Month: January 2026

Source: ACT Police

Last update: Friday, 16 January 2026 10:08am

Original publication: Friday, 16 January 2026 10:08am

Source: Tasmania Police

Man faces multiple charges after arrest at Claremont

Wednesday, 21 January 2026 – 5:25 pm.

Police have charged a 37-year-old man from Tasmania’s south with multiple offences, including burglary, stealing, aggravated assault and firearms incidents, following an arrest at Claremont on Tuesday.
The Bridgewater man appeared in court earlier today and has been remanded in custody until a later date.
He is one of two men charged in relation to a spate of business burglaries in the towns of Campbell Town and Ross.
The second man, a 27-year-old from Granton, was arrested at Granton earlier today and has been detained for court.
Investigations into the burglaries in the state’s Northern Midlands, involving detectives from Bridgewater CIB and State Intelligence Services, identified the 37-year-old.
The man was also wanted in relation to alleged evade police and dangerous driving offences, and the possession of prohibited and unregistered firearms.
The man was located at a business premises at Claremont on Tuesday afternoon and quickly taken into custody by police, including specialist resources.
Police allege the man was in possession of a 3D-printed firearm at the time of his arrest.
Police have also seized a stolen motorcycle, and two vehicles as part of their ongoing investigation.
The 37-year-old has been charged with 25 offences in total, including several firearms-related matters, aggravated assault, burglary, stealing, evade police, dangerous driving and possession of stolen property.
The 27-year-old man faces multiple charges, including burglary and stealing, as well as firearms possession charges.

Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing

Warehouse retailer Panda Mart will face 147 criminal charges for offering unsafe products for sale to Victorian consumers.

The criminal proceedings follow Consumer Affairs Victoria’s actions to remove thousands of unsafe products from Panda Mart’s shelves in March 2025.

Consumer Affairs Victoria alleges that Panda Mart Trading Pty Ltd (ACN 678 461 222), which operates the Cranbourne store, offered multiple products that did not comply with mandatory safety and information standards, including:

• toy projectile guns and archery kits missing warning information about hazards that can cause serious eye damage
• baby strollers and walkers missing warning information about hazards that can cause death or serious injury
• hydraulic trolley jacks missing warning information about improper use
• bicycle helmets missing warning information about improper fit and use
• elastic luggage straps (octopus straps or bungee cords) missing warning information about hazards that can cause blindness
• children’s dress up and cosmetics items missing ingredient labelling about allergies and irritants
• children’s toys, calculators, greeting cards and kitchen products like scales and thermometers containing unsecure and unlabelled button batteries

The retailer has also been charged with offering yo-yo water balls for sale, which are permanently banned in Australia because of the serious risk of strangulation.

The company faces maximum penalties of $50 million or more per charge under Australian Consumer Law.

The charges come after Consumer Affairs Victoria issued a public warning to consumers in March 2025 over products offered for sale at the Cranbourne store.

In December 2025, Consumer Affairs Victoria obtained an urgent court injunction to close Panda Mart Cranbourne and Panda Mart Preston – which are owned by different companies – for up to 72 hours while inspectors seized thousands more products.

Consumer Affairs Victoria Director Nicole Rich said product safety breaches were some of the most serious offences under the Australian Consumer Law.

‘Australia’s consumer product safety laws are not optional. It is the legal obligation of every business operating in Victoria to understand and comply with mandatory safety rules.

‘We will continue to take strong action wherever required to remove unsafe consumer products from sale and protect Victorians, especially our most vulnerable community members like children,’ Rich said.

Panda Mart Cranbourne will face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 6 February.

The investigation into Panda Mart Preston is ongoing.

Learn more in the Product safety section of our website.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force is continuing to call for information in relation to a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred on the Stuart Highway near Wycliffe Well on Tuesday 20 January 2026.

Around 6am, police received a report of a motorcycle crash north of Wycliffe Well, where a twenty-two-year-old male was located deceased at the scene.

Investigations have since established that a group of four adult males and one youth had allegedly stolen three motorcycles from a nearby remote station overnight and were travelling along the Stuart Highway between Ali Curung, Wycliffe Well and the Devils Marbles Hotel when the crash occurred.

Police believe the group was riding two red motorcycles and one blue motorcycle. None of the motorcycles were displaying fixed registration plates and the riders were not wearing safety equipment.

Investigators are urging anyone who travelled through the Ali Curung, Wycliffe Well or Devils Marbles Hotel area between 12am and 6am on Tuesday 20 January 2026, particularly motorists with dashcam footage, to contact police on 131 444 and quote reference number P26019892.

Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

Source: Tasmania Police

Motorists urge to pay attention on the roads after Hobart CBD traffic operation

Wednesday, 21 January 2026 – 1:45 pm.

Police are reminding motorists to pay attention on the roads after 16 traffic offences were detected in two hours in the Hobart CBD area this morning.
“Between 8am and 10am today, members of Southern Road Policing Services conducted static and mobile patrols in the Hobart CBD area, and concerningly more than 16 offences – primarily inattention related – were detected,” said Acting Sergeant Shane Etherington.
During the operation, police detected various offences including:

8 drivers using their mobile phones
1 driver not wearing a seatbelt
4 traffic light offences
3 other inattentive offences.

Acting Sergeant Etherington said, “it’s incredibly disappointing that some drivers continue to use their mobile phones while in control of their vehicles, particularly in heavy traffic areas.”
“Using your mobile phone while driving increases the risk to the driver, their passengers and other road users. It severely impacts your ability to drive safely and reduces reaction time while increasing the risk of being involved in a crash.”
“Drivers need to turn their attention away from their phones and onto the road.”
“Tasmania Police will continue to patrol the roads and target the ‘Fatal 5’ in an effort to reduce serious and fatal crashes, especially leading up to this long weekend.”
Motorists are urged to do the right thing and obey the road rules every time they travel on the roads.
Traffic incidents can be reported to police on 131 444 or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000.

Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

Redesdale Fire Brigade recently celebrated a remarkable milestone: 90 years of combined service from two of its most dedicated members, Len ‘Lenny’ McGrath and Sue Newnham.

Their stories are different, but their impact is shared – quiet commitment, unwavering reliability and a deep love for community.

Lenny joined CFA in 1975 and this year marked 50 years of service. With more than 1,200 turnouts to his name, his contribution stretches far beyond the fireground. Known for working tirelessly behind the scenes, Lenny has spent countless hours maintaining trucks, keeping the shed in order and making sure uniforms and equipment were ready when the call came.

His pride in the brigade, generosity with his time and steady presence have helped shape Redesdale brigade into what it is today.

Sue Newnham was recognised for 40 years of service, during which she became a cornerstone of brigade operations and community connection. From her early days rallying crews via the General Store to her long service as a communications officer, Sue has been a calm and dependable voice during emergencies.

During the 2009 fires, she (alongside many others) played a vital role at the hall, supporting firefighters and the community with information, food and care when it was needed most.

Together, Sue and Lenny embody the very best of CFA: service, commitment and community spirit.

Redesdale brigade is richer for their contributions, and their legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Submitted by	News and Media

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating a road rage incident that occurred in Palmerston on Monday morning.

Around 9:20am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report alleging that a white utility had intentionally struck a van during a road rage incident.

It is alleged the incident began on the Stuart Highway near Temple Terrace, where the driver of the offending vehicle tailgated the van occupied by a man and woman in their 60s, before continuing along Tiger Brennan Drive, overtaking and braking suddenly, forcing the victims to come to a stop.

An altercation has allegedly occurred, and the victims fled the location. It is further alleged that the driver of the utility followed the victims to the intersection of Wishart Road where he rammed the rear of the van, as well as the passenger side door before fleeing the scene.

Officers from Darwin Traffic Operations have subsequently identified the offending driver who has since been issued a Notice to Appear at Darwin Local Court in March.

He was charged with the following offences:

• Recklessly endanger serious harm x 2
• Ram- raid
• Dangerous driving
• Fail to stop at crash
• Going armed in public.

Acting Senior Sergeant Aaron Evans said, “This type of aggressive and reckless driving behaviour on our roads places other road users at serious risk and will not be tolerated.”

“Anyone with information or dashcam footage of this incident is urged to contact police on 131 444 and quote reference number P26019056. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”

Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

The City of Greater Bendigo is proud to unveil its 2026 Signature Works series at Ulumbarra Theatre and The Capital, with the inclusion of a new Pay-What-You-Can ticketing model supporting more people to enjoy the arts.

Signature Works feature world-class performances such as Opera Australia’s Don Giovanni, Bell Shakespeare’s Macbeth, and concerts by Sir Stephen Hough, Paul Grabowsky, and Michelle Nicolle.

City of Greater Bendigo Manager Bendigo Venues & Events Julie Amos said cost should not be a barrier to experiencing the arts.

“Our Pay-What-You-Can ticketing model helps ensure arts and creativity are accessible to all through a range of tiers,” Ms Amos said.

“This approach gives people the flexibility to enjoy quality performances right here in Bendigo, contribute at a level that suits them, and help make this series available to others.”

Under this new ticketing model, buyers can select from suggested tiers:

• Champion: Help make the event accessible for others by contributing a little extra
• Fair share: The true cost of your ticket. Thank you for covering your part
• Community: Equivalent to a concession price
• Accessible: For anyone needing a reduced price or trying this experience for the first time
• Supported: Made possible by the generosity of Champions – we’re glad you’re here

“We’ve programmed seven Signature Works to offer a rich mix of performances, from international artists to leading Australian companies,” Ms Amos said.

“Our Signature Works are an open invitation to experience remarkable talent and the shared joy of live performance. With Pay-What-You-Can, that invitation is for everyone.”

Tickets for the Signature Works series are on sale now.

For more information about Signature Works and Pay-What-You-Can, visit gotix.com.au or call 5434 6100

Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

The City of Greater Bendigo, as part of its capital works program, is undertaking reconstruction works on a section of Mitchell Street, Axedale, from the High Street / McIvor Highway intersection to 120 metres south of Eddington Street / Raglan Place East.

City of Greater Bendigo Manager Works Brett Martini said the works will require a full road closure starting Tuesday January 27, which is expected to take approximately eight weeks depending on weather conditions.

“The works will include installation of new stormwater drainage pipes, construction of new kerb and channel, traffic island alterations, road pavement renewal and footpath upgrades,” Mr Martini said.

“Traffic management measures will be in place during construction. Roads may be closed and traffic diverted while works are underway. Pedestrian traffic will be redirected during concrete footpath construction to ensure safety.

“All reasonable steps will be taken to limit disruptions as much as possible, and access to properties for residents will be maintained throughout the works.

“Considerable planning has gone into this project to ensure traffic continues to operate safely and make sure any inconvenience is kept to a minimum.

“The City asks motorists and pedestrians to observe all signage and detours around the works area and apologises for any inconvenience the works may cause.”

During construction, the following traffic arrangements will apply at various times throughout the project:

• Single lane closures will be in place for most of the project during weekday working hours between 7am and 5pm, with possible traffic restrictions on Saturdays between 9am and 5pm, should the need arise
• A full road closure of a section of Mitchell Street will be required for an eight-week period starting January 27, 2026. Detours will take place as follows:
  • Heavy vehicles will be detoured via Bendigo-Redesdale Road (Strathfieldsaye Road), Longlea Lane and McIvor Highway
  • Light vehicles will be detoured via Shadforth Street, Raglan Place East, and William Street

Construction work and noise will be restricted between 7am and 5pm on weekdays and 9am and 5pm on Saturdays only.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating following continued unrest in the Wadeye community.

Local police have responded to multiple disturbances, with officers observing several groups of people gathering at various locations, some individuals allegedly armed with edged and blunt weapons, with numbers reaching up to 100 people at a time.

Overnight, two unoccupied vehicles were allegedly set alight, and several individuals were observed in possession of crossbows and other weapons.

Additional police resources have been deployed to the community to support local policing operations.

In recent days, up to 20 people have been arrested in relation to the ongoing unrest.

No serious injuries have been reported to police at this stage.

As of this morning, police have not received further reports, and local police, Aboriginal Liaison Officers and community leaders are continuing to engage to restore calm and maintain community safety.