a granite mound you pass on the track between Mason Bay and Freshwater Huts.
The homestead, woolshed and grounds have been cared for by DOC since 1987. The buildings are used as a work base by staff, hut wardens, contractors and research students. It’s been especially useful for accommodating people working on the dune restoration and pukunui (southern dotterel) projects in the bay.
My husband Mark and I had passed the homestead on previous tramping trips. We spent a memorable evening there with the hut wardens eating fresh pikelets on the porch, reading from old logbooks and being investigated by several kiwi.
When we spotted the opportunity for a 10-day volunteer stint, we decided to apply. We loved the idea of spending time in remote and beautiful Mason Bay, living in the historic homestead and giving something back.
A short history of Island Hill Homestead
The homestead was built in 1880 and housed farmers and their families for nearly 90 years. Many were familiar local names: William Walker, Arthur and Mateen Traill, Stanford and Dolly Leask and Tim and Ngaire Te Aika.
The site oozes struggle, refuge and resourcefulness. It feels isolated today but would have been extraordinarily remote in the 19th century. Prevailing westerly winds sweep up the valley, with a macrocarpa wind break providing some shelter from the worst of the gales.
Some farmers profited from grazing sheep and cattle on the marginal land, but it was never easy. Hardly surprising. Half sand dune, half wetland, the land required a network of drainage ditches to get enough grass to grow. Access was also challenging. It was heavy work to maintain a road to Freshwater Landing across the ‘chocolate swamp’, but even that was better than loading a ship on the wild Mason Bay coast.
Besides its place in local history, this building is the world’s southernmost woolshed | Sarah WilcoxThe wool press was recently returned to this site from the Rakiura Museum | Sarah Wilcox
Most residents added on to or modified the homestead during their time, so it tells the story of their habitation. I read of an abundant vegetable garden next to the house in 1916.
The Te Aika family lived there from 1966 and Ngaire home-schooled their two daughters. Historian Olga Sansom describes finding them, “dressed for school…with shoes polished, hair well-groomed and with neat, pleated skirts and white blouses like any other college girls.”
In 1986, the Te Aika family relinquished the farm’s lease to the Crown because it had become uneconomic.
I enjoyed making bread in the homestead kitchen, following in a long line of farm cooks | Sarah Wilcox
Fast forward to 2025
We arrived after a 10-minute helicopter flight across the island. No ancient farmers were there to meet us – just a gorgeous warm summer’s day and hundreds of bumble bees. The bees are thought to descend for the kanuka flowering and are madly attracted to anything blue. We had been warned – and had studiously removed everything blue from our clothing and kit.
Also in our group were volunteers Janet Dunn and Dugald Wilson. Riki Everest from Rakiura Māori Lands Trust and Jaega Banga, ranger also came for a few days each. The trip was led by Andrew King, supervisor, Rakiura National Park.
From left Mark Wilcox, Dugald Wilson, Andrew King, the author and Janet Dunn pause for morning tea on the homestead porch | Sarah Wilcox
Andrew loves this place. “I’ve been coming out here for 20 years. I have a keen interest in all the historic work, because you have to keep the stories alive”.
The stories of previous inhabitants were told as he showed us around the area – homestead, woolshed, shower, implement shed and nearby trampers’ and hunters’ huts – and hinted at our work ahead.
Looking after a heritage building
There were a couple of big jobs for us – build and fit a new window to replace a rotten one, and build and install a new kitchen cupboard. There were also lots of small maintenance jobs to work through depending on the weather and how long things took.
“We’re careful to respect the building’s heritage values, and change as little as possible. So we don’t fill over screw heads or try and make things look new. I name and date all the new cabinetry we fit and document everything.
“Borer is a big issue. We’re slowly replacing anything that’s too bad to restore. If you can’t hold it then you replace it with like for like, as much as possible. I use wood collected from the beach, look out for second-hand timber and source macrocarpa for the interior so it fits in. It’s more effort but it’s worth it.”
Every morning after breakfast we talked about work for the day and people chose what they wanted to do. Andrew would patiently explain the tasks and how to do them. There was never any time pressure.
I’d often hear an encouraging “gettin’ there”, “there’s no hurry” or “looking good” as Andrew kept a weather eye on our progress.
I think this relaxed attentiveness really paid off with a happy crew, no injuries (just one bee sting for me) and only a few fixable mistakes.
A steady stream of trampers stopped to say hello on their way through. We enjoyed showing them around the site and talking about our work.
Dolly Leask excavated and planted this waterlily pond at her former home, just north of Martin’s Creek Hunters Hut | Sarah WilcoxMany unusual plants like Craspedia uniflora are flourishing as marram in the dunes is controlled | Sarah WilcoxLong evenings allowed for trips as a couple to explore the area, look for kiwi and have some time out. Here, stunning evening light seen from Big Sandpass | Sarah Wilcox
Jobs done – and done well
Janet, Dugald and Andrew (kneeling) working on the new window | Sarah Wilcox
What we did achieve over the time was significant:
• built and fitted a new window • applied wood preservative to fence and woolshed • scraped back and repainted window exteriors • cleaned gutters on homestead and Mason Bay Hut • set traps – 1 possum, 1 feral cat caught • built and fitted new kitchen cupboard, sanded and cleaned original doors to reuse • put in new fence posts • scraped rust off tractors and wool press and applied metal preservative • cleaned Mason Bay Hut and toilets • cut long grass beside the woolshed • sorted timber in woodshed • replaced borer-ridden skirting boards • cleaned homestead and swept woolshed • shared out the cooking and dishes
Mark and Riki at work scraping rust off the old Massey Ferguson tractor before metal preservative was applied | Sarah Wilcox
One job I particularly enjoyed was re-wallpapering a kitchen wall. This involved choosing from a stash of period rolls in the back cupboard, applying scrim (what a marvellous way to prep a rough wooden wall!), then sticking up the fresh wallpaper. It was hugely satisfying to put all the spreads, spices and sauces back into the new, clean cupboard that others had built, knowing it would be well-used in years to come.
With a wry smile and twinkle in his eye, Andrew clearly got huge satisfaction from enabling us to be stretched a bit while making sure the jobs were done to a high standard.
“The value of this project is introducing people to what DOC workers do. We teach them a lot of new stuff but it goes both ways – we learn off each other.”
He says the Stewart Island visitor and heritage team has always been very strong on using volunteers as hut wardens and on historic, hut cleaning and painting trips and track trimming trips.
“We do a lot of hours with volunteers every year.”
Māori history and archaeological sites
European history on the island is short compared with the centuries-old association that Māori have with Rakiura and its offshore islands – especially the tītī islands.
Riki Everest joined us for the first part of the trip. He’s a captivating storyteller and former pāua diver who now lives on the island.
“We grew up on the legends of Tim Te Aika and George, Stanford and Dolly Leask. When you come into this place and see the state of the buildings and how hard it would have been for them as pioneers, you pay homage to those who’ve been on the land before you. They don’t have to be Māori to be legends.”
On our second day in perfect weather, Andrew took us all on a walkabout in the dunes to check on the mapped iwi archaeological sites in the area. Unfortunately most had been covered by sand and weren’t visible. Others had been swamped by fast-growing weedy lupins.
Possibly a shell midden, one of many iwi archaeological sites in the bay | Sarah WilcoxRiki on his way to the beach to catch a fixed-wing flight back to Halfmoon Bay | Sarah Wilcox
Undeterred, Riki is keen to come back to look around on his own another time.
“It was a complete privilege to come over to Mason’s on behalf of the trust and spend time here. My cup is just a wee bit full.”
Riki says he’s really impressed that DOC wants to strengthen ties.
“We feel the same, it’s absolutely reciprocal. We’re all kaitiaki of Rakiura.
“I think DOC is an incredible resource. They have all the protocols in place to care for the iwi sites and the best people – experts with years of experience. We can learn a lot from them and they’re really willing to teach. I can’t thank them enough.”
About the Southland Volunteer Programme
The Southland volunteer programme has been running for 20 years.
Andrew explains that the organisers are not looking for specific skills but for a mixture of people.
“It can be couples or single people – anyone can do it. Everyone has different skills but everyone is keen to learn. Most volunteers haven’t done any building work or anything like this before. I’ve found the older ones easier to manage and more keen to get out than some of the younger ones!”
Good food made for happy volunteers. When faced with a large meal, we were urged to “put on our big boy pants” to reduce leftovers for the next day | Sarah Wilcox
So what makes a great volunteer experience? Here are Andrew’s top tips:
Food is very important, so everyone normally gets fed well. (Superb understatement by Andrew – the food was generous and hearty!)
If people don’t want to do something they’re usually pretty honest about it. It’s got to be that open conversation right from the start.
I like to give people the knowledge they need to do a job then let them get on with it. I encourage questions.
There’s no rush, if it doesn’t get done one day, there’s always another day.
10 days can be a long time for some, so the trick is to make sure everyone gets along and respects each other. If there are any niggles we get onto it pretty quickly.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Police are calling for information in relation to domestic violence assaults that occurred in Lajamanu early on Saturday morning.
Around 12:25am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received multiple reports of a disturbance occurring at an address in Lajamanu.
A short time later, two victims presented at the clinic. An adult female sustained deep lacerations to her bicep, forearm and forehead, while a male youth suffered a laceration to his hand. The female victim was later medically evacuated to Royal Darwin Hospital for further treatment, where she remains in a stable condition.
Police conducted extensive patrols to locate the alleged offender, who is known to the victims; however, they were unable to locate her, and she remains outstanding.
Lajamanu police have carriage of the incident and investigations remain ongoing.
Police urge anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number NTP2500050833. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.
If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.
Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant David Thompson, Manawatu Area Investigations Manager
A 20-year-old man is before the courts following an aggravated robbery in Ashhurst.
On Saturday 17 May, Police were alerted to a person armed with a weapon entering a commercial premises on Cambridge Avenue at around 2pm.
The alleged offender threatened the store employee with the weapon before demanding and taking cash.
Prior to Police arrival, the man left the area in a vehicle.
Thankfully, the employee is uninjured, however is understandably shaken by the incident.
After initial enquiries, Police identified the alleged offender and a vehicle of interest.
At around 9am today, a Police unit saw the vehicle of interest on Napier Road.
The vehicle was signalled to stop and a 20-year-old man was taken into custody without incident.
The man is due to appear in Palmerston North District on 20 May, charged with aggravated robbery and possession of an offensive weapon.
We are pleased to have made an arrest and put this man before the court in relation to this matter.
This type of offending creates harm not only to the victims involved but the wider community as well, and we will continue to find, arrest and hold the offenders responsible.
We would like to remind the public to contact Police as soon as possible if you see suspicious or unlawful behaviour.
Please call 111 if it is happening now, or 105 in non-emergencies.
He was arrested directly after the incident and has since been charged with:
Assault a Person Preventing Injury to Another
Aggravated Assault x 2
Aggravated Burglary
Damage to property
Make a threat to kill a person x 2
He is remanded in custody to appear in Alice Springs Local Court on 31 July 2025.
If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)
Know Your Immigration Rights
If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.
Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.
Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.
Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.
The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.
Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries
Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Scott Neilson
Police investigating the death of a 30-year-old woman in Hamilton City are continuing to appeal to those who may have seen the incident to come forward.
The woman died after a vehicle drove into a traffic light pole she was standing next to on the corner of Ohaupo Road and Kahikatea Drive on Thursday 15 May.
Police have received a steady flow of information from the public, but are keen to speak with those who may have witnessed the incident, or any prior interactions between the offending gold ute and the woman who died.
In particular we would like to speak to a female wearing pink who assisted at the scene.
Please contact us at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.
Please use the reference number 250515/6763.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)
WASHINGTON, D.C.– In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. Since then, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers have traveled to our nation’s capital to participate in a series of events honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
In observance of National Police Week 2025 and as a staunch supporter of our law enforcement in Florida’s 26thCongressional District, I am grateful for the police officers who work tirelessly to protect the communities they serve, are tasked with upholding the rule of law and ensuring public safety, and selflessly put themselves in harms’ way to fight crime, get drugs off the streets, and protect the innocent.
This week, I am proud to support a series of bills brought to the House Floor by my Republican colleagues that reinforce our unwavering commitment to police officers across the country.
In honor of National Police Week, here are the bills we are advancing through the House:
I have consistently worked to deliver federal dollars back to our community and am proud to have secured a total of $8.116 million in direct federal funding during Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024 for both Collier and Miami-Dade counties to enhance public safety and equip law enforcement with the tools they need to protect our neighborhoods and serve with excellence.
I remain committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen public safety and bolster resilient communities.
New Zealand must invest in bold action to reduce demand for methamphetamine in the face of a recent surge in consumption, the NZ Drug Foundation says.
Wastewater testing data shows that methamphetamine consumption has doubled in the last year, with acute social and health impacts being reported in areas with the highest rates of use.
Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm says being overly reliant on supply-side interventions like seizures and drug busts won’t shift the dial and that seriously addressing demand is the only way to solve the issue.
“We’ve seen a doubling of methamphetamine use in spite of record-breaking seizures by Police and Customs,” she says.
“If we don’t address demand and addiction, supply-side measures are short-lived, because as one supply source is removed another supplier steps in to meet the demand. We need to be bold and get serious about reducing demand, preventing harm and making addiction treatment much more accessible to people.”
Helm says there are a range of proven and emerging interventions that the Foundation and the sector are urging the government to adopt, including:
A rapid escalation of addiction treatment, including investment in accessible community-based, peer-led groups
Revamping and expanding proven health-based responses like Te Ara Oranga
A campaign that reduces stigma and encourages people to have conversations about their use with loved ones and to access help
Ramping up prevention by tackling unmet health needs by:
offering better support and treatment for people who use methamphetamine and have ADHD (one Australian study showed 45% of people who use illicit stimulants regularly screened positive for ADHD)
investigating medication-assisted treatment options for people with methamphetamine dependence
Increasing harm reduction service availability, for example access to sterile injecting equipment to prevent communicable disease impacts
More kaupapa Māori-driven health responses
Helm says that she’s optimistic about progress, especially as Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey has experience in the addictions sector and understands the issues.
“We’ve had many years of inaction on drug issues, but we have had very positive engagement with the Minister, including at a summit with almost 200 people from across the sector who offered up advice on how to tackle the serious challenges we are facing, so we are hopeful for progress,” she says.
Helm also acknowledges that demand reduction measures on their own risk being band aids without addressing the underlying social and economic drivers of methamphetamine use.
“Ultimately, this issue is bigger than any one sector or government portfolio and there are no quick fixes, but that doesn’t need we shouldn’t start doing what we know will work.”
strong>LITTLE ROCK– In coordination with the state of Arkansas, FEMA Individual Assistance teams will offer face-to-face help for residents of the nine Arkansas counties affected by the March 14-15 severe storms and tornadoes. Homeowners and renters in Greene, Hot Spring, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, Sharp and Stone counties may be eligible for FEMA assistance for losses not covered by insurance. Starting Monday, FEMA will support state-led recovery efforts at four community sites. Staff can help survivors apply for federal assistance. They can also identify potential needs and connect survivors with local, state and federal agencies, as well as nonprofits and community groups. FEMA staff will be available Monday, May 19 through Friday, May 23 at the following locations: INDEPENDENCE COUNTYCushman Volunteer Fire Department50 Park St.Cushman, AR 72526 Hours: Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. IZARD COUNTYOzarka College – Lecture Hall218 College DriveMelbourne, AR 72556 Hours: Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. RANDOLPH COUNTYBlack River Technical CollegeAcademic Complex Building, Room AC 1001410 Highway 304 EastPocahontas, AR 72455 Hours: Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. FEMA staff will also be available Monday, May 19 through Saturday, May 24 at: SHARP COUNTYCity Hall – Cave CityConference Room201 S. Main St.Cave City, AR 72521*Entrance and parking at back of building Hours: Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Additional locations may be added. FEMA staff are easily recognizable by their official photo identification (ID). If you meet people offering assistance, first ask to see their ID before giving them your personal information. They may have FEMA clothing, but that can be easily imitated. FEMA staff can help residents in several ways including:
Checking the status of an application already in the system and making minor changes to applications. Contacting faith-based organizations, community groups, private sector businesses and public libraries that may have the capability to distribute disaster-related information to residents in the impacted counties. Identifying organizations providing disaster-related services and/or resources to the public for long-term recovery. Gathering information about impacts to communities. Providing flyers explaining how to apply for disaster assistance.
Survivors with homeowners or renters insurance, should first file a claim with their insurance company as soon as possible. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may then be eligible for federal assistance. Survivors can apply to FEMA in several ways including going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Calls are accepted every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube. For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4865. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/
Headline: DHS Debunks Fake News Narratives About Law Enforcement During Police Week
ASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security today released the following facts about Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) recent operations and Customs and Border Protection arrests to set the record straight on misleading news narratives and reporting
“Even during National Police Week, the media, members of Congress, and sanctuary politicians have demonized ICE and CBP officers who bravely serve their country,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin
“Attacks and smears against ICE have resulted in officers facing a 413% increase in assaults
We are setting the facts straight and reassuring America that President Trump and Secretary Noem will continue to support ICE and CBP in their efforts to make America safe again
Debunking the Biggest False News Stories this Week Delaney Hall Storming was “oversight” by Congressional members
At least three members of Congress, Representatives Robert Menendez, Jr
, LaMonica McIver and Bonnie Watson Coleman, claimed that breaking into Delaney Hall was “oversight”—but it is actually trespassing and put ICE officers and detainees at risk
Video footage shows McIver assaulting an ICE officer
The allegations made by Newark politicians that Delaney Hall does not have the proper permitting are false
ICE maintains valid permits and inspections for plumbing and electricity and fire codes have been cleared
Delaney Hall currently confines murderers, rapists, suspected terrorists and gang members
There was no need for Congressional members to storm Delaney Hall—they could have just scheduled a tour
ICE will comply with the law and accommodate Members of Congress seeking to tour an ICE detention facility for the purpose of conducting oversight
Safety, security, and good order are always primary considerations in a detention facility, and visitors must be properly identified and attired
Nashville Mayor Smears ICE Enforcement
Mayor Freddie O’Connell and biased news media framed ICE operations in Nashville as “not focused on making us safer
” In reality, of the 196 illegal aliens ICE arrested, 95 had prior criminal convictions and pending criminal charges and 31 were previously removed individuals who reentered the U
S
illegally, which is a felony offense under federal law
The successful operation resulted in the arrests of an MS-13 affiliate, a murderer, sex offenders, and illegal aliens convicted of assault
ICE’s Hawaii Operation focused on “coffee farmers”
Completely leaving out the facts and rap sheets of criminals arrested, the New York Times peddled a misleading narrative about ICE’s operation in Hawaii targeted criminal illegal aliens
The operation resulted in the arrest of illegal aliens charged with kidnapping, assault, firearms offenses, drug offenses and theft
Yamal Said, Lord Buffalo drummer, detained by border officials at airport
Yamal Said is a Mexican national and lawful U
S
permanent resident
Yamal Said had a warrant for his arrest after violating a restraining order at least TWICE
When he was attempting to leave the U
S
, he was apprehended by CBP and has been turned over to local law enforcement
If you come to our country and break our laws, you will be arrested
Boston ICE agents arrest mother in front of her daughters
What the media failed to report is the target of this ICE operation was a violent criminal illegal alien, Ferreira de Oliveira
She was arrested by local police for assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and assault and battery of a pregnant victim
District Councilor for the City of Worcester Haxhiaj pulled a political stunt and incited chaos by trying to obstruct law enforcement
ICE officers and local police regained control of the situation and ICE arrested Ferreira de Oliveira
The previous administration’s open border policies allowed this criminal to illegally enter our country in August of 2022
Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem this criminal is off our streets
Lies for likes: Influencer claims he was targeted for “political beliefs”
Claims that Hasan Piker’s political beliefs triggered a CBP inspection are baseless
CBP officers follow the law, not agendas
Upon entering the country, this individual was referred for further inspection—a routine, lawful process that occurs daily, and can apply to any traveler
Once his inspection was complete, he was promptly released
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
This National Police Week DHS and Secretary Noem joined law enforcement officers and families in Washington, D.C. to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. From the Candlelight Vigil to the DHS Valor Memorial, we stood united in remembrance. On Capitol Hill, Secretary Noem announced a 93% drop in daily border encounters and historic lows in illegal crossings. Recruitment is surging across DHS, with CBP and Secret Service seeing record interest. Under President Trump, our border is secure and law enforcement is empowered to protect our nation and Make America Safe Again.
Ground and air search efforts were conducted today (May 18) in Pictou County as the missing persons investigation into the disappearance of Lilly and Jack Sullivan continues.
More than 115 volunteer searchers from Colchester, East Hants, Eastern Shore, Halifax, Musquodoboit Valley, Pictou County, Pugwash, Springhill, Strait Area, Valley, and West Hants ground search and rescue and the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association focused on specific areas around Gairloch Rd. in an effort to locate Lilly and Jack and advance the RCMP investigation. The search was supported by Nova Scotia Public Safety Field Communications and EHS Emergency Preparedness Special Operations.
This search follows a large-scale air and ground search that began on May 2 and was scaled back on May 7 in favour of more specific searches.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to the search and rescue volunteers who have selflessly given up over 10,000 hours of their time since this search began,” says S/Sgt. Curtis MacKinnon, Pictou County District RCMP. “Their tireless commitment in truly gruelling conditions is appreciated by both the RCMP and the greater community.”
This weekend’s search will be carefully reviewed and assessed by investigators and search managers to help in planning any further ground and air search efforts.
Australia has become world-famous for its wine, but the industry faces an uncertain future. Too many grapes grown amid falling consumer demand, an oversupply of budget wine, and an undersupply of premium wine are just some of the problems besetting the industry.
There are still many small and medium-sized wineries across Australia. But the industry is dominated by a few large players, as well as “vertical integration” with ownership linkages between wineries and retailers.
Just this month, a merger between global drinks giant Pernod Ricard’s Australian, New Zealand and Spanish wine brands and Accolade Wines (one of Australia’s largest winemakers) was completed, creating a new giant – Vinarchy – to be based in Adelaide with A$1.5 billion in annual revenue.
This move will involve an estimated cull of up to 50 wine brands, which speaks to a broader story of growing concentration. Numerous Australian wine companies have come up for sale in recent years, and the industry is undergoing rationalisation.
The current pressures will require an overall reduction in wine production, and a focus on premium over ordinary wines. Grape-growers and some smaller wineries are likely to be most affected.
Still the top drop
According to Wine Australia, the Australian wine industry currently has about 6,000 grape growers and 2,156 wineries. It employs 163,790 people (full- and part-time) and contributes $45 billion to the Australian economy each year.
This large size shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise. Wine is the most popular alcoholic drink in Australia. But troubles have been brewing for the industry for years.
Domestic wine consumption has been in steady decline, down 9% since 2016–17.
However, the picture is nuanced. Wine isn’t a staple product; it is a discretionary purchase. Prices in Australia can range from less than $5 to well over $1,000 per bottle, and palates vary significantly among consumers.
Price is generally regarded as an indicator of quality. Wine selling in Australia in the “ordinary” price range of less than $15 per bottle is declining, but wine selling in the “premium” ($15 per bottle and above) price range is increasing.
In the face of decreased global wine consumption, Australia’s shrinking domestic market has also been faced with a steady decline in wine exports. This is problematic for producers looking to exports to offset declines in domestic sales.
A warm country
These woes are impacting the wine industry in different ways at different points along the supply chain. Let’s start with grape-growing.
The current challenge is for growers of “ordinary-quality” grapes in the shrinking marketplace. The Riverina and Riverland areas are the main grape-producing areas of Australia and achieve a low price per tonne.
There is still high demand for “premium-quality” grapes but these are generally grown in select regions of Australia, typically with a cooler climate.
Unsurprisingly, grapes from warm inland regions of Australia account for 72% of wine grape production, at an average price of $345 per tonne, whereas grapes from cool temperate regions achieve an average price of $1,531 per tonne.
The future impacts of climate change need to be assessed, and are already playing into growers’ decisions. Cooler regions are becoming more highly sought after for grape-growing.
Coupled with increased demand for premium grapes, this will make warm inland regions increasingly problematic. Unlike seasonally planted crops such as vegetables and grain, new grape vines require three years after planting before bearing decent levels of fruit. Farmers must determine the most appropriate long-term use of their land.
Concerns about climate change are driving interest in cool regions – such as Tasmania’s Tamar Valley. Marcin Madry/Shutterstock
The challenge of standing out
Many of Australia’s 2,156 wineries are small-scale (typically privately owned). Other wineries are much larger, with extensive resources. Most consumers are largely unaware of most of these wineries – how many wine brands can you list?
Such diversity already presents a challenge for various wineries trying to market themselves. Adding to this, a large number of Australian wine brands are owned by just a few large industry players, some with links to retailers via vertical integration.
Standing out in a crowded market is a big challenge for small producers. Sirbouman/Shutterstock
How can wineries survive?
With the trend towards less consumption overall, and towards premium-quality wines instead of ordinary-quality wines, some wineries may need to shift their focus.
On the challenges facing the industry, acclaimed Victorian winemaker Rick Kinzbrunner told me:
We need a better balance of supply and demand and especially more emphasis on top quality wines at reasonable prices.
Why this matters to you
If you’re a wine drinker, current wine industry issues may seem irrelevant. But the ongoing oversupply of ordinary-quality wine for the near future offers plenty of price discounts.
For consumers of premium wines, given current high demand, be wary: does what you’re getting quality-wise match the price? Some wines marketed at high prices don’t have the quality to match.
Consumers may wish to increase direct contact with wineries (via cellar doors, websites and mailing lists) and independent retailers to expand their options.
Winners and losers will emerge as inevitable industry change occurs.
Paul Chad does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
As Israel continues to pound Gaza with airstrikes, killing scores of people a day, the two-month ceasefire that brought a halt to the violence earlier this year feels like a distant memory.
Israel’s overall military and political objective in Gaza hasn’t changed after 19 months of war: it is still seeking the absolute defeat of Hamas and return of the remaining Israeli hostages.
But it is unclear how Hamas will ever be militarily defeated unless there is a complete and unconditional surrender and the laying down of all arms. This appears unlikely, despite the success of Israel’s so-called “decapitation strategy” targeting the Hamas leadership.
And Hamas continues to hold an estimated that 57 Israeli hostages in Gaza, of which up to 24 are believed to still be alive. The group is insisting on guarantees that Israel will end the war before releasing any more hostages.
An ongoing blockade for 18 years
With negotiations at a stalemate, Israel has not only maintained its blockade of Gaza, but strengthened it.
Israel first imposed a land, sea and air blockade of Gaza in 2007 after Hamas came to power. These restrictions have severely limited the movement of people and vehicles across the border, as well as the amount of food, medicine and other goods that have been permitted to go into and out of Gaza.
These controls increased significantly after Hamas’ attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. They’ve been maintained at heightened levels ever since.
The January ceasefire temporarily increased the flow of food, medical aid and other support into Gaza. However, this came to an end in early March when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cut off aid again to pressure Hamas to extend the ceasefire and release more hostages. Hostilities resumed soon after.
The United Nations’ humanitarian efforts in Gaza have now come to a “near-standstill”. On May 13, Tom Fletcher, the UN emergency relief coordinator, addressed the UN Security Council, stating:
For more than 10 weeks, nothing has entered Gaza – no food, medicine, water or tents. […] Every single one of the 2.1 million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip face the risk of famine. One in five faces starvation.
Israel denies there are food shortages in Gaza. It says it won’t permit any trucks to enter the strip until a new system is in place to prevent Hamas from siphoning supplies.
International law is clear
Both the 1949 Geneva Conventions and customary international law make clear:
The use of starvation of the civilian population as a method of warfare is prohibited.
Under international humanitarian law, Fletcher noted, Israel has the responsibility to ensure aid reaches people in territory it occupies. However, Israel’s method of distributing aid, he said, “makes aid conditional on political and military aims” and “makes starvation a bargaining chip”.
What have the courts found?
International courts have not ignored Israel’s obligations on this front.
In relation Netanyahu and Gallant, the ICC’s pre-trial chamber found:
there are reasonable grounds to believe that both individuals intentionally and knowingly deprived the civilian population in Gaza of objects indispensable to their survival, including food, water, and medicine and medical supplies.
As Israel is not a party to the Rome Statute, there is no obligation on the government to act on the arrest warrants. Both men remain free to travel as long as they do not enter the territory of a Rome Statute party. (Even then, their arrest is not guaranteed.)
The ICC warrants will remain in effect unless withdrawn by the court. The arrest in March of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte highlighted that while ICC investigations may take time, those accused of crimes can eventually be brought before the court to face justice.
This is especially so if there is a change in political leadership in a country that allows an arrest to go ahead.
The case began with high-profile hearings last year when the court issued provisional measures, or orders, requiring Israel to refrain from engaging in any genocidal acts.
The most recent of those orders, issued last May, called on Israel to immediately halt its offensive in Rafah (in southern Gaza) and maintain the opening of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt to allow “unhindered provision at scale of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance”.
These orders remain in effect. Yet, Rafah today is a “no-go zone” that Gazans have been ordered to evacuate. And Israel’s ongoing blockade of the strip and restrictions on aid and food entering the territory are clearly in defiance of the court.
Late last month, the ICJ began hearings to form an opinion on Israel’s duties to allow aid to enter Gaza. Israel’s foreign minister, Gideon Saar, criticised the ICJ’s hearings as “another attempt to politicise and abuse the legal process in order to persecute Israel”.
The court’s advisory opinion on this issue is not expected for several months. A final decision on South Africa’s broader case may take years.
So, what can be done?
Reflecting on the situation in Gaza, Fletcher observed at the UN:
This degradation of international law is corrosive and infectious. It is undermining decades of progress on rules to protect civilians from inhumanity and the violent and lawless among us who act with impunity. Humanity, the law and reason must prevail.
Yet, while the Security Council continues to have the situation in Gaza under review, it has proven incapable of acting decisively because of US support for Israel.
The Biden Administration was prepared to use its veto power to block binding Security Council resolutions forcing Israel to respond to the humanitarian crisis. The Trump Administration would no doubt do the same.
However, as Duterte’s arrest shows, international law sometimes does result in action. The finding by another UN body last week that Russia was responsible for the 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over Ukraine in 2014 is another case in point.
As the Dutch foreign minister pointed out in that case, the finding sends a message that “states cannot violate international law with impunity”.
Donald Rothwell receives funding from Australian Research Council
RCMP NL’s Major Crimes Unit has charged 27-year-old Michael Tuglavina with first degree murder and attempted murder following a complaint of an assault in Hopedale on Friday.
During the evening of May 16, 2025, Hopedale RCMP responded to an urgent complaint of an assault at a local residence in the community. Upon their arrival, police officers discovered a deceased male inside of the residence with injuries indicative of foul play, and a second victim nearby who had sustained serious injuries.
A brief shelter in place order was issued for the community, and suspect was quickly identified and was arrested by the RCMP within a short period of time. The RCMP Major Crime Unit assumed control of the investigation and charged 27-year-old Michael Tuglavina on May 17, 2025 with first degree murder and attempted murder. He currently remains in custody.
The suspect and the victims are known to one another. There is currently no known risk to public safety.
Residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the community over the next few days as officers with the RCMP Major Crimes Unit are in the community continuing the investigation.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is engaged and the investigation is continuing
RCMP NL extends condolences to the family and friends of the deceased at this most difficult time.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)voted in favor of three bills to enhance public safety and improve law enforcement well-being during National Police Week.
On Wednesday, May 14, Congressman Don Davis voted yes on H.R. 2240, theImproving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act.Davis, a cosponsor of the legislation, said the bill is a step forward in protecting law enforcement officers. The bill aims to improve how attacks on officers are tracked and reported. It allows more detailed information to be voluntarily shared, such as whether an attack was planned or coordinated. It also directs the U.S. Department of Justice to consider adding “escalatory aggression” to its reports and to review how often officers use available mental health resources.
“Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, and they deserve our support,” said Congressman Don Davis. “Congress must ensure that these officers have the necessary tools and resources to effectively serve and protect the communities they are sworn to uphold.”
By improving data collection, we can develop more effective strategies to protect those who serve and better address their mental health needs.”
On Thursday, May 15, Congressman Davis voted in favor of H.R. 2243, the LEOSA Reform Act. The bipartisan legislation expands where qualified active and retired law enforcement officers can securely carry firearms to respond during emergencies.
Congressman Davis also voted for H.R. 2255, the Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act of 2025. The bill allows federal law enforcement officers to buy back their retired service weapons at salvage value. Currently, federal agencies are required to destroy these firearms which costs taxpayers money.
“These bills are a step in the right direction,” said Congressman Davis.“They not only protect officers on the job but also honor their service after retirement.”
All three bills now move to the Senate for consideration.
A second man has been arrested in connection with a series of arson attacks in north London.
The 26-year-old was arrested around 13:45hrs on Saturday, 17 May at London Luton Airport on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life.
The arrest was made by counter terrorism officers from the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit. The man was taken into police custody in London.
On Sunday, 18 May, a warrant of further detention was obtained at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, meaning the man can be detained for an additional 36 hours.
The arrest relates to three incidents – a vehicle fire in NW5 on 8 May, a fire at the entrance of a property in N7 on 11 May and a fire at a residential address in NW5 in the early hours of 12 May.
All have previous connections with a high-profile public figure, and therefore officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command have led the investigation into the fires.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should call police on 101 quoting CAD 441/12 May.
We would ask the public to remain vigilant and if they see or hear anything that doesn’t look or feel right, then to report it to police – either by calling police, in confidence, on 0800 789 321 or via www.gov.uk/ACT
+ A 21-year-old man has already been charged with three counts of arson with intent to endanger life and appeared in court.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
ULAN BATOR, May 18 (Xinhua) — Mongolia has imported 49,607 passenger cars from abroad since the beginning of 2025, up 6.7 percent year-on-year, local media reported Sunday, citing data from the country’s General Administration of Customs.
During the specified period, imports of trucks decreased by 5.2 percent, amounting to 9,790 units, the official report says.
Today, passenger cars are mainly imported from the Republic of Korea, Japan and the United States, and trucks from China.
According to the Mongolian Traffic Police Department, more than 800,000 vehicles are currently participating in traffic in Ulaanbaatar. –0–
