Photo: Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOSTwo young boys have been found dead at a home in a small regional town with police arresting a woman believed to be their grandmother All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueOfficers visited the property at Coonabarabran following reports of a concern for their welfare was taken to hospital for further assessment where she remains under police guard The deaths are being investigated under Strike Force Darnum assisted by detectives from State Crime Command's Homicide Squad Premier Chris Minns described the discovery of the boys' bodies as heartbreaking "What has occurred is terrible and as a state we share in the community of Coonabarabran's grief at the loss of two young boys who had their entire futures ahead of them," he said."I can not begin to imagine the heartbreak their loved ones are currently feeling Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 (for people aged 5 to 25) No commentsGet the latest Cootamundra news in your inboxSign up for our newsletter to stay up to date We care about the protection of your data. 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All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Cherrypickers dominated for the third straight week this time taking a 40-6 win over Cootamundra at Alfred Oval on Sunday After the Bulldogs spent the past four seasons in the George Tooke Shield the rivalry was renewed in a physical clash While Young captain-coach Tom Giles was thrilled with the previous win over Albury, labelling it the best performance since he took over the coaching role last season, this time around it was a scrappier Cherrypickers outfit who still managed plenty of points "It was no surprise as their two middles go really good it was a back and forth for the first five to 10 minutes but in between half-time and the end we were pretty scrappy started to throw the ball around when we didn't have to and finding forward passes and talking to their coach they are going to win some games if they keep playing like that "We were pretty scrappy but our defence has been good." Giles led the way crossing for three tries Jesse Corcoran scored his second shortly after half-time before Jacob Maher got Cootamundra on the board with around 30 minutes left to play The Bulldogs were able to limit the damage in the second half before conceding late tries to Devon Makoare-Boyce and Giles who was in line to make his first grade debut before being sent off in the Weissel Cup Riley Butcher impressed coming off the bench Young has only conceded 22 points in its first three games of the season while scoring 138 themselves to sit on top of the Group Nine ladder It's one aspect of their game that has impressed to start the season Giles is looking for improvement before taking on the Tigers who have played the three other teams in the top four to start the season "We will get better and we need to be better with Gundi at Anzac Park," he said "We went there last year and it was a physical game "I mean it when I say I don't think it's going to be any more physical they what we played just there." Cootamundra will be on the hunt for its first win since returning to Group Nine when hosting Albury at Les Boyd Oval on Saturday After a draw with unbeaten Tumut to start the season, before being humbled by Young the Thunder got their first win on the board in fine style Brothers proved to be no match for them at Greenfield Park on Saturday Osika Kaufononga continued his bright start to the new competition scoring two of his side's 11 tries in the 60-6 win He had a role in a couple more as the Thunder's kicking game hurt the struggling Wagga outfit Things don't get any easier for Brothers, who now tackle Temora in what will be their second Challenge Cup match of the season after the Dragons took the cup. Courtney is a sports journalist from The Daily Advertiser focusing on Group Nine, Southern Inland, cricket, harness racing and greyhound racing. Newsletters & AlertsView allDaily Today's top stories curated by our news team. Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. Love footy? We've got all the action covered. The latest news, results & expert analysis. Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! 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Today's top stories curated by our news team Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert Your digital replica of Today's Paper Test your skills with interactive crosswords Local and First Nations businesses and community members in Cootamundra will have a chance to find out about potential commercial opportunities on the Illabo to Stockinbingal section of the Inland Rail project at a ‘Meet the Contractor’ event being held next week Representatives of Inland Rail and Illabo to Stockinbingal contractor John Holland will be at the session at the Cootamundra Ex-Servicemen’s & Citizens Memorial Club The event has created great interest in the region with 65 businesses applying for the registration-only event The Meet the Contractor events are intended to provide local and First Nations businesses and communities with a greater understanding of the opportunities available with the project Businesses and individuals who are keen to be involved in the project will attend the information and networking event to hear from John Holland representatives and meet with them to learn about the types of goods and services that will be required employment opportunities and general project information Construction will commence in 2025 on a new rail line linking Illabo and Stockinbingal These will enable the safe operation of double-stacked freight trains through NSW Businesses are encouraged to register for their preferred work packages published on the ICN Gateway website Inland Rail has been creating business and employment opportunities in NSW during design and construction phases View the event “Meet the Contractor events are an ideal way for businesses who wish to become involved in Inland Rail to find out more about the project and learn the most effective way to submit expressions of interest “We have received strong interest from local businesses who are keen to become part of the delivery of Inland Rail “Inland Rail is being predominantly delivered in regional Australia meaning there is a prime opportunity for regional Australia to reap the immediate benefits that come with construction “We are incredibly mindful of how sizable investment can reshape regional economies in a short period of time and our focus is on ensuring benefits flow directly to the communities on the Inland Rail alignment.” John Holland Illabo to Stockinbingal Project Director Rob Pitt said: “We look forward to getting out and meeting local communities and establishing long-term business relationships that embrace local knowledge skills and resources to deliver the best outcome for the project there will be positive flow-on effects for a range of service providers retailers and hotels/motels who will reap the benefits of the project.” Explore more: The Project Benefits Opportunities Media Centre Download Map Access images Information hub Visualisations for the two Hume Freeway sites and the Marchbanks Road bridge replacement in Broadford have been released by Inland Rail before construction begins later this year. The new Seymour-Avenel Road bridge is open to traffic, following the completion of works by Inland Rail. Local and First Nations businesses and community members in Wagga Wagga will have a chance to find out about potential commercial opportunities on the Albury to Illabo section of the Inland Rail project at a ‘Meet the Contractor’ event being held in town tomorrow. Inland Rail has taken a major step towards completing the Stockinbingal to Parkes section of the project on schedule, after successfully conducting a 60-hour rail possession over the weekend in which all scheduled works were completed. Inland Rail Pty Ltd is a subsidiary of Australian Rail Track Corporation. ABN 73 094 819 520 Photo: Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOSCanterbury are set to lose Jacob Preston for at least three weeks as Melbourne forwards Trent Loiero and Stefano Utoikamanu breathe a sigh of relief after the NRL charge sheet came out All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueStar second-rower Preston will cop three weeks on the sidelines with an early guilty plea for a grade-two crusher tackle on Gold Coast captain Tino Fa'asuamaleaui late in the Bulldogs' 38-18 win at Magic Round The Bulldogs are already missing suspended forwards Sitili Tupouniua and Josh Curran for their away clash with Canberra on Saturday The Storm lost 20-18 to the Raiders in golden point in a controversial Sunday night finish to Magic Round they led 18-12 and fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen kicked a field goal in the 75th minute that would have taken them to 19-12 the Bunker found an elbow to the head of Raiders captain Joseph Topine by Storm lock Loiero in a previous play when Melbourne had the ball The Raiders then levelled through a scintillating try to fullback Kaeo Weekes but the Storm were in position for a field goal in golden point when prop Utoikamanu was pinged and sin-binned for stomping on hooker Tom Starling in the play-the-ball Melbourne prop Stefano Utoikamanu (right) has escaped charge from the fiery loss to Canberra (HANDOUT/NRL PHOTOS)"The game was in the balance and .. "I was trying to play the ball and move Tom Starling out of the way especially when you have been warned from the refs about that sort of stuff." Raiders skipper Jamal Fogarty then landed the winning penalty after Loiero was ruled to have taken Hudson Young high While coach Craig Bellamy was scathing post-match of his side's lack of discipline he also suggested the officiating did his side no favours when asked if the Storm were "hard done by"."You can say that if you like," Bellamy replied That sentiment could well be enhanced on Monday after both Loiero and Utoikamanu were cleared by the match review committee to play in the home game against Wests Tigers on Sunday Papenhuyzen spoke to ABC Radio Sport after the match and his assessment of the Utoikamanu incident proved prophetic "You are trying to get a quick play-the-ball Photo: Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOSA state Liberal leader has brushed off his party's federal election thumping and dismissed concerns its brand has become "toxic" All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueVictoria's opposition leader Brad Battin and his state party were riding high in the polls before being delivered a brutal reality check on Saturday Voters took a hatchet to the party in Melbourne with his federal colleagues in Deakin and Menzies to the city's east projected to lose their seats The Liberals also failed to reclaim Aston after losing the federal seat to Labor in a 2023 by-election and a quest to claim others in Melbourne's outer suburbs looks set to fall short Liberal leader Brad Battin says he's confident of an election platform Victorians can have faith in (Diego Fedele/AAP PHOTOS)Peter Dutton pitched a national policy to build nuclear reactors at ageing coal-fired power stations including to the state's east in Gippsland Mr Battin sought to distance himself from the plan during the campaign and claims he was not stunned by voters' repudiation of the Liberals "I don't believe the Liberal brand is toxic at all," he told reporters at Morwell in Victoria's east "By the time we get to the next (state) election .. I am confident that we can go with a policy platform that people can have faith in." Victorian voters head to the state polls in November 2026 seen as a drag on the federal party's support was only invited to appear once with Anthony Albanese on the campaign trail But she crowed about the result being vindication of Labor's management of the state where it has spent all but four years in power since 1999 Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made only one campaign appearance with Premier Jacinta Allan (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)Another issue to cross federal and state lines over the course of the campaign was Melbourne's controversial Suburban Rail Loop a planned 90km orbital rail line from Cheltenham to Werribee via the airport The mega rail project was in the gun when Mr Dutton threatened to pull Labor's $2.2 billion in committed federal funding if he won government Ms Allan suggested the election result provided a renewed mandate to build the $34.5 billion project particularly in seats where the line's eastern section is slated to pass through "This project has the support of the Victorian community," she said at a tunnel boring machine launch site in Clarinda on Monday Photo: HANDOUT/NRL PHOTOSRicky Stuart told Jamal Fogarty he'd be an idiot not to accept Manly's contract offer who had spent a sleepless night agonising over telling his coach he'd be leaving Canberra All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueFrom the outside looking in Fogarty's exit from the Raiders had appeared highly likely for weeks That was particularly the case after Stuart publicly admitted Canberra could not match Manly's offer of a three-year $2.1 million deal to replace the outgoing Daly Cherry-Evans from 2026 the call to leave the club where he's played his best football was never easy Raiders players celebrate Jamal Fogarty's winning penalty goal against the Melbourne Storm (HANDOUT/NRL PHOTOS)"It was a really hard decision "It was something that I was tossing and turning (about) It was similarly difficult for Fogarty to walk into Stuart's office last Tuesday and tell the famously passionate Raiders man he'd be leaving after four years "Obviously he could take it well or he could take it the other way I was not too sure what was going to happen Our relationship hasn't changed from then and he gave me his backing (saying) 'You're an idiot if you don't take it' Ricky Stuart was supportive of Jamal Fogarty's decision to sign on with Manly Fogarty's focus remains 300km south of Manly's northern beaches stronghold and with a Canberra side that has well-founded premiership aspirations for 2025 Sunday's 20-18 defeat of perennial contenders Melbourne was the latest proof of the Raiders' heavyweight status this season and it was Fogarty who slotted the game-winning penalty goal in extra time (scoring) was more of a relief if anything," he said Far from making him regret his decision to leave wins like Sunday's have made Fogarty more engaged than ever with Canberra's campaign "I'm not even thinking about it (leaving) to be honest," he said "We've got 20-odd games here at the Raiders and I think we're building something special." After beating both the Storm and Warriors in the opening nine rounds the second-placed Raiders now host the only top-four side they have not met in 2025 The top end of the ladder has been foreign territory for the two sides in recent years The Raiders haven't finished a season in the top two since 2016 and the Bulldogs' finals berth last year was their first in eight years Fogarty admitted that in the pre-season he would've considered Saturday's clash an unlikely top-two match-up "I probably would've thought you were kidding yourself to be honest and I think everyone probably will agree with that comment," Fogarty said "The Dogs are probably the best team in the comp at the minute Photo: Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOSDamien Hardwick has called for better "protection" of Matt Rowell after the Gold Coast midfielder's quiet night against Brisbane and argued the result wasn't indicative of the gap between his Suns and the best All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueGold Coast looked up for the fight at the Gabba on Sunday when they finished the first half with some momentum and trailing by just 11 points the third quarter one-way traffic as the Lions shot clear for a 12th win from the last 13 encounters Three late goals papered some cracks for the Suns in a 9.12 (62) to 7.7 (49) loss in wet conditions Hardwick's side falling to 5-2 while the reigning champions (7-1) regained top spot on the ladder Rowell and Lachie Neale having a not so friendly conversation in the QClash (Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOS)"We were hoping to be better," the coach said "We saw the demolition of the Saints (by the Lions) last week and similar today "We've got some things we can get to work on and we know the answers." Lachie Neale (25 and 10) and Hugh McCluggage (30 and eight) showed their class while Josh Dunkley (26 disposals) kept Suns stoppage king Rowell to just 16 touches and one clearance off contract beyond this year and in demand began the season brilliantly but was also kept relatively quiet in a 16-disposal game against Sydney last week He'd had at least 10 clearances in three of his previous six games and averages 6.4 in his 91-game career "He does battle and he doesn't get a lot of protection (from officials) I'm not going to lie," Hardwick said of the 23-year-old The coach believes his midfield bull could be appealing for more free kicks given the man-handling he receives around the contest I'm talking throughout the course of the year,' he said "He doesn't get enough protection for a ball player did some stuff up there as well (to try to get into the contest) Suns players took the field with plenty of hope before the reality check came very good year and a couple of quieter weeks." will play sixth-placed Western Bulldogs and third-placed Hawthorn at home-away-from-home Darwin in the next fortnight "That's the best place to be," Hardwick said of the challenge ahead "Instead of running away from it you step straight into it." He didn't agree that the one-sided loss to the Lions you don't give yourself a chance," he said but when they absolutely destroy you in that part of the ground .. All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueUPDATED 05/05/2025 5:00pm:After announcing pricing for the entry-level Pro variant on February 28 Volkswagen Australia has now confirmed pricing for the all-wheel drive ID.4 GTX flagship Volkswagen launched the ID.4 overseas in December 2020 with first Australian deliveries initially due in late 2023 then March 2025 and now finally "around mid-2025" Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 price and specsIn that time Australia's electric vehicle (EV) market has gone through a significant period of growth but has now slowed down despite more affordable models being introduced to local buyers The ID.4 will arrive priced from $59,990 before on-road costs That sees it undercut the upcoming, updated Tesla Model Y Launch Series by about $3400 with Volkswagen's EV boasting a better driving range to the tune of about 80km 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 price and specsThe ID.4 Pro is also $1000 more affordable than the related Cupra Tavascan Endurance which has identical outputs but a slightly shorter driving range and lower DC fast-charging rate the Cupra is produced in China while the ID.4 comes from Germany priced exactly $10,000 higher than the base Pro but bringing more power and AWD There's just one variant available at launch 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 price and specsDimensions2025 Volkswagen ID.4 price and specsWarranty and ServicingThe Volkswagen ID.4 is backed by a five-year Service intervals and pricing are yet to be announced The Volkswagen ID.4 has not yet been issued an Australian safety rating by ANCAP however it achieved a five-star result in New Zealand and Europe after testing conducted in 2021 by Euro NCAP 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 price and specsStandard safety equipment includes: The local Volkswagen ID.4 lineup will consist of two variants 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 price and specsThe ID.4 Pro features: An Exterior Style package is available on the Pro for an extra $900 Volkswagen hasn't yet detailed the exterior paint colour choices for the ID.4 Pro it's confirmed metallic paint will be a $1000 option while premium metallic finishes will cost $1300 on the GTX MORE: Everything Volkswagen ID.4 Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au Photo: Ethan James/AAP PHOTOSThe closure of a youth detention centre with an "ongoing abuse risk" has been further pushed back as part of broad justice reforms All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueTasmania's Ashley Youth Detention Centre was in 2023 recommended to be shut as soon as possible in the final report of an inquiry into institutionalised child sexual abuse the subject of horrific stories of mistreatment which had previously pledged to shut the centre by the end of 2024 later said it would be closed in 2026 once replacement facilities had been established Minister for Children Roger Jaensch says the centre can't close until a new one is up and running that date was pushed back to early 2028 as part of the release of a master plan for the construction of a more therapeutic centre north of Hobart "We cannot (close the centre) before we have a new functional detention facility," Minister for Children and Youth Roger Jaensch told reporters "We believe … we can see the new facility built before the end of 2027 and then the closure of Ashley shortly thereafter."  Labor opposition MP Sarah Lovell said there was no clear plan for what would happen in the meantime "The (inquiry) made it crystal clear: Ashley must close as soon as possible," she said "Community safety is directly linked to effective we are failing both the young people in the system and the communities they return to."  A master plan for a new facility has been released but it won't be built before the end of 2027 (Ethan James/AAP PHOTOS)A parliament committee was last week told the government was investigating recent complaints from detainees about the use of isolation and restraints Mr Jaensch acknowledged Ashley had not produced good outcomes for young people and hadn't reduced re-offending the state government was providing diversionary programs for young people and the centre was safer than ever before "We're not seeing an increase in reports of sexual abuse although we leave the channels open for anyone with concerns to report them there hasn't been a recent concern raised about recent sexual abuse matters at Ashley Youth Detention Centre." The new centre will have 16 residential beds plus two for new arrivals and two medical beds Of 111 state servants suspended since late 2020 because of child sexual abuse allegations 41 remain subject to ongoing investigations by the government National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028 Photo: Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOSLABOR POLICIES TO BE IMPLEMENTED IN SECOND ALBANESE TERM All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue* HECS debts will be cut by 20 per cent for those with student loans Prime Minister Anthony Albanese flagged this as the first piece of legislation that will be introduced when parliament resumes * Bulk-billing will be expanded to 90 per cent by 2030 with an extra $8.5 billion to be spent on a boost to Medicare * A further 50 Medicare urgent care clinics will be build across the country * Tax cuts of up to $268 will be rolled out from July 2026 with a further cut of $536 in July 2027 and every financial year after that Australians can expect tax cuts under the second-term Labor government (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)* Taxpayers will receive an instant $1000 deduction when they complete their tax return * A scheme allowing a five per cent deposit to first-home buyers will be expanded to all people looking to buy their first property * Labor has promised to build 100,000 homes solely for the purchase of first-home buyers * Non-compete clauses will be banned for workers changing jobs if they earn less than $175,000 a year * Households will get a 30 per cent discount to install electric batteries from July 2025 * The Albanese government has promised to set up a national environment protection agency after plans were stalled in his first parliament * Work will be done to bring the port of Darwin back to Australian ownership * A critical minerals strategic reserve will be set up to stockpile mining materials to trade on global markets Photo: Jason O'BRIEN/AAP PHOTOSSEAT COUNT IN 2025 FEDERAL ELECTION All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueSEAT NUMBERS * Labor - 85 seats (+7 from 2022 election) * Independents/Minor parties - 10 seats (-1) with 77.8 per cent of the national tally counted * Melbourne (Vic) - Greens leader Adam Bandt is in danger of losing his seat to Labor challenger Sarah Witty A high number of postal votes are flowing to Labor over the Greens * Kooyong (Vic) - Independent MP Monique Ryan faces a challenge from Liberal Amelia Hamer with the teal leading 50.7 per cent to 49.3 per cent * Bradfield (NSW) - Just 501 votes separate independent challenger Nicolette Boele and the Liberals' Gisele Kapterian in the former safe seat for the coalition * Bullwinkel (WA) - Barely anything splits Labor and the Liberals in the newest WA seat with Labor's Trish Cook leading by just 85 votes over Liberal Matt Moran * Goldstein (Vic) - A razor-thin margin of 95 votes separates leading independent MP Zoe Daniel and Liberal challenger Tim Wilson with the result to come down to preferences * Longman (Qld) - Coalition MP Terry Young is ahead of Labor's Rhiannyn Douglas by a mere 102 votes in a seat previously held by the LNP with a margin of 3.1 per cent * Wills (Vic) - Labor MP Peter Khalil faces a challenge from Greens candidate Samantha Ratnam with the incumbent ahead 51.6 per cent to 48.4 per cent * Ryan (Qld) - A three-way contest has emerged in the Brisbane-based seat between Greens MP Elizabeth Watson-Brown the coalition's Maggie Forrest and Labor's Rebecca Hack but the result will come down to preference flows from the party that finishes third * Fremantle (WA) - A close battle in one of Labor's safest seats with Labor MP Josh Wilson under threat from independent challenger Kate Hulett * Bean (ACT) - The Labor stronghold held by MP David Smith is being challenged by independent Jessie Price who is leading 50.1 per cent to 49.9 per cent for Smith who previously held the seat by more than 12 per cent Photo: AP PHOTOKatherine Heigl has accepted she won't be "the ingenue forever" All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe 46-year-old actress achieved many of her career ambitions during her 20s when she starred in movies such as Knocked Up The Ugly Truth and 27 Dresses - but Heigl accepts that she's now entered a new chapter in her life "I wasn't thinking about [ageing] in my 20s and I was getting to do all the roles I had always wanted to be able to do," The Hollywood star told Us Weekly Katherine Heigl concedes she's at a different phase in her career (AP PHOTO)"I started as a child actor but by the time I got into my mid to late teens "So I was so excited and on cloud nine getting to do what I had been sort of hustling to do for so many years And you don't think about the expiration date on it." Heigl concedes she's now entered a different phase in her career there's a young generation that's coming up and I had my time and it was glorious "And not to say that I can't be the romantic lead in something at 46 - that women in their 40s don't have a romantic love life or that they aren't funny or that And I feel like so many women in their 40s and 50s and 60s have compelling interesting lives that we'd all be interested in seeing and the ingenue is really a valuable role in Hollywood but I am still a value and it might look different and it might feel different the story's worth telling.' It's a different fight." while admitting he didn't know his opponent Photo: Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOSAnthony Albanese has held a "warm and positive conversation" with US President Donald Trump following his decisive election victory All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe two leaders discussed the election outcome as well as tariffs imposed by the US on allies including Australia "I had a very warm and positive conversation with President Trump," Mr Albanese told reporters in Canberra "I thanked him for his very warm message of congratulations We talked about AUKUS and tariffs and we'll continue to engage "We will engage with each other on a face-to-face basis at some time in the future .. and I thank him for reaching out in such a positive way "He was fully aware of the (election) outcome and he expressed the desire to continue to work with me in the future." "He's very good," President Donald Trump said of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)It was the third time the leaders have spoken and the first since tariffs of 10 per cent were imposed on all Australian exports to the US The two leaders will come face-to-face at the upcoming G7 meeting in Canada after Mr Albanese was invited to the summit by newly elected Canadian prime minister Mark Carney The phone call comes as Mr Trump praised Mr Albanese after Labor's landslide election win with the US leader not addressing suggestions his presidency contributed to a drop in coalition support Speaking to the media at the White House on Monday Mr Trump said he had a good relationship with Australia's re-elected leader I don't know anything about the election other than the man that won "I have no idea who the other person is that ran against him and you know (Albanese and I) have had a very good relationship." Opposition Leader Peter Dutton sought to distance himself from Trump policies during the campaign (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)Mr Trump did not respond to questions on whether his policies had caused a rethink from voters in Australia on support for the coalition Peter Dutton sought to distance himself from Mr Trump's agenda But the coalition was criticised for attacking the public service and taking inspiration from Mr Trump's 'department of government efficiency' Mr Trump's policies were a key factor in the recent election in Canada which returned its centre-left government and punished the right-wing opposition Mr Albanese and Mr Dutton had campaigned on who would be best placed to deal with the Trump White House following the president's imposition of tariffs on US allies Photo: AP PHOTODonald Trump has renewed his threat to annex Greenland by military force if necessary saying the US needs the large Arctic island "very badly" for national security All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueSpeaking to US broadcaster NBC he declined to rule out the use of military force but I don't rule out anything," he said on Sunday Denmark's King Frederik visited met with the new Greenlandic government last week (AP PHOTO)"Greenland is a very small amount of people But we need that for international security." Trump has been floating the idea of the US taking control of Greenland which is an autonomous part of the Kingdom of Denmark and has previously suggested the use of military force as an option Trump sparked backlash from Europe with the idea of simply buying Greenland Greenland is part of the North American continent and extends into the Arctic The island is of great importance for the global climate and for military control of the Arctic It is also rich in resources such as rare earths important shipping routes run through the region The governments of Greenland and Denmark have vehemently rejected Trump's ambitions Trump has also expressed an interest in seeing Canada become part of the US and his repeated remarks on the matter are even thought to have swayed the country's recent election outcome the US president made it clear that he does not consider military force an option for Canada Photo: AP PHOTOYemen's Houthi rebels say they will impose a "comprehensive" aerial blockade on Israel by repeatedly targeting its airports in response to Israel expanding its operations in Gaza All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Iran-aligned Houthis claimed responsibility for a missile strike that hit near Israel's Ben Gurion Airport saying they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to retaliate Most attacks from Yemen have been intercepted by Israel's missile defence systems though a drone strike hit Tel Aviv in 2024 Sunday's missile was the only one of a series launched since March that was not intercepted The Houthis' Humanitarian Operations Coordination Centre a body set up in 2024 to liaise between Houthi forces and commercial shipping operators issued the warning about targeting Israeli airports saying Ben Gurion Airport would be the top target The statement attached an email it said was sent to the International Air Transport Association and the United Nations' International Civil Aviation Organisation Houthi forces called "upon all international airlines to take this announcement into serious consideration .. and to cancel all their flights to the airports of the criminal Israeli enemy in order to safeguard the safety of their aircraft and passengers" A ceasefire between Hamas and Israel collapsed in March and air and ground attacks have resumed (AP PHOTO)Israel's security cabinet approved plans for an expanded operation in the Gaza Strip adding to signs that attempts to stop the fighting and return hostages held by Palestinian militant group Hamas have made no progress Since the collapse of an earlier ceasefire agreement in March Israeli troops have been carving out wide buffer zones in Gaza squeezing the 2.3 million population into an ever narrower zone in the centre of the enclave and along the coast and shutting off the entry of aid trucks Aid groups have warned the Israeli blockade risks a humanitarian disaster Israel's campaign on Gaza has laid waste to much of the enclave and so far killed more than 52,000 people That Hamas offensive killed 1200 people and led to 251 people being taken hostage Photo: Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOSBig-name international music concert tours will get discounted arena hire fees at some of Australia's largest venues if they choose home-grown Australian acts to open their shows All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Australian live music industry is struggling against streaming services that favour American tunes and the local scene in NSW has taken a hit over the years since the pandemic and lockout laws NSW Premier Chris Minns said that giving Aussie artists their first big break in front of thousands of locals will help them get high rotation on playlists Global artists playing at NSW stadiums like Accor will get an incentive to use local opening acts (Dean Lewins/AAP PHOTOS)"The Hoodoo Gurus got their first big break after they performed with Lou Reed in 1984," Mr Minns said Mr Minns dedicated the incentive to the late Michael McMartin who managed the Hoodoo Gurus and had a passion for pushing Aussie talent to be included on the stadium tours "We want more Australian musicians to have that opportunity performing on the biggest stages in NSW alongside the best international artists," Mr Minns said WIN Stadium and Entertainment Centre and the Sydney Opera House the NSW Government will reduce the venue hire fee by $20,000 for each eligible show across various NSW venues and will offer a $5,000 reduction at the Sydney Opera House at least one Australian artist must be included as a support act on an international artist's headline tour The Australian performer or band must appear on the same stage as the international artist and be announced at the same time as the tour The measure kicks off Monday and spans an initial two years "There were just three Australian albums in the ARIA top 100 charts in 2024," Arts Minister John Graham said "This represents a crisis for Australian music." Australia's Ball Park Music is set to open for Oasis during their tour Down Under (EPA PHOTO)Oasis is touring Australia in October and November and has asked Australia's Ball Park Music to open for them "There's no denying the benefit of a big support slot The opportunity to play your music live in front of a new audience is the best marketing we have as artists the chance to showcase what we're all about in the most real and authentic fashion," Ball Park Music said "Any initiative that can help amplify Australian talent and aid in building a long-term and engaged audience is a massive step in the right direction." Photo: HANDOUT/NRL PHOTOSMelbourne coach Craig Bellamy wants his players to take ownership after poor discipline while in possession of the ball cost the Storm victory against Canberra All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue"One thing we can control is our actions," Bellamy said "To give away penalties when you have got the ball The Storm lost 20-18 in golden point in the final match of Magic Round on Sunday the Bunker found an elbow to the head of Raiders captain Joseph Topine by Storm lock Trent Loiero in a previous play when Melbourne had the ball But the Storm were in position for a field goal in golden point when prop Stefano Utoikamanu was pinged and sin-binned for stomping on hooker Tom Starling in the play-the-ball He'd already given away a penalty in the first-half while in possession after wrangling with Canberra prop Joseph Topine Loiero again transgressed when he hit Raiders forward Hudson Young in a high tackle in the 85th minute with Jamal Fogarty landing the winning penalty Trent Loiero (13) cost Melbourne with his poor discipline (HANDOUT/NRL PHOTOS)Storm captain Cameron Munster "I said to him to just take some learnings from it I have been in those situations before," Munster said "You don't what to be the guy that clips a chin and they go for two and get the penalty I have been in grand finals where I have done some silly stuff "He's a great player and we've all had those opportunities and lost those moments Storm coach Craig Bellamy wasn't happy with his side's ill-discipline (Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOS)"I'm not going to sit there and bag him He's done some great stuff for us as a player A lot of people will be on his back but as a group we have got to stick together and learn." Bellamy also weighed in on Utoikamanu's actions I'm not exactly sure what happened," he said of the stomp "To turn the ball over when you've got the ball 15m from their line .. if he was in the wrong he needs to pick his discipline up I don't know exactly who was the instigator You show me a bloke that gives away two penalties when you've got the ball in a game You are not looking at too many people."There was a sense the Storm had been hard done by but Bellamy wasn''t going down that path."You can say that if you like," he said Munster was also careful about commenting on the officiating "I can't remember the last time a team got penalised with the ball but ...we played some dumb footy tonight," Munster said "As much as it looked like it was in the hands of the ref one of San Francisco's most popular tourist destinations Photo: AP PHOTOUS President Donald Trump says he is directing the Bureau of Prisons to reopen the infamous Alcatraz prison to "house America's most ruthless and violent offenders" All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue"REBUILD AND OPEN ALCATRAZ!" he posted on the Truth Social platform we did not hesitate to lock up the most dangerous criminals and keep them far away from anyone they could harm." The closure of the federal prison in 1963 was attributed to crumbling infrastructure and the high costs of repairing and supplying the island facility because everything from fuel to food had to be brought by boat It is now one of San Francisco's most popular tourist destinations The prison — infamously inescapable due to the strong ocean currents and cold Pacific waters that surround it — was known as the "The Rock" and housed some of the nation's most notorious criminals including gangster Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly It has long been part of the cultural imagination and has been the subject of numerous movies including The Rock starring Sean Connery and Nicolas Cage Nearly all were caught or didn't survive the attempt The Alcatraz prison once housed gangster Al Capone and has been the subject of numerous movies (AP PHOTO)Trump said he'd come up with the idea to reopen Alcatraz because of frustrations with "radicalised judges" who have insisted those being deported receive due process A spokesperson for the Bureau of Prisons said in a statement the agency "will comply with all Presidential Orders" a California Democrat whose district includes the island questioned the feasibility of reopening the prison after so many years "It is now a very popular national park and major tourist attraction The President's proposal is not a serious one," she wrote on social media platform X The order to reopen Alcatraz comes as Trump has been clashing with the courts as he tries to send accused gang members to a notorious prison in El Salvador Trump has also talked about wanting to send American citizens there and to other foreign prisons Trump has also directed the opening of a detention centre at Guantanamo Bay to hold up to 30,000 of what he has labelled the "worst criminal aliens" No.3) celebrates one of her two goals as Victory beat Adelaide 3-1 away Photo: Matt Turner/AAP PHOTOSMelbourne Victory have one foot in the A-League Women grand final after defender Claudia Bunge delivered a 3-1 win over Adelaide United in their away semi-final leg All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBut coach Jeff Hopkins insists the job is only half-done The Victory will host Adelaide at the Home of the Matildas in Bundoora next Saturday with a two-goal advantage after Bunge struck twice in the second half in front of 4372 fans at Coopers Stadium on Sunday The winner will face either Melbourne City or Central Coast who play at Casey Fields next Sunday after drawing 2-2 in Gosford "Really happy with the performance and the result as well," Hopkins told Network Ten "But the job's only half-done and you can see by how close the game was for most of the game that the tie's not over "Got a huge amount of respect for Adelaide Erin Healy scored Adelaide's goal to make it 1-1 (Matt Turner/AAP PHOTOS)Adelaide will have to beat Victory in Melbourne for the first time in nine years to reach the decider attack," Adelaide coach Adrian Stenta told Network Ten "So I think that's what we need to do because we've gotta chase a two-goal deficit." Sunday's game burst into life when Victory goalkeeper Courtney Newbon found Emily Gielnik with a wonderful defence-splitting pass Gielnik let rip with a wonderful left foot strike that clattered home Fiona Worts won the ball in midfield and worked it out wide to Emily Hodgson Emily Condon forced a good save from Newbon but Victory's defence were unable to clear it quickly enough and an unmarked Erin Healy nipped in to score Reds goalkeeper Claudia Jenkins pulled out a world-class save to turn a ripping free kick from Alana Jancevski over the bar Adelaide defender Tiarna Karambasis was replaced by Chelsie Dawber after a head knock in the 62nd minute which Hopkins said was precautionary due to cramp Victory's winner came after Jenkins denied Sara D'Appolonia in the 76th minute Alana Murphy whipped in a flat delivery to the back post and Bunge powered home a bullet header "The deliveries today on our set pieces were good Photo: Steven Markham/AAP PHOTOSLachlan Ilias is low on confidence after some poor performances but coach Shane Flanagan says the axed St George Illawarra halfback is too good to not wear the No.7 again All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueIlias was not the only one to blame for the Dragons' damaging 46-18 loss to Sydney Roosters on Anzac Day but a change needed to be made to allow him to find some form A shortened pre-season was one of the reasons Flanagan gave for Ilias being short on belief to start the year; Ilias was still recovering from a serious leg fracture when he signed for the Dragons But the coach is confident we haven't seen the last of Ilias in the Red V's first-grade team adding the former South Sydney playmaker's positive approach will boost his quest to return to the starting side and he just needs to go and find a little bit of form and a bit of confidence," Flanagan said ahead of the Dragons' Magic Round clash with Wests Tigers on Saturday night no one wants to get dropped but he'll go back and work hard and we'll see him again." Multiple Dragons underperformed in the Anzac Day thumping; Flanagan hinted some of Ilias' teammates could consider themselves lucky to have held their spots Lachlan Ilias will need to regain form and confidence to earn a recall (Mark Evans/AAP PHOTOS)"He (Ilias) was one of many that didn't turn up that day I just felt that we needed a change," he said whether it's the right way or the wrong way Ilias' replacement at halfback is 19-year-old Lyhkan King-Togia whom Flanagan backed to show composure beyond his years in his return to first grade who played four NRL games at the end of 2024 announced a two-year contract extension with the Dragons on Tuesday Flanagan said the new deal would not put any more pressure on the young half than he faced when called up late last year doesn't get over-excited or show any frustration and he'll handle it really well," Flanagan said "We had to win footy games to make the finals last year and you wouldn't have seen any change in Lyhkan's temperament or demeanour going into those games The coach has big plans for the incoming halfback and believes he could be the young playmaker of the future the Dragons have been searching for and we've got one we think can take us a little bit further," he said The Cootamundra Bulldogs are about to re-enter Group 9 senior competitions in 2025 and renew their rivalry with the likes of the Temora Dragons, Young Cherrypickers and Junee Diesels. “That’s what we’ve missed, that healthy rivalry,” Cootamundra President Stephen Howse told nswrl.com.au “We can’t wait to get back to battling them once more as they’re all our close neighbours.” It’s been a five-year rebuild for the Bulldogs as they worked on strengthening their junior and local player base to enable sustainable re-entry into Group 9. A Group 9 foundation club, Cootamundra won nine titles in the competition – equal second with Temora behind the Wagga Kangaroos. Their revival brings the number of First Grade teams to 10. The seniors moved to the George Tooke Shield (Canberra Region Rugby League, Division 2) but a meeting in Wagga on 1 December is expected to approve Cootamundra’s full complement of teams returning to Group 9 – First Grade, Reserve Grade, Under 18, League Tag and Women’s tackle. This would be the first Cootamundra Bulldogs women’s tackle side to play in Group 9. They were among 35 teams who competed in the Albury Thunder Women’s Nines Rugby League carnival three weeks ago. “We’ve had to work really hard to get to where we are now,” Howse said. “We’re back to where we want to be – we’re healthy numbers-wise and we’re far more sustainable off-field as well. Having said all that we’ve been very grateful to Canberra Rugby League and the George Tooke Shield for helping us out.” NSWRL Community Football Manager Peter Clarke added: “They’re now in a position after rebuilding that local base of players. It’s great they are in a stronger position now. “Any club at times can be in a position where they need to assess what is sustainable for them. They’ve rebuilt over the past few years and that’s very commendable. “It’s a famous club with a strong history there with players like Hall of Famers Les Boyd and Eric Weissel and True Blue Paul Field (1983 Origin).” Howse said the Bulldogs were confident their application to move back into Group 9 will be accepted at the December meeting. “There will be a few questions asked of us I’m sure. But we’re preparing for Group 9 in 2025 and we’ve already told Canberra district of our intentions,” he said. The club has already begun assembly its coaching teams, appointing local David Buttriss to look after First Grade. Todd knows Tamworth will rally for Magic Round The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup Highlights | Round Nine - Roosters v Bulldogs The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup Highlights | Round Nine - Panthers v Raiders Photo: Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOSGold Coast coach Damien Hardwick is urging his players to enjoy the hype of their highly-anticipated clash against Brisbane All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe third-placed Suns play the second-placed Lions on Sunday night - the first time the clubs meet while holding such high ladder positions either," Hardwick told reporters on Friday The former Richmond coach has instructed his players to embrace the hostility from the pro-Lions crowd at the Gabba We have used that a little bit with regard to our away record .. it has been a learning process for our players," Hardwick said "It's understanding and embracing the fact that it's going to be a hostile environment - and enjoy it "You get the privilege to represent the Gold Coast Suns in a hostile environment that is baying for your blood "So the understanding and the growth in that space has been pretty big for us "And they're going to get another big challenge - there's not many more hostile environments than the Gabbatoir when they (Brisbane) are up and going - and they are at the moment." Photo: Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOSA brazen serial groper who preyed upon 18 women in a nightclub has avoided jail time after a judge found his risk of reoffending was low All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueDavid Maria Anthony Rayan was facing up to 10 years in prison but was instead sentenced to a two-year community corrections order on Monday He dodged reporters' questions as he left the Victorian County Court The former PwC IT worker pleaded guilty to 17 charges of sexual assault and one count of attempted sexual assault over the attacks at Revolver Upstairs in Melbourne's inner east CCTV footage from the nightclub showed Rayan groping his victims on the buttocks stroking their backs and kissing them on the arms and shoulders The attacks happened on three separate occasions in September and October 2023 Rayan admitted to police he touched one of the women accidentally but claimed he could not remember the other incidents because he was too drunk Victorian County Court Judge Peter Rozen said he held reservations about those claims as he sentenced Rayan over the "brazen" attacks The attacks occurred at Revolver Upstairs in Melbourne's inner east (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)"Your offending was deliberate and you knew what you were doing," he said The women were entitled to feel safe in the nightclub and the scale of Rayan's crimes was concerning He noted that three victim impact statements were read to the court where the women described their ongoing anxiety and shattered sense of security Judge Rozen also decided Rayan's moral culpability was considerable and said the 34-year-old lacked insight into his offending But the judge accepted the sexual assaults were at the lower end of seriousness given Rayan's victims were adults and the attacks were fleeting The sentencing judge said David Rayan's offending was out of character (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)His risk of reoffending was also low no pending charges and no diagnosed mental health conditions "I accept this offending was out of character for you," the judge said Rayan was sentenced to a two-year community corrections order with 180 hours of unpaid community work He will also have to complete treatment for alcohol abuse and programs to reduce his risk of reoffending Photo: Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOSEmerging midfielder Ryan Teague is ready to fill the huge shoes of injured Socceroos star Jackson Irvine in Australia's cut-throat World Cup qualifiers All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueIrvine confirmed this week a foot fracture had ended his season with both FC St The 32-year-old joins central defender Harry Souttar Jordy Bos and Riley McGree on the sidelines for crunch World Cup qualifiers with Japan in Perth on June 5 and Saudi Arabia in Jeddah on June 11 The brilliant Irvine has been a mainstay under Tony Popovic doing the grunt work in midfield while also pushing forward to score crucial goals is hungry for more and wants to step up as the Socceroos seek to secure a spot in next year's World Cup "Obviously Jacko is such a big player for the team and it just opens up another opportunity for anyone "There's no guarantees in terms of who plays and I'll just try and put myself in the best position to be selected "I try to go into each game with the same mindset of being composed not trying to let the occasion get the best of me no matter if it's for the Socceroos or if it's for Melbourne Victory or for whoever - (I) go with the same mentality." Australia are three points clear of Saudi Arabia in their World Cup qualifying group meaning a victory over Japan would all but seal automatic qualification Teague has had an interrupted month at Victory because of an ankle issue with Popovic noting this week he was yet to hit the "high" standard he had shown against China But the Socceroos mentor clearly rates the 23-year-old about to enter the A-League Men finals and has ambitions of playing overseas The clash in China was a promising start to Ryan Teague's international career He doesn't get fazed by anything," Popovic said "I didn't even need to or want to speak to him before the game and just went out and executed and was confident to get on the ball which helped us a lot to really silence the crowd in the first half (of the 2-0 win over China) "So him getting on the ball and controlling the tempo played a big part in that performance and result." Teague played under Popovic last season and was crucial in Victory's run to the grand final He was adamant his relationship with Popovic wouldn't impact his selection chances and is firmly focused on taking Victory forward it comes down to me and how I play and perform," he said I don't get the opportunity to perform at the Socceroos." Photo: Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOSFletcher Sharpe has credited conversations with Andrew Johns for helping instil the confidence he's needed in his switch to five-eighth at Newcastle All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueSharpe had his best game since moving from the outside backs to the halves as the Knights pumped South Sydney 30-4 at Magic Round on Saturday afternoon helping to dispel doubts over the Knights' ability to rely on Sharpe and halfback Jack Cogger for points All the best of Sharpe's game was on show at Suncorp Stadium: his confidence to play off the cuff Sharpe said the greatest halfback of modern times Johns had been helping him find his feet in the halves - including on game day ahead of the win over Souths Fletcher Sharpe (R) credits help from legend Andrew Johns for his increased confidence (Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOS)"He's the best halfback to play the game so to have his confidence is pretty special." It's a message that has been reiterated by Knights coach Adam O'Brien and his offsiders "The coaching staff's been really good on telling me to back my first instinct "'Adzie' said to me at the start of the year The Knights scored only 36 points across their five consecutive losses prior to the Souths game but O'Brien stuck solid with Sharpe and Cogger rather than recall out-of-favour halfback Jackson Hastings Sharpe said criticism of the halves' creativity was "part of the game" when results were lacklustre you're always going to cop a bit of that," he said we've been confident in what we're doing." Knights captain Kalyn Ponga suggested those doubting Sharpe would do well to consider his age The young gun has played only 20 games so far I think we're all sort of forgetting that as well It's only his second year in the NRL and it's not a position he's familiar with," Ponga said he puts himself in good positions through effort He's still learning that position both on the defensive side and the attack side Photo: Sarah Rhodes/AAP PHOTOSCome down for air All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLong admired for its fresh air the island state has been officially recognised for its sustainability credentials The city of Launceston has been named the national winner of Keep Australia Beautiful's Tidy Towns Award The honour recognises sustainability efforts in regional and rural Australia environmental innovation and community engagement Launceston has been lauded for its environmental and social works (Sarah Rhodes/AAP PHOTOS)Launceston was announced the winner at a ceremony in Beechworth "This award isn't just about one town - it's a celebration of every community working to build a cleaner kinder future and we're proud to support that mission," Keep Australia Beautiful's chief executive Val Southam said the Tidy Towns Awards show the best of regional Australia - not just in sustainability but in spirit "These winners show that when locals come together with purpose Ikuntji in the Northern Territory and the Pilbara towns of Port Hedland and South Hedland in Western Australia were the other finalists Launceston's Rocherlea Action Project was singled out for its community work 1.7 tonnes of waste and three tonnes of scrap metal from the region The volunteer group brings residents together for regular clean-up days barbecue breakfasts and children's activities to foster connection Launceston has previously been named Australia's town of the year and most livable regional city (Sarah Rhodes/AAP PHOTOS)More than 4000 volunteers were involved in community environmental heritage and cultural projects across the six finalist cities and towns "Regional towns are stepping up in powerful ways," Ms Southam said "They're not just protecting their environments - they're showing what's possible when resilience purpose and local leadership come together for a better future." During earlier rounds of Tidy Towns voting mayor Matthew Garwood hailed the recognition of Launceston's environmental and social initiatives as an "incredible honour" "This Council is committed to doing whatever we can to help ensure our beautiful region is protected now and into the future," he said "I'd like to take this opportunity to thank our dedicated staff who've worked so hard to make these projects what they are and Keep Australia Beautiful for recognising us in this way." Photo: AP PHOTOBritish Prime Minister Keir Starmer flagged during a phone call to congratulate Anthony Albanese on his historic election victory that he would shortly dispatch a top defence adviser to Australia to discuss the AUKUS submarine program All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueStarmer spoke to Albanese on Sunday morning after the Australian leader won a second term in government "Australia and the UK have a strong and enduring friendship and the prime minister said he looked forward to working with Prime Minister Albanese in the years to come including through increased trade and economic security for working people in both countries," a Downing Street spokesperson said including shared support for Ukraine and agreed to "increase ambition" on the AUKUS submarine program Starmer said he would ask his AUKUS adviser to travel to Australia in the coming weeks to discuss the programme further AUKUS is a trilateral naval security alliance between Australia Australia is set to acquire three Virginia-class submarines from the US in the early 2030s before a new fleet of boats is built for delivery from the 2040s But the US is behind in its production of the boats needed the American president can sink the deal if his navy's capabilities are at risk US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth in February said the president supported supported the $368 billion deal after Australia made an $800 million down payment for the plan to acquire nuclear-powered submarines Albanese also had phone conversations with other world leaders on Sunday including Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy Photo: AP PHOTOBrazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro says he expects to be discharged from hospital soon and may attend a rally backing a proposed amnesty for supporters All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue"After three weeks at 10am (1300 GMT)," the 70-year-old wrote in a post on social media platform X his medical team had said his release was expected "in the coming days" after major abdominal surgery in April to treat an intestinal obstruction My next challenge: joining the Peaceful March for Humanitarian Amnesty on Wednesday Bolsonaro was hospitalised for his sixth surgery related to a 2018 stabbing that left lasting injuries He was admitted to a hospital in Brasilia after experiencing severe abdominal pain during a political event in Brazil's northeast That cut short a tour aimed at drumming up support for the amnesty initiative targeting those convicted over the January 2023 riots after his narrow election loss to leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in 2022 Brazil's Supreme Court ruled that Bolsonaro should stand trial for allegedly plotting to overturn the election result All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAn elated crowd filling out the brightly lit function room in Canterbury-Hurlstone RSL roared for the Foreign Minister as she strode onto the stage thank you for believing in Labor," Senator Wong bellowed to a crowd which needed little encouragement They had been waiting for Mr Albanese to arrive for some time Now they were at the peak, spilling out in a sea of red, welcoming their new Prime Minister Cheers had erupted in the function room early and often and as the night progressed past 8pm a sense of nervous caution upheld by Labor staffers and supporters right up until the end was abandoned and Mr Albanese will be the first prime minister to win back-to-back elections since John Howard An emotional Anthony Albanese greets supporters as he arrives to give his victory speech on Saturday night Picture AAPThe sense of history was not lost on the crowd Albo!," rang out the chant around the room as the victorious Prime Minister made his way to the podium Mr Albanese's first act was to grasp the hands of his son Nathan the crowd had booed and waved as Mr Dutton delivered his concession speech both acknowledging the party's loss and his own to Labor's Ali France in the seat of Dickson But Mr Albanese chided his supporters when hearing the jeering in the crowd delivered with a sense of victory and charged with self-belief "It is with a deep sense of humility and a profound sense of responsibility that the first thing that I do tonight is to say 'thank you' to the people of Australia for the chance to continue to serve the best nation on Earth," he told supporters," he said the Australian people have voted for Australian values: for fairness "Australians have voted for a future that holds true to these values a future built on everything that brings us together." Mr Albanese struggled to fish his Medicare card out of his pocket but this was quickly washed away by the eruption of support for the Prime Minister's signature move But it was his promise to new Labor voters that will carry him forward tomorrow "So many Australians who have voted Labor for the first time," Mr Albanese said repaying your trust will drive our government each and every day of the next three years." Miriam Webber is a federal politics and public sector reporter, with an interest in integrity, transparency and accountability in government. She has been a member of the federal political bureau since 2023, and previously worked as the city reporter. Reach her at miriam.webber@canberratimes.com.au Photo: Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOSDisbelief and elation have rippled through a sea of red as Labor supporters welcomed their prime minister after an emphatic election win All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAn uproarious ovation shook Sydney's inner-west when Anthony Albanese took to the stage for his victory speech on Saturday night "This is a time of profound opportunity for our nation," he said "We have everything we need to seize this opportunity and make it our own." Winners are grinners: the Labor election night reception has turned into a party (Dean Lewins/AAP PHOTOS)Tears burst from the party faithful when barely two hours into the east coast vote count The result made Mr Albanese one of the first prime ministers in recent history to win back-to-back elections Most supporters could not believe their eyes with shouts of "this is crazy" and "this is wild" spreading through the crowd at the Canterbury-Hurlstone Park RSL who has been part of Mr Albanese's Labor branch for two decades the victory pave the way open the doors for a new era Hurlstone Park RSL Club is a sea of happy red shirt-wearing Labor supporters (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)A particularly pointed sense of schadenfreude was reserved for Opposition Leader Peter Dutton who became the third federal party leader in Australian history to lose his seat Jeers coursed through the room as Mr Dutton appeared on screen to give his concession speech And when some supporters tried to boo his name during Mr Albanese's victory speech Mr Dutton's Labor replacement Ali France was an inspiration to 53-year-old nurse Sabrina Sharp "This is the best day of my life," she told AAP Oscar Thompson could not contain his joy as results came in (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)With pollsters tipping in Labor's favour many supporters went into the evening with a cautious sense of optimism the mood and the seats shifted slowly and then all at once "This is the most overstimulated I've felt my entire life," the 17-year-old told AAP The prime minister watched the results roll in from Kirribilli House with his partner Jodie Haydon and son Nathan Photo: Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOSAnthony Albanese has pledged unity in his second term as more Labor MPs are elected to parliament in a decisive victory for his government All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLabor stormed home to victory in the federal election in an emphatic landslide reducing the coalition to one of their worst performances at the polls and losing their own leader in the process Spending the day after the election in his inner-western Sydney electorate of Grayndler Mr Albanese pledged he would lead a unified government The prime minister has promised to 'work hard each and every day' serving the nation (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)"The Australian people voted for unity rather than division," he told reporters on Sunday He later spent time with party volunteers at a brewery alongside his fiancee Jodie Haydon and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles Labor won 86 seats in the 150-seat House of Representatives claiming a larger majority than their first term in office The coalition has been consigned to just 39 seats with its lowest primary vote on record since the party's formation The Greens are also yet to claim any seats teal independents held on to claim a second term with the potential of more to join their ranks including Nicolette Boele in the Sydney seat of Bradfield Labor picked up several coalition seats in QLD including Dickson (Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS)Labor has increased its majority through substantial swings across all states picking up marginal seats and formerly coalition strongholds Among the significant wins for Labor was Peter Dutton's electorate of Dickson as he became the first opposition leader to lose his seat at an election Labor's Ali France won the seat in her third time contesting the electorate booting Mr Dutton out of parliament after a 24-year career Mr Albanese expressed sympathy for Mr Dutton following the election outcome and it would have been a tough night for Peter." The outgoing Liberal leader said he would take full responsibility for the election loss as the coalition looks to rebuild "We didn't do well enough during this campaign that much is obvious," Mr Dutton told party supporters in Brisbane on Saturday Peter Dutton lost his seat and his job after a strong swing away from the coalition (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)Liberal Deputy Leader Sussan Ley said last night was a very difficult night for her party and it was reflecting on the results with humility our thoughts are also with many Liberal colleagues who have lost their seats indeed all 150 candidates who ran for the Liberal and National parties across the country," Ms Ley said Treasurer Jim Chalmers said Mr Albanese will go down in history as a Labor hero following the result Dr Chalmers says Labor's historic election win was beyond 'our most optimistic expectations' (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)"This was beyond even our most optimistic expectations," he told ABC's Insiders program on Sunday Soul searching would soon begin for the coalition as they begin the process of electing a new leader who is on track to lose his Victorian seat of Menzies after one term "It was clear our party has an issue in urban Australia so we need to turn our mind to that like we have never done before," he said "We need to really dig deep and think about who we are and who we fight for and who makes up Australia." Nationals leader David Littleproud said Labor had run the stronger campaign which made it hard to prosecute the case for a coalition government Photo: Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOSBrisbane defender Noah Answerth is bracing for his schoolyard scraps with Gold Coast's Ben Long to resume in a heated clash of Queensland's AFL rivals All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAnswerth's second-placed Lions host the third-placed Suns on Sunday night with the premiership backman likely to come across Long The pair first played each other at school in Melbourne - Answerth at Caulfield Grammar and Long at Melbourne Grammar I played against him when I was at school as well," Answerth told reporters on Thursday "It's funny how careers can go up and down but they sort of work themselves out when you get the opportunity - he has taken it this year." Daniel Rioli (L) and Ben Long's (R) Suns are in top form ahead of taking on the Lions (Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOS)Long has booted 14 goals in six games this season proving a potent foil for tall timber Ben King and the emerging Jed Walter "He's he's playing really good footy - and he always was going to play good footy just getting that run at it and a bit of consistency," Answerth said "It will be a tough challenge going up against him .. he was tough back then and he's tough now." Brisbane's premiership defence has started with a smooth 6-1 record while the Suns appear a genuine threat of making the finals for the first time The rise of Gold Coast (5-1) under second-year coach Damien Hardwick adds further spice to the rivalry of the Queensland clubs ahead their latest encounter at the Gabba "You always go in thinking it's going to be one of the hardest games you play in the year They're going to come out and play hard and so are we just because they're going better it doesn't change much "It's just going to be harder for us and a game that we want to win pretty badly." so a grassroots charity is sending a lifeline to women in country Australia grieving the loss of a child All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueConnecting Mothers In Grief a not-for-profit started by Karen Shuster and Karol Barac is marking Bereaved Mother's Day on May 4 and extending free support to mums across the country Connecting Mothers In Grief founders Karol Barac and Karen Shuster Picture supplied"Most of us don't really know what to do with ourselves on [Mother's Day] Most of our family doesn't know what to do with us either," Ms Shuster said "Bereaved Mother's Day is a day to honour the lives of our children and our heavy hearts," Ms Barac said Around 200 women are involved in the charity meeting regularly to share their complex experiences with grief and to offer friendship and understanding to other mums and it's about holding space that there isn't out there," Ms Barac said "Especially for the mothers in regional areas where the services are very limited," she said Two online meetings are held by the group each month to give regional mums an opportunity to meet and chat "Grief must be witnessed to be processed," Ms Shuster said it's just going to keep building up in us." Ms Shuster and Ms Barac found solace in each other when they met in 2023 through an international bereaved mothers group "Karol's daughter died suddenly and very tragically but our loss is very similar," Ms Shuster said The pair found they had a unique understanding of each other through their shared experience and to come together in a community and be able to be in each other's presence without having to explain it normalises what we're all feeling," Ms Barac said Ms Shuster and Ms Barac are holding a fundraiser with bereaved mother and women's advocate Rosie Batty on May 4 at Melbourne Yacht Squadron. In addition to the bimonthly meetings, the charity is also running a free, online six-week early grief program from June. Support is available for those who may be distressed: Photo: Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOSThe Magic Round clash between the Sydney Roosters and the Dolphins is more than just an NRL game - it honours the late and great Arthur Beetson All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBeetson who won premierships at the Roosters (1974  was also a prescient thinker about the game He wrote in his autobiography that his great wish was for the two clubs to play each other in the NRL He didn't get to see it in his lifetime but his contribution to both has been immortalised by the Artie Legacy Medal awarded for man of the match each time the sides clash Dolphins enforcer Felise Kaufusi and Roosters backs Billy Smith and Sam Walker have been the three recipients to date Roosters centre Billy Smith won the Artie Legacy Medal at Allianz Stadium in 2023 (Mark Evans/AAP PHOTOS)Former Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett said at the club's presentation night in 2023 that the 28-18 win over the Roosters in the club's inaugural match was invaluable in setting the new franchise on its way to success was one of Beetson's dearest friends and played with him at the Roosters and Redcliffe Ahead of Friday night's showdown at Suncorp Stadium he dissected the Beetson legacy "I thought about Arthur when we won our first game against the Roosters He would have been so thrilled to see the event and his old Redcliffe boys prevail," Jones told AAP He had a real close connection to Redcliffe because it was a launching pad for his career when he played in our first ever BRL premiership-winning side in 1965 "He also had  a strong tie with the Roosters both as a player and coach It was there he became the premier front-rower in the game ...ever "In the lead-up to the first game everyone was talking about the Roosters as premiership favourites and us as wooden spooners We were inspired by Felise Kaufusi in particular who sorted a few Roosters boys out "For us to play the Roosters was something Arthur always had a vision for and believed in." Arthur Beetson starred for the Dolphins during his time as captain-coach in 1981 (Nrl Imagery/AAP PHOTOS)Beetson finished his playing career at Redcliffe where he was captain-coach in 1981 He  played alongside Jones after previously recruiting him to the Roosters "Arthur took me down there and he was held in such high regard by the community and club and everywhere '"At Redcliffe in 1981 his drawing power was unbelievable He had people just wanting to be where he was We won reserve grade and third grade and probably should have won the first grade."By 1965 he had played his first two years with us in the centres He got moved into the second-row with five games to go in 1965 by (coach) Henry Holloway and it was a masterstroke We won the comp and he went to Sydney as a forward "Getting a chance to go from Redcliffe to Sydney with him was something unimaginable for a youngster from Gunnedah Dolphins winger Jack Bostock will play on Friday night and is determined to do Beetson proud Photo: Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOSThe prime minister has cast the only vote he can truly control as voting enters its final hours to decide who governs the nation All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueVolunteers a media pack and local voters surrounded Anthony Albanese at Marrickville West Public School when he joined the millions of Australians who submitted their ballot on Saturday amid cake stalls and sausage sizzles Mr Albanese took his place in a booth next to his son Nathan and spent less than a minute filling in his paper the prime minister exuded confidence in his home electorate of Grayndler He turned to photographers before dropping the green and white ballots in their respective boxes who almost cast his vote in the wrong box before the prime minister intervened Mr Albanese has remained determine to campaign until polls close at 6pm and visited another voting centre in the neighbouring electorate of Reid in his last appearance before the count begins We will wait and see what the outcome is," Mr Albanese said "We should be proud we live in a vibrant democracy and everyone gets one vote Anthony Albanese scooped up his dog Toto after casting his vote writing a "1" next to his own name in his electorate the prime minister joined fiancee Jodie Haydon and his dog Toto on the way out while Greens volunteers yelled "ceasefire now" in Mr Albanese's direction with one young Australian attempting to start an "Albo" chant the cavoodle got caught in the crossfire and let out a piercing yelp as it was accidentally stepped on Mr Albanese has held the inner-city Sydney electorate since 1996 and it now sits on a 17.3 per cent margin over the Greens broader election polling has kept Labor on its toes as a turn towards third parties and independents opens the possibility of a minority government Ready for the big game: Anthony Albanese started election day at the MCG (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)The prime minister started his day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground before visiting a polling booth in the city's east and heading to Sydney with more than 70 stops across every state and territory An estimated 10 million people are expected to cast their ballot on election day More than seven million had already voted during the two-week pre-poll period where the ALP election night party was ramping up All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLocal branch members crowded around the livestreamed results wearing "Team Albo" shirts and sipping cans of Albo pale ale The mood had changed in a matter of minutes as results began to swell in showing very early signs of promise for Labor "I'm nervous but optimistic," Jess Martin said "I was on the booths in Singapore in 2019 and the anticipation was very exciting then and we're all a bit scarred from it I think." signs of an early swing towards Labor in Peter Dutton's seat of Dickson were broadcast to the elation of those gathered in the brightly lit function room quite good results so far," Max Pearce said "Handing out [flyers] at shopping centres has been more positive than earlier in the year and probably more positive than the last election." and just past 7pm the event MC addressed the crowd with a few house rules Labor supporters react to early election results at the Labor Election Night function in Sydney I have a feeling we're going to get even happier," she said Supporters said they would be hanging around for the prime minister regardless of how things panned out with the Prime Minister to make a speech at the RSL club once a result was clear Mr Albanese appeared confident as he stood before the cameras delivering carefully rehearsed lines to each of the respective hosts In his earpiece, he could hear the prerecorded words of his opponent, Peter Dutton and laughed that the Coalition leader was using a lot of footy puns his team had done the maths and woven together another theme for his polling day messages Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the morning of election day 2025 Pictures AAP"Something like 140 MCGs worth will get tax cuts because all 14 million Australians will get that," he said "There's been 600,000 Australians [who] have got free TAFE His only stumble came on the figures for urgent-care clinics but it only elicited a minor wince from the Prime Minister's communications chief 1.3 million Australians have visited an urgent-care clinic Anthony Albanese casts his vote at Marrickville West Public School with his son Mr Albanese reflected on the schools he had visited At Winthrop Primary School in Perth on Tuesday a sea of school students gave the weary Prime Minister a warm welcome which he would later describe as uplifting he reflected that he would like to frame a photo taken at that school capturing the hands of excited children reaching out to him Staged as these moments are, a child's excitement can't be faked, and it's likely that visit helped Mr Albanese summon the final ounce of energy to make it through his last days on the trail. but it is mostly about the uncontrollable factors such as the high number of people who voted early after casting his vote in his electorate of Grayndler he hopped on the media bus to take a ride with journalists it was clear the heavy lifting was behind him All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueIt'll be forged in the critical supply chains of tomorrow. That's why Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's announcement of a $1.2 billion Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve pragmatic policy targeting both supply and demand aspects of Australia critical minerals sector it will shore up Australia's economic and geopolitical interests in the face of the global energy transition if policymakers and industry leaders are serious about delivering sovereign capability they must build durable partnerships and plan for market instability Building a resilient and competitive alternative to China's critical minerals dominance is a global strategic challenge It's a task far bigger than Australia alone can solve sustained co-operation with like-minded partners While calling the announcement visionary may be a stretch it's a crucial addition to Australia's long-term strategy It signals a serious move beyond simply mining and exporting raw materials toward making Australia a reliable supplier of refined The reserve's structure mirrors recommendations made at ASPI's Darwin Dialogue meetings in 2023 and 2024 It'll operate through two key mechanisms: government-backed offtake agreements and selective stockpiling Offtake agreements are already a familiar tool in the mining sector The innovation here is that the Australian government will become the buyer and smoothing market volatility for producers and customers alike Stockpiling will complement this by building reserves of priority minerals to sell strategically into trusted domestic and international markets rather than simply holding resources in reserve support market confidence and direct value chains away from politically coercive actors China's dominance in the global critical minerals sector results from decades of deliberate policy export controls and aggressive price manipulation have created structural dependencies that cannot be overcome through goodwill alone There have been few viable options but selling into Chinese-controlled markets Supply chains that depend overwhelmingly on a single actor particularly one willing to weaponise economic relationships Labor's proposed reserve accepts this reality and offers a practical response Australia cannot assume that action alone will be sufficient The uncertain trajectory of US industrial policy only reinforces the need for Canberra to work harder with Japan pursuing shared downstream investments and integrating offtake arrangements will be essential if Australia and its partners are to create a genuinely diversified and resilient supply chain Genuine engagement with Australian industry leaders who have fought to stay viable in a hostile global market will be equally important Iluka Resources and Arafura Rare Earths have hard-earned experience navigating the commercial technological and political challenges of critical minerals supply market intelligence and risk management lessons will be crucial in shaping a strategic reserve that is commercially realistic and strategically effective These companies know firsthand the difficulties of competing against state-backed Chinese giants that benefit from subsidies they've built capabilities that are globally competitive Ignoring their experience would be a strategic mistake The proposed reserve fits neatly into the broader Future Made in Australia agenda It complements the $7.1 billion in production tax credits designed to reduce production costs and strategic investments in Australia's advanced battery and solar industries demand and value-add is exactly what Australia needs Australia must pursue co-investment strategies with trusted international partners moving beyond simple export models to building integrated supply chains Picture by Anna WarrStrong partnerships with industry will also be essential to scaling up capability and de-risking future investments As will investment into educating and training the necessary workforce The next government should continue to implement critical mineral policy not just as a national security imperative but one that would be seen by the US and other allies as in their interests too The critical minerals sector offers Australia a once-in-a-generation opportunity It is a chance to move beyond the traditional resource economy and lead in enabling the global energy transition and building high-value technology ecosystems The Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve is a smart foundation and a necessary one work with trusted partners and listen to its battle-hardened industry leaders if it's to fully realise this moment's economic and strategic promise Photo: James Ross/AAP PHOTOSEssendon forward Harrison Jones says his horrific-looking ankle/foot injury has turned out better than first feared but it remains to be seen how long he'll be out of action All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueJones Jordan Ridley (hamstring) and Jade Gresham (adductor) were injured on Thursday night in a costly 9.11 (65) to 9.8 (62) victory for the Bombers over North Melbourne The Kangaroos were also left counting the cost with defender Jackson Archer set to miss some eight weeks with a high grade left hamstring strain Jones was taken off on a stretcher and taken to hospital following an awkward landing that put his left ankle at a horror angle Essendon confirmed on Friday night that Jones had suffered a minor fracture in the base of his foot but would not require surgery The 24-year-old was in good spirits when he briefly spoke to the media earlier on Friday to give an update on his situation It's a lot better than it could have been," Jones told reporters I sort of looked down and saw my foot was the other way Jordan Ridley was another Essendon player to be hurt (Michael Errey/AAP PHOTOS)Ridley has had a roller-coaster career with quad and left hamstring injuries but he has also avoided the need for surgery Gresham suffered a low-grade adductor strain and will miss next week's match against Sydney Defender Zach Reid was understandably flat despite the win it doesn't feel like a win in here because of the injuries," Reid told AAP "The first 48 hours is pretty tough and Harry's my housemate "He just headed off to hospital but I'll get around him." Essendon are already without Sam Draper (achilles) Nick Bryan (ACL) and Tom Edwards (ACL) through season-ending injuries Essendon coach Brad Scott has told his team they're facing a test of character (James Ross/AAP PHOTOS)"It's just another test of character," Essendon coach Brad Scott said the hard thing's to measure the intangibles and character's one of those and resilience is another one - and character and resilience really only reveal themselves under adversity and we get an opportunity to stand up again under a bit of pressure "We've had quite a few players in our emergencies multiple weeks in a row Scott can also feel comfortable in skipper Zach Merrett leading the Bombers forward after another best-afield showing "He reminds me so much of Nathan Buckley in his will to win "The other part of his game that has developed enormously is his leadership "He's always been a very good player at AFL level Photo: AP PHOTOPrince Harry's claim that he's the victim of a "stitch-up" after losing a legal challenge over his UK security is "really offensive" All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueKen Wharfe who was a royal protection officer to Harry believes the duke has "played the wrong card" regarding his security Harry can't expect the "all-singing-and-dancing protection" he had in the United Kingdom" when he was a working member of the royal family Ken Wharfe says Harry's allegation of a "stitch-up" is "really offensive" (AP PHOTO)Harry now needs to show some "humility" if he wants to begin talks with his UK family Harry has called for the Home Secretary to review the body that authorises protection for senior royals after he lost a Court of Appeal challenge last week over his security arrangements while in the UK He told the BBC he "can't see a world in which I would be bringing my wife and children back to the UK" But Wharfe says Harry "has really played the wrong card" "I don't see how he can expect to get full protection when he arrived back in the UK when he is no longer a member working the royal family when he knows that the actual security package comes at the expense of the British taxpayer," he told the PA news agency The police have seen it - so where's the problem?" Harry failed in his appeal against the dismissal of his High Court claim against the Home Office over the decision of the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures that he should receive a different degree of protection when in the UK He told the BBC he can only come to the UK safely if he is invited and King Charles could help resolve the situation by "stepping aside and allowing the experts to do what is necessary" that this is a good old-fashioned establishment stitch-up Harry says the decision "is knowingly putting me and my family in harm's way" Wharfe said: "With regards to the stitch-up I think what he should be doing now is actually showing some humility "If a reconciliation is part of what he wants then this is hardly the way to go about reconciling the differences that exist within your family." Harry's level of security changed in 2020 when he and his wife Meghan stepped down as working royals and moved to Canada Anthony Albanese was averaging one baby interaction a day Photo: Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOSBold political moves define campaigns but its the absurdities and pageantry that make them stick in Australians' minds All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEvery three years the election contest forces Australia's top politicians to dip their toes into everyday life - whether going to church eating yum cha or visiting family homes - accompanied by a 30-strong media swarm This often creates the perfect set-up for sitcom-like shenanigans it was Prime Minister Anthony Albanese who set the pace he opted to throw down the gauntlet: cuddling a infant on Opposition Leader Peter Dutton's home turf in Brisbane averaging one baby interaction a day but an oddly arranged stage stalled his momentum When he tried to pose for a photo during a mining union event Mr Albanese put his foot in the wrong place and tumbled offstage drawing a gasp from the crowd as he reached for a nearby arm on the way down Though he quickly found his feet and returned to the upright position 'the fall' would cast a shadow over the rest of the campaign Mr Albanese insisted his tumble involved going down on one leg only (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)Mr Dutton also kicked off a panic early on while trying to fool around with a footy he launched the Sherrin towards the media crew accidentally clocking Network Ten cameraman Ghaith Nadir in the head before realising his victim needed medical attention Phones across Australia soon lit up with news alerts about how the opposition leader had drawn blood Mr Dutton's questionable kicking skills left cameraman Ghaith Nadir a little worse for wear (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)Several major world events threatened to wrench the spotlight from domestic politics with US President Donald Trump announcing his 'Liberation Day' tariffs on islands inhabited by penguins and seals during week one they just opened the door to more political tomfoolery After discussion reignited over whether the prime minister could get Mr Trump on the phone he went down a rabbit hole that ended with the bizarre conclusion the leader of the free world may not own a mobile Shown a picture of billionaire Elon Musk - a confidante of the US president - Mr Dutton called him an "evil genius" before severely underestimating the price of eggs in rapid-fire questions In a contest where the main game is to show how relatable politicians are guessing a dozen eggs costs $4.20 when they retail for $8.50 may not win voters over Anyone know where the eggs are around here (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)Though there are other ways to perform as the 'everyman' After much was made of his dramatic weight-loss prior to the 2022 election Mr Albanese has chosen to stay "off the grog" this campaign and instead indulged two low-sugar Bundaberg beverages a ginger beer and a Farmers Union Iced Coffee in the proud state of South Australia having shown off his biggest smile of the campaign while delicately plucking chocolate ducks for an assorted box before the Easter break and pouring beers for two-up players on Anzac Day The campaign show is a careful balancing act that requires characters to display strength while being willing to lower their defences and speak from the heart Mr Dutton was keen to be involved in the done thing on Anzac Day (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)Mr Dutton has maintained a monopoly on traditionally masculine displays of strength and pumped petrol for 16 different vehicles across every state The opposition leader has tried to cast off his "hard man" image rolling out his son Harry to tell the press about difficulties young people face in the housing market Questions soon arose over whether he would let his son tap into the bank of mum and dad given he had amassed a sizeable property portfolio over the decades and he eventually admitted he would help his kids Mr Albanese preferred not to bring his family into discussions and showed his softer side by cooing at toddlers high-fiving excited children or picking up dogs Hi-fiving the PM in the playground was seemingly all the rage (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)But no matter how many photo opportunities they did neither leader could stop journalists needling them At one point Mr Dutton was forced to address campaign missteps almost once a week He back-pedalled on threats to end public servants' work-from-home arrangements admitted his mistake after a misunderstanding about Russian warplanes in Indonesia clarified a decision to end electric vehicle tax breaks after mis-hearing a question and walked back threats to change the curriculum in response to the "indoctrination" of children denied he had fallen down and weeks later continued to insist "just one leg went down" Hecklers across the political spectrum have also hounded the leaders Anthony Albanese always had a cuddle for the nearest pooch (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)The prime minister was interrupted at least eight times during the campaign while environment group Rising Tide heckled Mr Dutton twice in one day and NSW south coast unionists dressed up in hazmat suits to protest his nuclear energy policy Even the smallest slight blew up on the national stage The air-kiss of death took the spotlight when the prime minister and Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek came together for an embrace at Labor's campaign launch before clasping each other's hands and performing a long-distance peck Mr Dutton's media bus became the subject of ridicule after it beached on a bike lane divider requiring a team of photographers and cameramen to free the vehicle an awkward shot of Liberal Kooyong candidate Amelia Hamer wide-eyed and staring into the void alongside a grimacing Mr Dutton drew comparisons to Old Testament depictions painted by Baroque artists (James Brickwood/AAP PHOTOS)And as the time ticked down to Saturday's election the prime minister again looked to the dogs for advice who belonged to the crew of the Robin and Kip with Corey Oates radio show were asked to choose between two plates of treats: red for Labor echoing the predictions of human pollsters Photo: HANDOUT/INCATPowered by more than 250 tonnes of batteries and with the ability to carry 2100 passengers Hull 096 has been hailed as one of Australia's greatest exports All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe 130m-long vessel officially launched in Hobart by shipbuilder Incat on Friday is the world's largest battery-electric ship It was commissioned by South American ferry operator Buquebus and will take people "I've been in the marine business for nearly 70 years This is the biggest moment in that 70-year history," Incat chairman and founder Bob Clifford said which will sail under the name China Zorrilla - a Uruguayan actress - was "one of the most significant export achievements in Australian history" it will feature the largest retail shopping space on any ferry It carries a 40-megawatt energy storage system and will charge via ports on each side of the River Pate The ferry will operate in South America and carry the name of Uruguayan actress China Zorrilla (Ethan James/AAP PHOTOS)Mr Clifford said it could charge as quickly as 40 minutes depending on the availability of electricity This technology is good for 50-100 miles," he said Construction of Hull 096 was made possible by a $60 million low-interest commercial loan provided through the Tasmanian Development Board The vessel will have the biggest retail space of any ferry and enough room for 225 vehicles (Ethan James/AAP PHOTOS)It will undergo further fit outs and is expected to be put through sea trials in Hobart's River Derwent by the end of 2025 Premier Jeremy Rockliff said Tasmania had long been a leader in maritime innovation "Incat's latest achievement is a testament to our state's world-class shipbuilding capabilities and proud seafaring heritage," he said Mr Clifton said Incat had expansion plans and companies the China Zorrilla will have sea trials at the end of 2025 (HANDOUT/INCAT)There were 10 larger ships "in the works" "Within five years I would seriously hope to be building four ships a year I think that's only the beginning," he said we are leading the world with this type of lightweight ship."  All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueTasmania I'm about halfway into a five-day stint on the federal election campaign travelling with the Labor contingent to follow the Prime Minister around the country as he makes his pitch for another term as leader in what will end up being seven plane trips between eight cities before the week is done Brittney Levinson was on the campaign trail with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese Keegan CarrollSwitching my phone off aeroplane mode A "Welcome to Launceston" message pops up from Uber but I won't be needing to hitch a ride-share There's already a coach waiting to take the journalists and camera crews to the next location Launceston is one of three cities I'll visit in one day a fairly standard schedule for a journalist on the campaign Picture by Brittney LevinsonJournalists from all different news outlets join the trail for varying stints although some weary souls are on board for the entire five-week campaign to follow Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to a Labor volunteer barbecue lasts about one hour before we're back on a plane It's these parts of the campaign that are very much made for television the staged event is simply a photo and TV opportunity; the Prime Minister takes no questions from reporters But they're also a chance to observe the leader in the environment, talk to people on the fringes and catch some of the unplanned chaos that can arise, like protests the Prime Minister gets surrounded by journalists Picture by Brittney LevinsonDuring a pic fac in the electorate of Banks the Prime Minister struggles to make his way through the large press pack and volunteers at the pre-polling booth Mr Albanese manages to stop to hold a baby but his visit is cut short after a NSW Senate candidate begins heckling him shouts "There is blood on your hands!" and "What do you have to say to Palestinian Australians?" before the Prime Minister is whisked away into a waiting car Prime Minister Anthony Albanese struggles through the press pack in Sydney's south-west Picture by Brittney LevinsonLocal couple Darrell and Joan Schofield are on their way to cast an early vote when they come across the bewildering scene They're in even more disbelief when they realise the Prime Minister is standing directly across the street from them The Prime Minister's security detail remains close by at these events and can include up to five or six bodyguards at any one time They follow Mr Albanese to his press conferences too which usually happen once a day alongside a policy or funding announcement There's an unspoken agreement between reporters that the first couple of questions are relevant to the announcement before they fire off any other questions relevant to their audience Photographers on the Labor campaign trail quickly check their shots before the bus moves on Picture by Brittney LevinsonTravelling with the journalists are also a handful of Labor staffers who do their best to keep the press pack well-fed and corral the group on and off buses broadcast journalists are often required to do live crosses from their seats while radio reporters can be heard recording voice-overs from underneath the makeshift soundproofing of their suit jackets Travel sickness medication can be a necessity for print and digital journalists who use every possible moment of transit to file stories and blog posts As we retire to the hotel rooms that the Labor team has booked for us (but paid for by our employers) a message with tomorrow's schedule arrives from the staffers just strict times for bag drop (often before 7am) when the bus or plane will be leaving and rough flight durations A Sky News reporter broadcasts live from the Labor campaign bus Picture by Brittney LevinsonMystery chartered flights also all paid for by individual news organisations usually separate from the main city airports and the pilots are careful not to mention the destination as they make announcements over the loudspeaker It's never explicitly said why the flights and bus trips are so secretive but it's safe to assume that not wanting to tip off the opposition and protestors are big considerations There's probably a conversation to be had about the kilometres that are travelled by the leaders their staffers and the trailing press packs and whether the benefits of these journeys justify the emissions the campaign trail is the closest they'll get in three years to the leaders of the major parties to interrogate their policies and get real-time answers (not carefully worded written responses from a "spokesperson" after a three-day wait) on matters voters care most about Do you have questions about how the campaign trail works? Leave them in the comments below or contact brittney.levinson@canberratimes.com.au Brittney is part of the federal political bureau, covering politics, the public service and economics. Brittney joined The Canberra Times in 2021 and was previously the property reporter. Got a news tip? Get in touch: brittney.levinson@canberratimes.com.au Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOSStar New Zealand goalshooter Grace Nweke has produced yet another dazzling display to help lead the NSW Swifts to a 71-63 win over the Queensland Thunderbirds at Ken Rosewall Arena All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueScores were level at half-time of Sunday's Super Netball match but the Swifts broke the contest open with a 23-13 third quarter to improve their season record to a perfect 4-0 The 23-year-old shot 148 goals across her first three games for the Swifts "I'm learning on the job and really enjoying it," Nweke told Fox Sports I think it's a pretty standard game for me Just wanting to be a bit better in that regard "I feel like I was available to the ball and pretty accurate with my shots Nweke has been working on her movement in order to become a more complete player "I'm not wanting to be a one-trick pony," she said "I want to be able to diversify my skill sets and know that in moments where I need to change up what I'm doing Swifts wing attack Paige Hadley was also a powerhouse earning player of the match honours for her 32 feeds and just one turnover "I was just so in the moment," Hadley said I'm really proud of the girls in that third quarter Firebirds goalshooter Mary Cholhok led the way for the visitors with 42 goals from 50 attempts Photo: Xavier La Canna/AAP PHOTOSThere could be something fishy going on with the green claims slapped on tins of tuna All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePromises of "responsibly-sourced" and "planet-friendly" on cans of the go-to source of cheap protein are not always backed up with evidence The findings of the Marine Stewardship Council-commissioned study cast light on the way brands communicate to consumers rather than their actual efforts to avoid bycatch and source fish from healthy populations the commercial tuna fishing industry has made inroads on environmental performance with more than half the tuna caught and sold in supermarkets worldwide wearing the international not-for-profit's sustainability badge lead researcher at the University of Tasmania said the industry was at the start of a "healthy discussion" about clear and direct eco-labelling More than half the tuna caught and sold in supermarkets features a sustainability badge (HANDOUT/Australian Marine Conservation Society)All businesses are under pressure to prove they are not making misleading environmental claims as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission cracks down on the widespread practice known as 'green-washing' Assoc Prof Daugaard said imprecise or opaque wording was fairly common across the 14 brands he assessed against ACCC guidelines for businesses hoping to avoid accusations of green deceit At the other end of the spectrum was the use of scientific terms consumers struggled to understand Brands that scored highest relied on concrete clear phrases such as "line-caught to reduce bycatch" on their labels What separated the top performers from the rest was evidence to support claims with brands getting around lack of space on packaging with third-party certification markers QR codes and website links were also used to provide more detailed information about supply chains then that's where the ACCC is saying 'it could well just be a greenwash'," Assoc Prof Daugaard told AAP Walker's Tuna and Safcol emerged as leaders for their credible and clear packaging communication John West was among those brands acknowledged for credible and clear packaging (Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS)Even the best examples failed to execute on one of the ACCC's more aspirational asks calling on brands to communicate their future plans to become more sustainable as a business "It's a very interesting area of almost pushing the brands to new levels of norms of what is expected by consumers," Assoc Prof Daugaard said Marine Stewardship Council Oceania program director Anne Gabriel said the report underscored the need for clearer sustainability messaging and evidence to support claims "Every purchasing and sourcing decision is a chance to protect our oceans and secure a healthier future for people and planet," she said with one in four Australians eating more than they were two years ago convenience and affordability were common reasons cited by consumers for eating more of the tinned fish Photo: Diego Fedele/AAP PHOTOSPolls have closed across eastern states and the count has begun to determine the make up of Australia's next federal parliament All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAfter a five-week campaign results will be soon be known for who will lead the nation for the next three years Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will watch the vote count come in from Sydney while Opposition Leader Peter Dutton will spend election night in his home city of Brisbane Labor has been ahead in the polls throughout the campaign with a second term in office in their sights but the coalition is hoping to defy history and claim a miracle win The coalition is looking to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat opinion polls have predicted (Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS)A hung parliament where neither party claim the 76 seats needed to form majority government is also touted as a possibility on election night Labor sent out text messages to voters during polling day about the Greens' decision to not preference Labor in the ultra-marginal Victorian seat of Deakin "Preferences are critical in keeping Dutton out and this decision by Adam Bandt will put in jeopardy Labor forming government," the text message reads Canberrans took advantage of the city's democratic heritage by voting at Old Parliament House Kooyong MP Monique Ryan was being stopped by a journalist when a bird in a tree pooped on her Millions of voters interrupted their regular Saturday activities to cast their ballots (Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS)The Liberals are desperate to wrest the seat back from the teal independent which was previously held by former treasurer Josh Frydenberg a twist was added to the treats on offer in addition to the beloved democracy sausage eClair Chandlers and Brown's Brownies have made cake stall appearances as part of the fun Creative cake stalls have popped up all around the country including a sign in Sydney "Make Australia Bake Again" and the "Crumpet of Patriots" Polling booth cake stall were creative with their offerings on election day (Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS)In Western Australia which was crucial to delivering Mr Albanese his 2022 election win independent MP Kate Chaney is fighting to hang onto her marginal seat of Curtin Casting her vote at a primary school in Perth's wealthier suburbs "The major parties are deeply threatened by the idea of a parliament that actually holds them to account," she told reporters the constant media scrutiny and the personal attacks .. this is the reason more people don't want to go into politics." Mr Albanese is aiming to become the first prime minister since 2004 to win back-to-back elections while Mr Dutton fights to overcome history as the first leader since 1931 to unseat a government after one term Anthony Albanese and son Nathan voted together in the prime minister's Sydney electorate (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)Speaking at the MCG in Melbourne earlier on Saturday the prime minister said Labor was after the "holy grail" of winning back-to-back elections Treasurer Jim Chalmers urged Australians to vote for stability in a period of global uncertainty "We are so grateful for the opportunity that the people of Australia have given us and we seek another term with humility," he said The final YouGov poll before election day shows Labor in the box seat to form majority government has Labor ahead 52.2 per cent to 47.8 per cent on a two-party preferred basis Mr Albanese also leads Mr Dutton 51 per cent to 34 per cent as preferred prime minister Labor went into election day with 78 seats while the coalition had 57 in the 150-seat House of Representatives Photo: Stephanie Gardiner/AAP PHOTOSForget cake Marie Antoinette is perfectly content grazing pasture All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueShe's a queen among the herd of 150 alpacas at Forestglen Alpaca Stud on the picturesque plains of Millthorpe in central western NSW a newborn named for the surprising splashes of chocolate brown and white on her fleece while Talk To Me has just given birth to a snowy white girl called Rumour Has It The curious creatures appear to kiss their young and affectionately nuzzle each other on their long necks while quietly feeding in the afternoon sun Alpacas boast unique fleece, sustainable qualities and cheeky character. (Stephanie Gardiner/AAP PHOTOS)The stud, managed by Jennie Carey and her daughter Alexandra Staples, was established in the early 1990s soon after Australia's first flocks of alpacas were imported from South America Ms Carey's mother Maureen began alpaca showing and breeding after spotting the exotic animals at a field day She was besotted with their "big beautiful eyes" and adorable babies "It was love at first sight and the love affair has never really finished," she said The Australian Alpaca Association is hoping the nation's consumers will be wooed by the woolly animals too The industry is celebrating its 35th year with National Alpaca Week from May 10 complete with a campaign encouraging people to buy products made from the unique fleece said alpaca fibre has many appealing qualities it has a silky feel to it and a natural lustre that is hard to replicate," Mr Fallon said Goodness Gracious is known for her surprising splashes of chocolate brown and white. (Stephanie Gardiner/AAP PHOTOS)Australia's alpaca industry was identified by research and development body AgriFutures as an emerging market in 2023 With demand for quality and luxurious fibres here and overseas the industry has enormous potential to grow The association is working to educate and support small-scale farmers to harvest fleece in a bid to bolster the market Some farmers may only keep a few alpacas - sometimes as pets or as guard animals for other stock - but there is still money to be made in the fibre that's when you start to get better returns," Mr Fallon said Bags of fleece line the shed walls at Forestglen The stud's fleece has won supreme champion at the Sydney Royal Easter Show eight times "Because it lacks the lanolin that sheep wool has Forestglen Alpaca Stud is managed by Jennie Carey and her daughter Alexandra (Stephanie Gardiner/AAP PHOTOS)It's not just the fleece that's magic Alpacas are known to be easier on the land than cattle and sheep allowing pastures to bounce back from grazing and drought they can expertly ward off foxes trying to prey on new lambs Forestglen has sold about 900 alpacas to farmers who use them as guardians Ms Carey trains the alpacas to respond to clapping We care about the protection of your data. 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