Two people were arrested after the stolen SUV they were driving ran out of petrol on the North-South Motorway at Hindmarsh overnight.
About 12.40am on Wednesday 20 August, two people were spotted on camera abandoning a Dodge Nitro SUV on the side of the road on the North-South Motorway, north of Grange Road, at Hindmarsh.
Police responded as the pair were tracked by cameras as they walked along the motorway.
Police checks on the vehicle revealed it had been reported stolen from a Hawthorn unit block on Saturday.
It will be alleged cameras captured the man dumping a bag containing a knife, a baseball bat and a small quantity of drugs while walking away from the car. The bag was retrieved by police.
A 30-year-old Woodville South man and a 22-year-old Adelaide woman were quickly arrested near Manton Street and charged with illegal use of a motor vehicle. The man was also charged with weapons and drug offences. He was also driving while disqualified.
The pair were bailed to appear in the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court on 18 September.
The stolen SUV was towed for forensic examination.
Police are investigating a fire at South Plympton overnight.
About 4.30am Wednesday 20 August, police and fire fighters were called to Marion Road, following reports of a structure fire. On arrival, they found a restaurant fully engulfed by fire and despite the best efforts of fire crews, the building was destroyed.
Fortunately, no one was inside at the time and no injuries were reported from the scene.
The fire is being treated as suspicious with detectives and fire cause investigators attending to examine the scene this morning.
Southbound traffic on Marion Road from Cross Road is closed while emergency services are at the scene.
Anyone with information, dashcam or CCTV is asked to contact Crime Stoppers online at https://crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 000 – you can remain anonymous.
It’s the first time two sibling cassowaries have been released back into the wild.
Two juvenile cassowaries have been released into Japoon National Park near Tully after ten months of rehabilitation at the Garners Beach Cassowary Rehabilitation Centre.
It is the first time the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) has released two cassowaries back into the wild together.
The sibling cassowaries had been in care at the DETSI rehabilitation centre since November 2024, after one of them and their father had been struck by a vehicle near Innisfail.
Concerned members of the public contacted DETSI, and wildlife rangers were able to rescue the birds and place them in the rehabilitation centre for veterinarian care.
The rehabilitation process was a collaborative effort, with invaluable support from volunteers at Community for Cassowary and Coastal Conservation (C4) and staff from Tropical Vets.
During their rehabilitation the chicks were reintroduced to each other and spent the next nine months in the same pen, learning how to forage for food.
Wildlife ranger Jeffrey Lewis said reuniting the chicks with their father was not possible due to the prolonged separation while in care.
“The father was successfully rehabilitated and released back to the wild earlier this year, and has since been observed thriving in the Wet Tropics,” Mr Lewis said.
“On July 31 2025, the juvenile cassowaries had reached an age where they would naturally separate from their father in the wild.
“After receiving the all-clear from a veterinarian they were taken to Japoon National Park and released back into the wild.
“As the cassowaries adjust to their new environment, it is hoped they will eventually establish their own territories, contributing to the ongoing survival of their species in wild.”
These young cassowaries will play a vital role as “rainforest gardeners,” consuming native fruits and spreading seeds throughout the World Heritage-listed ecosystem.
DETSI extends its thanks to the dedicated veterinary teams, volunteers, and community members who made this release possible.
People can report injured, sick or orphaned cassowaries by calling 1300 130 372. People are asked to Be Cass-o-wary at all times while in the Wet Tropics region.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
In Brief:
This article lists the top public recreational places to try in the ACT.
This article lists activities for everyone to enjoy.
Canberrans are spoilt for choice with bushland, parks and reserves.
No matter where you live in the ACT, there is a park or reserve you may not have discovered yet.
Whether you’re a family looking to burn off some energy, planning a day of exploring walking trails, or seeking the perfect scenic picnic spot, we’ve picked the top parks and reserves for you to discover.
Located in the heart of Canberra, Weston Park is a family favourite.
Activities include a playground with climbing net and swings, adventure playground, disc golf, miniature train, bocce courts, cycle track and a fixed orienteering course.
For those visiting in summer, cool off in the beach and wading pool.
Features: toilets, shelters and picnic tables, barbecues, drinking water and playgrounds.
Explore the scenic Murrumbidgee River from the Uriarra East picnic area, Uriarra West picnic area and the Swamp Creek picnic area.
This is a popular spot for birdwatching, fishing, letting your dog run around and enjoying the river’s beauty.
Features: toilets, shelter and picnic tables, communal fireplace, canoe and kayak entry point. If you want to use the communal fireplace you will need to bring your own wood.
This is a busy scenic park on the foreshore of Yerrabi Pond.
Visitors will find a family-friendly spot for kids and those looking to relax a bit further down the lake. It’s the perfect spot for kids’ parties and larger groups.
Features include:
an innovative play space
wheelchair accessible liberty swing
double/tandem flying fox
burmese bridge
skatepark
basketball court
access to the lakeside promenade and walking track/s.
Features: toilets, wheelchair access, shelters and picnic tables, barbecues, drinking water and playgrounds.
Explore the park’s rich wildlife by unwinding beneath the shade of the eucalyptus trees or refuel at the welcoming Wildbark Café. The trees are part of a critically endangered ecological community, which is the largest single area of Box-gum Grassy Woodland conserved in Australia.
Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary is perfect for families, walkers, cyclists, or anyone seeking a peaceful escape in nature.
Whether you’re up for a scenic stroll, a cycling journey, or a quiet picnic surrounded by nature, there’s something here for everyone.
Features: toilets, cafe, cycling/walking tracks, wheelchair access and Wildbark Visitors Centre.
Explore scenic walking trails, let the kids enjoy the playground, or take a relaxing stroll.
With ample picnic spots — ranging from riverside hideaways to lookout points and historic buildings — it’s the ideal place to unwind in nature.
Just a short drive from Canberra, start at the Tidbinbilla Visitors Centre for the perfect day of adventure.
Features: toilets, wheelchair accessible, shelters and picnic tables, barbecues, drinking water (available only from the Visitor’s Centre) and a playground, and designated firepits for wood barbecues. If you want to use the firepits you will need to bring your own wood or purchase wood from the Visitor’s Centre.
No dogs allowed.
Before you go
Respect reserves by:
staying on the tracks to minimise your impact
taking your rubbish home with you
leaving what you find, including plants, animals, rocks and timber (dead and alive)
respecting the area’s heritage – leave cultural sites undisturbed
collecting and responsibly disposing of your dog’s droppings (where dogs are permitted)
cleaning your outdoor gear, including bicycles, to avoid spreading weeds and disease.
Stay safe by:
bringing your own drinking water
dressing appropriately for the weather – making sure you rug up or bring sun protection
carrying a mobile phone, especially if you are on your own or a Personal Locator Beacon if you’re going somewhere with limited phone reception
letting someone know where you are going and when you expect to return
being weather alert – reserves and roads may close if there are severe weather conditions. Check the Parks ACT website before travelling.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
UC STEP participants like Darren work in an ACT public school and earn a salary while studying.
In brief:
Applications are now open for UC’s School-Based Teacher Education Program, known as UC STEP.
UC STEP allows Master of Teaching students work in a ACT public school while they study.
Students receive a $20,000 scholarship to help with study costs.
UC STEP is Canberra’s newest employment-based pathway program, designed to help career-changers transition into the classroom.
This innovative program allows participants to earn salary while they study and step into the classroom to gain experience from day one.
Why choose UC STEP?
Earn while you learn: Work in an ACT public school while studying a Master of Primary or Secondary Teaching.
Financial support: Receive a $20,000 scholarship to help with study expenses.
Gain invaluable classroom experience: Start working in a school from day one.
Mentorship and coaching: Get support from experienced mentors and instructional coaches.
Tailored placements: Be matched with a school that aligns with your strengths and meets system needs.
How it works
Participants in the program will:
enrol in a two-year Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary)
year 1: Work part-time two days a week as a Learning Support Assistant
year 2: Teach four days a week with a Restricted Permit to Teach
receive ongoing mentoring and coaching throughout the program.
More details
UC STEP is a partnership between the University of Canberra and the ACT Government. It offers students a unique blend of academic learning and practical experience.
It’s designed to build confident and capable teachers, who are ready to make a difference.
Next steps
Applications for Semester 1 2026 are open until 31 August 2025.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Basketball is one of Canberra’s most popular sports.
In brief:
Belconnen Basketball Stadium planning and design works has commenced.
The project has reached a milestone with SQC Group contracted for early planning and design.
This article includes what is proposed for the expansion.
The Belconnen Basketball Stadium expansion project is moving ahead.
The contract to undertake preliminary planning and design has been awarded to SQC Group.
The Canberra-based architectural firm is expected to complete this work in early 2026.
It is a critical step in laying the foundation for the stadium’s expansion.
How an expanded stadium might look
The proposed expansion will consider adding three new courts.
This includes an 1,800-seat FIBA Level 1 show court and associated amenities.
Its addition would allow the stadium to host national and international competitions.
Increasing demand for court space
Over 15,000 Canberrans are registered basketballers. This makes it one of the city’s most popular sports. And numbers are growing.
The expanded stadium will help address current and future needs for court space.
The ACT Government has committed to meeting increasing demand for indoor sport facilities.
Other projects include new double-court gymnasiums at public:
high schools
colleges
selected primary schools.
Partnering with Basketball ACT
The ACT Government is delivering this project in partnership with Basketball ACT.
This follows the signing of a heads of agreement in December 2024.
“This project represents a vital investment in the future of basketball in the ACT, ensuring the growing needs of our players, officials, and broader sporting community are met with modern, high-quality facilities,” CEO, Basketball ACT Nicole Bowles said.
As a key hub for basketball in Canberra, the expansion for the Belconnen Basketball Stadium will:
enhance participation opportunities
improve accessibility
support the sport’s development at all levels.
Improving facilities across the ACT
The ACT Government is also investing in other sports facilities across the Territory.
These include
new playing fields and a pavilion in Taylor
the first stage of the new Stromlo District Playing Fields
new cricket nets in Bonner and Gowrie.
There will also be a boost to the Sports and Recreation Investment Scheme.
Police target drink and drug driving in Southern Tasmania
Tuesday, 19 August 2025 – 3:02 pm.
Police from Southern Traffic Services conducted a static traffic operation yesterday (18 August) targeting drink and drug driving on the East Derwent Highway at the Jordan River Bridge in Bridgewater.
A 54-year-old woman from Old Beach who had a young child in the car returned a breath alcohol reading of 0.072.
She was arrested at the scene, immediately disqualified from driving, and will appear in court at a later date.
A 19-year-old L-plater from the Huon Valley who had previously been disqualified due to drug driving offences returned a positive roadside drug test and was found in possession of drugs.
He was arrested and will face court proceedings.
A 48-year-old man from New Norfolk was caught driving a vehicle that had been unregistered for four years.
His licence was subjected to a suspension, and he will be summoned to appear in court at a later date.
“These results highlight the ongoing need for targeted enforcement operations,” said Sergeant Andy McShane.
“Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or in unregistered vehicles, puts everyone at risk.
“We will continue to take strong action to keep our roads safe.”
Police urge all motorists to make responsible decisions and remind the public that drink and drug driving will not be tolerated.
Incidents of dangerous driving can be reported can be reported to police on 131 444 or call triple zero (000) in an emergency. Reports can also be made via Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.
It’s less than six months before Australia’s social media age restrictions kick in. But while the onus is on social media platforms to prevent underage access, child protection experts at the University of South Australia say the conversation about online safety doesn’t stop there.
UniSA’s Associate Professor Lesley-Anne Ey says parents and schools must continue online safety conversations, so children can navigate the digital world safely and responsibly – no matter what their age.
“Parents are the first line of defence to protect children online,” says Associate Professor Ey.
“From the moment children start using devices, parents need to be having age-appropriate conversations about the content they access and how they interact and behave online.
“This should include understanding privacy, who to ‘friend’, the open nature of the internet, and how anything they post – from text to photos or videos – may remain online and accessible for years.
“We also need to be talking openly about risks. We should be labelling harmful behaviours – including sexting, AI-generated deep fakes, online bullying and grooming – and helping children understand the legal and psychological impacts of their actions.
“Because children’s brains are still developing, they often act on impulse without considering the consequences. They’re naturally more inclined to take risks and assume they’re safe – but the reality is they’re not, and they need strategies to protect themselves.”
On 10 December, Australia’s new social media laws will take effect, with social media platforms – including TikTok, Snapchat, Reddit, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube – required to take ‘reasonable steps’ to prevent children under 16 from having an account on their platform.
The legislation intends to protect young people from being exposed to social media content that could be damaging to their health and wellbeing at too young an age. While legislation is one part of the solution, Assoc Prof Ey says the real impact lies in building digital literacy across all platforms.
“Online safety isn’t a one-off talk or an age restriction to delay use,” Assoc Prof Ey says. “It’s an ongoing conversation between schools, families and children to help them navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.
“While the social media restrictions will certainly help, children will still be playing online games, joining chat groups, sharing photos, and sending videos and texts – so it’s vital that they’re equipped with age-appropriate tools to navigate these spaces safely.
“Education is key: we need parents and teachers to have the skills and knowledge to support children; we need ongoing training to understand the risks and benefits of new technologies, and we need ways to empower young people to use these to enhance, not limit their lives.
“Crucially, we must ensure that children and young people know they have a safe, trusted person to turn to if they feel worried about something they’ve seen or heard online.
“Because in the end, it’s not just about keeping children off social media – it’s about giving them the knowledge, confidence and skills to thrive safely in a digital world that will only keep growing.”
Police are investigating a serious single-vehicle crash on Highland Lakes Road, Apsley this morning (Tuesday, 19 August).
The Mistubishi Express van, driven by a 63-year-old man, was travelling along Highland Lakes Road just before 6.00am when the vehicle left the road.
The man was airlifted to the Royal Hobart Hospital in a serious condition.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation.
Police would like to speak to anyone who observed the Mitsubishi van driving in the Highland Lakes area prior to the crash.
Anyone with information or dash cam footage is asked to contact police on 131 444 or report through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000. Please quote ESCAD: 026-19082025.
