Month: December 2025

Source: South Australia County Fire Service

NORTH BOOBOROWIE

Issued on
02 Dec 2025 13:57

Booborowie Hay Shed Fire

Five Crews with approximately 20 firefighters remain on scene working to contain a shed fire containing stored hay bales which started last night near the Booborowie township, approximately 35 km north of Clare.

Firefighters have kept the fire from spreading to surrounding crop and grass and are working to keep the fire contained ahead of forecasted hot weather in the coming days. Firefighters will remain on site to monitor the fire overnight and the coming days, with heavy machinery being used to pull apart the burning shed and hay bales.

Heavy smoke may be visible in the surrounding areas as crews are working to pull apart and spread out the burning hay bales. There is currently nil impact to townships, roads or communities within the area.

The shed and its contents have been totally destroyed with an estimated total loss of over $500,000.

Ahead of the hot weather predicted at the end of this week, we encourage everyone check the heat in their hay stacks for early signs of combustion and take any precautions to limit the risk of hay stack fires. This is a timely reminder that the baling and storing of hay requires careful management to prevent spontaneous ignition caused by moisture within bailed hay. Simple measures to prevent this spontaneous ignition include ensuring that hay is fully cured (dried) before bailing, protecting hay from rain or runoff, maintaining airflow to the haystack to allow heat and moisture to escape, as well as using a calibrated moisture meter to periodically test thee ‘dryness’ of the hay bales.

Message ID 0008742

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested two females in relation to an aggravated robbery that occurred in Durack overnight.

Around 8:45pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report that two offenders had entered a service station and threatened an employee with a knife before stealing items and fleeing the location on foot.

Police CCTV operators tracked the females through a nearby carpark, with police arresting the 20 and 15-year-old a short time later.

The 20-year-old remains in custody and is expected to be charged later today, while the 15-year-old is expected to be dealt with via summons.

Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.

Anyone with information, including with CCTV or dash cam, is urged to contact police on 131 444. Please quote reference P25325148. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

Google Asia Pacific has today been ordered by the Federal Court to pay $55 million in penalties for engaging in anti-competitive conduct when it reached understandings with Telstra and Optus about pre-installing Google Search on Android mobile phones. The Court proceedings were brought by the ACCC.

The understandings, which were in place between December 2019 and March 2021, required Telstra and Optus to only pre-install Google Search on Android phones they sold to consumers, and not other search engines.

In return, Telstra and Optus received a share of the revenue Google generated from ads displayed to consumers when they used Google Search on their Android phones.

Google cooperated with the ACCC and admitted that it had engaged in anti-competitive conduct that had the likely effect of substantially lessening competition and also made joint submissions with the ACCC in relation to penalties.

“This penalty should send a strong message to all businesses that there are serious and costly consequences for engaging in anti-competitive conduct,” ACCC Deputy Chair Mick Keogh said.

“Our market economy is predicated on businesses competing freely with each other, which is why locking out competing businesses in a way that substantially lessens competition is illegal.”

In addition to the $55m in penalties imposed by the Court, on 18 August 2025 Google and the US-based Google LLC provided the ACCC with a court-enforceable undertaking in which they committed to removing certain pre-installation and default search engine restrictions from Google’s contracts with Android phone manufacturers and telcos.

Google’s undertaking is in addition to court-enforceable undertakings provided by Telstra, Optus and TPG last year. The ACCC accepted the undertakings from the three telcos to resolve concerns about their involvement in these agreements with Google.

In the court-enforceable undertakings provided by Telstra, Optus and TPG, the telcos undertook not to renew or make new arrangements with Google that require its search services to be pre-installed and set as the default search function on an exclusive basis on Android devices they supply.

The three telcos can configure search services on a device-by-device basis, and in ways that may not align with the settings set by Google. They can also enter into pre-installation agreements with other search providers.

“Today’s outcome, combined with the undertakings from Google and the telcos, creates the potential for millions of Australians to have greater search choice in the future. Other search tools, including those enhanced by artificial intelligence, can now compete with Google for pre-installation on Android phones,” Mr Keogh said.

“Search tools, including those that incorporate AI, are rapidly changing how we search for information, and it’s critical that competitors to Google can gain meaningful exposure to Australian consumers.”

Competition issues in the digital economy are a current ACCC compliance and enforcement priority.

Background

Google LLC and Google Asia Pacific

Google LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alphabet Inc.

Since at least 2017, Google LLC and/or its related bodies corporate have signed many contractual arrangements to distribute Google apps, including Google Search. These agreements include mobile application distribution agreements and revenue share agreements.

Google Asia Pacific is the contracting counterparty for mobile revenue share agreements in the Asia Pacific region, including Australia.

Court proceedings

The ACCC commenced Federal Court proceedings against Google Asia Pacific on 18 August 2025. 

Telstra, Optus and TPG are not parties to the proceedings.

The Digital Platform Services Inquiry

The ACCC’s Digital Platforms Branch conducted a five-year inquiry into markets for the supply of digital platform services in Australia and their impacts on competition and consumers, which included an update on general search services, published in December 2024.

In the inquiry’s fifth report, published in November 2022, the ACCC made a range of recommendations to bolster competition in the digital economy, level the playing field between big tech companies and Australian businesses, and reduce prices for consumers.

In this report the ACCC recommended a new regulatory regime to promote competition in digital platform services. One of the ACCC’s recommendations was for the government to introduce a framework for mandatory service-specific codes for Designated Digital Platforms to address a range of competition issues, including exclusive pre-installation and default agreements that hinder competition. Treasury has consulted on a proposed approach to implement a new digital competition regime administered by the ACCC.  

Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing

The Department of Health has confirmed the first detection of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) in mosquitoes for the 2025–26 season and is reminding Victorians to understand the risks of mosquito-borne diseases when spending time outside over the warmer summer months.

The virus was found in a mosquito trap in the Horsham Rural City Council area as part of Victoria’s Arbovirus Disease Control Program and marks the first time JEV has been detected in Australia this season.

The Department is working closely with Horsham Rural City Council to treat mosquito breeding sites and reduce the risk to the community.

Japanese encephalitis is a rare but potentially serious disease caused by a virus transmitted through mosquito bites. Most people infected have no symptoms or only mild illness, but in rare cases (around 1 in 250) it can cause severe brain infection (encephalitis), which can be fatal.

Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, Dr Caroline McElnay, said that detecting Japanese encephalitis virus in mosquitoes plays a vital role in informing the community of current health risks.

“Mosquito-borne diseases like Japanese encephalitis can have serious health impacts, but they are preventable,” Dr McElnay said.

“A free Japanese encephalitis vaccine is available for eligible people due to their increased risk of exposure.”

“Simple actions like wearing repellent, covering up, and limiting outdoor activities at dawn and dusk can help reduce your risk.”

“Anyone can be bitten by mosquitoes, but people living, working or spending time outdoors in northern Victoria – especially near rivers – may be at higher risk.”

The best protection is to avoid mosquito bites. Simple steps include:

• Wearing long, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing outdoors
• Using mosquito repellents containing picaridin or DEET
• Limiting time outside when mosquitoes are most active (dawn and dusk)
• Removing stagnant water around your home where mosquitoes breed

A free Japanese encephalitis vaccine is available in 24 local government areas across Victoria, including Horsham Rural City Council, for eligible people at increased risk, including those not eligible for Medicare.

A booster dose may be recommended for some people with ongoing risk of exposure, one to two years after completing their primary course.

Victorians are encouraged to speak with their GP, local council, Aboriginal health service, or community pharmacy for more information about JE vaccination.

For details on vaccine eligibility and how to protect yourself from mosquito-borne disease, see Japanese encephalitis on the Department of Health’s website or visit the Better Health Channel.

Source: Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission

SAEF scientists examine vegetation, invertebrates and marine biodiversity
Eleven of the scientists on board are from Securing Antarctica’s Environmental Future (SAEF).
The SAEF team will survey the island’s vegetation, including cushion and cabbage plants, tussock grasses and mosses. They will also assess the island’s cold-adapted invertebrates, including weevils, springtails, spiders, and mites, and the octopus, urchins, sea stars and other species that live across the seafloor.
Researchers may uncover species that are new to science. 
“Heard Island and McDonald Islands (HIMI) are some of the most remote and untouched places on Earth, lying thousands of kilometres from any major human population,” SAEF’s lead scientist on the HIMI expedition, Laura Phillips, who’s based at Monash University, said.
“These islands offer a unique opportunity to study an almost pristine wilderness shaped by climate and environmental factors largely in the absence of direct human pressures.”
The ship has two helicopters on board, three inflatable research boats, a larger science boat known as the science tender, 15 drones, remote underwater vehicles (ROVs) and hundreds of tonnes of cargo for Casey.
While at Heard Island, scientists will work across 24-hour shifts, with terrestrial science conducted during the day and marine science at night (in December, Heard Island has up to 18 hours of daylight).
“While we’re spending a lot of time looking at seals, penguins and birds, it’ll be the humans we really need to watch!” Mr Knoff said.
“It’s a big program of work so we’ll carefully manage the fatigue of the group and ensure there is enough rest to make sure everyone remains focussed and safe.
“It can be hard to sleep on the ship in rough seas and those staying ashore will be living in tents in one of the most inhospitable places on earth so making sure they come back to the ship every few days for a warm meal and shower will also be key.”
The main camps will be at the eastern and western end of Heard Island, housing up to a dozen people at a time.
Smaller camps will be set up at various beaches so science groups can do more focussed wildlife surveys. Some walking parties will carry packs and take samples along the way.
“This is probably the most complex voyage the Nuyina has undertaken in terms of projects and equipment, so it’ll be important to manage the expectations of everyone on board and get our priorities right,” Mr Knoff said.

RSV Nuyina spent ten days at Heard Island in October and is now returning for a longer campaign. Photo: Simon Payne

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 28-year-old male after he absconded from police custody in Alice Springs in September.

Around 12:15pm on Saturday 20 September, the offender escaped custody after he was arrested in relation to alleged domestic violence offences against his partner.

The offender has been actively avoiding police and is believed to have been camping in multiple locations across the southern region. He allegedly assaulted his partner multiple times during this period.

Yesterday, the 28-year-old was located in Braitling, where he refused to follow directions and attempted to flee from police, resulting in a taser being deployed.

He was arrested and has since been charged with:

• 7 x Aggravated Assault
• 1 x Choking/strangulation
• 3 x Breach DVO
• 1 x Make Threats to Kill
• 1 x Trespass After Directions to leave
• 1 x Escape from Lawful Custody
• 1 x Assault a Member of the Police Force

He was remanded to appear in Alice Springs Local Court today.

If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory

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Source: Ministers for the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has today announced up to $151 million in conditional funding under the Australian Government’s $1 billion Solar Sunshot Program (Solar Sunshot) for the establishment of a 500 MW per annum solar module manufacturing facility in the Hunter Valley, NSW.  

The funding will support the development of the Hunter Valley Solar Foundry project, an initiative of the Sunman Group (Sunman) founded by solar pioneer and UNSW alumnus Dr Zhengrong Shi. The project will develop a new, advanced manufacturing facility while drawing on Sunman’s pioneering technology and track-record as a lightweight solar innovator. 

ARENA CEO Darren Miller said the project is a clear demonstration of Solar Sunshot’s mission to advance solar manufacturing in Australia, reduce reliance on imports and expand Australia’s role in global clean energy supply chains. 

“Deployment of solar photovoltaics at scale is central to meeting our long-term emissions goals. Building our manufacturing capabilities will help ensure that our supply chains are resilient and Australian innovations are supported as we accelerate the rollout of solar PV,” Mr Miller said. 

“Solar Sunshot is about building on Australia’s world-leading solar research to expand manufacturing capacity, strengthen supply-chain resilience and grow local jobs and skills. The Hunter Valley Solar Foundry project reflects these goals, bringing together advanced technology, local workforce development and long-term economic benefits for regional communities.” 

The proposed facility aims to produce a range of solar PV modules for use in domestic and international markets, including Sunman’s proprietary enhanced Architecture Ready Composite (eArc) modules, which replace traditional glass with durable polymers, making them up to 70% lighter, easier to transport and faster to install. Beyond manufacturing eArc modules, the facility aims to produce glass modules, develop a solar innovation hub to support the commercialisation of new solar technologies and operate as a solar manufacturing foundry with the ability to provide production capacity to original equipment manufacturers, further strengthening Australia’s domestic solar supply chain. 

This project also marks a homecoming for Dr Shi who began his pioneering solar research in Australia before global ambitions took him abroad to scale-up solar manufacturing. With Solar Sunshot backing, this new facility will bring world-leading solar expertise back to Australian shores, reaffirming Australia’s strength in solar innovation and positioning Australian-made technology to contribute to the global energy transition.   

Construction of the facility is expected to create up to 200 jobs, with another 100 ongoing roles once operational. To support long-term workforce development, the project will also partner with an accredited training partner to deliver an advanced manufacturing training program, ensuring local workers can build capability in next-generation solar production. 

The project further incorporates a First Nations recruitment strategy and a scholarship program to support students pursuing studies in renewable-energy fields, ensuring the benefits of Solar Sunshot extend across the community. 

Dr Shi, Founder of the Hunter Valley Solar Foundry, says: “I am proud to establish the Hunter Valley Solar Foundry and bring commercial-scale renewable manufacturing to Australia. Once established, the Hunter Valley Solar Foundry will be the largest manufacturer of solar photovoltaic modules in Australia, and the only one in NSW, delivering world-leading products to residential, commercial and utility customers around the country. 

“As a proud Australian and a solar expert trained at the University of NSW, it has been my long-held ambition to establish solar module manufacturing in Australia, and it is my hope that over time the Foundry supports the foundation of a vertically-integrated solar supply chain in Australia. This is an important milestone in Australia’s energy transition.” 

About Solar Sunshot    

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is delivering the $1 billion Solar Sunshot Program to support innovation in Australia’s solar PV manufacturing industry. Solar Sunshot was announced by the Australian Government in March 2024 and aims to uncover and support innovation to drive scale and diversity in a critical industry.  

Australia benefits from strong renewable energy potential, high-quality, abundant raw materials and a long track record of excellence in research and development. Solar Sunshot aims to harness these advantages so that Australia can strengthen and diversify its supply chains and create economic opportunities.      

Round 1A offers $500 million of capital and production-linked funding for solar PV manufacturing innovation, with a focus on modules, inputs to modules and deployment systems (closed).   

Round 1B offers $50 million of funding to support solar PV manufacturing studies, including feasibility and engineering studies (remains open).    

Round 2 offers $150 million of funding to support manufacturing of inputs to solar PV modules and deployment innovation (now open). 

Learn more at https://arena.gov.au/funding/solar-sunshot/     

Note: The provision of funding is subject to conditions including the execution of an ARENA funding agreement. 

ARENA media contact:

media@arena.gov.au

Download this media release (PDF 174KB)

Source: South Australia County Fire Service

BOOBOROWIE

Issued on
01 Dec 2025 21:25

Booborowie Hay Shed Fire

Just after 7:00pm this evening, the CFS responded to a shed fire containing hay bales alight in Booborowie, approximately 35 km north of Clare.

Six CFS trucks with approximately twenty-five firefighters have responded to a large hay shed fully involved in fire. Crews are working to contain the fire within the shed and limit any further spread from the structure. Firefighters will remain on site to monitor the fire overnight, with heavy machinery scheduled to break apart the bales tomorrow morning. SA Police have supported crews on site.

The shed and hay contents are a loss, totaling approximately $230,000 in damages.

This is a timely reminder that the baling and storing of hay requires careful management to prevent spontaneous ignition caused by moisture within bailed hay. Simple measures to prevent this spontaneous ignition include ensuring that hay is fully cured (dried) before bailing, protecting hay from rain or runoff, maintaining airflow to the haystack to allow heat and moisture to escape, as well as using a calibrated moisture meter to periodically test thee ‘dryness’ of the hay bales.
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Message ID 0008740

Source: Government of Western Australia

The City of Wanneroo is inviting community members to help brighten a senior’s Christmas by writing a card.