Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Mental Health Australia

The NSW Government is continuing to roll out a raft of initiatives to prepare and protect the community as the 2025/26 bushfire season kicks off.

Transport for NSW has worked across government and with emergency response agencies to plan and prepare for the bushfire season, with more than 170 local, regional and Bushfire Emergency Management Committees across the state to ensure operational readiness.

In 2025, Transport has participated in more than 60 readiness exercises to prepare for times of flood or bushfire.

Recommendation 65b from the NSW Bushfire Inquiry, handed down in July 2020, was to improve information flows and increase public awareness of ABC emergency broadcasts by strategically placing roadside signage with local and regional ABC radio frequencies throughout NSW.

After working with councils across the state, Transport for NSW recently completed the installation of 219 signs displaying local ABC radio at locations identified for their historical risk and other factors such as potentially limited phone service.

There are 64 new signs in Greater Sydney, 58 in the north of the state, 54 in the south and 43 in the west, building on the 99 roadside signs installed at key regional areas in 2022 and bringing the total number of signs across the state network to more than 300.

Transport for NSW has installed new 30,000 litre water tanks at the Bundjalung Rest Area and the Pine Brush Creek Northbound Rest Area on the Pacific Highway. These tanks are available for use by the NSW Rural Fire Service and Fire and Rescue NSW to support crews responding to incidents and emergencies

The new water sources will provide a strategic advantage in the Clarence Valley LGA along the Pacific Highway – between Glenugie and Tabbimobile – where history has shown there are minimal nearby water refill sources resulting in extended transit times for emergency vehicles to travel to a refill location. This builds on previous water tank installations across the Kempsey and Shoalhaven LGAs.

Transport for NSW also has crews across the state currently carrying out roadside vegetation control along key road corridors to provide firebreaks in some areas while generally reducing the amount of combustible material.

Transport for NSW Coordinator-General Howard Collins said:

“Transport for NSW is proud to be continuing to deliver on the NSW Bushfire Inquiry recommendations to help keep people in our communities safe in times of emergency and provide safe travelling conditions for motorists on the road network.

“Hosting water tanks in our rest areas is an obvious solution to past problems accessing water once firefighters have depleted onboard supplies. This is all about reducing the risk of having road closures and importantly the chance of there being devastation in the event of a fire.

“Information is power and the initiative to roll out more signs indicating the local broadcast frequency to tune in for the latest information during a weather emergency is a simple but important one.

“Another recommendation out of the bushfire inquiry was to include all road information – rather than just impacts to State Roads – on Live Traffic NSW, and in the past three years all councils in NSW have been provided the opportunity to publish local road information on that platform.

“Since then, councils have published information about almost 19,000 unique incidents. Not only does this information appear on Live Traffic NSW but it is also picked up by popular navigation apps including Google Maps, Apple Maps, Waze and TomTom.”

ABC Head of Emergency Donna Field said:

“The rollout of local ABC frequency signs is a vital prompt for locals and visitors in NSW to stay alert and informed during emergencies.

“During emergencies, radio remains a reliable source of information. It can often continue to deliver critical updates even when other communication channels are disrupted or unavailable, ensuring communities stay informed when it matters most.

“As an emergency services broadcaster, the ABC works hand-in-hand with emergency services and local agencies to deliver timely, accurate and practical information to communities before, during and after emergencies.

“This roadside campaign is a clear reminder of where people can turn for dependable coverage that helps keep them safe.”

RFS Deputy Commissioner Operational Coordination Ben Millington said:

“We welcome the rollout of initiatives like these new water tanks, which will directly support firefighters and communities as we move further into the bushfire season.

“Every minute saved in accessing water can make a real difference to the protection of life, property and the environment.

“It is an important reminder that while agencies continue to prepare and invest in readiness, bushfire safety is a shared responsibility. We all need to do what we can to prepare our properties and have discussed a bushfire survival plan.

“We urge everyone to use all available sources to stay informed in times of emergency, including the Fires Near Me app, the RFS website, official RFS social media channels, and local media to stay up-to-date with warnings and information.”

A map showing the locations of the new signs can be viewed here. 
 

Source: South Australia Police

Police and emergency services were called to Hillier Road just before 8pm on Tuesday 11 November after reports a man was hit by a car. The involved vehicle allegedly failed to stop after the crash and immediately sped off.

A 25-year-old man from Andrews Farm was seriously injured in the crash and was rushed to hospital but sadly died shortly after.

Barossa Police are investigating the incident and ask anyone with information who hasn’t yet spoken with police to contact Crime Stoppers at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or on 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.

Source: Government of Queensland

Issued: 10 Nov 2025

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) rangers are reminding visitors to K’gari to respect its World Heritage environment, after issuing an $834 fine to an ‘influencer’ for illegally lighting a fire while visiting the island.

The woman also received a warning for using a drone to record video above a camping area, where the use of drones is restricted.

Fires on K’gari are strictly prohibited unless they are lit in QPWS-provided fire rings at the Dundubara and Waddy Point camping areas when a fire ban is not in place.

Senior Ranger Chad Hoult said the fine serves as a stark reminder that content creators are not exempt from the rules, nor are they an official source of information when it comes to K’gari’s regulations.

“Disregarding these rules poses a serious threat to K’gari’s delicate environment, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage,” Mr Hoult said.

“Illegal fires can quickly become bushfires that impact the island’s natural and cultural values and put lives at risk.

“We are lucky this wasn’t the case with this fire, however we have seen illegal campfires become significant bushfires on Mulgumpin (Moreton Island) and at Teewah.

“The QPWS is committed to protecting our spectacular national parks, ensuring they remain safe and enjoyable now and into the future.”

Before visiting any protected area, QPWS urges all visitors to:

• Check the official rules and guidelines on the QPWS website.
• Speak directly with QPWS rangers for accurate and up-to-date information.

For more information on park rules and safety guidelines, visit the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service website.

Source: Government of Queensland

Issued: 10 Nov 2025

New footage has emerged of a man near the site of an illegal tyre dumping incident on the Gold Coast.

The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) has launched a new appeal for public assistance to help track down the culprit who illegally dumped 34 tyres at Natural Bridge, near Springbrook National Park last month.

Jackie Mckeay DETSI’s Executive Director of Waste and Enforcement Services said on August 14, a local resident reported seeing a white Ford Falcon ute with false plates travelling on Nerang-Murwillumbah Road with a tray load of tyres.

“Minutes later, the same vehicle was observed leaving the area with an empty tray,” she said.

“Footage shows a man believed to be in his 50s, with short grey hair, near the scene around 4.55pm.

“It is likely that the driver has information about the alleged illegal dumping that will assist with the investigation.

“Illegal dumping is not just an eyesore – it poses a serious risk to the environment. Discarded tyres can release harmful chemicals into soil and waterways, causing long-term damage to ecosystems and wildlife.

“This kind of behaviour is completely unacceptable.

“We are committed to protecting Queensland’s pristine environment and determined to hold the offender accountable, but we need the community’s help.”

This incident follows another illegal dumping at a nearby location two days earlier on August 12, where 22 tyres were dumped.

If you know anything about the white Ford Falcon ute seen in the area between August 12 and 14 or if you can identify the driver, please contact us on 1300 130 372.

Everyone can play a part by reporting any suspicious behaviour to our 24/7 Pollution Hotline on 1300 130 372 and in mitigating illegal dumping by reporting suspicious activity: Litter and Illegal Dumping Online Reporting System.

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory

Source: Tasmania Police

24 drivers caught using mobile phones during Hobart traffic operation

Tuesday, 11 November 2025 – 4:47 pm.

Police have issued 24 infringements to drivers caught using mobile phones during a targeted traffic operation in central Hobart this morning.
Members of Southern Road Policing Services conducted the operation during morning peak hour, focusing on road safety offences and driver inattention.
Inspector Penny Reardon said police were disappointed by the number of motorists continuing to put others at risk.
“Using a mobile phone while driving is dangerous and illegal and people face a $410 fine and three demerit points if detected by police,” Inspector Reardon said.
In addition to the 24 mobile phone offences, officers issued infringements for:
• 3 drivers blocking a clearway
• 1 driver operating an unregistered vehicle
• 1 unlicensed driver
Inspector Reardon said similar operations will continue to take place.
“We will keep targeting dangerous driving behaviours to ensure motorists comply with the law and prioritise safety,” she said.
“If you’re on the roads, follow the rules and avoid distractions behind the wheel.”

Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

A striking new public art exhibition featuring the unique flora and fauna of Box-ironbark Forest on Dja Dja Wurrung Country has transformed Pennyweight Walk into a walking gallery in the city centre.

Commissioned by the City of Greater Bendigo and curated by Reece Hendy from Nacho Station Street Art Collective, the Yirrip exhibition (which means ironbark in Dja Dja Wurrung language) injects the unique and diverse textures, colours, and landscapes of Bendigo National Park.

It features stunning works from 15 artists, 12 of whom are local to Greater Bendigo. They were all selected for their connection to place, distinctive styles, and ability to respond meaningfully to the themes of indigenous flora, fauna, and storytelling of Yirrip.

The result is a vibrant mix of realism and abstraction, each piece offering a unique perspective on the region’s natural environment and cultural heritage.

Yirrip features works from Alicia Huddy, Bridget Finch, Troy Firebrace, Lauren Starr, Sarah Macumber, Amanda Peluso, David Snowdon, Jasmine Howell-Saunders, Levi Jessen-Fennell, Steven Stanley, Andre Sardone, Gus Eagleton, Juzpop, Manda Lane and Reece Hendy.

Coordinator Creative City Maree Tonkin said Bendigo’s National Park inspired many fascinating interpretations amongst the various artists.

“The exhibition seeks to balance Greater Bendigo’s colonial history with deeper narratives of Country, ecology, and cultural identity,” Ms Tonkin said.

Exhibition curator Reece Hendy said at the heart of the exhibition was the Box-ironbark Forest, a resilient and unique ecosystem that wraps around Greater Bendigo.

“Bendigo National Park’s unique native bloom, with its diverse flowers, textures, and landscapes, often goes unnoticed. This exhibition brings these elements into public view, infusing the city with a renewed celebration of its natural heritage,” Reece said.

“This public art activation invites locals and visitors alike to experience Bendigo’s natural beauty in a new light through the eyes of artists who honour the land, its stories, and its spirit.”

There will be an official launch party in Pennyweight Walk on Saturday November 29 from 3pm to 4.30pm. All are welcome and the project artists will be attending.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has now arrested a 14-year-old male in relation to a violent incident in Alice Springs yesterday.

Earlier today, detectives from Strike Force Viper arrested a 17-year-old male in Alice Springs in relation to the incident. The 17-year-old is not believed to be individual who was armed with the machete. He remains in custody and is expected to be charged with recklessly endanger life.

A short time ago, detectives also arrested a 14-year-old male in Alice Springs. He remains in custody and is expected to be charged with Recklessly endanger life, Going armed in public, Breach good behaviour order and Damage to property.

Anyone with information, including footage of the incident, is urged to contact police on 131 444. Please quote reference P25303198. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

Source: Tasmania Police

Woman loses licence for drink driving 5 times the limit

Tuesday, 11 November 2025 – 4:13 pm.

A 36-year-old woman has had her licence disqualified after being caught drink driving in Cooee this afternoon.
Community members raised the alarm with police about 12pm, after the woman allegedly crashed her vehicle in a carpark in South Burnie.
Police intercepted her near a short time later at Cooee, where she reportedly failed a roadside breath test.
She underwent further testing at the Burnie Police Station and returned a breath analysis reading of 0.269 – more than 5 times the legal limit.
Sergeant Craig Dawkins thanked community members for their assistance in the matter.
“Police thank the community for their quick action in reporting this incident. Information like this can be provided to police on 131 444, or Triple-Zero (000) in an emergency,” he said.
“With serious and fatal crashes at concerning levels across the state, police are disappointed that behaviour like this continues to put lives at risk.”
“As we head into the festive season, police urge all motorists to think twice before getting behind the wheel. It’s not worth the risk to yourself, to the community, and to your licence.”
The woman has been disqualified from driving for two years and will face the Burnie Magistrates Court at a later date.