Month: June 2026

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Three Northern Territory Police officers have been recognised for extraordinary bravery after entering a burning home in a desperate attempt to save a child’s life.

On 1 June 2023, police were called to a house fire, with Constable First Class (1C) Liam Verity, Constable Peter MacGillivray and Constable Jason Wilson among the first officers to arrive.

While en route, the officers received information that a child was trapped inside. Upon arrival, they found the home engulfed in thick smoke and flames. What followed was an extraordinary display of courage and determination.

Without hesitation, Constable Verity ran towards the burning house and used his police baton to smash a glass side door to gain entry. Met by an intense wave of heat, he pushed into the smoke-filled home despite the significant risk to his own safety.

At the same time, Constable Wilson smashed windows around the house to clear smoke and gain access to rooms so the home could be searched. The pair repeatedly entered and exited the property while also preventing distressed family members from attempting to enter the burning building.

Recognising the urgent need to locate the child, Constable 1C Verity made multiple attempts to enter the home through different access points. Crawling on his hands and knees through thick smoke, he pushed deeper into the residence before being forced to retreat by the overwhelming heat.

Undeterred, Constable 1C Verity continued his rescue efforts. He located a fire extinguisher and attempted to suppress the flames before making another entry with a garden hose. Despite his determination and repeated attempts, the rapidly deteriorating conditions ultimately prevented access to the area where the child was later found.

Approximately six minutes after police arrived, Northern Territory Fire and Rescue crews reached the scene. Equipped with protective clothing and breathing apparatus, firefighters were able to enter the home, locate the child and bring him from the building.

Constable 1C Verity immediately commenced CPR before handing over to paramedics. Despite the efforts of all involved, the child could not be revived.

Several attending police officers, including Constable 1C Verity, Constable MacGillivray and Constable Wilson later required medical treatment due to their exposure to the intense heat and smoke.

Following the tragic incident, Constable MacGillivray and Constable Wilson continued to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire to provide answers and closure for the family.

At a ceremony this week, Constable 1C Verity was awarded the Northern Territory Police Force Valour Medal, one of the organisation’s highest honours for bravery.

Constable MacGillivray and Constable Wilson were also recognised, receiving a Commissioner’s Group Commendation Citation for their courage and actions in attempting to save the child’s life.

Police Commissioner Martin Dole APM said the incident served as a powerful reminder of the risks faced by first responders and the extraordinary lengths they go to in service of their communities.

“Although the rescue attempt was tragically unsuccessful, the actions of Constable First Class Liam Verity, Constable Peter MacGillivray and Constable Jason Wilson demonstrated exceptional courage and selflessness.

“They repeatedly placed themselves in harm’s way in an effort to save a life, continuing their efforts well beyond what could reasonably have been expected under such dangerous circumstances.”

Constable First Class Liam Verity said he was humbled by the recognition.

“I am very grateful for the honour of being recognised alongside my fellow officers, and my thoughts remain with the family, who sadly lost their son.”

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has charged two men following a fatal vehicle crash on Victoria Highway that killed a 37-year-old male, in the vicinity of Timber Creek, on 27 May 2026.

A 27-year-old Victorian man was arrested at Melbourne International Airport by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in conjunction with the Victorian Police Service on 10 June 2026. He was charged with dangerous driving causing death and recklessly endangering life.

He faced an initial hearing in Victoria before being bailed to appear before the Darwin Local Court on Monday, June 15.

A 41-year-old Darwin-based man was arrested on 12 June 2026 and charged with dangerous driving causing death and recklessly endangering life and was bailed to appear before the Darwin Local Court on Monday, June 15.

Police are appealing for any witnesses who may have information relevant to this incident to come forward. Anyone who was travelling on Victoria Highway in the vicinity of Timber Creek on 27 May 2026 and has dashcam footage that may assist the investigation is urged to contact police.

Anyone with information relevant to the incident is urged to contact NT Police on 131 444 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or at crimestoppers.com.au and quote job reference NTP2600051324.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Strike Force Trident has arrested and charged a 45-year-old woman following a drug and weapons seizure in Gray.

During April 2026, Trident received multiple reports of youths stealing cat food from a supermarket in Bakewell.

Upon arrest, the youths reported they were stealing the cat food to exchange it for cannabis from a woman at a residence in, Gray.

Further enquiries were conducted and a search warrant was executed at a residence in Gray around 8:10am yesterday.

During the search, members located and seized 975g of cannabis, multiple tablets of schedule 4 drugs, counterfeit currency and weapons which included 8 extendable batons, 2 tasers, knives and samurai swords.

A substantial quantity of pure gold and silver coins and bullion with an estimated value of about $35,000, electrical items and approximately $3,850 of Australian currency were also located and seized.

The woman was charged last night and was remanded to appear in court today to answer for the following offences,

– 1 x Supply schedule 2 – commercial quantity

– 1 x Possess schedule 2 – commercial quantity

– 9 x Possess, use, carry prohibited weapon

– 4 x Receive or possess property – commission offence (tainted property – cash, silver, gold, property)

– 1 x Possess counterfeit money

– 2 x Unauthorised possession schedule 4 substance

Strike Force Trident Senior Sergeant Darren Burns praised the efforts of investigators involved in the operation.

“Today’s result reflects the dedication of our members and their commitment to keeping the community safe.

“Removing drugs, prohibited weapons and other illicit property from our streets helps protect vulnerable members of the public, and Strike Force Trident will continue targeting those who seek to profit from criminal activity.”

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 17-year-old male in relation to a death in Tennant Creek overnight. 

Around 1:10am this morning, police received multiple reports of a stabbing on Griggs Street. 

Officers attended and located a 21-year-old male with a laceration to his neck. He was declared deceased a short time later and a crime scene was declared. 

Police commenced investigations and a short time ago arrested a 17-year-old male at a residence in Tennant Creek in relation to the death. 

He remains in police custody with investigations ongoing. 

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444. Please quote reference P26167346. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/. 

Source: Tasmania Police

Police investigating serious crash at Carlton River

Friday, 12 June 2026 – 3:24 pm.

Police are investigating a serious crash involving a blue Hyundai Getz on Carlton River Road, Carlton River today.
Police and emergency services were called to the scene at about 11.48am this morning.
Preliminary investigations indicate a man in his 20s from southern Tasmania was travelling towards Primrose Sands on Carlton River Road when he left the road and crashed.
The man was taken to the Royal Hobart Hospital with serious injuries.
Police are seeking information from anyone who saw the Hyundai Getz prior to the crash.
Anyone with information in relation to the crash is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously. Please quote ESCAD: 146:12062026.

Source: Tasmania Police

Richmond structure fires update

Friday, 12 June 2026 – 1:19 pm.

Police investigations are ongoing into two structure fires in Richmond this morning, after the body of a man was located. 
About 5.50am, emergency services responded to reports of a fire on Franklin Street (initially reported as Bridge Street) where a small business was damaged.   
A short time later, about 6.25am, emergency services responded to reports of a fire in a 6m x 9m steel shed on Prossers Road. 
Sadly, the body of a deceased man was located inside the shed on Prossers Road after the fire was extinguished. 
Investigations into both fires are ongoing, and at this stage it is believed they are linked. 
At this stage there is no evidence to suggest any other person was involved. 
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.  
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the deceased. 

Source: State of Victoria Local Government 2

A landmark First Nations artwork will be embedded into the fabric of Bendigo Art Gallery’s View Street building as part of the Gallery’s transformational redevelopment project.

Titled Woven, the major new public artwork by senior weaver and cultural knowledge holder Aunty Marilyne Nicholls will be integrated into the façade of the new building, combining ancestral knowledge, traditional weaving practices and cutting-edge architectural technologies on a monumental scale.

Deputy Mayor Cr Karen Corr said the commission represented a significant investment in First Nations culture and contemporary public art.

“This landmark artwork is a powerful expression of culture, connection and creativity that will inspire residents and visitors alike, and create a lasting legacy for future generations,” Cr Corr said.

“It not only honours the rich cultural heritage of Dja Dja Wurrung People but also strengthens Bendigo’s reputation as a city that values and celebrates First Nations voices, art and storytelling.”

A multi-clan woman from freshwater and saltwater Country, Aunty Marilyne’s practice is deeply grounded in tradition, kinship, and connection to the natural environment.

Aunty Marilyne said a key part of her artistic process involved gathering natural fibres from waterways and landscapes across Country.

“Weaving has always been part of my family’s story, and keeping the practice alive is so important to me. I love to see young people develop their passion for it too,” she said.

“Part of my weaving practice is spending time quietly connecting with Country, especially the waterways where the weaving grasses grow. I hope this work inspires conversations amongst people about plant fibres, traditional practice, biodiversity, and environmental issues.”

Bendigo Art Gallery Director Jessica Bridgfoot said the commission represented a defining element of the Gallery’s redevelopment.

“We are thrilled to have Aunty Marilyne’s work adorning our new building. It brings a beautifully organic and playful quality to the geometry of the View Street architecture, and grounds the building within the surrounding gardens,” Ms Bridgfoot said.

“This landmark public artwork honours women’s knowledge on a monumental scale.

“Aunty Marilyne’s work provides a powerful link between the past and the future. It resonates strongly with the historic Dja Dja Wurrung cultural belongings, which will reside in the new Place of Keeping just below the View Street façade, and the program of exhibitions featuring vibrant expressions of contemporary First Nations art today.”

Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Acting CEO Cassandra Lewis said the Gallery’s commitment to commissioning work from a Dja Dja Wurrung artist was a welcome acknowledgement Dja Dja Wurrung historical and contemporary culture.

“Aunty Marilyne is celebrated for her weaving skill and knowledge. It’s wonderful that Dja Dja Wurrung cultural practice will continue to be showcased and celebrated through Aunt’s weaving for generations to come,” Ms Lewis said.

“For Dja Dja Wurrung People, who have often felt invisible on our own Country, this says, ‘We are here. This is our culture. We belong.’ It’s a powerful symbol for us.

“DJAARA greatly values our partnership with Bendigo Art Gallery – in particular, the Gallery’s genuine approach to working with Dja Dja Wurrung People (Djaara). This extends to the Gallery’s sincere efforts to connect with the pre-colonial cultural history of the site on which the Gallery now stands, and the ongoing representation of Dja Dja Wurrung art, artefacts, and stories within the new building.

“We appreciate the lengths to which the Gallery has gone to enable Djaara to be self-determined in the way both we and the general public interact with Dja Dja Wurrung cultural items housed within the Gallery.”

Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

Construction has commenced on a new modernised fire station for members of the Leitchville Fire Brigade, marking a major milestone for the local community.

The new station is replacing the existing station at 33 King Albert Avenue and will deliver a modern, fit-for-purpose base for Leitchville’s dedicated members.

Leitchville Fire Brigade Captain Geoff Fry who has been serving with the brigade for 12 years, said the new station will be a major boost for both members and the town.

“It’s a very exciting time not just for the brigade, but for the whole community,” Geoff said. 

“The new station has a modern feel with fantastic features, and we are all looking forward to the day we move in. 

“It has also been great seeing the enthusiasm from younger members wanting to come and join and we have recently recruited 5 new members. 

“We’re pleased to have a new space to continue growing the brigade further.”

The new facility will include a motor room with two reverse-in bays, storage space, operational areas, a multipurpose room and a new carpark.

The design incorporates a turnout room with features supporting inclusion and diversity and accessible unisex toilets.

The station will be built with the environment in mind to limit the impact on the surrounding area, with features including rainwater recycling and a water sensitive urban design within the landscaping. 

CFA Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer for District 20 Paul Elso said the new station will allow Leitchville brigade to continue supporting their community well into the future. 

“The new station gives Leitchville Fire Brigade the opportunity to grow and improve on the already incredible service they offer to the Leitchville community,” Paul said. 

“It’s great to see the station includes accessible unisex amenities for our volunteers.”

Founded in 1945, Leitchville Fire Brigade has 26 members and respond to 45 call outs a year including motor vehicle and rescue incidents and grass, scrub and structure fires across the Gannawarra Shire.

Submitted by	CFA media

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating a domestic violence disturbance that occurred in Alice Springs yesterday evening.

The incident is alleged to have occurred between 7pm and 8pm in bushland near the intersection of Espie Street and Bloomfield Street in Gillen. An adult female was allegedly physically assaulted by a male believed to be known to her.

An unidentified male member of the public reportedly assisted the female victim at the scene before she was transported by taxi to hospital. Police are seeking to identify and speak with the male who provided assistance to the victim.

The Southern Domestic Violence Unit has carriage of the investigation and enquires are ongoing.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Lifeline 131 114.

Source: Tasmania Police

Police investigating Richmond structure fires

Friday, 12 June 2026 – 11:26 am.

Police are investigating a structure fire in Richmond this morning, where the body of a man was located.
About 6.25am, emergency crews responded to reports of a structure fire on Prossers Road.
Tasmania Fire Service crews extinguished the fire which was within a 6m x 9m steel shed adjacent to a main house.
Sadly, the body of a deceased person was located inside the building.
At this stage it is believed the deceased is an adult who frequented the shed on a regular basis.
Investigations are ongoing in relation to the cause of the fire – which is believed to have been deliberately lit – to determine if there are any suspicious circumstances. 
Police are also investigating a fire on Bridge Street at Richmond which was reported about 5.50am.
Anyone with information in relation to either fire, or suspicious activity in the areas, is asked to contact South East CIB on 131 444 and quote OR807934. 
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the deceased.