Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force, in collaboration with the Australian Federal Police National Missing Persons Coordination Centre, are embracing innovative technology to help solve long-standing missing persons cases.

Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) combines DNA testing with genealogy research to offer fresh hope for cases that have remained unsolved for years, particularly those of unidentified human remains.

The Northern Territory currently have 64 cases of unidentified human remains under investigation with the Cold Case Taskforce. FIGG technology presents a new frontier in forensic science and allows investigators to use genetic data to trace family connections through DNA. The use of genealogy databases is a game-changer, providing families of missing persons a much-needed opportunity to find closure.

What is Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG)?

FIGG is an emerging technique that combines the power of DNA analysis with genealogy research. By comparing genetic material from unidentified remains with databases of individuals’ DNA, investigators can trace family relationships and potentially identify those who have been missing for years, or in some cases, decades.

This process can be particularly effective for cases where traditional investigative methods have not yielded results. The ability to access and cross-reference large, publicly available DNA databases greatly enhances the likelihood of making connections that would otherwise be impossible.

How Can You Help?

Members of the public who have already submitted their DNA to consumer databases such as Ancestry.com can play a pivotal role in solving cold cases. By downloading your DNA results and uploading them to genealogy databases like GEDmatch or FamilyTreeDNA, you could help solve a case that has left families without answers for years.

Instructions on how to upload DNA results to these databases can be found on their websites:

The key to achieving success with the use of this cutting-edge technology lies in the support of the community.

As FIGG continues to evolve, it holds promise for solving numerous unresolved missing persons cases across the Northern Territory and beyond. With 64 ongoing cases of unidentified human remains in the NT alone, this new method offers a renewed sense of optimism for those seeking answers.

The Northern Territory Police Force is encouraging members of the public to consider participating, helping to bring answers to families and giving long-term missing persons a chance at being identified.

For more information about how you can assist, please visit the websites linked above.

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Renewed call for information as investigation into former police officer progresses

Thursday, 1 May 2025 – 12:00 pm.

Tasmania Police has renewed its call for information as the investigation into former police officer Dale Cook progresses.The investigation was announced in February to determine whether he used his position as a police officer to commit child sexual abuse crimes or any other criminal offending and identify any misconduct during his employment with Tasmania Police.Acting Deputy Commissioner Rob Blackwood said the investigation team had engaged with many people who either worked with Cook or knew him outside of his role as a police officer.“The investigation team sincerely thanks each person that has come forward to provide information, either in person or through the reporting options provided below. Every piece of information has been of value and will inform the outcomes of the investigation,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Blackwood said.“There are several avenues of enquiry outstanding, and the investigation team continues to work with oversight from the Integrity Commission to identify other criminal offending or misconduct during Cook’s employment with Tasmania Police.“The investigators would still like to hear from anyone with information.“The specialist investigation team recognises the need to offer choice and confidentiality to anyone wanting to provide information.”This includes:• Sending a direct email to the investigation team at cookinvestigation@police.tas.gov.au• Submitting an online form which allows you the option or remaining anonymous, or providing your details if you are willing to be contacted.• Submitting a report to the Tasmania Police Professional Standards online portal.• If you would like to meet in person, contact the investigation team at cookinvestigation@police.tas.gov.au and they will arrange this at a time and place that ensures confidentiality.Media outlets are reminded to be mindful of the following national guidelines when reporting on this matter.https://www.childsafety.gov.au/what-we-do/reporting-child-sexual-abuse-guidance-media-and-victims-and-survivors

Source: South Australia Police

The City recently hosted a celebratory event to recognise the efforts of a dedicated group of volunteers.

Source: New South Wales Government 2

01 May 2025

Who does this notice affect?

All clients submitting the below declarations:

• Full Import Declaration (FID)
• Long Form Self Assessed Clearance (LFSAC)
• Short Form Self Assessed Clearance (SFSAC)
• Cargo Report Self Assessed Clearance (CRSAC)
• Cargo Report Personal Effects (PE)

Approved arrangements operators, customs brokers, importers, manned depots, and freight forwarders who are required to book and manage requests…

Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

The City of Greater Bendigo is developing a new Domestic Animal Management Plan and undertaking a review of its Keeping of Animals Local Law 2 and is calling on residents both with pets and without pets to have input, to ensure the views of the wider community are reflected.  

Local Law 2 has several clauses relating to the keeping of domestic animals and under the Local Government Act must be reviewed every 10 years to ensure it meets community expectations and relevancy.  

City of Greater Bendigo Safe Environments Manager Jock Schofield said the City has a legislative requirement under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 to prepare a Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) and this will be the fifth plan that the City has prepared.  

“The new plan will build on the achievements and work from the first four plans and establish a framework to guide future service programs and actions through to 2029,” Mr Schofield said.

“Companion animals have been part of our lives since recorded history with dogs and cats playing an important role in the daily lives of many Greater Bendigo residents.

“Therefore, it’s vital for the City to undertake the necessary planning to ensure that pets, pet owners and non-pet owners can coexist in a harmonious way.

“That is why we want to hear from both pet owners and non-pet owners so we can undertake initiatives to complement pet ownership and also actions that help minimise the nuisance and potential danger created by some dogs and cats.

“Some of the initiatives that have come from previous plans include the creation of new dog parks and off leash areas and new cat containment rules.

“The first step in developing the new plan is to gather feedback through a survey.  This information will be used in the development of a draft plan which will also be available for further community comment.”

The survey includes questions in relation to demographics, responsible pet ownership and education, registration and identification of cats and dogs, desexing of cats and dogs and dog faeces management, keeping of animals local law, off/on lead areas (access to public spaces), cat control, dog attacks and nuisance animals and enforcement.

Residents can make comments on the local law review and have input into the development of the by completing a survey by Friday May 30, 2025.

To complete the survey, visit:

Source:

Nyah Nyah West brigade members

Nyah Nyah West Fire Brigade has proudly marked 100 years of service over the weekend, celebrating the centenary with a community open day, luncheon and medal presentation.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Our CBR is the ACT Government’s key channel to connect with Canberrans and keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the city. Our CBR includes a monthly print edition, email newsletter and website.

You can easily opt in or out of the newsletter subscription at any time.

Source: New South Wales – News

Yesterday, 30 April, officers from SAPOL’s Public Protection Branch, arrested a 34-year-old woman from the north-eastern suburbs.

She was charged with breaching her court bail and two counts of breaching her ANCOR reporting conditions.

She was refused police bail and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court today, Thursday 1 May.

Detective Chief Inspector Naomi Oberscheidt, Officer in Charge Offender Management Section states, “Members of the public who have information about people involved in child abuse and exploitation are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.accce.gov.au/report If you know abuse is happening right now or a child is at risk, call police immediately on Triple Zero (000).”

CO2500017646

PLEASE NOTE: CONFIDENTIALITY OF ANCOR INFORMATION

It is an offence against Section 67 of the Child Sex Offenders Registration Act for a person to disclose information obtained under the Act which includes the name of a registrable offender. It is also an offence against Section 68 of the Child Sex Offenders Registration Act 2006 to publish by newspaper, radio, television or in any other way, information that has been disclosed in contravention of Section 67.

Source: AMP Limited

01 05 2025 – Media release

All The Boys Are Here writer/director Goran Stolevski and It’s All Going Very Well No Problems At All writer/director/producer/star Tilda Cobham-Hervey (Tilda photo credit Matt Loxton).  
Screen Australia has today announced a significant investment for local scripted projects, reflecting the agency’s commitment to rich Australian narrative content and meaningful creator pathways.
Across feature film, television and online, $7.6 million has been shared across more than 100 projects, contributing a substantial amount to the overall direct production and development funding provided in the 24/25 financial year so far. The mix of projects showcases a wide range of themes and formats, speaking to the evolving scripted landscape and highlighting the importance of reaching Australian audiences where they are watching.
Among the projects is the debut feature film from writer/director/producer/star Tilda Cobham-Hervey set in an aged care home, It’s All Going Very Well No Problems At All; animated children’s series Jidoo & Ibis, about the relationship between a grumpy Grandpa and Australia’s beloved bin chicken; comedy series for TikTok CEEBS about two friends on a mission to save their local youth centre from imminent closure; and a series inspired by a true story, DIVA, about 21-year-old Elly who balances his strict, religious Samoan life with ambitions of becoming a professional wrestler in drag.
Screen Australia Director of Narrative Content Louise Gough said, “Screen Australia is uniquely positioned to support a thriving pipeline of Australian stories that connect with audiences across multiple platforms and genres. This funding reflects our commitment to both emerging and established creatives, reinforcing the strength and diversity of our industry.”
“Demand on Screen Australia funding remains high, and our recent survey was a reminder of the value that the sector places on our direct funding. In an ever-changing landscape, one thing remains constant – Australian screen storytelling is a vital cultural force that continues to resonate with audiences here at home and across the world. We’re proud to back this extensive collection of distinct and ambitious projects,” said Gough.
Screen Australia has also supported 11 major television series for production to be announced in coming months, sharing in $12 million of direct funding and with a total production value of over $117 million. The agency has recently supported Stan Original Series’ He Had it Coming and comedy-horror Gnomes. Also recently announced is Bus Stop Films’ first feature film Boss Cat, beginning production in June and starring Olivia Hargroder, Penny Downie and Julia Savage.
The supported projects include:

It’s All Going Very Well No Problems At All: This drama is the debut feature film from writer/director Tilda Cobham-Hervey (A Field Guide to Being a 12 Year Old Girl, I am Woman) and is produced by Liam Heyen (Jimpa, Latecomers), Dev Patel (Lion, Monkey Man), Jomon Thomas (Hotel Mumbai, Monkey Man) and Cobham-Hervey, with Natalya Pavchinskaya and Cyna Strachan executive producing. The film follows Audrey (Cobham-Hervey), a young artist teetering on the edge of a quiet collapse, who finds solace and understanding through a profound connection with Harold, an elderly resident at the care home where she works. Major production investment from Screen Australia and S’ya Concept in association with the South Australian Film Corporation, with support from the Adelaide Film Festival Investment Fund. Local distribution by Kismet. The film is a Mad Ones and Minor Realm production.
Jidoo & Ibis: Inspired by the real-life shenanigans between the creator’s father and the hungry bin chickens who flock to his garden, Jidoo & Ibis is from writer/producer Wendy Hanna (Beep & Mort) with writers Michael Drake (Beep & Mort) and Clare Madsen (Little J & Big Cuz). It is a 40-part animated series in development for young pre-schoolers about unexpected problems and unexpected friendships – told through the relationship between grumpy Grandpa Jidoo and an all too familiar larrikin, Ibis.
CEEBS: This 18-part comedy for TikTok is from director Harry Lloyd (Rock Island Mysteries) and writers Betiel Beyin and Leigh Lule, some of the team behind Turn up the Volume. Nikki Tran (Girl, Interpreted) and Amie Batalibasi (Blackbird) are producing. CEEBS follows recent high-school graduates, Zion and Ruby, as they run for ‘Youth President’ to save their local youth centre from imminent closure – all while trying to ensure their lifelong friendship doesn’t get caught in the crossfire. It has received principal production funding from Screen Australia in association with VicScreen.
DIVA: Inspired by a true story, DIVA is created by producer Jessica Magro (Bad Ancestors) and executive producer Jason Dewhurst, working alongside producer Lauren Brown (Thou Shalt Not Steal) and writer Nick Coyle (Bump, It’s Fine, I’m Fine). It is also executive produced by Charlie Aspinwall and Daley Pearson. This eight-part series in development from Ludo Studio and Purple Carrot Entertainment follows 21-year-old Elly as he attempts to balance his strict, religious Samoan life and his secret queer identity as a professional wrestler in drag.
Dreamboat: A feature comedy in development celebrating the enduring power of BFFs, second chances, and embracing life’s next chapter, from writer Joan Sauers (Ladies in Black, Wakefield), producers Courtney Botfield and Kate Riedl, script editor Megan Simpson Huberman and script consultant Zoë Coombs Marr. In Dreamboat, Suzy’s plans for a cruisy retirement are capsized when best friend, Val, takes her on a cruise to Antarctica.
All The Boys Are Here: From Causeway Films (Talk to Me), this queer romance feature film is created by writer/director Goran Stolevski (Of An Age, You Won’t Be Alone) and produced by Kristina Ceyton and Samantha Jennings of Talk to Me. It is about a New York novelist who, while attending a family funeral in Vienna, discovers a German relative’s illicit queer love affair with a Jewish man during WW2 – sending him on a journey through the past that changes his future. It has received major production investment from Screen Australia in association with the Polish Film Institute, with Maslow Entertainment distributing and New Europe Film Sales and Charades managing international sales.
A Model Family: A 10-part comedy in development for the whole family from some of the team behind The Disposables, including creator/writers Keir Wilkins and Sonia Whiteman, creator/writer/producer Renny Wijeyamohan, creator/producer/executive producer Karen Radzyner, producer Linda Micsko (The Office Australia) and executive producer Oliver Lawrance, with Guy Edmonds (Spooky Files) and Emmanuelle Mattana (Fwends) attached as writers. In A Model Family, five ultra-lifelike AIs have escaped from a secret research facility in the Australian countryside and must pass for a human ‘nuclear’ family to survive.
Fear is the Rider: This horror-thriller is from the team behind The Forgiven, including writer/director/producer John Michael McDonagh, producers Elizabeth Eves, Kate Glover, Nick Gordon and Trevor Matthews, and executive producer Natalie Coleman. In Fear is the Rider, a lone woman searching for her missing mother is pursued into the Australian Outback by a terrifying family of cannibalistic serial killers, with only an ex-con and a young girl willing to help her. Major production investment from Screen Australia and financed with support from Screen NSW’s Made in NSW Fund. Local distribution by Umbrella Entertainment, with international sales by Film Constellation and CAA.
After All: From writer/director/producer Jess Murray (Moments of Clarity) and writers Tom Ward and Declan O’Byrne-Inglis, After All is a six-part comedic adult YouTube animation set against a post-apocalyptic wasteland. After living in a bunker for most of their lives, mutant filmmakers Flynn and Marshall venture out to make “the best movie ever made”, but quickly realise that stardom is not as important as friendship. It has received principal production funding from Screen Australia and financed with assistance from Screen Tasmania.
Bluebottle: A thriller-comedy feature film from director Jim Weir and writer/director Jack Clark of Birdeater, producers Gal Greenspan (Moja Vesna), Rachel Forbes (Strange Creatures) and Ryan Bartecki (The Novice), and executive producers Joel Edgerton (Boy Swallows Universe), Ari Harrison (Lesbian Space Princess, The Moogai) and Jane Badler. During the final night of ‘Schoolies’ in an isolated coastal town, three local dropouts battle three handsome older men for the affection of three private school girls – tackling social issues of class, consent and identity. Major production investment from Screen Australia, with Co Created Media co-financing and Umbrella Entertainment distributing locally.

CEEBS
For the list of announced projects funded across the Narrative Content Department this financial year, visit:

For more information about Screen Australia funding and to apply, click here.
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Media enquiries
Maddie Walsh | Publicist
+ 61 2 8113 5915  | [email protected]
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