Category: MIL-OSI

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Arcadia Fire Brigade recently celebrated its 90th year of service to the community at the community centre/fire station complex in Arcadia.

Brigade Captain Ray McManus welcomed 80 guests, including past residents and former brigade members, who joined with current members, their families and community supporters to share memories and celebrate the occasion. 

Arcadia is a rural community about halfway between Shepparton and Murchison.

Brigade member of 10 years, John Gribben, presented a history of the brigade since its inception in 1935, when it was known as Arcadia Rural Fire Brigade. John expanded his narrative to tell some of the stories of the disastrous Longwood bushfire of 1965.

Fortunately, this fire which started just south of the Arcadia area did not impact immediate farmland. The brigade’s major vehicle at this time was a farmer’s truck with a 1,500-litre tank and power pump on the back. Other equipment consisted of knapsacks and fire beaters. 

The brigade was presented with its first tanker, an Austin Small Town unit, in 1977. This truck was upgraded with a later model Austin in 1983. In 1985, CFA replaced the Austin with a new Hino 3.2 tanker that served the brigade until 1998 when it was replaced with the latest model 2.5 Hino tanker. This is still the main firefighting unit for Arcadia Fire Brigade.

Commander Rohan Taylor from CFA District 22, congratulated the brigade and its members for service to the local and wider community over this lengthy period.

Rohan then presented long service awards which included eight medals of Life Membership to CFA.

“I felt privileged to be a part of this celebration and present brigade members with service awards including CFA Life Membership medals. These awards totalled more than 470 years of combined service, including John Kennedy’s 70-year CFA Life Membership.

“The day was well organised, and it was fantastic to see not only past and present brigade members there, but also so many community members joining in the celebrations.” 

Submitted by	Julie Wright

Source: Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission

After years of planning, and two months near the Shackleton Ice Shelf, the Denman Marine Voyage has returned to Hobart with enough data and samples on board to keep scientists busy for years to come.

The DMV was RSV Nuyina’s first dedicated marine science voyage. It was also the first opportunity scientists working with the Australian Antarctic Program have had to study the waters around the Denman Glacier tongue.
The Denman Glacier is one of the largest but least-studied glaciers in East Antarctica and it is melting at a rapid rate. It holds enough ice to increase global sea levels by 1.5 metres if it melts completely.
“The Denman Marine Voyage seeks to fill a big hole in our understanding by collecting, for the first time, observations from the ocean next to one of the fastest retreating glaciers in East Antarctica,” Dr Laura Herraiz Borreguero, from CSIRO and the Australian Antarctic Program Partnership, said.
“We want to find out how vulnerable the Denman is to the warming ocean and the likelihood of it making a larger and faster contribution to sea level rise in the next few decades.“
The voyage was a collaborative effort involving 60 scientists from the Australian Centre for Excellence in Antarctic Science (ACEAS), the Australian Antarctic Program Partnership (AAPP), Securing Antarctica’s Environmental Future (SAEF) and the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD).
Science teams used many of RSV Nuyina’s 150 marine science systems to investigate the physical and chemical oceanography of the region, its biodiversity, geology and cloud forming processes.
Professor Jan Strugnell’s SAEF team used the ship’s beam trawl to investigate marine biodiversity around the Shackleton Ice Shelf. 
“We’re interested in understanding the connectivity and diversity of marine life, particularly the marine life that lives on the seafloor around Antarctica,” Professor Strugnell said.
“We’re interested in understanding how different regions are connected, about source and sink populations, and the evolution of animals in this region. This information can be used to inform marine protected areas and conservation concerns.”
A more detailed look at SAEF’s project work on the DMV can be found here.

“They’re going to improve our models and develop our understanding of climate change”
It was the first time working at sea for many in the science teams. It was also the first time many of the ship’s marine science systems were deployed in the setting they were designed for.
“We knew Nuyina was an exceptionally capable vessel but to be able to put it to the test on this voyage and see it achieve and perform as well as it has, has been really gratifying,” Dr Stringer said.
Scientists will now take their samples back to the lab, where they’ll be analysed and written about for years to come.
Findings from the Denman Marine Voyage will complement those from the earlier Denman Terrestrial Campaign, which based scientists near the glacier’s inland reaches for two summers.
Dr Stringer said: “Together, they’re going to improve our models and develop our understanding of climate change and the affect it’s going to have on biodiversity in our region.”  
For many on board, the science work was just one part of the experience.
“I think my favourite part of the voyage was seeing the community coming together,” Professor Lannuzel said.
“It didn’t matter which discipline or program you came from, everyone was united under one banner, and I think for me that was the highlight of the voyage.”
A full wrap of the Denman Marine Voyage can be found here. 

A range of intriguing marine creatures, including this clio pyramidata – a type of sea snail – were captured using the ship’s wet well Photo: Pete Harmsen

This content was last updated 9 hours ago on 9 May 2025.

Source: New South Wales – News

About 12.30am this morning Friday 9 May, police observed a stolen car travelling on Henley Beach Road, Mile End.

The Honda sedan took off from patrols and was last seen in the back streets of Mile End.

Police sighted the car a short time later travelling on South Road towards the Port River Expressway.

With the assistance of PolAir and Dog Operations Unit the car was tracked to Main North Road where it was successfully spiked at the intersection of Park Terrace, Salisbury.

The car was dumped and three people were seen running from the car into nearby backstreets.

With the continued assistance of PolAir and Dog Operations PD Arlo located a 22-year-old man from Solomon Town nearby on Chaddenwick Road where he was arrested. He has been charged with unlawful possession and his bail has been refused and he will appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court later today.

Police conducted a search of the area and were unable to locate the following two suspects.

Police conducted vehicle checks on the Honda which showed that it had been stolen from a Brompton home last month.

Police ask anyone who may have CCTV or dash cam footage which may assist in the investigation to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Source: Tasmania Police

Issued: 7 May 2025

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) is issuing a strong reminder to visitors about the serious consequences of illegal activity in State forests and national parks.

Rangers have observed a concerning increase in unsafe and unlawful behaviour across State forests and national parks including Wondai and Benarkin State Forests in recent months, with a number of fines issued over the Easter holiday period.

Of particular concern is the number of adults and children riding unregistered motorbikes, not holding valid driver licences and failing to wear helmets, increasing the risk of serious injury.

Rangers detected an increase in people camping without a permit which impacts on the visitor experience through overcrowding and places unnecessary pressure on facilities and amenities.

Recent enforcement activity has resulted in the issuing of several Penalty Infringement Notices (PINs) including:

• $1209 issued for operating a vehicle with an unrestrained child
• $322 for failure to wear a helmet while riding a motorbike
• $322 for camping without a permit
• $322 for driving/riding an unregistered vehicle

QPWS Senior Ranger Luke stressed that the same rules that apply in public and on public roads also apply in state forests.

“These rules exist for a reason. Those who choose to disregard these regulations are putting themselves and others at risk, damaging these delicate ecosystems, and spoiling the camping experience for responsible visitors.

“A State forest is not a motocross track, and when people go off-road or ride dangerously, they put themselves at risk, destroy vegetation and cause erosion.

“You would not do it in the main street of Wondai, the local botanic gardens or your backyard, so don’t do it in a State forest or national park.”

Ranger Luke also highlighted the importance of camping permits.

“Permits help to prevent overcrowding, protect wildlife and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

“At just $7.25 per person, a permit is a small price to pay to camp in some of Queensland’s most spectacular locations. Camping illegally can end up being a very costly mistake and can result in a $322 fine.”

QPWS will continue to conduct regular patrols of State forests in the South Burnett including Wondai and Benarkin State Forests, and those caught breaking the law will face heavy penalties.

Any illegal activity in national parks and State forests can be reported anonymously by calling 1300 130 372.

Source: Tasmania Police

Issued: 6 May 2025

A 2.8-metre estuarine crocodile has been captured in a baited trap on the Little Annan River near Cooktown on 27 April 2025.

Wildlife Rangers from the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) set the trap near Rossville on 24 April 2025, after receiving sighting reports from local residents.

Lindsay Delzoppo, DETSI’s Director Northern Wildlife Operations, said the crocodile had been declared a ‘problem crocodile’ and targeted for removal based on its size and location – near private campgrounds where people often swim.

“The fact that it had entered a baited trap after only three days, shows it must have been pretty hungry, he said.

“We’d like to thank the members of community who reported the crocodile sightings to us. Such information is vital for us to locate the animal promptly and assess that it needed to be targeted for removal,” Mr Delzoppo said.

“We would also like to thank the Cook Shire Council for their support and assistance while our wildlife rangers were investigating this and other crocodile sighting reports in the Cooktown area.

“The removal of this animal is a reminder that crocodiles are highly mobile and can turn up in places they may not have been seen for many years, especially after flooding.”

“People living on and visiting Cape York Peninsula should be aware that crocodiles may be present in any waterway, even if there are no warning signs.”

Cook Shire Council Mayor Robyn Holmes confirmed that wildlife rangers have successfully removed a crocodile from the Little Annan River, crediting strong collaboration between agencies.

“This is great news for the community,” Mayor Holmes said. “I want to thank the wildlife rangers not only for capturing the crocodile but also for educating the public and putting up recent sighting warning signs during their investigation.

“Thank you to everyone who reported sightings to DETSI. I encourage all residents to report any crocodile sightings—this helps protect our community.

“We live in crocodile territory. Staying alert and reporting sightings keeps everyone safer.”

Crocodiles can be reported by using the QWildlife app, completing a crocodile sighting report on the DETSI website, or by calling 1300 130 372. The department investigates every crocodile sighting report received.

Further information is available at: https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/plants-animals/animals/living-with/crocodiles/becrocwise

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Detectives from Serious Crime have identified and located 3 children in relation to a rock throwing incident in Ludmilla overnight.

Around 10:20pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report that a brick had been thrown through a rear side window of a vehicle traveling outbound on Bagot Road near the entrance to Bagot Community.

The vehicle was carrying 4 occupants, with a woman suffering a serious injury to her eye.

Police have been investigating since the incident occurred and have now identified and located 3 children, aged 8, 9 and 11, who are believed to have been involved in the incident.

Police are engaging with the families of the children, along with the Department of Children and Families.

Police have also engaged with the victims of the rock throwing.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Strike Force Trident detectives have charged a male youth with multiple offences in relation to the indecent assault on six females within the Northern Suburbs.

On 30 April 2025, police arrested the youth, who is under the age of 15, in relation to two separate incidents that occurred at a hospital carpark in Tiwi. It is alleged the male youth indecently touched two women and was subsequently charged with two counts of Indecent touching or act and was remanded to appear in court on 7 May 2025.

Between the arrest and the youth’s court appearance, police connected the youth to four further assaults on females walking along the Nightcliff Foreshore.

About 6:30am on Thursday 17 April, police received reports of a male indecently assaulting a woman who was walking along the Foreshore. He fled the scene on foot before police arrival. A statement was provided with a description of the offender which was crucial in linking this occurrence to the following incidents that took place at the carpark later in the day.

About 11am on Tuesday 22 April, police received reports of an indecent assault on a female who was running along the Foreshore. The victim was able to flee to safety following the assault.

Around 6pm on Wednesday 23 April, police received reports that a male grappled with a female after indecently assaulting her along the Foreshore. The victim screamed for help and a passing vehicle noticed the struggle and immediately stopped to render assistance. The alleged offender fled the scene before police arrival.

About 7:20pm on Tuesday 29 April 2025, police received reports that whilst a female was walking along the Foreshore, a male grappled with her after appearing from behind. She was able to break free and observed that the male was naked at the time. The victim screamed for assistance and fled from the alleged offender.

Police seized evidence from the victims which returned a positive DNA match to the already arrested youth. Strike Force Trident detectives further charged the male youth with four counts of Indecent touching or act without consent and Attempt sexual intercourse without consent. He is remanded to appear in court on 20 May 2025.

Detective Senior Sergeant Burns said, “Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Strike Force Trident detectives, the youth was swiftly identified and taken into custody before he could harm anyone else.

“Strike Force Trident will continue to actively pursue those who pose a risk to public safety.

“The bravery of the victims to assist police is commendable and I encourage anyone affected by similar incidents to report them to police immediately.”

Anyone with information in relation to these incidents or have further information that could assist police in their investigation is urged to contact police on 131 444. Anonymous reports can be made via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Source: New South Wales – News

It will be alleged that about 6.40pm today (Thursday 8 May), police and ambulance crews were called to a house in Bronte Crescent after reports that a woman had been stabbed.

She was taken to hospital in a critical condition.

The female suspect was arrested at the scene.

Early indications suggest both parties are known to each other.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Source: South Australia Police

Experience an extravaganza of artistic talent as the Beach to Bush Arts Festival arrives in the City of Wanneroo this May.

Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing

Victorians are being warned about Plumbing Australia (Vic), after Consumer Affairs Victoria received more than 60 complaints since January last year from consumers unhappy with its services.

Its ABN (44 630 796 459) has been associated with more than 200 websites – many with almost identical pages. These websites appear prominently in online searches for plumbing services.

Search this document to confirm if a website you have accessed may be linked to Plumbing Australia (Vic) businesses: Plumbing Australia (Vic) websites (Word, 39KB)

Most complaints have been about General Home Services (generalhomeservices.com.au). Others include mrdrainmelbourne.com.au, 247 Local Plumber, Plumb patrol and Revive a pipe.

Based on complaints, Consumer Affairs Victoria believes Plumbing Australia (Vic) may have:

• misled customers
• wrongly accepted payment for services it did not supply, and
• failed to refund payments when requested and required.

Reports suggest that Plumbing Australia (Vic)’s businesses follow a common approach:

• After receiving a call, the business sends someone to assess the job and provide a quote.
• The representative provides a basic inspection before telling the customer the job is complex and urgent.
• Often, they will say major works are needed and provide a quote for thousands of dollars.
• The consumer will be asked to pay a large deposit (usually 50%).
• Once paid, the representative will leave, after agreeing to send a plumber to complete the work.
• Consumers who get a second opinion often discover the works are not urgent or expensive.
• Where consumers call the business back to seek a refund, business representatives are often slow to respond, uncooperative and in some cases, refuse to return the money.

Consumer Affairs Victoria Acting Director David Joyner urged people looking for help with emergency plumbing issues to choose tradespeople carefully.

“Dealing with a plumbing emergency is stressful, but there are ways to protect yourself,” he said.

“Look for reliable reviews and ask friends or family whether they know a tradesperson they can recommend.

“If possible, get a second opinion – especially if you’re told that a job is much larger than you expected – and steer clear of any tradie who asks you to pay a large deposit before they start.”

If you have had a bad experience with Plumbing Australia (Vic) or one of its businesses, contact us through our complaint form, email or by calling 1300 55 81 81.

Read our public warning: