Guardian Australia’s Ben Smee joint winner of Queensland journalist of the year award

A crocodile was found lounging in the pool of the Sheraton Mirage in Port Douglas, Queensland, alarming guests and prompting warnings about wildlife safety. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of human-wildlife interactions in popular tourist areas, reminding visitors to remain vigilant and respect local wildlife. The presence of such a reptile in a luxury resort raises concerns about safety and the need for better management of natural habitats near tourist destinations.

A recent investigation by the Guardian reveals that Labour-run councils have issued nearly 200 no-fault eviction notices, despite the party's commitment to ban such practices. This contradiction raises concerns about the integrity of Labour's housing policies and the impact on vulnerable families facing eviction. It highlights the ongoing struggle for housing security and the need for genuine reform in rental laws.

This week, the spotlight shines on Sally Wainwright's captivating drama about women of a certain age who come together to form a punk band, showcasing their resilience and creativity. Additionally, Nina Conti's quirky monkey character has unexpectedly stolen the show, proving that even the most unlikely stars can shine. These highlights from the Guardian's best-rated reviews not only celebrate innovative storytelling but also emphasize the importance of diverse voices in the arts, making it a significant moment in contemporary culture.

The latest cartoon by Edith Pritchett highlights the must-have baby clothes that are taking the parenting world by storm. This playful take on fashion for infants not only showcases trendy styles but also reflects the growing market for unique and stylish baby apparel. As parents increasingly seek out fashionable options for their little ones, this cartoon resonates with the desire for both practicality and style, making it a timely commentary on current trends in baby fashion.

Australia is bracing for an unusual heatwave this October, with temperatures expected to soar into the low to mid 40s across New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia. The Bureau of Meteorology has indicated that these extreme conditions could lead to the breaking of multiple weather records over the weekend. This matters because such high temperatures can have significant impacts on health, agriculture, and the environment, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by climate change.

A recent investigation revealed that Rainforest Reserves Australia, a conservation charity, submitted inquiry documents that referenced nonexistent government authorities and a fictitious windfarm, raising concerns about the credibility of anti-renewables arguments. This matters because it highlights the potential misuse of AI in generating misleading information, which can undermine genuine environmental efforts and public trust in conservation initiatives.

A recent analysis by the Guardian highlights a troubling trend in the United States regarding overdose deaths. While the national statistics show a decline in fatalities, certain regions are experiencing a rise in these tragic incidents. This disparity underscores the ongoing public health crisis and the need for targeted interventions in affected communities. Understanding these geographical differences is crucial for policymakers and health officials as they work to address the overdose epidemic effectively.

Brazil is set to propose a significant increase in the global use of sustainable fuels, including biofuels, at the upcoming Cop30 climate summit. This draft pledge, revealed in a leaked document, aims to quadruple the adoption of these fuels despite ongoing concerns from environmental experts about their impact. The move highlights Brazil's commitment to addressing climate change while navigating the complexities of sustainable energy sources.

The Israeli military has confirmed the identification of Ronen Engel, one of the two deceased hostages returned by Hamas, amidst rising tensions surrounding the Gaza ceasefire. This situation highlights the ongoing conflict and the humanitarian crisis in the region, as disputes over aid access at the Rafah border crossing continue. The identification of hostages underscores the personal tragedies behind the broader geopolitical issues, reminding us of the human cost of such conflicts.

The first one-day international between Australia and India is underway at Optus Stadium, with early updates highlighting the performance of players like Josh Hazlewood and Shubman Gill. This match is significant as it marks the beginning of a competitive ODI series, showcasing the talents of both teams and setting the stage for future encounters. Cricket fans are eager to see how this series unfolds, given the historical rivalry between the two nations.

Colombia's President Gustavo Pedro has accused the United States of committing 'murder' following a military strike on a submarine that was reportedly sending a distress signal. This incident raises serious concerns about international military actions and their implications, especially as former President Donald Trump suggested the vessel was involved in drug trafficking. The situation highlights the tensions between Colombia and the U.S. regarding drug enforcement and military interventions.

Afghanistan has decided to withdraw from an upcoming cricket series following a tragic incident where a Pakistan air strike reportedly killed local players. This decision highlights the ongoing tensions between the two nations and raises concerns about the safety of athletes in conflict zones. The situation is particularly significant as it not only affects sports diplomacy but also reflects the broader implications of military actions on civilian lives.

Tensions are escalating as the US claims that the ceasefire in Gaza is at risk due to Hamas planning an attack. This assertion has sparked controversy, especially from analysts who argue that it seems hypocritical coming from a nation accused of complicity in the ongoing violence. The situation is critical as it highlights the complexities of international relations and the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, making it essential for global leaders to address these issues thoughtfully.

Reinier de Ridder's impressive four-fight winning streak in the UFC came to an unexpected halt when he faced Brendan Allen at UFC Fight Night in Canada. The match ended prematurely as de Ridder was unable to continue, raising questions about his future in the octagon. This loss is significant not only for de Ridder's career but also for the competitive landscape of the UFC middleweight division.