Month: December 2025

Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

CFA’s Property Advice Visit Service (PAVS) is a free initiative that connects trained CFA members with households at risk of fire.

Through tailored in-person visits to properties, CFA members help residents understand their local fire risk and offer practical, property-specific advice to improve preparedness. 

The aims of PAVS are to: 

• raise awareness of bushfire risk at the property
• encourage residents to take action to reduce their risk
• support informed planning and decision-making
• build trust and connection between CFA and the community
• refer residents to where they can seek further information.

Visits can be initiated by community members wanting advice, or by CFA members who target at-risk properties.

CFA members use the following ways to reach residents to promote the service in their local area:

• Use local events to promote PAVS.
• Share flyers or postcards through letterbox drops.
• Post on brigade or community social media sites.
• Advertise in local newspapers and newsletters.
• Offer PAVS to new residents or during community campaigns.
• Promote the service in new resident kits.
• Use existing community networks (for example, sports teams, local Landcare groups or Neighbourhood House).

During a visit

Visits can vary depending on the property. Following the Property Assessment Form, CFA members walk around the property with residents to help them understand how to improve access for emergency services, vegetation planning, design and planting, as well highlighting various actions to prepare their property. The visit is recorded in Survey123 and supported by the PAVS pack, which includes printed resources to prompt a bushfire planning discussion. 

The purpose of the visit isn’t to advise on technical details. Instead, it’s focused on generating conversations between residents and brigade members about practical ways to reduce fire risk and improve preparedness.

Benefits for community and brigades

Many factors, such as limited time, low awareness, lack of concern, or mobility challenges, can prevent community members from attending preparedness sessions or taking action. PAVS helps break down these barriers by meeting residents at their homes, at a time that works for them, and tailoring the conversation to their unique circumstances. This personalised approach can lead to stronger engagement and improved fire preparedness outcomes.

PAVS takes a strength-based and person-centred approach which means recognising individuals as experts in their own life. It’s not about doing things for them but about helping them understand their risk and pointing them to tools and services that can help. By taking a person-centred approach, CFA members provide the information and encouragement residents need to support their own decision-making.

One of the most important benefits for CFA is that PAVS sessions can strengthen community connections. During the PAVS visit, brigades can also collect information to help them in operational readiness such as water points, property identification, access and egress, landscape risk, and residents at higher risk. 

Strengthening PAVS evaluation

To ensure PAVS continues to deliver a meaningful impact, CFA is enhancing how we evaluate the program to help us understand what’s working, where improvements are needed and how PAVS contributes to community safety. Evaluation is more than just measurement – it’s about learning. It helps us reflect on what’s effective, what’s not and how we can evolve the program to better support communities in bushfire-prone areas.

The project team has been visiting regional areas to engage with brigades, watch PAVS in action and gather insights from those delivering the program on the ground. These real-world perspectives are essential to help us shape a more robust and responsive evaluation framework.

Submitted by	News and Media

Source: South Australia County Fire Service

BLANCHETOWN

Issued on
29 Dec 2025 00:57

Incident Update

The CFS is responding to scrub fire, 11km south of Blanchetown in the Riverland.

CFS volunteers on 7 trucks are on scene working to extinguish the fire. Crew will remain on scene overnight and into the coming days to ensure the fire is contained and will be supported by the Department of Environment and Water personnel.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

Emergency services may be working on and around roads in the area, and motorists are advised to stay away. If you need to travel on roads in the area, please take care and drive to the local conditions..

Message ID 0008865

Source: Tasmania Police

Fatal glider crash at Tunbridge

Sunday, 28 December 2025 – 5:34 pm.

Police and emergency services attended a glider crash at Tunbridge, in Tasmania’s Southern Midlands, earlier today.
The single glider crash happened at a private airfield located on Tunbridge Tier Road, Tunbridge, shortly before 2pm.
Sadly, police can confirm a Tasmanian woman aged in her early 50s died from injuries sustained in the crash.
A second person, a Tasmanian man aged in his mid-60s who was pilot of the two-seater glider, sustained serious injuries.
He was transported from the airfield to Royal Hobart Hospital by helicopter.
Tasmania Police Inspector Aleena Crack said the man and woman were part of a group, which included the woman’s husband, who were at the airfield on Sunday.
“Police can confirm there has been a fatal crash involving a glider at Tunbridge and that sadly, the female victim was pronounced deceased at the scene,” Inspector Crack said.
“There was a larger group of people at the airfield at the time, and this is obviously a tragic outcome for these families and friends.”
The cause of the crash is under investigation and emergency services crews remain at the scene.

Source: NGARKAT HIGHWAY, NGARKAT (Grass Fire)

A sculpture from the National Gallery of Australia’s Sculpture Garden will be displayed on long term loan at the Museum of Art and Culture yapang (MAC yapang) in Lake Macquarie thanks to the Albanese Labor Government’s Sharing the National Collection program.

The large abstract work I Am, 2016 is by internationally recognised contemporary artist Andrew Rogers.

The work will move from beside Lake Burley Griffin to adorn the shores of Lake Macquarie where it will stand in MAC yapang’s renewed sculpture park in early 2026.

Examples of Rogers’ stunning work can be found across the globe in various locations from Zhengzhou public art project in China, University of California, Davis in the United States and recently in the centre of the Canberra International Airport.  

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the loan would draw new crowds to the host gallery’s fresh sculpture park.

“The national collection belongs to the entire nation, not just to Canberra.

“At any point 98 per cent of our national collection is held in storage. Over a million people have now had the chance to see a part of the national collection – that’s usually hidden – because of the Sharing the National Collection program.”

Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi MP said the program is benefiting communities like his.

“This is world class art landing right here in Lake Macquarie.

“It’s great to see the national collection being shared with communities like ours, where it’ll inspire locals, attract visitors and become part of the landscape. It’s a big win for the Hunter.”

Director of the National Gallery, Dr Nick Mitzevich, said the loan gave a new audience the chance to experience the sculpture.

“This partnership marks a new chapter in the story of Andrew Rogers’ sculpture, where it recently overlooked Lake Burley Griffin as part of the National Gallery Sculpture Garden, it will soon sit on the banks of Lake Macquarie in Booragul, New South Wales on long term loan.”

“Gifted to the National Gallery from the artist in 2018 through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program, it is exciting we can now share this work with more Australians beyond the capital thanks to the Sharing the National Collection program.”

MAC yapang’s Director, Jasmine Kean said it was a win for the community.

“This loan of such a significant work from the national collection with its delicately balanced form will overlook Lake Macquarie; its ripples and tightly curling and unfurling form will nestle into the space and reflect on the movement of the lake.

“It will inspire our community and visitors who will have the pleasure of coming into close contact – we thank the National Gallery for this opportunity to share.”

Sharing the National Collection is part of Revive, Australia’s national cultural policy. The program has provided $11.8m over four years to fund the costs of transporting, installing and insuring works in the national art collection so that they can be seen right across the country. 

Regional and suburban galleries can register their interest in the loan program here.

Images and their correct attributions can be found here.

Source: NGARKAT HIGHWAY, NGARKAT (Grass Fire)

The Australian and Queensland Governments are powering ahead on their delivery of the Redland Whitewater Centre with the opening of Expressions of Interest (EOI) for a Principal Consultant to lead the facility’s design.

The Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) has gone to market today in search of an industry partner ready to shape Queensland’s first whitewater venue.

Located in Redland City Council’s planned Birkdale Community Precinct, the centre will deliver a lasting legacy for sport, recreation and the wider community, and will be just the second facility of its kind in Australia.

The venue will support a range of whitewater sports including high-performance and recreational paddle training and events, as well as adventure tourism, and year-round disaster resilience and swift water rescue training for our emergency services.

The facility will also feature full amenities, changerooms, boat storage, and a spectator terrace with temporary capacity for up to 8,000 for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games. 

The centre’s versatile design will cater for elite and recreational rafting and paddling featuring an international standard canoe slalom course and kayak cross launch platform.

There will also be a beginner channel for water safety and recreational use, and a training lake for paddling and canoe polo.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the delivery of this sporting infrastructure would ensure lasting benefits for communities for years to come.

“The planning and delivery of all Games venues is progressing as needed to ensure we are ready to host the world’s greatest sporting event in 2032,” Minister King said. 

“What Redland Whitewater Centre highlights is that Queensland communities will benefit far beyond 2032 from the Games, with improved recreation and sports facilities across the state and in this particular case a dedicated venue to train emergency services in swift-water rescue.”

Senator for Queensland Murray Watt said Australia had a proud Olympic history in white water sports and to bring the event to the Redlands in 2032 was going to be incredibly exciting for the region.

“This commitment to Games infrastructure will not only benefit the Redlands in the short term but contribute a legacy for decades to come,” Senator Watt said. 

“Hopefully the next Jess Fox will be a local kid who learns their craft in Birkdale.”

Deputy Premier of Queensland and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said this announcement demonstrated how the Crisafulli Government was delivering for 2032 and beyond.

“Today’s announcement is another example of how the Crisafulli Government has put the Games back on track and is delivering the infrastructure that will leave a lasting legacy for our communities,” the Deputy Premier said. 

“The Redland Whitewater Centre is more than a Games venue – it’s a year-round asset for sport, recreation, and emergency services.

“The Crisafulli Government’s commitment to this project reflects our vision for 2032 and beyond, creating world-class facilities that benefit Queenslanders long after the Olympic flame goes out.”

State Member for Capalaba Russell Field said the Redland Whitewater Centre was a welcome addition to the growing region and reflected the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to delivering a Games for all of Queensland.

“By investing in world-class infrastructure here in Redlands, the Crisafulli Government is ensuring the Games leave a lasting legacy, supporting growth, attracting visitors, and delivering facilities that our community can enjoy long after 2032,” Mr Field said. 

State Member for Oodgeroo Amanda Stoker said this was a once-in-a-generation opportunity to establish the recreation and lifestyle precinct Redland families had been seeking for years. 

“It means jobs for locals, transport investments, better emergency services, parklands, lagoons and sports and tourism attractions that provide a legacy that will go well beyond the games,” Ms Stoker said. 

State Member for Redlands Rebecca Young said the Redland Whitewater Centre represented generational infrastructure that will deliver long-term economic, recreational and resilience benefits for the region.

“This project isn’t just about 2032 it’s about positioning Redlands to seize tourism, supply chain and business opportunities for decades to come.”

The project’s design, procurement and construction will be delivered by GIICA, as part of the $7.1 billion Games Venues Infrastructure Program jointly funded by the Queensland and Australian Governments, with Redland City Council as the long-term owner and operator. 

EOIs close at 5pm AEST on 21 January 2026. Submit an EOI via our https://giica.au/procurement. 

Source: NGARKAT HIGHWAY, NGARKAT (Grass Fire)

The Albanese Government has appointed Mr Peter Duncan AM as Chair and Dr Collette Burke as Deputy Chair of the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) Board, each for a further three-year term.

The reappointments of Mr Duncan and Dr Burke provide continuity in the most senior positions of the ARTC Board, which plays a vital role in managing the nation’s interstate freight rail network and overseeing a number of significant infrastructure projects that will build the resilience and capability of the Australian rail freight network.

Mr Duncan has been the Chair of the ARTC Board since January 2023 and is an experienced leader who currently serves as Chair of WaterNSW and the Local Government Boundaries Commission of New South Wales. 

Mr Duncan’s experience includes roles as a board member of Infrastructure NSW, and a director with the Australian Public Policy Institute. He previously served as Commissioner of the Independent Planning Commission, and as Chief Executive of various NSW state agencies including Roads and Maritime Services.

Dr Burke has served as a Non-Executive Director of the ARTC Board since January 2023, was appointed ARTC Deputy Chair in June 2025 and currently serves as the interim Chair of the Inland Rail Pty Limited Board. 

Dr Burke has extensive expertise in complex infrastructure and construction projects including as the inaugural Victorian Chief Engineer. She also serves as a director of Marinus Link and the National Transport Research Organisation (NTRO), with previous industry roles including director of VicTrack and interim Chief Executive of Marinus Link.

Mr Duncan and Dr Burke will continue to provide strong leadership, corporate knowledge and valuable experience to ARTC, and will ensure the organisation is best positioned for success into the future.

Source: NGARKAT HIGHWAY, NGARKAT (Grass Fire)

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is set to benefit from a wealth of experience with the appointment of new commissioner Vice Admiral (Retired) Russell Crane AO, CSM.

Vice Admiral Crane brings extensive maritime experience to the Commission, including 40 years of service in the Royal Australian Navy, culminating in his appointment as Chief of Navy in 2008. 

For his distinguished naval service he was awarded the Conspicuous Service Medal in 2000, Officer of the Order of Australia in 2010, Singapore’s Meritorious Service Medal in 2011 and was decorated as a Commander in the French Order of National Merit in 2013.

Russell joins a highly skilled Commission. His background in strategy, risk, safety, governance and intelligence will strengthen the ATSB Commission with expertise to guide and support maritime investigations.

His appointment comes after Mr Gary Prosser, who served as an ATSB Commissioner for six years, ends his period of service to the Commission. 

Gary served the Commission with excellence, strengthening the ATSB’s maritime expertise, and supporting the ATSB to uphold a high quality of investigations and reports. He departs with the Albanese Government’s sincere thanks for his six years of service.

The ATSB Commission consists of four members: the Chief Commissioner and three commissioners with expertise relevant to the ATSB’s functions in the maritime, aviation and rail modes of transport.  

Vice Admiral Crane will serve the bureau on a part-time basis for an initial term of three years. 

Source: NGARKAT HIGHWAY, NGARKAT (Grass Fire)

The first stage of the Greenline Project at Birrarung Marr officially opened to the public today, revealing a highly anticipated $39 million revamp of the Yarra River’s northern bank.

The entire Greenline Project will deliver a four-kilometre connected riverfront promenade transforming the Yarra River into a connected entertainment precinct, stunning parklands, and a beautiful active transport route.

Stage one, made possible with a $20 million investment from the Albanese Government and almost $20 million from City of Melbourne delivered 450 metres of boardwalks and native Australian green spaces in three distinct zones:

• the River Edge, a statement entrance to the Greenline Project
• the Lookout, a key place for cultural celebrations, overlooking the river
• the Fig Tree Boardwalk, which provides a peaceful space for art, storytelling, and nature, with a suspended tree-lined platform and seating.

In addition to constructing Site One of the Birrarung Marr Precinct, the combined funding delivered the Greenline Project Masterplan and 5 distinct Precinct Plans, capturing the unique vision and values of each location.

The transformation was funded through the Priority Community Infrastructure Program, which is delivering social and recreational infrastructure that enhances the quality of life for local communities.

City of Melbourne has also received $4.4 million from the Albanese Government’s urban Precincts and Partnerships Program to plan the Birrarung Riverfront Activation Precinct proposal which is the next exciting stage of the Greenline Project.

Once all stages are completed, the Greenline Project will be a statement promenade along one of Australia’s most famous rivers.

It will make inner Melbourne an even more vibrant, connected and accessible experience for both locals and visitors.

The Greenline Project is supporting up to 108 direct jobs during construction across all stages.

Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“If trees are the green lungs of our cities, rivers are the arteries and giving people in our cities easy access to their waterways is essential.

“Istanbul has the Uskudar Coast Walkway, New York has the Hudson River Waterfront and now Melbourne has the Greenline.

“This now completed walkway will be beloved by locals, a favourite for runners, and will leave visitors to Victoria’s gateway city in awe.”

Quotes attributable to City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece:

“Birrarung Marr has been transformed – creating a stunning new riverside destination for locals and visitors in the heart of our city.” 

“I want to thank the Australian Government and Minister King for their unwavering support in delivering this incredible project – and I look forward to continuing our partnership to bring the entire Greenline Project to life.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Melbourne Sarah Witty:

“It’s incredibly exciting that this new walkway is now complete, and open for everyone to enjoy.

“From a morning walk with a coffee, to a picnic with the kids, to New Years Eve celebrations, Labor’s investment in the Greenline Project will redefine how Melbournians and tourists alike see the Yarra.

“These immaculate upgrades will draw more business to local shops, cafes and restaurants as people flock to make the new promenade part of their daily life in Melbourne.”

Attributable to Deputy Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell:

“Greenline is an investment in Melbourne’s future, creating riverfront open space for residents and visitors.

“Birrarung Marr will enhance the Yarra River experience for everyone with the Greenline Project forecast to attract more than 1.1 million additional visitors every year.”

Source: NGARKAT HIGHWAY, NGARKAT (Grass Fire)

The Albanese Government is delivering on its $250,000 election commitment to Joy Media to support LGBTIQA+ community media.

Joy Media – Australia’s first and only LGBTIQA+ community radio station – has received the funding to support its broadcasting to communities in Melbourne and streaming online and podcast content worldwide.

The funding will help continue to deliver engaging, meaningful and powerful content to support community connection, participation and empowerment by lifting up LGBTIQA+ media and voices.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, Anika Wells:

“It is important Australia’s media sector reflects our diverse community, which is why the Albanese Government is investing $250,000 in Joy Media through the LGBTIQA+ Community Connection program.

“We’re proud to support Joy Media so they can continue to share stories far and wide.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Macnamara Josh Burns:

“Whenever I’m on air with the team at Joy Media, I see the inclusive and vibrant community they have built.

“That’s why I am so proud to deliver this election commitment and ensure Joy Media can continue growing as a powerful platform for LGBTQIA+ Australians and their allies.

“Joy Media’s programs aren’t only loved by our community in Macnamara, but they empower and connect LGBTQIA+ Australians right across the country.”

Source:

The Australian Government has announced the appointment of a new Convenor, Deputy Convenor and four new members to the Classification Review Board.

The Classification Review Board is an independent statutory body that meets as needed to review Classification Board decisions, ensuring they are robust and reflect community expectations and standards.

The following appointments have been made until 31 December 2027:

Ms Alice Yan as Convenor. Ms Yan is currently serving as Deputy General Counsel at the New South Wales Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water and Board Director of the Royal Zoological Society. She has contributed to content classification decisions for the New York WILD Film Festival.

Mr Damien Power as Deputy Convenor. Mr Power is currently a part-time member of the Review Board and Classification Officer at SBS. He has produced interactive educational games for the Australian Communications and Media Authority and the Office of the eSafety Commissioner, focusing on cyberbullying and online reputation management.

Ms Bonnie Cooney (member) is a senior legal and regulatory professional with experience across government, private practice and corporate sectors. Ms Cooney holds a Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice and a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Film Studies.

Mr Brook Hely (member) currently works as an arbitration consultant and teaching associate and serves as a part-time member of the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal and sessional member of the Mental Health Tribunal. Mr Hely is a former member of the Classification Review Board.

Mrs Wendy Jasper (member) is qualified in media production, communications and business and is currently completing a Master of Cultural Leadership at the National Institute of Dramatic Art.

Mr Matthew Salgo (member) has held several community volunteer committee roles and is currently General Counsel for Australian children’s entertainment group The Wiggles.

Further information on all members can be found at Classification Review Board | Australian Classification.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, Anika Wells:

“The Classification Review Board plays an important role in supporting the Classification Board to provide Australian consumers with trusted and reliable information about whether content is appropriate for themselves and their families.

“I would like to congratulate everyone on their appointments to the Review Board and thank the outgoing members for their contributions.”