The fight to free Old Faithful, the ‘majestic, wild crocodile’ made famous by Steve Irwin: ‘His place is back in the river’

A mother humpback whale and her calf were recently trapped in a shark net off Queensland's Rainbow Beach, highlighting a concerning trend as they are part of nine whale entanglements reported in just nine days. This incident raises alarms about the safety of marine life in the area and the impact of fishing practices on these majestic creatures. It's a reminder of the urgent need for better protective measures to ensure the well-being of whales and other marine animals.

Troy Thompson, the mayor of Queensland, has resigned amid a corruption inquiry that accused him of misleading voters about his military record. This resignation is significant as it opens the door for a byelection, allowing the community to choose a new leader. Thompson's actions have raised concerns about transparency and trust in local governance, highlighting the importance of accountability in public office.

The case of Byron Haddow, a 23-year-old Australian who died in Bali, has taken a troubling turn as officials investigate the return of his body without his heart. After being found dead in a villa's plunge pool, Haddow's remains were sent back to Australia weeks later, only for a second autopsy to reveal the heart was missing. This shocking discovery has raised serious questions about the handling of his remains and has prompted demands for accountability from Australian authorities. The outcome of the DNA testing on the heart could provide crucial answers and shed light on the circumstances surrounding his death.

In a significant day for Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met with King Charles at Balmoral, marking a moment of diplomatic importance. Meanwhile, AFL fans are in high spirits as their team celebrates back-to-back championships, showcasing the vibrant sports culture in the country. This blend of political and sporting news highlights Australia's dynamic national identity and the joy of its citizens.

The Ryder Cup is seeing a significant lead for Europe over the USA, with a score of 4½-11½ after a fiery day two at Bethpage Black. This dominance in the fourballs highlights Europe's strong performance and raises questions about the USA's strategy moving forward. Fans are eager to see if the USA can rally in the remaining matches, making this tournament a pivotal moment in golf history.

The search for six-year-old Darius Macdougall, who went missing in Alberta, is ongoing with specialized teams working tirelessly and 'shoulder to shoulder' to find him. This commitment to not scaling back the search efforts highlights the community's dedication and hope in bringing Darius home safely, which is crucial for the family and the local community.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has taken a devastating toll, with reports indicating that nearly half of the war-related deaths occurred in areas that Israel designated as 'safe.' This alarming situation highlights the dire humanitarian crisis as hospitals in Gaza City are shutting down amid escalating attacks. The implications are severe, as the safety of civilians is increasingly compromised, raising urgent questions about the protection of human life in conflict zones.

Native Americans are expressing strong disapproval of the Pentagon's recent decision to preserve medals related to the Wounded Knee Massacre, a tragic event in 1890 that symbolizes the struggles faced by Indigenous peoples. This move is seen as a lack of respect for the historical significance of the massacre and the ongoing fight for recognition and justice among Native communities. The preservation of these medals raises questions about how history is honored and remembered, making it a crucial topic for discussions on reconciliation and respect for Indigenous rights.

President Trump has authorized the deployment of troops to Portland, citing the need to protect immigration detention facilities. This decision has sparked significant controversy, as many view it as an escalation of federal intervention in local matters. The move raises questions about the balance of power between federal and state authorities and the implications for civil liberties, making it a critical moment in the ongoing debate over law enforcement and immigration policies.