Australia prepared to send help for LA fires, minister says

Australia ranks among the best globally for air quality, but worsening climate change and extended bushfire seasons are impacting health through even low levels of air pollution, with particulate matter posing risks to both lung and brain health. Experts warn of cognitive issues from long-term exposure, with children and pregnant women being particularly vulnerable, and even brief exposure affecting focus and academic performance. While air pollution is a significant risk factor globally, Australia is urged...

The Australian women's rugby sevens team was stunned by a 14-12 loss to Brazil at the Vancouver world series leg, with the Brazilians coming back from a 12-0 deficit at halftime. Brazil's Raquel Kochhann expressed the team's joy at the unexpected victory, highlighting their efforts to showcase Brazil as a strong rugby team despite the sport's lack of popularity in the country. Despite the upset, Australia, the reigning world series and World Cup champions, remain...

Manchester United came back from a two-goal deficit to secure a 2-2 draw against Everton in the Premier League, with Manuel Ugarte scoring the equalizer in the 80th minute. Bruno Fernandes and Ugarte's goals helped United salvage a point after a lackluster performance, avoiding a third consecutive loss. Despite the comeback, manager Ruben Amorim faces significant challenges to improve United's standing in the league, currently in 15th place. Full Article

Hamas released all six hostages, including three Israeli men abducted from the Nova music festival and another seized while visiting family in southern Israel, in a recent exchange despite heightened tensions. The hostages, two of whom had been held for around a decade, were handed over in staged ceremonies condemned by the Red Cross and Israel. The release comes after a dispute over the wrong body being initially transferred by Hamas, with difficult negotiations expected...

The New York Yankees have lifted their 49-year ban on beards to attract players as they aim to win their first World Series title since 2009. Owner Hal Steinbrenner called the ban outdated and announced the change before spring training, citing the importance of beards to players' character. Despite initial backlash and ridicule, the Yankees have amended their expectations to allow well-groomed beards, emphasizing the team's commitment to winning while maintaining some traditions. Full Article

Laura Hindson supervises production of plant-based tiger nut milk at a small factory in Melbourne, sourcing raw materials from Burkina Faso and providing fair pay to over 600 women. The demand for non-dairy milk in Australia is growing rapidly, with tiger nut milk being a creamy, nutritious alternative. However, Burkina Faso faces challenges such as poverty and terrorism, highlighting the importance of ethical trade relationships for women farmers. Full Article