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Experience the joy of cherry-picking this summer in Australia, with over 80 varieties and 20,000 tonnes produced annually. Explore the best pick-your-own spots nationwide, from Queenslands Granite Belt to Victorias Sunraysia and cool Tasmania. Head out early morning for fresh, firm, plump cherries with deep red-purple color. Enjoy picnics, ice cream, drinks, and lawn games at orchards like Blue Hills Berries, CherryHill Orchards, and more. Dont miss out on this hands-on, sweet adventure before cherry season ends.

Tragic Discovery Leads to Arrest in Queensland Carers Death A womans body was found on a property in Buccan, Queensland, after she was reported missing by her family. The client she was caring for was later found in New South Wales and arrested for unrelated charges. The homicide squad is now involved as they await post-mortem results and search the property for clues.

Victorias bushfire crisis intensifies as extreme heat and winds fuel blazes, destroying homes and livestock, and forcing thousands to flee. Maxwell Hobson, a cattle farmer, tragically lost his life near his car off a fire-ravaged road. The small town of Ruffy is unrecognizable, with half its residents losing their homes. Firefighters make progress on the Longwood blaze, but emergency warnings persist. Premier Jacinta Allan defends fire funding, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praises first responders. An online bushfire appeal opens, and Northern Territory crews head south to assist. Authorities warn of potential resurgence as gusty winds and hot weather could return by weeks end.

Australian teen faces serious charges for swatting incidents, linked to global network of young offenders. FBI tip-off leads to arrest, seizure of devices and firearm. Taskforce Pompilid formed to combat these crimes, emphasizing international cooperation and zero tolerance for online criminals.

Ex-tropical cyclone Koji brings record-breaking rain and severe flooding to Queensland, with major warnings active for several rivers. River levels surge, causing widespread damage and forcing residents to evacuate. More heavy downpours and storms are expected, keeping communities on edge as officials urge preparedness.

Australias Prime Minister Announces Tough New Laws Against Hate Groups Following Deadly Terror Attack In response to a deadly terror attack in Bondi, Australias Prime Minister has introduced stringent new laws targeting hate groups. These laws allow the government to label certain groups, with organizers, supporters, and recruiters facing up to fifteen years in prison, and members up to seven years. The new legislation also creates crimes for publicly promoting or inciting racial hatred, carrying five-year sentences. Aggravated cases, such as those involving preachers or targeting children, face even harsher penalties. The rules aim to prevent hate speech that incites fear of violence based on race, color, or ethnic origin. The Prime Minister has declared January 22nd a national day of mourning, with flags flying at half-mast and events focused on light, unity, and remembrance for the victims. The package also includes gun reforms, such as a national buyback, stricter imports on certain firearms and ammunition, tougher background checks, and requiring owners to be citizens. The Prime Minister emphasizes the importance of unity against division.

US stocks surged to new highs, driven by Walmarts shift to Nasdaq and upcoming earnings season. Despite Fed probe, investors remain calm. Consumer staples and tech led gains, but financials slid on Trumps proposed credit card rate cap.

Kevin Rudd, former Australian PM, is leaving his role as US ambassador a year early to become Asia Societys global president. His tenure was marked by strained relations with Trump due to past criticisms, but hes praised for his diplomatic efforts, including securing a critical minerals deal and progress on AUKUS pact. His departure signals a shift in Australias Pacific alliance.