Category: MIL-OSI

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HTID music festival announced as next event to participate in NSW drug checking trial

Source: New South Wales Health – State Government

HTID music festival will host an onsite drug checking service as part of the NSW drug checking trial, further strengthening harm reduction measures for festivalgoers.
HTID will be the tenth festival to participate in the 12-month trial, with the festival taking place on Saturday 24 January 2026 at the Sydney Showground.
The free and anonymous drug checking service allows festival patrons to bring a small sample of substances to be analysed on-site by qualified health staff.
Through rapid evaluation, patrons are provided with information about what was found in the sample, including potency where possible, in line with available technology. They also receive advice on how to reduce risks if they choose to take the substance.
Trained peer workers are available on site to provide tailored guidance about the risks, confidential support and information about additional support services.
While illicit drugs remain illegal in NSW, the trial acknowledges the reality of drug use at music festivals.
NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said the service is intended to help people make informed decisions to reduce drug-related harm but is not a guarantee of safety.
“This trial aims to inform individuals about substances, allowing them to avoid dangerous substances, discard high-risk drugs, make safer and more informed choices and potentially avoid serious health risks,” Dr Chant said.
“Our priority is to reduce harm and keep people safe.”
NSW Health is working closely with HTID festival organisers and other stakeholders to ensure safe and effective implementation of the trial. 
The organisers of HTID festival said their priority is always the safety and wellbeing of festival attendees. 
“The operation of onsite drug checking has been a welcome addition to the health and safety measures we undertake at all of our events. Providing people with free, confidential and non-judgmental advice can help them make better decisions,” a spokesperson for HTID music festival said.
“We are proud to have been early supporters of NSW Health on this Government-led harm reduction initiative and are grateful to the volunteers that make this service happen.”
The NSW drug checking trial will include up to 12 music festivals through to the end of February this year when it will be independently evaluated.
The trial comes after the NSW Government’s Drug Summit concluded in December 2024. The Report on the 2024 New South Wales Drug Summit provided a priority action recommending a trial of music festival-based drug testing.
Further information can be found at NSW drug checking trial.
More information for young people around how to keep themselves and their friends safe at music festivals is available on Your Room.

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Carlisle River Fire Brigade reflects on fire response

Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

Carlisle River Fire Brigade has commended the extraordinary efforts of firefighters and support crews following recent fires in the area, while urging the community to remain vigilant as conditions continue to change in the week ahead.

CFA brigades worked closely with Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) to protect homes, farmland and bushland throughout Carlisle River. For many local volunteer firefighters the response came with an added emotional toll as they protected the community while worrying about their own families and properties. 

Carlisle River Fire Brigade Captain Rob May said crews faced incredibly challenging circumstances. 

“Our members were jumping on the truck to protect the community while knowing their own homes were at risk. That’s a hard position to be in, but they didn’t hesitate to turn out and help,” Rob said.  

Carlisle River firefighter Tyrone Benson highlighted the critical role of aerial firefighting in protecting his property. 

“We had constant support from the FFMVic and CFA ground crews and I’m certain we would have lost everything — our home, our sheds, everything — without the water-bombing crews. They were incredible,” Tyrone said.  

The intensity of the fire, that has burned 5,255 hectares impacted five structures including a shed and a caravan. 

“Based on available information we are confident that no primary residences have been lost,” Rob said.  

“That comes down to the massive effort from Forest Fire Management Victoria, CFA crews from near and far, South Australian crews, and all the support staff working behind the scenes to keep things running.” 

While the immediate threat has eased, the brigade warns the danger is not over. 

“We’re not out of the woods yet. People need to keep checking their properties and the wider Carlisle River area, especially on hot and windy days. Burnt ground can still flare up with very little warning,” Rob said.  

Looking ahead, the brigade is focused on strengthening its ability to respond to future fires and has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for an ultralight vehicle. 

“An ultralight is a small 4WD fire truck, like a Ranger or Land Cruiser, that can get into places our bigger tankers just can’t. It carries water, foam and equipment and is designed for quick first attack in rough terrain,” Rob said.  

“A vehicle like this would have made a big difference during these fires, and it would really help us now as we continue monitoring burnt areas over the coming weeks.” 

The brigade is encouraging community members and supporters to contribute if they are able, helping ensure local firefighters have the right tools to protect lives and property into the future. 

The Carlisle River Fire Brigade is also actively seeking new volunteers. 

First Lieutenant Krystal May said the recent fires highlighted the pressure placed on a small group of volunteers. 

“We’re really keen to speak to any locals who might be interested in volunteering with our brigade. We always need firefighters getting on trucks, especially over the summer months,” Krystal said.  

“These fires have shown just how much pressure is placed on a small group of volunteer firefighters. It’s not just the initial response either — our brigade will continue supporting the community for weeks to come. We need more people to help spread the load.” 

Victorians are reminded to never rely on one channel for emergency information. Connect to official sources of emergency information, including:  

  • VicEmergency app 

  • www.emergency.vic.gov.au 

  • Tune in to local emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, commercial and select community radio stations, or SkyNews TV  

  • Call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226  

  • Follow VicEmergency on Facebook and X

Submitted by Kirsten Dudink
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Carlisle River Fire Brigade reflect on fire response

Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

The Carlisle River Fire Brigade has commended the extraordinary efforts of firefighters and support crews following recent fires in the area, while urging the community to remain vigilant as conditions continue to change in the week ahead.

The Carlisle River Fire Brigade has commended the extraordinary efforts of firefighters and support crews following recent fires in the area, while urging the community to remain vigilant as conditions continue to change in the week ahead. 

CFA brigades worked closely with Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMV) to protect homes, farmland and bushland throughout Carlisle River. For many local volunteer firefighters, the response came with an added emotional toll, as they balanced protecting the community while worrying about their own families and properties. 

Carlisle River Fire Brigade Captain Rob May said crews faced incredibly challenging circumstances. 

“Our members were jumping on the truck to protect the community while knowing their own homes were at risk. That’s a hard position to be in, but they didn’t hesitate to turn out and help,” Rob said.  

Carlisle River firefighter Tyrone Benson highlighted the critical role of aerial firefighting in protecting his property. 

“We had constant support from the FFMVic and CFA ground crews and I’m certain we would have lost everything without the water-bombing crews — our home, our sheds, everything, they were incredible,” Tyrone said.  

The intensity of the fire, that has burned 5,255ha impacted five structures in the Carlisle River – Pipeline Road Fire, including a shed and a caravan. 

“Based on available information we are confident that no primary residences have been lost,” Rob said.  

“That comes down to the massive effort from Forest Fire Management Victoria, CFA crews from near and far, South Australian crews, and all the support staff working behind the scenes to keep things running.” 

While the immediate threat has eased, the brigade warns the danger is not over. 

“We’re not out of the woods yet. People need to keep checking their properties and the wider Carlisle River area, especially on hot and windy days. Burnt ground can still flare up with very little warning,” Rob said.  

Looking ahead, the brigade is focused on strengthening its ability to respond to future fires and has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for an Ultralight vehicle. 

“An Ultralight is a small 4WD fire truck, like a Ranger or Land Cruiser, that can get into places our bigger tankers just can’t. It carries water, foam and equipment and is designed for quick first attack in rough terrain,” Rob said.  

“A vehicle like this would have made a big difference during these fires, and it would really help us now as we continue monitoring burnt areas over the coming weeks.” 

The brigade is encouraging community members and supporters to contribute if they are able, helping ensure local firefighters have the right tools to protect lives and property into the future. 

The Carlisle River Fire Brigade is also actively seeking new volunteers. 

First Lieutenant, Krystal May said the recent fires highlighted the pressure placed on a small group of volunteers. 

“We’re really keen to speak to any locals who might be interested in volunteering with our brigade. We always need firefighters getting on trucks, especially over the summer months,” Krystal said.  

“These fires have shown just how much pressure is placed on a small group of volunteer firefighters. It’s not just the initial response either — our brigade will continue supporting the community for weeks to come. We need more people to help spread the load.” 

Victorians are reminded to never rely on one channel for emergency information. Connect to official sources of emergency information, including  

  • VicEmergency app 

  • www.emergency.vic.gov.au 

  • Tune in to local emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, commercial and select community radio stations, or SkyNews TV  

  • Call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226  

  • Follow VicEmergency on Facebook and X

Submitted by Kirsten Dudink
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Peninsula University Hospital is now open

Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing

13/01/26

The Frankston Hospital redevelopment is now open and will be known as Peninsula University Hospital.

This is the largest health infrastructure project ever built in Melbourne’s south-east. Run by Bayside Health External Link , the redevelopment includes:

  • A new 12‑storey clinical services tower
  • Expanded women’s and children’s services, including maternity, obstetrics, paediatrics, a women’s clinic and a special care nursery
  • Modern oncology (cancer) and mental health facilities
  • A larger Emergency Department with:
    • a dedicated paediatric zone
    • a new Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) hub
  • A rooftop helipad for critically ill patients
  • A new main entrance and better access for patients, visitors and staff

Care closer to home

More families across the south‑east can now receive specialist care close to home. The hospital has been built with room to grow so it can treat more patients over time. This will help reduce pressure on nearby hospitals and improve wait times.

Most services are accessed with a referral from a doctor or healthcare provider. For life-threatening emergencies, the expanded emergency department is always open. For urgent but non-life-threatening issues, when you can’t wait to see a doctor, you can use Victoria’s urgent care services External Link . These services are free, fast, and help you avoid waiting in the Emergency Department.

Innovating and improving care

New features in the hospital allow for better care, such as the Emergency Department’s Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) hub. This is part of a statewide plan to support vulnerable people when they need it most.

Emergency departments can feel overwhelming for patients experiencing mental health, alcohol or other drugs challenges. The hub provides a calm and comfortable space. People will be connected to specialist care to help them get the right support sooner.

The redevelopment strengthens the hospital’s role as a teaching and research hub. The new name reflects its commitment to training the next generation of healthcare workers. It also recognises its world-leading health research, particularly through its long-term partnership with Monash University.

With the new tower open, Stage 2 of the redevelopment will begin. Upgrades will continue, including a new community centre and childcare centre.

Find out more about Peninsula University Hospital External Link or the redevelopment project External Link .

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Departmental crash – Palmerston

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

A Northern Territory Police Force vehicle was involved in a two-vehicle collision in Palmerston yesterday morning.

Around 10:25am, it was reported that while undertaking duties in an unmarked police vehicle, officers collided with the rear of a motorcycle at the Driver Avenue and Temple Terrace intersection at low speed.

The collision resulted in the motorcyclist falling from his bike and on to the road surface.

Police units attended and the officer was subject to a roadside breath test which returned a negative result.

The victim was conveyed by St John Ambulance for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

The exact circumstances of the collision are currently under investigation. 

Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P26019098. 

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Fatal crash – Wycliffe Well

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating following a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred this morning north of Wycliffe Well.

Around 6am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of a motorcycle crash along the Stuart Highway.

Police, St John Ambulance and the local Ali Curung Health Clinic staff attended, and one adult male was confirmed deceased at the scene.

A crime scene has been established and detectives from the Major Crash Investigation Unit are enroute.

Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P26019892.

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There’s something magical about Mary

Source: Government of Western Australia

Wanneroo Regional Gallery has partnered with the British Museum to bring the work of one of the United Kingdom’s true artistic innovators to Australia for the first time.

The Botanical World of Mary Delany will run from 4 February to 9 May 2026, featuring 21 high-resolution reproductions of Delany’s exquisite “paper mosaiks” of plants and flowers.

Delany, aged in her 70s at the time, invented a unique papercutting technique, carefully cutting and layering paper to create detailed images rather than painting them.

She went on to produce about 1,000 intricate illustrations of botanicals. Often mistaken for watercolours, her works are finely constructed paper collages.  

These stunning images give visitors a chance to explore Delany’s creative process and remarkable skill behind these delicate works in a way that is rarely possible due to their fragility. 

Adding a contemporary dimension to this exhibition, professional Perth artists Samuel Beilby, Lucy Dougan, Savannah Matthews and aromatherapist Donna Cochrane will present new works responding to Delany’s oeuvre (body of works). 

Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken said bringing The Botanical World of Mary Delany to Australia for the first time, demonstrated the City’s commitment to making arts and culture accessible to the local community. 

“By collaborating with the British Museum, we’re able to give residents and visitors the chance to experience world-class art close to home,” she said. 

“This not-to-be-missed exhibition strengthens our local arts scene, supports creative expression and reinforces the role of Wanneroo Regional Gallery as a place where people can connect with ideas, history and culture. 

“I encourage visitors of all ages to take the opportunity to step into the fascinating world of Mary Delany.”  
Francesca Kaes, Curator of British Prints and Drawings (1500-1774) from the British Museum said: “We are delighted to partner with Wanneroo Regional Gallery for this exhibition of Mary Delany’s ‘paper mosaiks’.  

“Delany’s collages depict plants and flowers from across the globe. Using high-resolution photography enables us to share these remarkable works with Australian audiences for the first time.” 

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11-2026: List of treatment providers update: treatment provider under review – Max Vision Pest Fumi-Tech India Pvt. Ltd. (AEI: IN0702MB)

Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

20 January 2026

Who does this notice affect?

Stakeholders in the import and shipping industries—including vessel masters, freight forwarders, offshore treatment providers, Biosecurity Industry Participants, importers, customs brokers, principal agents and master consolidators.

What has changed?

Following the identification of biosecurity concerns, we have listed Max Vision Pest Fumi-Tech India Pvt. Ltd. (AEI: IN0702MB) as ‘under…

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Child in hospital with serious knife wounds

Source: Tasmania Police

Child in hospital with serious knife wounds

Tuesday, 20 January 2026 – 11:30 am.

Police are investigating a suspected wounding incident after a child presented to the Launceston General Hospital overnight with serious injuries.
Police were called to the hospital shortly before midnight after reports a child had sustained knife wounds.
A woman also presented with non-life threatening injuries and remains at the hospital where she is receiving treatment and is in police custody.
The child is in a serious condition and has been flown to Melbourne for medical treatment.
Investigations are ongoing and there is no risk to the public.
Media please note – updates will be provided proactively when available.

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Empowering our women leaders

Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

Ilona Goswell from Milawa Fire Brigade in District 23 reflects on what makes the Women in Leadership (WIL) Mentoring Program so powerful.

“From the very beginning we showed up with honesty, openness and a willingness to listen. Some of us were strangers, yet we connected like neighbours. Together, we formed a circle of like-minded women (and men) in leadership, united by shared values and a commitment to growth. 

Since September 2024, every gathering has been a testament to truth, heart and wisdom. As each voice added to the collective, it reminded us that our feelings, challenges and triumphs are shared. Throughout the program, we created space to learn out loud – for each other and for ourselves. The conversations sparked by the fires we lit were deep, raw and thought-provoking. We were reminded, time and again, that we are not alone in our journeys. 

The WIL Mentoring  Program asks for nothing, yet invites everything. There was no pressure to perform, no judgement – only space. Space to release what’s been heavy, to share what’s been quietly waiting and to celebrate what’s been good. That’s why we kept showing up. 

Through mentorship, I found my person – a remarkable woman and leader whose strength, skill and integrity continue to inspire me. Her guidance, her patience with my endless questions, and her unwavering commitment to community and justice were nothing short of admirable. Our time together confirmed two key insights: you don’t need to know everything – you just need to know where to find it, and keep nurturing the networks that help you grow. 

I’ve come to realise that community, kindness and family are profound sources of growth and nourishment – guiding values I aspire to embody in leadership. I’ve learned that kindness

is never wasted even when it goes unnoticed, unreturned or misunderstood. And simply showing up is enough. 

Everything about the WIL Mentoring Program reflects what CFA strives to provide women: opportunity, growth, leadership and strength.”

Submitted by News and Media