Five quick hits: Blues trounce Maroons in State of Origin II as Zac Lomax takes a ‘speccy’ at the MCG

US President Donald Trump has requested a swift deposition from billionaire Rupert Murdoch in his defamation lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal over a July 17 article regarding Trump's ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Trump's lawyers filed a motion in a Miami federal court to compel Murdoch to testify within 15 days, citing his age, while Dow Jones, the WSJ's publisher, affirmed its commitment to defending the article. Want More Context? 🔎

Heavy rains in Gracetown led to the first bridge flooding in 30 years, prompting a community celebration rather than panic, as residents enjoyed the temporary isolation. The bridge was closed for safety but reopened the following morning, with locals sharing fun experiences amidst the flooding. Want More Context? 🔎

North Sydney councillors have voted to implement a $50 ticketing system for access to Blues Point during Sydney's New Year's Eve fireworks, citing financial challenges. While Mayor Zoe Baker expressed regret over the decision, she emphasized the availability of other free vantage points for the event. Want More Context? 🔎

A historic hay run in Western Australia successfully delivered nearly 6000 bales of hay to over 400 drought-affected farming families in South Australia, organized by Farmers Across Borders and Need for Feed. This record-breaking convoy of 86 trucks, which traveled over 1300km, aimed to alleviate financial pressure on farmers and support the welfare of approximately 450,000 livestock. Want More Context? 🔎

At least five people, all security guards, were killed by a gunman who later took his own life at a market in Bangkok, Thailand. The police are investigating the shooter's identity and motives, confirming that no tourists were harmed; this incident adds to concerns about gun violence in the country, following previous attacks in recent years. Want More Context? 🔎

The share price of Boss Energy plunged 42.2% to $1.965 after revealing challenges at its Honeymoon uranium mine in South Australia, which may hinder production targets. An independent review will assess the impact of lower-than-expected uranium mineralization discovered during production drilling, while the company remains debt-free and has produced over one million pounds of uranium since resuming operations in April 2024. Want More Context? 🔎