Libs unable to provide NCDC source behind Kowen population claim | The Canberra Times

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has introduced a groundbreaking family benefits program sponsored by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), offering players up to 12 months of paid maternity leave, grants for fertility treatment, and other benefits, marking the first time such benefits are available to self-employed athletes. More than 320 players are eligible based on criteria related to tournament participation, with WTA Players' Council representative Victoria Azarenka expressing optimism about the initiative's lasting impact...

Tens of thousands of people are without power in south-east Queensland and northern NSW as Cyclone Alfred approaches the coast, with damaging 120km/h winds already developing. Thousands have been ordered to evacuate, particularly in flood-prone areas, with concerns about limited escape routes and potential extended periods without essential services. The slow-moving cyclone is predicted to make landfall as a category 2 storm with destructive 155km/h winds, leading to major flood warnings and evacuation orders in...

Former 'Baywatch' actress Pamela Bach-Hasselhoff has died at the age of 61, reportedly taking her own life at her California home. Her ex-husband David Hasselhoff confirmed the news and requested privacy for their family as they grieve. The couple had a tumultuous divorce with ongoing spousal support issues, with David seeking to end payments citing Pamela's lack of effort to become self-supporting, while she argued her prime earning years were spent raising their daughters and...

A salmon company is under investigation by an animal welfare body after a video showed workers sealing live fish in a tub, prompting calls for Huon Aquaculture to lose its RSPCA accreditation. The company has pledged a full investigation, stating the vision did not depict standard operating procedures and is committed to fish health and welfare. Tasmania's Greens leader estimates millions of salmon have died in recent weeks due to a bacterial disease, leading to...

Tropical Cyclone Alfred is forecast to hit south-east Queensland and north-east NSW on Saturday, causing concerns about flooding in the region. Sydney Roosters player Spencer Leniu addresses rumors of wanting to leave the club, reassuring teammates of his commitment. The NRL season opener between the Roosters and Broncos is underway as Brisbane prepares for the cyclone, with new faces in the Roosters lineup and concerns about potential impacts on the match. Full Article

Cyclone Yasi, a category 5 system, struck near Mission Beach with winds reaching 285km/h, causing severe damage in Tully, Cardwell, Innisfail, Ingham, and Mission Beach but spared Townsville and Cairns. Despite an impressive evacuation effort, only one person died as thousands were relocated to evacuation centers or left the area, with flights fully booked. The Australian Defence Force and Royal Flying Doctor Service evacuated 300 patients from the local hospital to Brisbane and other regional...