Latest News Stories
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Indonesian volcano eruption disrupts flights and travel across multiple airports
Multiple articles report that Mount Anak Krakatau’s eruption since late on Friday has caused widespread travel disruptions in Indonesia, with volcanic ash forcing the closure of eight airports, including Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. The eruption disrupted flights, stranded travellers, and affected activities in Lampung and Banten provinces. Authorities extended flight suspensions until early Sunday or Monday, with ash detected as early as Sunday morning. The eruption was heard hundreds of kilometres away, and no tsunami risk was reported. Specific details vary, such as the number of flights cancelled (ranging from 33 to 209) and the exact time of suspension extensions, but all sources agree on the eruption’s impact on air travel and the volcanic activity’s scale. The 1883 eruption of Mount Krakatau, which killed 35,000 people, was referenced as historical context, and a 3km exclusion zone was established around Anak Krakatau. Some sources also highlighted the disruption to schools, shipping, and local communities due to ashfall.
✓ Verified by 2+ sources
- Mount Anak Krakatau has been erupting since late on Friday
- Soekarno-Hatta International Airport suspended operations due to volcanic ash
- Volcanic ash was detected at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport early on Sunday
Today
Police manhunt for Peter O'Ryan after axe attack on family in Gippsland
Police are searching for Peter O'Ryan, a 48-year-old man, after he allegedly attacked his 76-year-old father, 47-year-old brother, and 74-year-old mother with an axe or hatchet at their home in Tyers, about 12:30pm on Saturday. The two male victims remain in critical condition with life-threatening injuries, while the woman is stable after critical injuries. O'Ryan fled the scene on foot and is believed to still be armed. The attack occurred about two hours east of Melbourne, near Morwell, and police have issued a warrant for his arrest. Neighbours were warned to stay vigilant, and O'Ryan is described as frequenting abandoned properties in the area. Authorities urge the public not to approach him if seen and to call Triple Zero immediately.
Darryl Young convicted of triple murder and attempted murder at Bogie cattle station in 2022
The articles cover the conviction of Darryl Valroy Young, 63, for the triple murder of Mervyn Schwarz, 71, Maree Schwarz, 59, and her son Graham Tighe, 35, and the attempted murder of Ross Tighe, Graham's brother, at Young's Shannonvale Station in Bogie, north Queensland, on August 4, 2022. Young lured the family to his property gate under the pretense of discussing a cattle dispute, then fatally shot them with a .30-30 calibre rifle. Ross Tighe survived after being shot in the abdomen and fled the scene. The trial, which began on August 10, 2022, lasted nearly four weeks, with the jury ultimately finding Young guilty of three counts of murder after deliberating for 15 hours over three days. Justice Christopher Johnstone sentenced Young to life imprisonment with a 40-year non-parole period, extending the standard 30 years due to the 'execution-style' nature of the killings. Young's defence argued inconsistencies in Ross Tighe's testimony and claimed Young was not at the gate at the time of the shooting, but the jury rejected these claims. The case highlights Young's history of cattle theft and his violent confrontation with his neighbours, culminating in a premeditated massacre.
US envoys Kushner and Witkoff visit Kyiv and Moscow for Ukraine-Russia peace talks
US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff visited Moscow and Kyiv in early September 2026 to revive stalled peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, marking their first trip to Ukraine. Both sides agreed to a temporary ceasefire on their capitals to facilitate the visit, with Putin ordering a three-day pause on strikes against Kyiv starting Saturday. The talks followed a January 2026 meeting in Moscow and came as the war, now in its fifth year, has intensified with escalatory strikes, including Russia’s use of jet-powered drones reaching speeds of 250mph. Ukraine reported at least 8 deaths and 69 injuries across the country on Sunday, while Russia launched 108 drones overnight, with Ukraine intercepting 82. The envoys discussed a 20-point peace plan from December but failed to reach a breakthrough, with Zelenskyy emphasizing the need for a winter package of US and European support for air defense and energy infrastructure. Both sides remain far apart on key issues, including control of eastern Ukraine, and the conflict shows no signs of easing as winter approaches.
Yesterday
Qantas flight QF122 engine fire diverts to Christchurch from Queenstown
A Qantas flight QF122 from Queenstown to Sydney was diverted to Christchurch on Saturday afternoon after passengers reported flames spitting from the left-hand engine and loud bangs. The Boeing 737, carrying around 160 passengers, landed safely around 5pm local time after a 50-52 minute flight, with both engines reportedly remaining operational. Witnesses on the ground described multiple flame bursts and explosions, while passengers inside the cabin recalled panic and screams before the crew stabilized the situation. Qantas provided accommodation and rebooked passengers on flights to Sydney the following day. A second Qantas flight, QF121, was also grounded temporarily due to a separate technical issue. Investigations are ongoing, though one source suggested a bird strike may have caused the problem, a claim not supported by other outlets.
Amazon cargo plane crashes at Miami airport after overshooting runway on Sunday
An Amazon cargo plane operated by 21 Air crashed at Miami International Airport on Sunday around 2 p.m. local time after overshooting the runway while arriving from San Juan, Puerto Rico. The Boeing 767 struck multiple vehicles, caught fire, and forced the closure of all runways and taxiways, resulting in at least five deaths, three critically injured, and two others taken to hospital. More than 60 Miami-Dade Fire Rescue units responded to the scene, where firefighters worked to extinguish the flames and assess patients. The incident caused significant disruptions, with about 250 flights delayed as of late Sunday afternoon. The plane came to rest beside a roadway near two semi-trucks, and the Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the cause of the crash.
US-Iran escalation: strikes on oil tankers in Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman
The US and Iran have escalated their conflict with a series of strikes targeting oil tankers and military vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman. On Saturday, the US military struck three Iranian oil tankers—one off Kharg Island, one near Jask, and one unladen tanker in the Gulf of Oman—after Iran’s Revolutionary Guard allegedly launched ballistic missiles at two US Navy ships. Iran retaliated by targeting three tankers in the Strait of Hormuz and three US-affiliated ships, calling them unauthorized. The US described the Iranian tankers as part of a 'multibillion-dollar shadow network' funding the Revolutionary Guard and its proxies. Both sides have threatened further escalation, with the US warning of higher economic costs and potential destruction of Iran’s oil fleet. The conflict has seen recent violence, including a US strike on a wedding in southern Iran that killed five people, and a disputed February attack on a school in Minab that killed at least 156, mostly children. The US has also previously threatened Kharg Island, Iran’s primary oil export hub, with Trump referencing it in June and August. The back-and-forth violence has disrupted global energy supplies and drawn domestic opposition ahead of US congressional elections.
Adelaide Crows defeat Western Bulldogs in AFL elimination final to advance to semifinals
The Adelaide Crows defeated the Western Bulldogs in a thrilling AFL elimination final at Adelaide Oval, winning by 22 points (90 to 68) in front of a crowd of 51,370. The match was marked by a late Bulldogs fightback, including three goals in five minutes, but Adelaide’s clutch forwards Riley Thilthorpe, Taylor Walker, and Darcy Fogarty secured the victory in the final term. Izak Rankine delivered a standout performance with 34 disposals and two goals, while Josh Worrell set an AFL finals record with 19 intercept possessions. The win ended a nine-year finals drought for Adelaide, who will now face the Brisbane Lions in the semifinals at the Gabba. The Bulldogs suffered a setback when defender Michael Sellwood was concussed during warm-up, and their forward inefficiency proved costly despite dominating inside-50s early. Adelaide’s coach Matthew Nicks, who faced pressure over his future, received a standing ovation, while Taylor Walker played his final game at Adelaide Oval before retiring. The Bulldogs’ Luke Beveridge acknowledged his team’s progress but noted their lack of polish in the loss.
Manhunt after alleged axe attack in Tyers, Victoria, leaves three injured
Three people were allegedly attacked with an axe in Tyers, Victoria, around 12:30pm, with the suspect fleeing on foot. Police describe the attacker as a man in his 50s, known to the victims, and warn he may still be armed with an axe and handsaw. The victims, including an elderly man and woman, were critically injured and taken to hospital, with ABC and 7NEWS reporting airlifts to Melbourne. The Guardian adds specific ages for victims—one man in his 70s, another in his 40s, and a woman in her 70s—but this contradicts other sources. A large-scale search is underway, with police urging the public to call Triple Zero (000) if they spot the suspect. The Guardian notes the search began 'yesterday' and continues 'on Sunday', while ABC and 7NEWS do not specify these dates.
Australia competes in the 6th World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan
The 6th World Nomad Games, held in Kyrgyzstan from August 31 to September 6, showcase traditional Central Asian sports like Kok-Boru (goat polo) and horse wrestling, drawing 4000 competitors from 90 to 100 nations. Launched in 2014, the event blends cultural heritage with modern competition, featuring obscure sports such as eagle hunting, yurt raising, and bone breaking, with events tracing back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Australia’s team is competing but remains medal-less as of Sunday’s final day, while Kyrgyzstan leverages the games for tourism and diplomatic engagement, including hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. The event highlights Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic past and economic revival post-Soviet independence in 1991, with tourism surging by 900 per cent this year.
NRL's decision to move Cronulla Sharks' finals from Shark Park to Allianz Stadium
The NRL has decided to move Cronulla Sharks' elimination final away from their traditional home ground, Shark Park, which has a 15,000-seat capacity, to Allianz Stadium, which opened in 2022. This decision follows years of hosting week-one finals at Shark Park, including in 2022, 2023, and 2025, as noted by both sources. The NRL has stated it will determine the venue after round 27 finishes this Sunday, with the finals schedule set for Friday, September 11, Saturday, September 12, and Sunday, September 13. Cronulla Sharks captain Cameron McInnes has expressed disappointment, arguing that Shark Park should be their home venue, while the NRL has emphasized its discretion in venue selection. The move is seen as a financial decision, as Allianz Stadium can accommodate more fans, benefiting the NRL's gate takings. Both sources agree that Shark Park's suitability for finals has been questioned, though 7NEWS highlights the NRL's past use of Allianz Stadium for finals, including a 2024 semi-final.
Far-right AfD wins German state election for first time since WWII
The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) won a historic state election in Saxony-Anhalt, securing 39 seats in the 83-seat parliament and over 44% of the vote, marking the first far-right victory at state level since World War II. The CDU, which governed since 2002, saw its vote share collapse to around 18.5%, while the AfD nearly doubled its 2021 result of 23.7%. Ulrich Siegmund, the AfD’s lead candidate, claimed the party had made history and extended a hand to all democratic forces, though mainstream parties refused to cooperate. The AfD’s rise reflects nostalgia for East Germany and discontent with Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s unpopularity, with the party eyeing national elections in 2029 or 2033. Both sources agree the AfD’s victory poses a challenge to Germany’s post-WWII democratic norms, with critics warning of economic and security risks, while the AfD promises radical policies like a 'remigration and deportation offensive' and changes to history teaching.
Brisbane Lions' shock loss to Sydney Swans in AFL qualifying final
The Brisbane Lions suffered a shocking 53-point loss to the Sydney Swans in the AFL qualifying final, marking their second defeat since May. Both sources agree coach Chris Fagan had warned his players not to underestimate Sydney, but some players may have doubted the Swans’ intensity due to their understrength lineup with five suspended players. Sydney’s win was described as one of their best performances in recent memory, with standout contributions from less-experienced players like Harry Kyle and Tom Hanily, who combined for fewer than 50 games. Josh Dunkley, Brisbane’s best player, recorded 24 disposals, 10 contested possessions, and eight tackles but admitted Sydney was simply too good. The loss adds to Brisbane’s struggles in finals, as they have failed to win a game in the past three seasons and will now face a longer path to a grand final. Meanwhile, Sydney’s victory was celebrated as a statement win, with comparisons drawn to historic moments at the SCG, including iconic performances from 1990, 1996, and 2005.
Australia's EV sales surpass petrol cars for the first time in August 2026
Australia experienced a historic shift in August 2026 as electric vehicle sales surpassed petrol cars for the first time, with 27,078 EVs sold compared to 25,824 petrol vehicles. This milestone reflects a broader trend driven by rising fuel costs due to geopolitical tensions and government policies promoting cleaner vehicles. Both sources agree that diesel sales were 23,608 last month, and EVs accounted for 36% of the market when including plug-in hybrids. Toyota remained the top-selling brand, while Chinese manufacturers like BYD and Tesla saw significant growth. The Guardian highlights the introduction of stricter emissions standards last year and the rapid expansion of EV models, now numbering nearly 200. Meanwhile, the SMH emphasizes concerns about charging infrastructure, with over 30,000 additional EVs expected on Victorian roads by Christmas. Both articles note Australia’s previous lag in EV adoption but now describe a structural shift in consumer preferences, driven by economic and environmental factors.
Coalition proposes criminalizing flag burning and war memorial desecration with up to 12 months imprisonment
The Australian Coalition government, led by Angus Taylor, is proposing new laws to criminalize flag burning and war memorial desecration, with penalties of up to 12 months’ imprisonment if actions are reckless or incite hatred. The move follows years of debate, including rejections by former Prime Minister John Howard in 2002 and 2006, who argued flag burning was free speech. Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party has long pushed for such laws, with a petition attracting 50,000 signatures last year. The proposal also aims to protect Australia Day by enshrining it in law. Critics, including Labor’s Matt Thistlethwaite, call the plan unnecessary and accuse the Coalition of political desperation to counter One Nation’s influence. The Australian flag’s history, including its 1901 debut after a competition with 33,000 entries and modifications in 1908, was highlighted as part of the debate over national symbols.
Oasis reunion tour documentary and Gallagher brothers' reconciliation
The articles cover the release of the documentary *Oasis: Don’t Look Back in Anger*, which chronicles the 2025 reunion tour of the iconic British band Oasis, featuring the Gallagher brothers, Noel and Liam. The film highlights their public reconciliation after years of animosity, with both sources emphasizing the emotional and financial success of the tour, which grossed $US405 million ($563m AUD) and included five dates in Sydney and Melbourne. The documentary blends concert footage, fan interactions, and behind-the-scenes moments, portraying the reunion as a cathartic experience for both the band and their multi-generational fanbase. The Guardian focuses on nostalgic references to the 90s and the band’s cultural impact, including a 1997 handshake with Tony Blair, while The West details the premiere in Venice and the brothers’ genuine affection on display. Both sources agree on the tour’s scale and the documentary’s role in rewriting the narrative of Oasis, though they differ slightly in framing the timeline of the brothers’ feud and the tour’s immediate context.
Dog poisonings in Carnarvon, WA, with three fatalities and five affected dogs
Multiple news sources report that five dogs in Carnarvon, Western Australia, were poisoned in late August, resulting in three fatalities. The incidents occurred within 48 hours, with three dogs affected on Morgan Way and others on Skipworth Street. Symptoms included hypersalivation, muscle tremors, and diarrhoea, consistent with organophosphate poisoning. The Shire of Carnarvon and RSPCA are investigating, urging pet owners to remain vigilant. One dog, Phoenix, survived after consuming a poisoned sausage, with recovery costs of about $3,000 and lasting financial strain for the family. The Shire confirmed the incidents occurred in late August, with 7NEWS specifying August 24 as the date of the initial social media post. Both sources agree on the severity of the situation and the need for heightened awareness among pet owners.
Victoria’s $550m Western Freeway upgrade announced amid federal funding delays
Victoria’s state government has committed $550 million to upgrade the Western Freeway between Melton and Caroline Springs, addressing long-standing congestion and safety concerns. The funding follows a $1 billion federal pledge announced in March last year, though delays due to paperwork stalled initial works until May, when $50 million was released. Both sources confirm the project will include 30 kilometres of new lanes, upgraded interchanges at Hopkins Road, Ferris Road, and Leakes Road, and a consistent 100 km/h speed limit. Premier Ben Carroll framed the investment as a priority for Melbourne’s growth regions, where traffic is projected to rise significantly by 2031. The Age highlights a cost shortfall in the federal commitment and past advocacy by local councils and federal member Sam Rae, while ABC emphasizes rapid population growth in Melton (6.61 per cent annually) and calls for additional transport solutions like new train stations. Construction is expected to begin in 2028, with planning already underway.
Older
Deadly two-vehicle crash on Bass Highway, Tasmania, with three dead and two critically injured
A deadly two-vehicle crash occurred on the Bass Highway near Elizabeth Town, Tasmania, about 2pm on Friday. Three people died at the scene, including two women in a Chery and one man in an Isuzu D-MAX. Two men in the Isuzu were critically injured, with one flown to Royal Hobart Hospital and the other taken by ambulance to Launceston General Hospital. The injured passenger was later transported to Hobart on Saturday morning. The crash blocked the Bass Highway for hours, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause. Police have urged motorists to take care while the road has reopened.
Riverfire 2026 fireworks event in Brisbane during Brisbane Festival
The Riverfire 2026 event in Brisbane, part of the Brisbane Festival running until September 26, featured a spectacular fireworks display along the river, drawing an estimated 500,000 attendees. Both sources confirm the event included an additional sixth fireworks barge and was impacted by ferry service disruptions due to industrial action. Military flyovers, including the C-17A Globemaster III and F/A-18F Super Hornet, were part of the festivities, with ABC specifying their times at 4:52pm and 5:20pm respectively. The fireworks began at 7pm, with ABC detailing extensive road closures, including the Victoria Bridge from 4pm until 10pm, the Goodwill Bridge from 4pm to 8pm, and the Story Bridge from 6:30pm to 8pm. ABC also noted 11 entry points at South Bank and a dedicated accessible viewing area at Kangaroo Point Cliffs with a capacity of 300 people, while 7NEWS highlighted extra bus services providing 36,500 trips and the event's connection to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.