Month: February 2026

Source: Tasmania Police

Man charged with drink driving in Orford

Tuesday, 3 February 2026 – 9:21 am.

Police have charged a 44-year-old man after he was detected drink driving more than five times the legal limit at Orford yesterday.
The man was intercepted by police about 4pm on the Tasman Highway, and he subsequently returned a breath analysis reading of 0.299 per cent.
Police will allege the man was earlier observed driving in an impaired manner by other road users.
The man was charged with exceeding the prescribed alcohol limit and driving under the influence of intoxicating liquor. He was disqualified from driving for a period of 12 months and will appear before the court at a later date.

Source: New South Wales Health – State Government

NSW Health is warning the public of multiple high-dose MDMA (ecstasy) tablets in circulation in NSW, found to contain a higher dose than is usually expected.
The tablets have been detected by the NSW Government’s Drug Checking service at multiple music festivals across Sydney and the Central Coast throughout the Summer period.
Some tablets have also been found to contain dipentylone, a synthetic cathinone with stimulant effects.
NSW Health has previously warned the community about the circulation of high-dose MDMA tablets however the ongoing detection of these tablets has prompted further warning.

Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, Dr Darren Roberts said although detection has primarily been in Sydney and on the Central Coast, the tablets could be in circulation anywhere across the state.
“We are concerned about the prolonged detection of these high-dose MDMA tablets and are urging the community to be aware and vigilant, particularly for those people attending major festivals over the next few weeks.”
“MDMA can cause severe agitation, raised body temperature, seizures or fits, irregular heart rhythm and death,” Dr Roberts said.
“The risk of serious harm is increased when MDMA is taken with other stimulants including synthetic cathinones, amphetamines and if high amounts (including multiple doses) are consumed over a short period.”
“The amount of MDMA in a tablet or capsule can vary significantly, even within the same batch.
“Hot environments, such as at music festivals, also increase the risk of harm from MDMA. Taking a break from dancing, seeking shade and drinking water are important measures to reduce the risk of overheating.​
“It’s also very important to remember if you or a friend has taken drugs and feel unwell, you won’t get into trouble for seeking medical care. If you or a friend feel unwell, please seek help immediately by calling Triple Zero (000).”Drug checking services, experienced onsite medical providers and teams of well-trained peer volunteers from programs such as DanceWize NSW and ACON Rovers are available to provide support at many major festivals. Other event staff are also trained to help patrons.
For more information about participating festivals and accessing drug checking services, see NSW drug checking trial.

For support and information with alcohol, MDMA and other drugs, please contact the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 1800 250 015. This is a 24/7 service offering confidential and anonymous telephone counselling and information.

Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

Stawell Champs in 1995

The CFA/VFBV State Firefighter Championships are returning to Stawell in March 2026, bringing CFA’s biggest annual event back to the Northern Grampians for the first time in two decades.

After five fantastic years in Mooroopna, the move has already created a buzz around town as preparations build for one of the most anticipated weekends on the CFA calendar.

Stawell Fire Brigade Captain and Championships Committee Chair Mal Nicholson said seeing the event come home carries real significance.

“It’s been a long time since the Championships were held this side of the state, so to bring them back to Stawell means a lot,” Mal said. “There’s a real sense of pride in being able to host it at North Park again.”

The move back to the region is expected to draw fresh competition from across the west and south-west.

“A lot of brigades out this way haven’t run for a while,” Mal said.

“This is a good opportunity to dust the cobwebs off and have a go.”

With the last iteration of the Championships in Stawell held back in 2006, it means many of the brigade’s younger members won’t have any memory of the event ever being in town.

“For our older members it’ll feel like a homecoming,” Mal said.

“For the younger ones, it’ll be the first time they get to see what a big weekend looks like in their own backyard.

“That goes for the wider region too. We’re really hoping to see some new teams or old teams coming back,” Mal said.

“There’s nothing like seeing the lanes full and that’s exactly what we’re hoping to see.”

The timing also lands at an important moment for western Victoria. The region has endured its share of tough fire seasons in recent years and the Championships are set to provide a significant boost for the broader community.

Northern Grampians Shire Mayor Karen Hyslop said council didn’t hesitate when CFA approached them about hosting.

“Stawell has a proud history of hosting major CFA events, having previously welcomed the State Championships in 1995 2000 and 2006,” Mayor Hyslop said.

“When CFA approached council to host the 2026 and 2027 events, it was a natural fit.

“Hosting the event provides an opportunity to celebrate our community’s spirit, teamwork and resilience, especially following recent bushfires.

“It also aligns directly with our Northern Grampians Event Strategy, which focuses on high-impact events that bring economic and social benefits to the region.”

Mayor Hyslop said the Championships also offer an important morale boost.

“It brings people together and creates a really positive energy around town,” she said. “It shows what Stawell can achieve when we come together as a community.”

Those benefits are expected to be significant, with a projected $2 million injection into the local economy over the two weekends.

“We’re anticipating around 900 competitors and more than 4,000 visitors,” Mayor Hyslop said.

“Local clubs, service groups and suppliers will also benefit through event operations and logistics. Beyond the immediate return, it’s an opportunity to showcase Stawell and the Grampians’ capability, strengthening our reputation for hosting major sporting and community events.”

For local businesses, the Championships represent a meaningful influx of people at a time when every visitor counts.

Stawell retailer Adrienne, who runs a small business on the town’s main street, said weekends like this provide real momentum.

“This kind of weekend brings real benefits straight into the pockets of local businesses,” she said.

“When visitors grab a coffee, browse the shops or book a few nights’ accommodation, that money stays in town, it keeps people employed and keeps our small operators moving.”

Mayor Hyslop hopes visitors will be inspired to return to the region.

“We welcome the opportunity to see people return after experiencing what our region has to offer,” she said.

“Stawell sits at the gateway to the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, and we know visitors can’t fit everything into a single weekend, so we hope they come back.”

Mal hopes the event will draw not just CFA families and competitors, but locals and visitors keen to see something different.

“This isn’t something you get to witness every day,” Mal said.

“It’s fast, it’s skilled, it’s full of tradition and it’s a great chance for people to come and cheer on volunteers from right across Victoria.”

Submitted by	News and Media

Source: Tasmania Police

Two people charged in relation to incident on Delmore Road at Forcett

Monday, 2 February 2026 – 3:15 pm.

Police have charged two people in relation to an incident on Delmore Road at Forcett over the weekend.
Police will allege two men physically assaulted another man who was known to them.
The victim, a 28-year-old man from Forcett, was transported to the Royal Hobart Hospital with what were reported to be serious injuries.
A 46-year-old man from Forcett and a 41-year-old man from Zeehan were each charged with assault. They were both bailed to appear before the Hobart Magistrates Court at a later date.
Police investigations into the incident is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact South East CIB on 131 444 and quote OR796454.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The NT Police Force is continuing to call for information in relation to a structure fire that occurred in Ludmilla on 1 January 2026.

Detectives from the Serious Crime Squad have identified a vehicle of interest within the vicinity of Mawalan Court between 9.30pm and 9.40pm on the night of the incident. The vehicle is described as a small older model dark coloured sedan with faded paintwork.

Detectives believe the occupants of this vehicle may have information that could assist with the investigation.

Police are urging anyone who may have seen a vehicle matching this description or with CCTV or dashcam footage in the area to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number NTP2600000420. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information after a police officer was assaulted in Galiwinku this morning.

Around 4am, officers were conducting patrols in Galiwinku in response to ongoing reported youth disturbances.

Upon police approach, the driver’s side window of the vehicle was struck by a rock, allegedly thrown by an individual involved in the incident.

One of the officers sustained an injury to his eye caused by broken glass fragments in the incident.

Police are investigating if the incident is linked to the ongoing disturbances involving youth offenders.

Investigations are ongoing into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Anyone with information urged to contact police on 131 444 or attend their local police station.

Please quote reference P26033549. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

Source: Tasmania Police

Boaters urged to be prepared after Binalong Bay rescue

Monday, 2 February 2026 – 2:08 pm.

Police are reminding boat users to be prepared after two men were rescued near Binalong Bay yesterday.
About 2pm Sunday, police received multiple reports of a vessel on fire at sea between Binalong Bay and The Gardens.
The Westpac Rescue helicopter was deployed to the area along with St Helens Marine Rescue volunteers aboard rescue vessel ‘Georges Bay’.
About 4:50pm, the helicopter located a 4.6 metre runabout adrift approximately 9 kilometres east-northeast of The Gardens.
A 53-year-old man and 62-year-old man were rescued from the boat by marine volunteers and returned to shore.
The 62-year-old man was taken to the St Helens District Hospital suffering from smoke inhalation.
Sergeant Josh Hayes from Northern Search and Rescue said while initial investigations indicated the vessel had appropriate minimum safety equipment, police were reminding boaters to ensure they also have communications equipment onboard.
“It is highly recommended to take communications equipment when at sea including VHF radio, EPIRB and mobile phones,” Sergeant Hayes said.
“Ease of communication can prevent a simple breakdown turning into an emergency.”
Before you head out, make sure to:
Plan before you launch:

Check the weather forecast and tides.
Ensure your vessel is seaworthy and not overloaded.
Carry all required safety equipment (anchor, flares, EPIRB, VHF radio, first aid kit).
If boating solo, tell someone your plan and when you expect to be back

Wear a life jacket:

Mandatory for all on board; check it’s AS4758 compliant and in good condition.
Inflatable life jackets must be serviced regularly.

Stay alert and sober:

Alcohol and boating don’t mix. Stay under 0.05
Keep a proper lookout and maintain safe speed.

Be ready to act in an emergency:

Know how to use your VHF radio and EPIRB.
In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) or raise the alarm, without putting yourself at risk.

Be safe when swimming or diving:

Never swim or dive alone; always dive with a buddy.
Swim between the red and yellow flags.
Supervise children closely and avoid swimming at night or in unpatrolled areas.

For more information on safe boating and equipment requirements, visit www.mast.tas.gov.au.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has extradited a 66-year-old man from Western Australia in relation to alleged historic child sex offences committed in the Northern Territory.

On 31 January 2026, after extensive interstate enquiries and interagency collaboration in Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia, the man was extradited back to the Northern Territory.

He has since been charged in relation to alleged historic child sex offences committed between 2009 and 2019 and is due to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

Applications for grants of up to $10,000 are now open for the City of Greater Bendigo’s Medium Grants category to support local groups to undertake projects that align with the objectives of the City’s Council Plan Mir wimbul 2025-2029 or a local community plan.

City of Greater Bendigo Manager Community Partnerships Amy Holmes said Council allocates around $850,000 each year through the Community Grants Program and its various grant categories.

“It’s an important program and we want to see as many groups as possible accessing the funding available,” Ms Holmes said.

“The Medium Grants category provides up to $10,000 to help community groups cover essential costs and deliver activities that align with the Council Plan Mir wimbul 2025-2029 or a local community plan.

“The Community Grants Program makes a real difference for local groups as without this funding they would often not be able to undertake important activities that benefit our community.

“To be considered for a community grant, applicants must be a registered legal entity such as an incorporated association. However, if you are informal group or individual your application can be submitted by an auspice organisation.

“Before applying, groups should consider if there is a clear need for their activity, if there is community support for their activity and if they have the resources needed to deliver the activity.

“Grants Officers are available to provide advice, and we recommend applicants speak to our team about their project by calling 1300 002 642.”

To support groups to make their application, drop-in information sessions will be held as follows: 

• Thursday February 5, 12.30-2pm at Galkangu – Bendigo GovHub Room G.03
• Tuesday February 10, 11.30-1.30pm at Bendigo Library Activity Room 1
• Wednesday February 18, 12.30-2pm at Galkangu – Bendigo GovHub Room G.03

Applications for the Medium Grants will close at 4pm on Thursday February 26, 2026.  

Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry

Today the Federal Court of Australia has ordered Indian Ocean International Shipping and Service Company Ltd (Indian Ocean) and Ms Jing Tian to pay $14 million in penalties for breaching Australia’s foreign investment laws.

This outcome sends a clear signal to foreign investors in Australia that they must follow the law or face the consequences.

This was the first case brought by a Treasurer under our foreign investment laws since they were introduced in 1975.

I will always act to protect the national interest and the integrity of our foreign investment framework.

In June 2024, I ordered five foreign investors, including Indian Ocean, to sell their shares in Northern Minerals Limited (Northern Minerals) to unrelated parties by 2 September 2024.

The orders were issued due to national security concerns about these investors’ shareholdings in the critical minerals company.

In August 2024, Indian Ocean transferred their shares in Northern Minerals to Ms Tian, who at the time was the company’s director and sole shareholder.

The Federal Court declared that the transfer of shares breached the disposal order.

The Albanese government will never hesitate to take decisive action to protect our national interests and preserve our national security.