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Natimuk, a small Victorian town, faces a devastating bushfire, destroying fifteen structures and leaving the community in shock. Despite the destruction, joint efforts by residents, firefighters, and farmers saved many homes. The town is now without power for at least four days. Pat Ford, a long-time resident, shares his experience of preparing for the fire and witnessing the aftermath. The community rallies together, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity.

Iran erupts in protests, calling for end of clerical rule; at least 50 protesters and 15 security personnel killed, over 2300 arrested; internet blackout hinders full picture; U.S. warns of potential intervention; doctors report injuries from beatings, gunshots, stabbings; military pledges to guard key infrastructure; officials label violent acts as rioting by terrorists; standoff shows no signs of easing.

Canberra drivers face a surge in seatbelt fines, totaling $3.1 million in 36 days, from new AI-powered traffic cameras. Despite reviews, 180 drivers are contesting their tickets in court, claiming they were buckled up. The AIs accuracy is questioned, causing frustration and anxiety among drivers.

Alison, a local mum in Canberra, navigates the rising costs of school supplies for her children, with The Smith Family providing crucial support. The charity emphasizes the importance of digital devices and home internet for students engagement in learning. As everyday expenses increase, families struggle to afford school activities, leaving students at risk of being left behind in the digital age. The ACT governments Education Equity Fund offers assistance for low-income families, providing one-off payments for uniforms, books, and activities. High schoolers receive Chromebooks, while primary students share devices, and eligible families can access free wi-fi. This support significantly improves learning, social connections, and future opportunities for disadvantaged students.

Yass Valley Council in New South Wales opposes ACTs border adjustment plan for Ginninderry development, citing potential loss of revenue and financial gains. Councils financial modeling suggests long-term benefits outweigh modest savings from a shift. Cross-border talks remain in limbo as both sides consider the lands future.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faced backlash after a terrorist attack at Bondi Beach, with voters demanding a royal commission to investigate rising hate and extremism. Initially resistant, Albanese announced a commission focused on antisemitism and social cohesion after polls showed nearly half of Australians supported it. Critics accused him of a cynical play, given doubts about his leadership and honesty. The governments response was rated weak by forty-six percent of voters, rising to fifty percent in key marginal seats. Seventy-two percent wanted extremist Islamist groups banned, and seventy-six percent called for tougher immigration checks. The Jewish community pushed for scrutiny of the hate behind the attack. The royal commission, led by former judge Virginia Bell, is set to deliver its final report on the first anniversary of the Bondi attack, with concerns about perceived left-leaning bias and lack of national security experience. Australians will closely watch the inquiry to see if it delivers real answers and safety, testing whether Albanese can rebuild trust before the next election.

Newly released cabinet papers from 2005 reveal a stark warning from experts about climate change, which the Howard government largely ignored. Despite signing the Kyoto Protocol in 1998, they cited economic risks compared to big emitters like the US and China. Climate scientists today praise the briefing for solid science but note that heatwaves and sea-level rise have surged faster than predicted. Recent CSIRO reports back this up, showing a significant increase in extreme fire weather days and record-breaking temperatures. Ignoring these warnings foreshadowed devastating bushfires in 2009 and 2019-2020. The science was clear enough back then for real action.

Australias rabbit population surge, fueled by abundant vegetation, poses significant environmental and agricultural threats. Despite past biocontrol virus successes, funding shortages have halted key programs, leaving experts concerned about the lack of a new virus to control the exploding rabbit population.

Greenlands parliament unites against US takeover, asserts independence; seeks diplomatic talks based on international principles.