Almost 120 flying foxes hospitalised after giant hail smashes Queensland colony

The Australian government has announced a new 'solar sharer' program that will provide households in New South Wales, south-east Queensland, and South Australia with at least three hours of free solar power each day, even for those without solar panels. This initiative is significant as it aims to reduce energy costs for families and promote the use of renewable energy, contributing to a more sustainable future.

The Philippines is preparing for its 20th tropical cyclone of the year as Tropical Cyclone Tino, also known locally as Kalmaegi, approaches. Expected to make landfall by Tuesday, Tino is rapidly intensifying and may reach typhoon status. This situation is significant as it highlights the increasing frequency of severe weather events in the region, raising concerns about safety and preparedness among residents.

A massive crocodile named Old Faithful, measuring over 4 meters, has been relocated to Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo, sparking anger among traditional owners who oppose its removal from a waterhole in far north Queensland. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between wildlife management practices and the rights of Indigenous communities, raising questions about the balance between conservation efforts and respecting local cultural values.

Charities in England are sounding the alarm over a troubling increase in pet abandonment, with the RSPCA reporting a record 22,503 cases last year. This surge is largely attributed to the rising costs of food and veterinary care, which many pet owners, particularly those who adopted during the Covid pandemic, are now struggling to afford. The situation has led to a significant rise in animal rescue callouts, with firefighters responding to more than a quarter of such emergencies in the past five years. This trend highlights the urgent need for support and resources for both pets and their owners.

In today's news, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has decided to maintain the cash rate at 3.6%, despite a recent unexpected rise in inflation. Michele Bullock, the RBA's governor, stated that cutting the rate was not considered at this time. Meanwhile, the opposition Coalition is seizing the opportunity to criticize the government over rising inflation during question time. This situation is significant as it reflects ongoing economic challenges and the government's response to inflationary pressures, which could impact future monetary policy and public sentiment.

The Albanese government has secretly deported two more men to Nauru, including a Sudanese national, which has sparked outrage among human rights advocates. This move raises serious concerns about the treatment of asylum seekers and the transparency of government actions. Advocates argue that such deportations undermine the rights and dignity of individuals seeking refuge, highlighting ongoing tensions in Australia's immigration policies.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is set to visit President Trump on November 18, marking his second visit to the U.S. during Trump's presidency. This meeting is significant as it continues the dialogue between the two leaders, which began with MBS's first trip to Washington in 2017. The visit could have implications for U.S.-Saudi relations and regional stability.

Donna Jean Godchaux-MacKay, the beloved singer known for her powerful backing vocals on iconic tracks like 'Suspicious Minds' and 'When a Man Loves a Woman,' has passed away at the age of 78 due to cancer. Her contributions to the Grateful Dead during the 1970s made her a cherished figure in music history. This loss resonates deeply with fans and musicians alike, as her soulful voice and talent left an indelible mark on the music world.

The Reserve Bank of Australia has decided to maintain the official cash rate at 3.6%, a move that was largely anticipated by financial experts. Major banks are forecasting that there will be no cuts to interest rates until at least 2026. This decision comes amid concerns about rising house prices and rents, which could impact affordability for many Australians. Keeping the rates steady aims to balance economic growth while addressing these housing market challenges.

A severe hailstorm in Queensland has left nearly 120 flying foxes injured, prompting their rescue and hospitalization at the RSPCA wildlife hospital in Brisbane. The bats suffered from serious injuries, including broken wings and facial damage. This incident highlights the impact of extreme weather on wildlife and raises awareness about the need for wildlife rescue efforts in the face of climate change.