Mount Isa Rodeo draws international competitors from USA, New Zealand

A Melbourne surfer, Steven Payne, is presumed dead after being attacked by a shark at Wharton Beach in Condingup, Western Australia, in front of his girlfriend and onlookers. The incident occurred as he surfed 50 meters from shore, with witnesses describing screams and panic as the shark circled. Despite search efforts, Payne's body has not been found, and the investigation has been handed over to the coroner, leaving his family and the community devastated. Full...

In the midst of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred hitting the east coast, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's response has been praised for his solid leadership and engagement with affected communities, potentially boosting his odds in the upcoming federal election. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton faced criticism for attending a fundraiser before the storm, highlighting a contrast in crisis management strategies. Despite the impact of the cyclone on the political landscape, Albanese still faces challenges with low approval...

Brisbane Lions forward Lincoln McCarthy has suffered an ACL rupture in his right knee, just days before a potential AFL comeback after previously injuring the same knee last year. The 31-year-old had made a successful return in the pre-season but will now be sidelined for an unknown length of time. McCarthy's injury adds to a spate of ACL tears for the Lions, with multiple players including Keidean Coleman, Darcy Gardiner, and Tom Doedee also suffering...

In 2025, multiple AFL clubs, including Geelong Football Club, are scheduled for audits regarding third-party payments, as reported by journalist Caroline Wilson. While former coach Paul Roos noted this scrutiny as unusual, the AFL confirmed regular audits across clubs for salary cap compliance. Concerns from rival clubs about Geelong's dealings, including Bailey Smith's connection to a sponsor, have raised eyebrows, prompting an ongoing audit at the Cats without specific allegations of wrongdoing. Full Article

Pope Francis has been hospitalized since February 14 with double pneumonia, responding well to treatment but with no exact discharge date provided. The Vatican lifted the earlier prognosis of immediate danger, although the pontiff will continue medical drug treatment for several more days. Francis, who has not been seen in public since entering the hospital, is undergoing respiratory physiotherapy and using oxygen while sleeping, facing a challenging recovery due to his age and other medical...

A man collapsed on Hummingbird Boulevard in Tarneit, Melbourne and was hit by a car, sustaining life-threatening injuries. The driver is cooperating with police, who are conducting an ongoing investigation. The unidentified man is currently fighting for his life in the hospital. Full Article