Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: New South Wales Health – State Government

​NSW Health is advising people to be alert for signs and symptoms of measles after being notified of a confirmed case who was infectious while visiting several locations in northern Sydney. 

The case recently returned from Indonesia where there are ongoing outbreaks of measles, and they were also identified as a contact of a measles case on their return flight to Australia. 

People who attended the following locations should watch for symptoms of measles. These locations do not pose an ongoing risk. 

Saturday, 27 December 2025: 

Train from Thornleigh Station to Epping Station, then bus from Epping Station to Macquarie Centre at approximately 11am.
Macquarie Centre from 12pm to 7pm including: 

Mitzu Restaurant from 1pm to 2.20pm
Macquarie Centre children’s play area from 2.20pm to 4pm
F&L Gourmet Restaurant from 5pm to 7pm.

Sunday, 28 December 2025: 

Storey Park playground, Asquith, from 12.30pm to 2pm.

Tuesday, 30 December 2025:

Waitara Oval from 1pm to 1:30pm. 
Jamie’s Kitchen and children’s play area, Waitara PCYC, from 1.30pm to 3pm. 
Aldi Supermarket, Westfield Shopping Centre, Hornsby from 2.45pm to 4.15pm.

Wednesday, 31 December 2025

Hornsby Ku-Ring-Gai Hospital Emergency Department, various times from 5.15pm to 8pm.

Northern Sydney Local Health District Acting Director of Public Health, Dr Sean Tobin, said if you or someone you know visited the above locations at those times, you should monitor for symptoms. 

If symptoms develop, see your doctor or health service (including emergency department). Call ahead to let them know that you may have come into contact with measles, so you don’t spend time in waiting rooms with other patients. 
“Symptoms to watch out for include fever, sore eyes, runny nose and a cough, usually followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head and face to the rest of the body,” Dr Tobin said. 

“It can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after an exposure, so it’s important for people who visited these locations to look out for symptoms until 18 January 2026.” 

Measles is a vaccine preventable disease that is spread through the air when someone who is infectious coughs or sneezes. 

“We want to remind the community to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations. The measles vaccine can prevent the disease even after exposure, if given early enough,” Dr Tobin said.

“This should be a reminder for everyone to check that they are protected against measles, which is highly infectious. 

“Anyone born after 1965 needs to ensure they have had two doses of measles vaccine. This is especially important before overseas travel, as measles outbreaks are occurring in several regions of the world at the moment.” 

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective and is given free for children at 12 and 18 months of age. It is also free in NSW for anyone born after 1965 who hasn’t already had two doses. 

Children under the age of 12 months can have a dose of MMR from six months of age if they are travelling overseas. Parents should consult their GP. 

People who are unsure of whether they have had two doses should get a vaccine, as additional doses are safe. This is particularly important prior to travel. MMR vaccine is available from GPs (all ages) and pharmacies (people over 5 years of age). 

If you, or a loved one, is experiencing measles symptoms, or have questions about measles, please call your GP or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.​

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Territory Road Policing has completed Operation Quinn, a major road policing enforcement initiative conducted across the Northern Territory during the Christmas and New Year school holiday period.

The operation aimed to keep Territory roads safe during one of the busiest travel times of the year by targeting the Fatal Five driving behaviours: speeding, drink and drug driving, seatbelt non-compliance, distraction, and fatigue.

Operation Highlights

• 105 Random Breath Testing (RBT) stations deployed across the Territory.
• 12,595 breath tests conducted, with 85 drivers testing positive for alcohol.
• 336 roadside drug tests, resulting in 74 positive detections.
• 63,195 vehicles speed-checked, with 1,341 infringements issued for exceeding the speed limit.
• 769 traffic apprehensions carried out.
• 334 traffic infringements issued for other offences, 50 offenders arrested, and 126 Notices to Appear served.

Acting Superintendent Devrim Kanyilmaz from Territory Road Policing said, “The results show both the scale of the operation and the ongoing challenge of risky driving behaviours.

“Every positive alcohol or drug test represents a potential tragedy that was prevented.

“Our officers worked tirelessly to ensure families could travel safely during the festive season.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility – if you drink or take drugs, don’t drive.

“The Fatal Five are not just words – they are the leading causes of serious crashes and fatalities on our roads, and we will continue to target these behaviours to save lives.”

The NT Police Force is reminding all road users to:

• Plan ahead if you’re drinking – arrange a safe way to get home.
• Stay alert and avoid distractions behind the wheel.
• Obey speed limits and make sure everyone in the vehicle is wearing a seatbelt at all times.
• Don’t drive tired – fatigue can be as dangerous as impairment.
• And look out for pedestrians on the roads.

Operation Quinn demonstrates the commitment of Territory Police to proactive enforcement and community safety. Similar operations will continue throughout 2026 to reduce road trauma.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has completed the first four weeks of Operation Ludlow II, with police maintaining a visible presence across Katherine throughout the Christmas and New Year period.

Four-week results:

• 1,244 proactive CBD patrols
• 94 arrests
• 1,954 point of sale refusals at takeaway outlets
• 101 licensed premises patrols
• 41 business engagements in the CBD
• 15 high visibility wanding operations
• 56 infringement notices issued
• 5 point of arrival and departure engagements
• 6 drone flights

Over the Christmas and New Year period, Katherine Police officers, alongside partner agencies, undertook a range of community engagement activities as part of Operation Ludlow II.

This included visits to public housing complexes on Christmas Eve, a joint visit to Katherine Hospital on Christmas Day with NT Fire and Emergency Services, and a visible policing presence throughout New Year’s Eve, supported by Territory Road Policing, wanding operations and licensed premises patrols across the Katherine region.

Katherine Police also deployed drone capability during New Year’s Eve operations to support crowd monitoring.

Acting Superintendent Warren Scott said, “The focus of the operation remained on visibility, prevention and engagement.

“Our priority throughout the festive season has been maintaining a strong police presence, working with partner agencies, and engaging with the community to support a safe environment.

“Our officers valued the opportunity to engage with the community across a range of activities during the festive period.

“Community members are encouraged to approach police officers on patrol. Any concerns can be reported by calling 131 444, or 000 in an emergency.”

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force conducted a targeted operation today in Coolalinga, focusing on vehicle theft and theft from vehicles occurring across the area.

The operation involved highly visible patrols, engagement with members of the public, and proactive monitoring of identified hotspots. Police will continue this operation over the coming days and weeks as part of an ongoing focus on reducing property crime in the rural area.

Police are urging the public to be vigilant by taking these simple steps to reduce the risk of opportunistic offending:

• Lock your vehicle every time and take your keys.
• Remove valuables from your vehicle or keep them out of sight.
• Report suspicious behaviour, including people loitering near vehicles or attempting to gain entry.

Detective Senior Sergeant Darren Burns said, “Offenders will often move through public areas checking door handles and looking for an easy opportunity. Securing your vehicle takes seconds and can prevent your car being stolen or property being taken.

“The message is simple – lock it or lose it.”

Police remind the community not to approach suspicious persons. Move to a safe location and contact police.

Anyone who witnesses crime or suspicious behaviour is urged to contact police on 131 444. In an emergency dial 000. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Source: Tasmania Police

Three bushwalkers rescued near Federation Peak

Friday, 2 January 2026 – 3:46 pm.

Police are reminding bushwalkers to be prepared and always carry communication devices, after three people were rescued from near Federation Peak last night.
“About 11am yesterday, an EPIRB was activated in the Federation Peak area, after a bushwalker became injured and required assistance from emergency services,” said Inspector Colin Riley.
“Three adults had been doing the Eastern Arthur Range Traverse when one of the adults fell down a five metre cliff and became injured.”
“The party activated their EPIRB and were rescued by helicopter about 6pm from the Bechervaise plateau.”
The trio were flown to the Royal Hobart Hospital. The injured man has sustained a non-life-threatening head injury.
“This rescue is a reminder to all bushwalkers that terrain can be dangerous, and it’s imperative to carry communication devices to call for assistance if required,” said Inspector Riley.
“Tragically this year we saw deaths in the Federation Peak area, and it’s a stark reminder of the dangers of bushwalking in the Tasmanian wilderness.”
Bushwalkers should follow these essential safety tips:• Be prepared: Ensure you have appropriate equipment, including a map, torch, suitable clothing and footwear for all conditions, a waterproof jacket, adequate food, water, and a first aid kit and carry it with you at all times.• Research your trip: Check the intended trip’s difficulty level and whether it aligns with your fitness and skill level. Always have a route plan, map, and check the expected weather forecast.• Inform others: Let someone know about your planned route and expected return time before embarking on your journey.• Carry communication devices: Always carry a fully charged mobile phone and a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). Consider a portable charger to extend your phone’s battery life.• Be mindful of mobile phones: While mobile phones can be helpful, they should not be relied upon as the sole means of communication and navigation during a bushwalking trip.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 17-year-old male in relation to an aggravated burglary that occurred in Maningrida on Thursday afternoon.

Around 4:30pm, police received a report that a residence in the community had allegedly been unlawfully entered by multiple youths who gained access by causing significant damage to the rear door to the property.

It is alleged that a female occupant returned home from work and disturbed the offenders within the residence before they stole multiple items and fled the scene.

Police attended and conducted an extensive search of the community. During the search they identified that two additional properties had allegedly been unlawfully entered. Police believe the incidents are linked.

A 17-year-old male was arrested a short time later and was charged with:

• 3x Burglary
• Armed with an offensive weapon
• Theft

He will appear in court on the 17 March 2026.

Two offenders remain outstanding, and investigations are ongoing.

Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number NTP2600000279. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has now charged a 40-year-old male in relation to an aggravated assault that occurred yesterday morning.

The male has been charged with two counts of Intend cause harm cause any harm and was remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating a structure fire that occurred in Ludmilla overnight.

Around 9:50pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of a residential premises fully engulfed in flames on Mawalan Court, with large volumes of smoke impacting traffic along Bagot Road.

Police and the Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service attended, and the blaze subsequently extinguished.

A crime scene was established, and investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444, quoting reference number P26001275. Alternatively, you can report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Source: Tasmania Police

Police warning to speeding drivers

Friday, 2 January 2026 – 12:00 pm.

Tasmanian motorists continue to put themselves and other road users at risk by driving too fast, Tasmania Police’s annual road safety initiative shows.
As Operation Safe Arrival draws to a close after a 12-day campaign**, Tasmania Police intercepted more than 1130 drivers for exceeding the speed limit – 360 more than the previous year, with one day (Friday, 2 January) remaining for the operation.
Speeding offences detected across the state, excluding speed cameras, were 1137, with 389 in the Western district, 344 in the Northern district and 404 in the Southern district.
Among the worst offenders:• A 35-year-old man detected travelling 109km/h in a 50km/h zone in the township of Tullah.• A first year P-Plate driver, aged 19, detected travelling at 150km/h on the Ridgley Highway – 50km/h over the posted limit. The driver also failed to display P Plates.• A 17-year-old P1 driver detected travelling 151km/h in the 100km/h zone of the Southern Outlet from Kingston to Hobart.
Southern Road Policing Services Acting Inspector Penny Reardon said the results were disappointing, and she urged road users to slow down and drive to the conditions.
“Excess speed is one of the fatal five contributors to road trauma. The faster you drive, the greater the risk there is to you, your passengers and other road users,” Acting Inspector Reardon said. “It’s that simple.”
“It’s definitely frustrating for police that despite the strong messaging on the risks associated with excessive speed, and also our high visibility policing campaign focusing on road safety, some drivers out there continue to disobey the rules and put people’s lives in danger.”
Tasmania’s annual road toll for 2025 was 44 fatalities. This is 16 more than in 2024, and the highest total since 50 fatalities were recorded in 2022.
In 2025, there were 26 fatalities involving a vehicle crash, 12 involving a motorcycle, five pedestrians and one e-bike rider.
There were 248 serious crashes in 2025 compared with 258 in 2024. (277 persons injured compared with 307 injuries in 2024).
Acting Inspector Reardon implored motorists to take extra care this weekend.
“It’s going to be very busy on the roads over the next few days as people continue to move about in the holiday period and we are just urging everyone on the roads to exercise caution, to take their time, and to avoid distractions while driving,” she said.
“We want everyone to get to their destination safely, and to be spending time with their friends and their families free from the tragic circumstances of a crash.”
Operation Safe Arrival is Tasmania Police’s key road safety initiative across the Christmas and New Year period, and runs from Monday, 22 December, 2025 to Friday, 2 January, 2026. The full reporting period closes at midnight tonight.
** Please note. Operation Safe Arrival data referenced here is to 8am Friday, 2 January. Full statistics from the Operation Safe Arrival period will be made available once compiled.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information following an aggravated robbery that occurred in Moulden yesterday afternoon.

Around 4:40pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a male youth had allegedly unlawfully entered a residence on Melastoma Drive, where a backpack was stolen from an elderly female occupant. One other adult female was also inside the residence at the time of the incident.

It is alleged the 70-year-old victim awoke to find a male youth in her residence who was holding an edged weapon before he stole her backpack and fled the scene. The victim and the other occupant subsequently secured themselves in a room and contacted police.

A short time later, police attended a residence of interest where they located and seized the edged weapon believed to be used during the incident. The alleged offender remains outstanding.

Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444, quoting reference number P26000890. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.