Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force has charged a 38-year-old man in relation to a fatal crash on Friday.
The 38-year-old has been charged with:
He has been remanded to face Darwin Local Court 16 July 2025.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Catherine Strong, Associate Professor, Music Industry, RMIT University
As always, Eurovision 2025 was full of glitter, costume reveals, divas, spectacle and, of course, controversy. From ongoing calls to ban Israel from participating, to one song that had to be edited since it was too inappropriate, here’s what you may have missed from this year’s contest.
For Australian viewers, the final may have been a bit of a letdown because, for the second year in a row, our contestant failed to get past the semis.
Go-Jo’s Milkshake Man seemed like a strong offering, with its daft and suggestive lyrics, huge energy and oversized blender prop – but some weak vocals on the night left us in the cold.
Other wacky entries of the uniquely Eurovision variety fared better, though. Sweden’s ode to saunas, Bara Bada Bastu, started the night as the favourite to win and ended high with a fourth placing, just behind Estonia’s rubbery-legged Tommy Cash, whose love song to coffee may have just been more relatable to voters.
More controversial was Miriana Conte’s song for Malta, originally titled Serving Kant, with kant being the Maltese word for singing. But this thinly disguised attempt to celebrate “serving cunt” was deemed inappropriate by the European Broadcasting Union, and reworked as simply Serving.
This performance is part of a long Eurovision tradition of celebrating queer culture. Each year, multiple entries use LGBTQIA+ imagery, tropes and lyrics to celebrate the theme of being who you are.
Last year’s event marked the first time two non-binary performers were featured in the contest. One of them, Switzerlans’s Nemo, won. As a side note, Nemo’s return performance this year may be one of the best things to ever grace the Eurovision stage.
But it seems Malta’s cheeky play on the theme didn’t pay off, as it landed them in 17th place by the end of the voting.
Other stand-out performances included Finland’s Erika Vikman, who outperformed a whole crop of big-voiced divas in sparkly body suits by riding a giant flaming microphone to the roof of the stadium during the, ahem, climax to Ich Komme (which translates to “I’m coming”).
Less in your face, yet strangely compelling, were the women of Latvia’s folk band Tautumeitas. In their forest-nymph-axolotl (?) costumes, they delivered a flawless and gentle performance.
The winner was, as is often the case at Eurovision, a more serious song that showcased a high level of musicianship and vocal ability. Austria’s JJ performance of Wasted Love was stripped-back compared to most of the rivals.
JJ took to the stage alone, using a completely black and white palette that stood out against the reds that dominated the rest of the night. The way he used his body onstage, and the dynamism of his soprano voice – moving from a conventional pop vocal style to a more operatic delivery – was compellingly dramatic, and was rewarded by the juries and public voters.
It was a close race for the top spot however. I imagine the broadcasting union breathed a sigh of relief when Austria knocked Israel into second place at the last moment.
Israel’s presence in the contest has been a source of division and conflict since the events of October 7. For two years there have been highly publicised calls to expel Israel from the competition, in light of the extreme atrocities and human rights abuses taking place on the ground in Gaza.
Read more:
1 in 5 Gazans face starvation. Can the law force Israel to act?
Multiple pro-Palestinian rallies took to the streets in the host city, Basel, and protesters trying to disrupt the Israeli performance found their way into the arena during the rehearsals and final. While they did not make it into the broadcast, there were reports of audience members being removed, staff being hit with paint, and violent clashes with security and police.
Beyond this, 70 ex-competitors and, separately, more than 4,000 Nordic music workers put their names on open letters protesting Israel’s inclusion in the contest. But these attempts failed, partly because the countries involved did not threaten to withdraw themselves if Israel participated (which was how Russia was expelled from the 2022 contest, in the wake of its invasion of Ukraine).
It’s worth considering what Israel’s inclusion in the contest does allow. In recently published work, my coauthors and I consider what it means to face up to some of the uglier aspects of music and music-making – and to sit with the discomfort, rather than ignore it.
If Israel had been excluded, those calling for its exclusion may have achieved a sense that a certain wrong had been righted, and the Eurovision party could go on, free from worry.
Yet the realities of events in Gaza would not have disappeared. Viewers at home would simply not have to think about them.
Israel’s inclusion – and the opposition to it – forces us to ask what role, if any, cultural institutions can play in helping put a stop to what the International Court of Justice has said can plausibly be called a genocide.
While the broadcasting union could perhaps put pressure on Israel with a ban, the fissures of Israel’s continued inclusion have shone a spotlight on other types of pressure and resistance – and the power music has in bringing people together for the explicit purpose of being political.
Catherine Strong 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.
– ref. Politics, protest and some seriously inappropriate songs: who gets censored at Eurovision, and who doesn’t? – https://theconversation.com/politics-protest-and-some-seriously-inappropriate-songs-who-gets-censored-at-eurovision-and-who-doesnt-256447
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The NT Police Force are happy to report a very well-behaved crowd following the NT’s largest music festival, Bass in the Grass.
Around 11,000 party goers attended on site for a fun filled evening.
Police conducted high visibility patrols, wanding operations, drug screening and community engagement across the event.
Of the thousands in attendance, police arrested four people and handed out two notices to appear in court for minor drug related offences.
Operation Esperance was established to ensure public safety, with members of the Dog Operations Unit, Territory Safety Division, recruits from the Police College and general duties in attendance.
Acting Superintendent Territory Safety Division Alexander Noonan said “It was fantastic to see positive engagement between our members and the community at this significant event.
“We want to thank everyone who enjoyed their night safely. We look forward to seeing you all at the next local event.”
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police Force, in collaboration with the Australian Border Force (ABF), have seized multiple firearms and other prohibited items following a joint operation in Acacia Hills.
On 13 April 2025, ABF officers at the Sydney Gateway Facility intercepted a prohibited import—a firearms silencer—addressed to a 62-year-old male residing at a rural property in Acacia Hills. The individual is a known person of interest to police, with his firearms licence having been revoked in 2019.
On 16 May 2025, members of the NT Police Firearms Audit and Enforcement team, alongside ABF officers, executed a comprehensive search of the 56-hectare property under section 119AA of the Police Administration Act. The male was apprehended at the scene.
ABF firearms and explosives detection dogs were deployed and indicated several areas of interest within the primary dwelling. During the search, officers located and seized:
Following the discovery of cannabis, a section 120B search warrant was executed in addition to the initial 119AA search.
Search and Rescue Section (SRS) and Territory Support Division officers assist in conducting a detailed grid search of the surrounding bushland, confirming no further weapons were present.
The male has been issued a Notice to Appear in the Darwin Local Court on 15 July 2025 for the following offences:
Additionally, ABF issued the male with an infringement notice totalling $4,950.
Senior Sergeant Alex Brennan said, “This incident highlights not only the ongoing risks posed by individuals unlawfully possessing firearms and prohibited imports, but also the seamless collaboration between agencies when it comes to investigating firearms offences.”
ABF Commander Tracie Griffin said people should remember that any weapons or parts that are purchased overseas have to come across the border, and warned “that’s where our highly trained officers, detector dogs and cutting-edge x-ray technology are deployed”.
“In the wrong hands, these weapons could be deadly. If we detect them at the border, we will seize them and where appropriate prosecute those trying to bring them in illegally,” Commander Griffin said.
“Recreational shooters and firearm enthusiasts importing firearms, firearm parts or other weapons online should be very clear about the regulations in place.
“Anyone attempting to import prohibited weapons, including firearm parts, runs the risk of losing those goods and facing possible criminal prosecution.”
Importing firearms without a permit is a serious offence with penalties including imprisonment for up to ten years and/or fines of up to $525,000.
Anyone with information about illegal firearms or related activity is urged to contact police on 131 444 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at Crime Stoppers NT.
Source: New Zealand Police
An additional charge has been laid over a man’s death following an alleged assault at a Papatoetoe bus stop last month.
On 27 April, 61-year-old Peter Te Kira was located with injuries at a bus stop on Great South Road.
He remained in intensive care at Auckland City Hospital before succumbing to his injuries on 30 April.
A 34-year-old man appeared in the Manukau District Court on 1 May, charged with assault.
Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward, of Counties Manukau CIB, says a homicide investigation has continued into Mr Te Kira’s death.
“Police have now charged this man with manslaughter,” he says.
“He will be reappearing in the Manukau District Court on 22 May to face this charge.”
Police are unable to comment further while matters remain before the Court.
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/NZ Police
Source:
Credit: Mike Dugdale
Coordinated by the VICSES Bellarine Unit, the exercise held on Sunday, 18 May, simulated a major traffic incident involving a collision between a 53-seat passenger bus and a delivery truck, resulting in multiple casualties and complex response challenges.
The scenario was based on a fictional food and wine festival setting and designed to rigorously test multi-agency emergency response capabilities in real time.
The event brought together representatives from VICSES, CFA, FRV, Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria, St John Ambulance, and other support agencies and businesses, including local council.
Participants practiced a coordinated emergency response, including casualty triage and extrication, hazardous material management, and the establishment of command-and-control structures.
The realistic scenario enabled participants to practise responding to a multi-vehicle, multi-casualty emergency involving simulated hazards such as entrapments, smoke effects, and debris. The exercise was conducted under strict safety supervision, with a dedicated Safety Officer on site throughout the day.
Exercise Mabon successfully achieved its core objectives, including:
The bus used in the scenario was a decommissioned 53-seat coach kindly donated to the VICSES Bellarine Unit in 2015, by Christian’s Bus Company. The unit has since utilised the vehicle for training and was pleased to make it available for this significant inter-agency exercise before its final decommissioning.
This year’s exercise also marks the beginning of National Volunteer Week, a time to recognise and celebrate the vital contributions of volunteers across the country. Exercise Mabon stands as a fitting demonstration of their dedication and capability.
VICSES extends its appreciation to all participating agencies, facilitators, volunteers, and the local community for their support in making the exercise a success.
Quotes attributable to Garry Cook AFSM, CFA Acting Chief Officer:
“It is vital we work as one, and any opportunity to work alongside our counterparts is positive. Not only does it further enhance our teamwork, communication, and leadership at a response, but it also allows the familiarisation of our respective tools and processes.”
“The exercise stems as a valuable learning experience for members in an environment that will only improve our ability to respond in the event of an emergency in the future and ultimately protect the community.”
| Submitted by | CFA media |
|---|
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
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.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Madalyn Scerri, Senior Lecturer in Tourism and Hospitality, Torrens University Australia
Traveldream.com.au sold discounted holidays – curated hiking tours, boutique cruises and cultural getaways through a slick website and polished social media ads. But news emerged last week that the Melbourne-based travel company has collapsed into administration, leaving customers out of pocket by thousands of dollars, and in some cases, stranded overseas.
What many didn’t know was that Traveldream hadn’t been formally accredited with the leading industry body since 2020. Its status under the Australian Travel Accreditation Scheme, run by the Australian Travel Industry Association, had been cancelled.
To make matters worse, most travel insurance policies don’t cover insolvency, meaning many customers have no way to recover their losses.
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.
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.
But a polished ad doesn’t guarantee legitimacy.
Travel-related scams are on the rise, especially involving online-only sellers.
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.
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.
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.
Search the Australian Travel Accreditation Scheme register at https://www.atas.com.au, or look for Quality Tourism Accreditation. For overseas providers, check for recognised local schemes.
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.
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.
It’s also important to understand what travel insurance does – and doesn’t – cover.
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.
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.
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.
– ref. An online travel company just collapsed. Here’s how to avoid being left stranded by an online deal – https://theconversation.com/an-online-travel-company-just-collapsed-heres-how-to-avoid-being-left-stranded-by-an-online-deal-256878
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.
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?”
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.
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.
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
– ref. Ambition is not a dirty word: female politicians and the ‘Lady Macbeth bias’ – https://theconversation.com/ambition-is-not-a-dirty-word-female-politicians-and-the-lady-macbeth-bias-256681
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.
To find out more about volunteer opportunities in Canberra, visit: www.volunteeringact.org.au
– Statement ends –
Suzanne Orr, MLA | Media Releases
Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing
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:
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.
Source:
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
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.”
| Submitted by | CFA media |
|---|
Source: New Zealand Police
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.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
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
Source: New Zealand Police
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.
ENDS.
Nicole Bremner/NZ Police
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.
Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz
Source: Police investigating after shots fired at Hastings house
By Sarah Wilcox
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jobs done – and done well
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
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.
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!”
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.
More information
Southland, Otago and Fiordland volunteer activities information: Southland volunteer opportunities
History of Island Hill Run and Homestead: Rakiura National Park
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.
Source: New Zealand Police
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.
ENDS
Issue by Police Media Centre
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Southern Domestic Violence Unit has charged a 23-year-old male in relation to a domestic violence incident in Alice Springs on Thursday last week.
He was arrested directly after the incident and has since been charged with:
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
Source: New Zealand Police
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.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Team
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.
Source: New Zealand Drug Foundation
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.”
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2
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/
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
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.
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
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.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Chad, Honorary Fellow, Faculty of Business and Law, School of Business, University of Wollongong
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.
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.
This trend isn’t confined to Australia; it is global. The decline reflects cost-of-living pressures, growing health concerns about alcohol, and Gen Z questioning traditional drinking norms.
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.
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.
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.
Retailers such as Endeavour Group (formerly part of Woolworths) and Coles own hundreds of wine brands. Some of these brands are marketed to look like independent wineries. Some commentators have even suggested a wine duopoly exists at the retail level.
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.
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.
– ref. Wine is still Australia’s most popular alcoholic drink – but many producers face an uncertain future – https://theconversation.com/wine-is-still-australias-most-popular-alcoholic-drink-but-many-producers-face-an-uncertain-future-256320
