Month: October 2025

Source:

A live burnover drill highlighted one of the ways our members get fire ready at the Volunteer Forum hosted by Montrose CFA.

Montrose Lieutenant Tim Bishop collaborated with Chief Officer Jason Heffernan about the specifics as the Montrose crew executed the drill.

At a forum focused on community engagement, Montrose Captain Matt Jalowicki and Montrose Community Safety Officer Liz Peters shared their experience from fighting a fire in the heart of the Montrose community in March and the importance of engaging with the community.

The team also presented on the upcoming Get Fire Ready weekend, where more than 500 CFA brigades will open their doors to the community throughout October.

Other CFA community engagement programs highlighted included the Property Advice Visit Service (PAVS), Truck Time kids program, Community Fireguard and online learning modules.

Check out all the Volunteer Forum from Montrose had to offer or jump straight to the key moments below.

Key moments:

5:25 Opening
7:29 Coming up
8:18 Get Fire Ready
18:17 Wye River community preparation
21:42 Montrose fire – Captain Matt Jalowicki
24:15 Montrose fire – Peter Smith, Upper Ferntree Gully Captain
27:07 Montrose fire – Liz Peters, Montrose Community Safety Coordinator
32:24 Montrose Resilience Group – Meet at Montrose at Midday (MAMAN)
37:00 Montrose fire community experience
39:25 Chief’s burnover drill
53:33 Training Update
1:01:55 Montrose Passport training initiative
1:03:25 Montrose brigade history
1:08:48 Montrose community safety team member Fiona Naisbitt
1:09:36 Truck Time
1:11:39 Property Advice Visit Service (PAVS)
1:12:33 PAVS video
1:15:04 Community Fireguard
1:17:27 Fire Wise Kids
1:19:19 Community elearning modules
1:21:34 Audience question – breathing apparatus glasses
1:23:16 Audience question – electric trucks
1:25:30 Thank yous
1:28:00 Closing credits

Submitted by	CFA News

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 23-year-old male in relation to a disturbance in Warruwi earlier today.

Around 11:15am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a male entered a government facility on Warruwi Internal Road carrying an edged weapon and began threatening staff.

It is alleged that the male threw the edged weapon, striking an employee in the back, before leaving the facility and damaging a company vehicle in the process.

He then returned to the building and allegedly attempted to gain access, but the building was already in lockdown.

He then attended the Warruwi Clinic and allegedly threw a spear in the direction of two employees before other workers were able to intervene.

The group managed to get to safety before releasing the offender, who continued making threats before fleeing the scene.

No injuries have been reported as a result of the incident.

Police deployed from Maningrida to the community and arrested a 23-year-old male.  He remains in police custody with charges expected to follow.

Senior Sergeant Christopher Harden said, “Police will continue to work alongside community leaders, elders and service providers to manage the impact of this incident and maintain community safety.”

Source: Australian Green Party

NSW Health is advising people to be alert for signs and symptoms of measles after being notified of a confirmed case who was infectious while visiting a number of locations in Sydney’s northern beaches.
The case was a close contact of a recently reported case of measles in Northern Sydney.
People who attended the following locations at the times listed below should watch out for the development of symptoms. These locations do not pose an ongoing risk.

Dee Why Discount Vitamins,2/681 Pittwater Rd, Dee Why
Thursday, 25 September11:00am to 11:30am
Monday, 13 October

Twist Espresso & Wine23 Howard Ave, Dee Why
Thursday, 25 September11:20am to 12:30pm
Monday, 13 October

Chemist Warehouse Dee Why23 Howard Ave, Dee Why
Thursday, 25 September12:00pm to 12:40pm
Monday, 13 October

Woolworths Dee Why37 Howard Ave, Dee Why
Thursday, 25 September12:15pm to 1:30pm
Monday, 13 October

Mex & Co Manly​​30-32 S Steyne, Manly
Saturday, 27 September6:30m to 8:30pm
Wednesday,15 October

Northern Sydney Local Health District Director of Public Health, Dr Michael Staff, said people who visited the above locations at the specified times should monitor for symptoms.
“Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease that is spread through the air when someone who is infectious coughs or sneezes,” Dr Staff said.
“Symptoms to look out for include fever, sore eyes, and a cough followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash which usually spreads from the head and neck to the rest of the body.
“It can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after an exposure, so it is really important for people who visited this location to monitor for symptoms until the day indicated above for each location.
“Anyone who develop symptoms should call ahead to their GP or emergency department to say they may have measles to ensure they do not spend time in the waiting room with other patients.
“We want to again remind the community to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations. The measles vaccine can prevent the disease even after exposure, if given early enough.
“This should be a reminder for everyone to check that they are protected against measles, which is highly infectious.
“Anyone born in 1966 or after needs to ensure they have had two doses of measles vaccine. This is especially important before overseas travel, as measles outbreaks are currently occurring in several regions of the world.”
The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective and is given free for children at 12 and 18 months of age. It is also free in NSW for anyone born in 1966 or after who hasn’t already had two doses.
Children under the age of 12 months can have their first dose of MMR up to six months earlier if they are travelling to areas with a high risk for measles. Parents should consult their GP.
People who are unsure of whether they have had two doses should get a vaccine, as additional doses are safe. This is particularly important prior to travel. MMR vaccine is available from GPs (all ages) and pharmacies (people over 5 years of age).
For more information on current measles exposure locations visit Measles public exposure locations in NSW.
For more information on measles, read the measles fact sheet.
If you, or a loved one, is experiencing measles symptoms, or have questions about measles, please call your GP or Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
​

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Yesterday the Northern Territory Police Force successfully executed a coordinated operation across Wadeye and Palumpa, resulting in multiple arrests and the conclusion of a significant crime spree.

In Wadeye, Strike Force Trident detectives, the Dog Operations Unit and Wadeye local police conducted a joint operation targeting outstanding offenders wanted in connection with a crime series that occurred in the Darwin and Palmerston areas. This resulted in the arrests of three youth offenders aged 14, 16, and 17 and one 19-year-old male connected to an attempted stolen motor vehicle and robbery matter occurring in Coolalinga last week.

The group were arrested and charged with multiple counts of:

• Aggravated robbery
• Drive/Ride/Use motor vehicle without consent
• Engage violent conduct
• Theft
• Damage property

The group has also been linked with the alleged theft of a red Toyota Land Cruiser stolen from Wadeye and later located in Katherine which occurred on 22 September 2025. These arrests mean that all alleged offenders linked to this series of crimes are now in custody. The offenders faced court today.

During the course of police’s enquiries in Wadeye a further two arrests were made that were unrelated to the crime series. The male and female youth were both charged with Breach Bail.

Later that same morning in Palumpa, Stike Force Trident detectives arrested two males aged 20 and 21 for Drive/Ride/Use Motor Vehicle without consent, fuel theft and shoplifting. These arrests were in relation to an alleged theft of a green Toyota Hilux which was stolen from a property at Lind Road, Johnson on 17 September 2025.

Trident investigators also located and arrested a further two males, aged 22 and 31, who both had outstanding warrants for their arrest.

Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Marc Tizzoni of Strike Force Trident said, “These results highlight the determination and capability of the investigators within our unit and in the Northern Territory Police Force.

“Offenders may think they can move between communities to avoid detection, but our investigators will find them and hold them to account, no matter where they are in the Territory.

“Police would like to thank the community for their ongoing support and assistance during these investigations.”

Police continue to urge anyone who witnesses a crime or antisocial behaviour to make contact on 131 444. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Bushwalkers safe after Overland Track ordeal

Thursday, 2 October 2025 – 4:56 pm.

Two bushwalkers are safe and recovering after a challenging night on the Overland Track at Cradle Mountain, where they were forced to shelter in freezing conditions before being rescued early this morning.
The couple, a husband and wife from Queensland in their mid-30s, had just begun a six-day hike in the Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair National Park when they encountered difficulty on Wednesday evening.
With worsening weather and fatigue setting in, they made the decision to set up camp between Kitchen and Waterfall Valley Huts and activate their Personal Locator Beacon (PLB).
A four-person rescue team comprising two Tasmania Police Search and Rescue officers and two Ambulance Tasmania wilderness paramedics reached the pair around 3am Thursday.
Pictures and video available here.
Despite efforts to deploy the rescue helicopter, poor weather conditions made aerial access impossible.
Inspector Nikala Parsons from Tasmania Police Search and Rescue said the couple’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of preparation when venturing into Tasmania’s wilderness.
“While their equipment was suitable, it was clear they hadn’t prepared themselves fully for the demands of the Overland Track,” Inspector Parsons said.
“They underestimated the conditions and the effort required to deal with them.”
Overnight temperatures dropped to an apparent -6°C with snow showers and strong winds.
One of the hikers was taken to hospital as a precaution after experiencing mild hypothermia.
Inspector Parsons praised the couple’s decision to carry a tent and a PLB, both of which proved vital to their safety.
“This incident highlights why carrying a tent is compulsory on the Overland Track,” she said.
“And it reinforces the value of a PLB, which allowed us to locate them quickly in very difficult conditions.”
The walkout took just over six hours, with both hikers now safe and receiving care.
Tasmania Police urges all bushwalkers to thoroughly prepare for wilderness hikes, including physical conditioning, understanding weather risks, and carrying essential safety equipment.

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Shots fired at Herdsmans Cove house

Thursday, 2 October 2025 – 4:29 pm.

Police are investigating shots fired at a home at Herdsmans Cove on Wednesday night.
About 8pm, police received a call that two shots had been fired through the loungeroom window of a home at Lamprill Circle, at Herdsmans Cove.
Two people inside the property at the time were not physically injured.
The shots damaged a window and a wood panel on the exterior of the house.
Police are calling for information to try and identify the offender, or offenders, and any vehicle that may have been used.
Police believe this may be an incident involving parties known to each other and there is no threat to the wider community.
Anyone with information regarding the shots fired, or who may have CCTV or dashcam footage taken from Lamprill Circle about 8pm on Wednesday, should contact police on 131 444. Quote Offence Report 786462.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers in 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

Source: Mental Health Australia

The Minns Labor Government is delivering common sense reform to support farmers during the bushfire season, allowing farmers and rural landholders to register and use Farm Firefighting Vehicles (FFVs) to respond to emergency bushfires near their property.

The move follows recent trials of around 350 FFVs, which supported their use in emergencies and proposed a conditional registration scheme.

FFVs are often used on private property and are not typically registered for use on public roads.

The legal use of these vehicles on public roads in emergency situations is an important reform which will allow farmers and rural landholders to attend nearby fires, not just those on their own property.

The new scheme offers a lower cost conditional registration, which includes inspection for a light vehicle and the issuing of a licence plate expected to be a maximum of $209.

The cost for conditional registration will drop after the first year with the cost, including an inspection estimated at $126 (or only $75 when inspection not required), subject to CPI and CTP increases.

Conditional registration balances the practical need for FFVs to be available as an emergency resource while ensuring vehicle safety standards on NSW roads remain high.

Under the scheme, vehicles will be subject to the following requirements:

• Vehicle inspections as per the Authorised Inspection Scheme to establish registration, with inspection required every second year and registration to be renewed annually.
• Firefighting equipment must be permanently and securely attached to the vehicle.
  Vehicles must only be used for emergencies, not regular operations.
• May use roads up to 50km away from garaging address east of the Newell Highway, with no distance limit from garaging addresses west of the Newell Highway.

The scheme will commence on 7 October.

Service NSW is ready to assist people with their applications with eligible customers able to apply and pay their registrations in-person at their nearest Service NSW Centre.

More details including eligibility requirements are available on the Service NSW website.

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said:

“During the 2019 2020 bushfires, I spent a lot of time with farmers, tourism operators and other members of regional and rural communities who were so badly impacted by that catastrophic bushfire season. I heard firsthand stories of the heroism and bravery shown by farmers standing side-by-side with our RFS and other emergency services to fight bushfires.

“I’m incredibly proud of the work that the Minns Labor government has been able to achieve in establishing a scheme which allows neighbours to help each other in the very worst of times.

“We know that in many regional areas, farmers are often the first on scene at bushfires. This change is about ensuring farmers and other road users are safe when they respond to bushfire emergencies.”

Acting Minister for Emergency Services, Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“We thank people who contribute to the wellbeing of others and this change is about making sure our farmers and rural communities have the tools they need to act quickly and safely when bushfires breakout.

“Every minute counts during an emergency and enabling farmers to legally use these vehicles on nearby roads could help protect lives and properties.

“Farm Firefighting Vehicles are already playing an important role on the frontline. By introducing conditional registration, we’re ensuring they can be used in a safe and regulated way, giving farmers confidence while protecting other road users.

“I encourage any farmer needing help to navigate the application process to contact our dedicated Service NSW team members on 13 77 88 or visit their nearest Service NSW Centre for more information about eligibility, documentation required or any other assistance.”

NSW RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin said:

“With most of the state entering the Bush Fire Danger Period today, this reform comes at a crucial time.

“Farmers know their land better than anyone, and when a fire starts nearby their quick action can make all the difference.

“This reform will continue the strong relationship between landholders and the RFS, leveraging all available resources and the expertise and dedication of farmers in safeguarding our communities.”

NSW Farmers President, Xavier Martin said:

“Farmers must have the tools they need to safely and effectively fight fires, and it’s good to see the Minns Government recognise that.”

“NSW Farmers has long been calling for a new restricted use conditional vehicle registration category for farm firefighting units – so they can be used legally to get to fires and support the emergency response.

“The best response is a local response to the get bushfires under control as quickly as possible – and we look forward to working with the NSW Government to ensure this registration scheme is fit-for-purpose”

Source: Mental Health Australia

As the annual Koori Knockout (The Knockout) begins tomorrow (3 October) at Tamworth and continues until Monday (6 October), Transport for NSW will be supporting the event and engaging with attendees to raise awareness of the importance of road safety.

Up to 30,000 people are expected to come together to celebrate the Koori Knockout over the four days and support their community and teams. The 53rd Knockout celebration will be hosted by last year’s winners, Walgett Aboriginal Connection (WAC), at the Riverside Sporting Complex, in Tamworth NSW.

Transport for NSW Executive Director of Transport Safety, Chadi Chalhoub said the Aboriginal Rugby League Carnival (Knockout) is a great opportunity to connect with the Aboriginal community on the topic of road safety on NSW roads.

“Sadly, Aboriginal people are over-represented in road trauma and fatalities on NSW roads. In 2024, Aboriginal people accounted for almost nine per cent of all fatalities in NSW but make up just 4.2 per cent of the population,” Mr Chalhoub said.

“We want to save lives, but we can’t do that alone. We need everyone on NSW roads to make safe decisions every time they’re out and about.

“I encourage people to chat with our staff and ask any questions they might have about driving and road safety,” Mr Chalhoub said.  

Staff at Transport’s marquee will be providing interactive education activities, road safety resources, and giveaways. The Get Kids Active team will be showcasing the ride to school interactive bike game for primary school kids where kids strap on a helmet and ride a stationary bike to school on a simulation.  

Transport for NSW staff will roam the grounds to start positive, culturally respectful conversations about road safety with community members who may not visit a stall. Roaming Ambassadors will approach festival-goers in queues, seating areas, and open spaces to ask attendees to share “Safe Trip Tips” or stories about travel to the event.

“With many families travelling to and from The Knockout driving long distances on country roads it’s important to plan ahead and drive safely. Please stop and take a break from driving if you are feeling tired – or swap drivers if you can, drive to the conditions and under the speed limit, always wear a seatbelt and put your phone away while driving.

“Double demerits will apply for speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt and helmet offences over the October long weekend, so please follow the rules and help everyone get to their destination safely,” Mr Chalhoub said.

To plan your journey to The Knockout, visit transportnsw.info. To find where to stop for a cup of tea or coffee, visit www.driverreviver.com.au.You can also download the Live Traffic NSW App for the latest traffic updates. 

Source: Mental Health Australia

From 6am Saturday 4 October 2025 motorists travelling north on the Sydney Harbour Bridge to the Warringah Freeway will need to make lane decisions earlier, as work starts on the next phase of the freeway’s upgrade. 

Changes on the freeway will enable work to build the final freeway northbound lane configuration between Milsons Point Station and Falcon Street, North Sydney.

This critical traffic change will allow Transport for NSW (Transport) to safely set up a construction area to build and install a new signage gantry and traffic barriers.

A spokesperson for Transport urged motorists to plan and be in the correct lane far earlier, while on Sydney Harbour Bridge.

“We are setting up a work area to allow us to safely build a new signage gantry and traffic safety barriers. To do this, we need to change lane alignments just after the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

“We ask people to please slow down, be prepared, follow the signage, know your lane and be in the correct lane while they are still on Sydney Harbour Bridge,” the spokesperson said.

During the weekday AM peak, northbound motorists will be required to:
•    Use lanes 1 or 2 for Pacific Highway to access North Sydney
•    Use lanes 2 or 3 to continue northbound towards Chatswood and Epping 
•    Use Lane 3 to access the Military Road exit to Mosman. 

“Motorists can continue to access the Military Road exit from lane 2, however this access will close in the coming weeks. We encourage motorists to start using lane 3 for access to Manly and Mosman to learn their new route before permanent changes come into effect later this month,” the spokesperson said.

Motorists can use lane 4 to travel towards Chatswood and Epping outside the AM peak (5:30am to around 9:30am). Lane 4 will be closed 10pm Friday 3 October to 5am Monday 6 October before reopening northbound only for the public holiday. Tidal flow operations will resume from 5:30am Tuesday 7 October.

The traffic switch may temporarily result in increased travel times in this area. This is expected to improve as motorists adjust to the new lane arrangements.

Motorists should note there will be no access to the Warringah Freeway northbound from the Sydney Harbour Bridge from 12.30am to 6am Saturday 4 October and from 1am to 7am Sunday 5 October. Northbound motorists on Sydney Harbour Bridge should use the Pacific Highway instead. Motorists heading to Mosman/Manly can turn right into Miller Street and then right again at Falcon Street. Northbound access to the Warringah Freeway will be maintained via the Sydney Harbour Tunnel, which will remain open.  

Transport thanks motorists for their patience during this time.

For more information about the traffic switch, visit this link.

For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

Source: New South Wales – News

Under the Summary Offences Act 2025, police have been given additional powers to maintain public safety and weapons searches.

Following last Friday’s announcement, there are now 11 precincts in the Adelaide metropolitan area where police will conduct metal detector searches on any person or their property.

Assistant Commissioner, Narelle Kameniar said police have already used these laws to seize several weapons.

“To see police easily identifying dangerous knives in areas heavily frequented by the public, shows these powers are working,” Assistant Commissioner Kameniar said.

“The additional three precincts are another step in utilising this legislation to enhance public safety. In the future we will look at public events, transport hubs and services but this will take time.”

The new powers also enable police to order a person or group posing a risk to public safety to leave the shopping precinct for 24 hours. If they re-enter, or attempt to, there is a maximum penalty of $1250.

Maps showing the relevant declared areas, which include the above listed shopping centres, can be found on the SAPOL website (SAPOL – Declared Public Events and Places). If other areas or events are declared they will also be published on the SAPOL website and in the South Australian Government Gazette.