Hollywood actor Zac Efron literally got a gift of life on Christmas eve as doctors in Brisbane gave him a clearance to back to the US after he was diagnosed with a life-threatening disease.&nbsp; 
 
The actor was reportedly rushed to Australia from Papua New Guinea after suffering an "extraordinary life-or-death medical emergency"&nbsp; 
 
Efron was flown to Brisbane, Australia from Papua New Guinea on a `life-or-death flight` with the assistance of medical professionals. The &nbsp;32-year-old was filming a documentary series called 'Killing Zac Efron' when he came down with a `form of typhoid or similar bacterial infection` just before Christmas. 
 
After arriving in Brisbane, he was admitted in a private hospital in Spring Hill and is said to be "in a stable condition". At the hospital, he received treatment for several days, before being "given the all clear" by doctors to fly home to the US on Christmas Eve. 
 
On Monday, Zac took to Twitter to thank those who had reached out in the past few days and confirmed he had contracted a disease but also assured he was now fine.&nbsp; 
 
"Very thankful to everyone who has reached out. I did get sick in Papua New Guinea but I bounced back quick and finished an amazing 3 weeks in P.N.G. I’m home for the holidays with my friends and family. Thanks for all the love and concern, see you in 2020!"

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Very thankful to everyone who has reached out. 
I did get sick in Papua New Guinea but I bounced back quick and finished an amazing 3 weeks in P.N.G. 
I’m home for the holidays with my friends and family. Thanks for all the love and concern, see you in 2020! <a href="https://t.co/SEcopCmqAB">pic.twitter.com/SEcopCmqAB</a>
— Zac Efron (@ZacEfron) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZacEfron/status/1211436036733186049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It is believed that the Hollywood actor flew to Papua New Guinea at the start of December to film the series, which will follow Efron as he will go deep into the jungle of a remote and dangerous island.&nbsp; 
 
The series was commissioned by short content platform Quibi, which is scheduled to launch in April. 
 
Efron had previously posted images on social media showing him in a canoe on PNG`s Sepik River and travelling to Yanchan Village to see a traditional skin-cutting ceremony.

Hollywood actor Zac Efron literally got a gift of life on Christmas eve as doctors in Brisbane gave him a clearance to back to the US after he was diagnosed with a life-threatening disease.

Hollywood actor Zac Efron literally got a gift of life on Christmas eve as doctors in Brisbane gave him a clearance to back to the US after he was diagnosed with a life-threatening disease. The actor was reportedly rushed to Australia from Papua New Guinea after suffering an "extraordinary life-or-death medical emergency" Efron was flown to Brisbane, Australia from Papua New Guinea on a `life-or-death flight` with the assistance of medical professionals. The 32-year-old was filming a documentary series called 'Killing Zac Efron' when he came down with a `form of typhoid or similar bacterial infection` just before Christmas. After arriving in Brisbane, he was admitted in a private hospital in Spring Hill and is said to be "in a stable condition". At the hospital, he received treatment for several days, before being "given the all clear" by doctors to fly home to the US on Christmas Eve. On Monday, Zac took to Twitter to thank those who had reached out in the past few days and confirmed he had contracted a disease but also assured he was now fine. "Very thankful to everyone who has reached out. I did get sick in Papua New Guinea but I bounced back quick and finished an amazing 3 weeks in P.N.G. I’m home for the holidays with my friends and family. Thanks for all the love and concern, see you in 2020!" Very thankful to everyone who has reached out. I did get sick in Papua New Guinea but I bounced back quick and finished an amazing 3 weeks in P.N.G. I’m home for the holidays with my friends and family. Thanks for all the love and concern, see you in 2020! pic.twitter.com/SEcopCmqAB — Zac Efron (@ZacEfron) December 29, 2019 × It is believed that the Hollywood actor flew to Papua New Guinea at the start of December to film the series, which will follow Efron as he will go deep into the jungle of a remote and dangerous island. The series was commissioned by short content platform Quibi, which is scheduled to launch in April. Efron had previously posted images on social media showing him in a canoe on PNG`s Sepik River and travelling to Yanchan Village to see a traditional skin-cutting ceremony.

Zac Efron speaks out after suffering from a life threatening disease in Papua New Guinea

More than 250,000 people have signed a petition calling for the Sydney fireworks to be scrapped, with funding redirected to drought and bushfire relief. #AustraliaBushfire #Australia #Sydney #WION

Australia Bushfires: Over 50,000 Sq Km of land consumed by fire

Australian officials have refused to back petition signed by 270,000 people that seeks to cancel Sydney's famous fireworks on New Year's Eve.&nbsp;

Change.org petition said that Sydney is spending Aus$6.5 million ($4.5 million) on fireworks and claimed that the money could be better used to support <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-thousands-of-tourists-at-risk-as-massive-bushfires-continue-270914">volunteer firefighters </a>and farmers suffering through a brutal drought.

Watch:

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It added that fireworks display on Sydney Harbour "may traumatise some people" as enough smoke is already present in the air.&nbsp;

We appreciate the concerns of the opposition to the fireworks due to bushfires but cancelling the celebration would have "little practical benefit for affected communities", a City of Sydney spokesperson said in a statement.&nbsp;

"We began preparations and planning for the NYE celebrations 15 months ago. This means most of the budget, largely used for crowd safety and cleaning measures, has already been spent," the spokesman said.

"Cancelling the event would seriously hurt Sydney businesses. It would also ruin plans for tens of thousands of people from across the country and overseas who have booked flights, hotels and restaurants for New Year's Eve."

"All states should say NO to FIREWORKS," the petition said.&nbsp;

Sydney and other major Australian cities are covered in toxic smoke due to bushfires for weeks.&nbsp;

At least 10 people have been killed from this year's season massive bushfires, which have been fuelled by droughts and climate change.&nbsp;

Thousands of tourists, residents of Australian state Victoria are risked of being stranded after the officials asked them to evacuate as state's seven districts have a forecast of extreme fire danger.&nbsp;

The bushfires have destroyed over 1,000 homes and scorched more than three million hectares (7.4 million acres) -- an area bigger than Belgium.

Australian officials have refused to back petition signed by 270,000 people that seeks to cancel Sydney's famous fireworks on New Year's Eve. Change.org petition said that Sydney is spending Aus$6.

Australian officials have refused to back petition signed by 270,000 people that seeks to cancel Sydney's famous fireworks on New Year's Eve. Change.org petition said that Sydney is spending Aus$6.5 million ($4.5 million) on fireworks and claimed that the money could be better used to support volunteer firefighters and farmers suffering through a brutal drought. Watch: It added that fireworks display on Sydney Harbour "may traumatise some people" as enough smoke is already present in the air. We appreciate the concerns of the opposition to the fireworks due to bushfires but cancelling the celebration would have "little practical benefit for affected communities", a City of Sydney spokesperson said in a statement. "We began preparations and planning for the NYE celebrations 15 months ago. This means most of the budget, largely used for crowd safety and cleaning measures, has already been spent," the spokesman said. "Cancelling the event would seriously hurt Sydney businesses. It would also ruin plans for tens of thousands of people from across the country and overseas who have booked flights, hotels and restaurants for New Year's Eve." "All states should say NO to FIREWORKS," the petition said. Sydney and other major Australian cities are covered in toxic smoke due to bushfires for weeks. At least 10 people have been killed from this year's season massive bushfires, which have been fuelled by droughts and climate change. Thousands of tourists, residents of Australian state Victoria are risked of being stranded after the officials asked them to evacuate as state's seven districts have a forecast of extreme fire danger. The bushfires have destroyed over 1,000 homes and scorched more than three million hectares (7.4 million acres) -- an area bigger than Belgium.

Sydney to continue New Year Eve's fireworks despite massive protest petition

More than 250,000 people have signed a petition calling for the Sydney fireworks to be scrapped, with funding redirected to drought and bushfire relief.

Australia bushfires: Sydney to continue fireworks on New Year's eve

Thousands of holidaymakers and residents risked being stranded in a swathe of Victoria in Australia's southeast as rising temperature and new heatwave continue to fuel <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bushfires-hit-emergency-level-on-sydneys-outskirts-one-dead-in-south-australia-269445">bushfires</a>.&nbsp;

The authorities earlier asked more than 30,000 people to evacuate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/residents-holidaymakers-urged-to-leave-australian-region-as-fire-conditions-worsen-270824">Victoria state's popular East Gippsland region </a>on Sunday, adding that soaring temperatures and gusting wings would trigger three large blazes, cutting off the last major road still open.

The residents and tourists in the area faced being stranded as it now "too late to leave", Victoria Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp said. The Victoria Emergency Management said that it was "not possible" to provide aid to all the visitors in that area.&nbsp;

<img alt="Bushfire " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21c872c7-efc3-4e68-8ab7-ba1de628e4a9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2847%29_0.jpg" />

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In state's seven out of the nine districts, fire danger is forecast to be extreme.&nbsp;

Neighbouring South Australia is witnessing "catastrophic" fire conditions in some regions as temperatures cross the 40 degrees Celsius-mark and storms bring damaging winds.&nbsp;

The Country Fire Service's Brenton Eden warned that it would be a very "dangerous" day for people in the state, with lightning causing a number of blazes.&nbsp;

New South Wales, which is the worst-affected state in Australia, is also likely to experience deteriorating conditions in the next two days as over 100 fires are burning in the region which includes 40 uncontained.&nbsp;

The temperatures in New South Wales are also expected to climb on New year's eve as thousands traditionally gather near Sydney to watch famous firework celebrations.&nbsp;

So far, 10 people have been killed in season's bushfires, which destroyed 1,000 homes and burned over three million hectares (7.4 million acres) an area bigger than Belgium.

<img alt="Bushfire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b4ea10b5-3178-4d91-b637-77b0e9183be1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2846%29_1.jpg" />

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Hundreds of fires are burning across Australia, which is experiencing a devastating summer bushfire season triggered by a prolonged drought and climate change.

The bushfires have made Sydney and other major cities experience toxic smoke for weeks.&nbsp;

This bushfire season is regarded as one of the toughest due to its size and geographical breadth, despite the southern hemisphere summer not reaching its mid-point yet.

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<img alt="Bushfire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5ca798c-b35d-46b3-9f01-43875cb0a44b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2848%29_0.jpg" />

The conservative Prime Minister Scott Morrison has still continued his relentless support to Australia's flourishing mining industry and refused to take further action to cut down emissions.&nbsp;

(with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Thousands of holidaymakers and residents risked being stranded in a swathe of Victoria in Australia's southeast as rising temperature and new heatwave continue to fuel bushfires.

Thousands of holidaymakers and residents risked being stranded in a swathe of Victoria in Australia's southeast as rising temperature and new heatwave continue to fuel bushfires. The authorities earlier asked more than 30,000 people to evacuate Victoria state's popular East Gippsland region on Sunday, adding that soaring temperatures and gusting wings would trigger three large blazes, cutting off the last major road still open. The residents and tourists in the area faced being stranded as it now "too late to leave", Victoria Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp said. The Victoria Emergency Management said that it was "not possible" to provide aid to all the visitors in that area. In state's seven out of the nine districts, fire danger is forecast to be extreme. Neighbouring South Australia is witnessing "catastrophic" fire conditions in some regions as temperatures cross the 40 degrees Celsius-mark and storms bring damaging winds. The Country Fire Service's Brenton Eden warned that it would be a very "dangerous" day for people in the state, with lightning causing a number of blazes. New South Wales, which is the worst-affected state in Australia, is also likely to experience deteriorating conditions in the next two days as over 100 fires are burning in the region which includes 40 uncontained. The temperatures in New South Wales are also expected to climb on New year's eve as thousands traditionally gather near Sydney to watch famous firework celebrations. So far, 10 people have been killed in season's bushfires, which destroyed 1,000 homes and burned over three million hectares (7.4 million acres) an area bigger than Belgium. Hundreds of fires are burning across Australia, which is experiencing a devastating summer bushfire season triggered by a prolonged drought and climate change. The bushfires have made Sydney and other major cities experience toxic smoke for weeks. This bushfire season is regarded as one of the toughest due to its size and geographical breadth, despite the southern hemisphere summer not reaching its mid-point yet. The conservative Prime Minister Scott Morrison has still continued his relentless support to Australia's flourishing mining industry and refused to take further action to cut down emissions. (with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Australia: Nearly 30,000 tourists at risk as massive bushfires continue

Residents and holidaymakers in part of the Australian state of Victoria were urged to leave on Sunday ahead of what is expected to be a day of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/residents-of-small-australian-communities-told-to-evacuate-as-fire-approaches-270749">extreme fire danger</a>.

Authorities said temperatures of more than 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit), strong winds, thunderstorms and a wind change moving across the state meant Monday would be one of the most significant fire weather days in Victoria's history.

State Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp told both residents and tens of thousands of holidaymakers in the East Gippsland region to leave no later than Monday morning.

"What we are saying now, based on the conditions that will be confronting us tomorrow across the state, but in particular in East Gippsland, is that if you're holidaying in that part of the state, it's time that you left," Crisp said at a media conference on Sunday.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Australian PM announces compensation for volunteer fire-fighters

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"We are asking you to now leave East Gippsland from that area east of Bairnsdale," Crisp said, referring to a city 280 km (174 miles) east of Melbourne.

"You should not be there tomorrow and we want you to get out now."

Earlier on Sunday, organisers of a music festival in the state cancelled the event, citing the extreme weather expected on Monday.

"After consultation with local and regional fire authorities and other emergency stakeholders, it is clear that we have no other option," the organisers wrote on Facebook.

The event was meant to run until New Year's Eve and some 9,000 people were already camping on site when the announcement was made.

The state of New South Wales (NSW) is also facing severe fire conditions over coming days, with temperatures expecting to peak on Tuesday.

"We've got some deteriorating weather conditions over the coming days, particularly Monday and worsening through to Tuesday," said the NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner, Shane Fitzsimmons.

'Very prolonged'&nbsp;

The federal government said on Sunday it would compensate volunteer firefighters in NSW as they grappled with the intensity of this year's bushfire season.

Prime Minister Scott <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-pm-announces-compensation-for-volunteer-firefighters-270788">Morrison said payments</a> of up to A$6,000 would be available for eligible firefighters who had spent more than 10 days in the field this fire season.

"As this is a very prolonged fire season, this is putting additional demands on our firefighters," Morrison told a news conference.

"It means that the turn-outs and the call-outs have been far more extensive than in previous years, going well and beyond and above what is normally expected of those who are engaged in volunteer service."

Morrison had previously said compensation for volunteers was not a priority, but he has faced increasing political pressure as the widespread fires burn.

On Tuesday, he announced government workers could get additional paid leave for volunteering.

While there are different rules across Australia's states, volunteers tend to negotiate time off directly with their employer.

Bushfires have destroyed more than 4 million hectares (9.9 million acres) in five states since September and eight deaths have been linked to the blazes.

Residents and holidaymakers in part of the Australian state of Victoria were urged to leave on Sunday ahead of what is expected to be a day of extreme fire danger.

Residents and holidaymakers in part of the Australian state of Victoria were urged to leave on Sunday ahead of what is expected to be a day of extreme fire danger. Authorities said temperatures of more than 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit), strong winds, thunderstorms and a wind change moving across the state meant Monday would be one of the most significant fire weather days in Victoria's history. State Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp told both residents and tens of thousands of holidaymakers in the East Gippsland region to leave no later than Monday morning. "What we are saying now, based on the conditions that will be confronting us tomorrow across the state, but in particular in East Gippsland, is that if you're holidaying in that part of the state, it's time that you left," Crisp said at a media conference on Sunday. Also Watch: Australian PM announces compensation for volunteer fire-fighters × "We are asking you to now leave East Gippsland from that area east of Bairnsdale," Crisp said, referring to a city 280 km (174 miles) east of Melbourne. "You should not be there tomorrow and we want you to get out now." Earlier on Sunday, organisers of a music festival in the state cancelled the event, citing the extreme weather expected on Monday. "After consultation with local and regional fire authorities and other emergency stakeholders, it is clear that we have no other option," the organisers wrote on Facebook. The event was meant to run until New Year's Eve and some 9,000 people were already camping on site when the announcement was made. The state of New South Wales (NSW) is also facing severe fire conditions over coming days, with temperatures expecting to peak on Tuesday. "We've got some deteriorating weather conditions over the coming days, particularly Monday and worsening through to Tuesday," said the NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner, Shane Fitzsimmons. 'Very prolonged' The federal government said on Sunday it would compensate volunteer firefighters in NSW as they grappled with the intensity of this year's bushfire season. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said payments of up to A$6,000 would be available for eligible firefighters who had spent more than 10 days in the field this fire season. "As this is a very prolonged fire season, this is putting additional demands on our firefighters," Morrison told a news conference. "It means that the turn-outs and the call-outs have been far more extensive than in previous years, going well and beyond and above what is normally expected of those who are engaged in volunteer service." Morrison had previously said compensation for volunteers was not a priority, but he has faced increasing political pressure as the widespread fires burn. On Tuesday, he announced government workers could get additional paid leave for volunteering. While there are different rules across Australia's states, volunteers tend to negotiate time off directly with their employer. Bushfires have destroyed more than 4 million hectares (9.9 million acres) in five states since September and eight deaths have been linked to the blazes.

Residents, holidaymakers urged to leave Australian region as fire conditions worsen

New Zealand were facing a massive run chase to save the second Test and the series after they were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-collapse-to-148-all-out-under-australian-pace-barrage-270701">dismissed for 148</a> in Melbourne on Saturday, with Australia batting again to rub salt in the wounds and extend their lead.

At the close on day three, the home team were 137 for four,&nbsp;building on their first innings 467 to be 456&nbsp;runs in front.

First innings century-maker Travis Head was not out 12 and Matthew Wade was on 15, with skipper Tim Paine so far resisting the temptation to declare.

New Zealand began the day already in trouble on 44 for two, having lost batting kingpin Kane Williamson and makeshift opener Tom Blundell in a fiery bowling spell late Friday.

They didn't survive long with a world-class pace barrage from Pat Cummins, James Pattinson and Mitchell Starc destroying their middle order.

Paine could have enforced the follow-on, but opted to bat again and Australia raced to 62 without loss before Neil Wagner tempted David Warner into a drive on 38 and he was caught by Blundell.&nbsp;

Form-player Marnus Labuschagne was run out for 19 and spinner Mitchell Santner snared opener Joe Burns for 35, caught behind off a bottom edge.

When Steve Smith departed for seven, Wagner's 200th Test wicket, the Black Caps were on a roll. But Head and Wade steered them to the close, leaving New Zealand with a monumental task.

They need a result to keep the three-Test series alive after being crushed by 296 runs in the opening day-night clash in Perth.

Opener Tom Latham was the only one to offer resistance in their first innings demolition, surviving 144 balls in a dogged 50 before he too succumbed to the Australian fast-bowling machine.

The world's top bowler Cummins was the chief destroyer, ending with 5-28.

They resumed with Latham on nine with Ross Taylor on two, but had a disastrous morning and went to lunch at 102 for six, before Australia finished the job.

The experienced Taylor was removed in just the third over and Henry Nicholls followed for a golden duck as they crumbled under consistent pace and accuracy.

Cummins was virtually unplayable, with Taylor getting an edge to a searing delivery on four. Labuschagne juggled the slip catch and Burns grabbed the ball.

A stunned Nicholls was then out lbw after unsuccessfully reviewing the decision, before BJ Watling nervously managed to defend Cummins' hat-trick ball.

At the other end, Pattinson, playing for the injured Josh Hazlewood, was equally menacing and Latham should have gone the next over, but a diving Smith put down a slip catch he would normally hold.

Pattinson soon got his reward with a rising ball catching Watling's glove and Burns taking an easy catch to leave them at 58 for five.

New Zealand staged a mini recovery before Starc got in on the action, having Colin de Grandhomme caught in the gully by Warner for 11.

Santner was lucky to survive a review decision before scoring after he was caught off a Starc bouncer.

Australia were convinced he was out and replays showed it skimmed off the wristband of his glove, but third umpire Aleem Dar deemed it inconclusive and Santner remained.

Latham brought up his 16th Test half-century before he got a thick edge to wicketkeeper Paine off Cummins, and once he was gone Australia wrapped up the tail.

New Zealand were facing a massive run chase to save the second Test and the series after they were dismissed for 148 in Melbourne on Saturday, with Australia batting again to rub salt in the wounds and extend their lead.

New Zealand were facing a massive run chase to save the second Test and the series after they were dismissed for 148 in Melbourne on Saturday, with Australia batting again to rub salt in the wounds and extend their lead. At the close on day three, the home team were 137 for four, building on their first innings 467 to be 456 runs in front. First innings century-maker Travis Head was not out 12 and Matthew Wade was on 15, with skipper Tim Paine so far resisting the temptation to declare. New Zealand began the day already in trouble on 44 for two, having lost batting kingpin Kane Williamson and makeshift opener Tom Blundell in a fiery bowling spell late Friday. They didn't survive long with a world-class pace barrage from Pat Cummins, James Pattinson and Mitchell Starc destroying their middle order. Paine could have enforced the follow-on, but opted to bat again and Australia raced to 62 without loss before Neil Wagner tempted David Warner into a drive on 38 and he was caught by Blundell. Form-player Marnus Labuschagne was run out for 19 and spinner Mitchell Santner snared opener Joe Burns for 35, caught behind off a bottom edge. When Steve Smith departed for seven, Wagner's 200th Test wicket, the Black Caps were on a roll. But Head and Wade steered them to the close, leaving New Zealand with a monumental task. They need a result to keep the three-Test series alive after being crushed by 296 runs in the opening day-night clash in Perth. Opener Tom Latham was the only one to offer resistance in their first innings demolition, surviving 144 balls in a dogged 50 before he too succumbed to the Australian fast-bowling machine. The world's top bowler Cummins was the chief destroyer, ending with 5-28. They resumed with Latham on nine with Ross Taylor on two, but had a disastrous morning and went to lunch at 102 for six, before Australia finished the job. The experienced Taylor was removed in just the third over and Henry Nicholls followed for a golden duck as they crumbled under consistent pace and accuracy. Cummins was virtually unplayable, with Taylor getting an edge to a searing delivery on four. Labuschagne juggled the slip catch and Burns grabbed the ball. A stunned Nicholls was then out lbw after unsuccessfully reviewing the decision, before BJ Watling nervously managed to defend Cummins' hat-trick ball. At the other end, Pattinson, playing for the injured Josh Hazlewood, was equally menacing and Latham should have gone the next over, but a diving Smith put down a slip catch he would normally hold. Pattinson soon got his reward with a rising ball catching Watling's glove and Burns taking an easy catch to leave them at 58 for five. New Zealand staged a mini recovery before Starc got in on the action, having Colin de Grandhomme caught in the gully by Warner for 11. Santner was lucky to survive a review decision before scoring after he was caught off a Starc bouncer. Australia were convinced he was out and replays showed it skimmed off the wristband of his glove, but third umpire Aleem Dar deemed it inconclusive and Santner remained. Latham brought up his 16th Test half-century before he got a thick edge to wicketkeeper Paine off Cummins, and once he was gone Australia wrapped up the tail.

Cricket: Stunned New Zealand fight to save second Australia Test

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world. #WION #WIONSpeedNews

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - December 29, 2019

Australia's pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/peter-siddles-bowling-is-quite-similar-to-mcgraths-ricky-ponting-241379">Peter Siddle</a> on Sunday announced his retirement from international cricket. 
 
The player made an emotional announcement in front of his team-mates at the Melbourne Cricket Ground before the start of play on day four of the ongoing second Test against New Zealand, cricket.com.au reported. 
 
Siddle, who has been a vital cog in the Aussie bowling scheme of things, did not get a chance to play in the second Test against New Zealand. After announcing retirement, the player was seen exchanging hugs with his team-mates and support staff of Australia. 
 
Siddle ends his career at the 13th spot on the list of highest wicket-takers for Australia in the longest format of the game. He finishes with 221 wickets from 67 Test matches. 
 
Earlier this year, the player had starred in England to allow Australia to retain the Ashes. 
 
He had made his debut in 2008 against India at Mohali and went to dismiss Sachin Tendulkar to register his first scalp in the longest format of the game. 
 
Siddle also managed to take a Test hat-trick on his birthday during the 2010-11 Ashes. 
 
He also played 22 ODIs and two T20s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/residents-holidaymakers-urged-to-leave-australian-region-as-fire-conditions-worsen-270824">for Australia</a>. He is currently representing the Adelaide Strikers in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL).

Australia's pacer Peter Siddle on Sunday announced his retirement from international cricket. The player made an emotional announcement in front of his team-mates at the Melbourne Cricket Ground before the start of play on day four of the ongoing second Test against New Zealand, cricket.

Australia's pacer Peter Siddle on Sunday announced his retirement from international cricket. The player made an emotional announcement in front of his team-mates at the Melbourne Cricket Ground before the start of play on day four of the ongoing second Test against New Zealand, cricket.com.au reported. Siddle, who has been a vital cog in the Aussie bowling scheme of things, did not get a chance to play in the second Test against New Zealand. After announcing retirement, the player was seen exchanging hugs with his team-mates and support staff of Australia. Siddle ends his career at the 13th spot on the list of highest wicket-takers for Australia in the longest format of the game. He finishes with 221 wickets from 67 Test matches. Earlier this year, the player had starred in England to allow Australia to retain the Ashes. He had made his debut in 2008 against India at Mohali and went to dismiss Sachin Tendulkar to register his first scalp in the longest format of the game. Siddle also managed to take a Test hat-trick on his birthday during the 2010-11 Ashes. He also played 22 ODIs and two T20s for Australia. He is currently representing the Adelaide Strikers in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL).

Australian pacer Peter Siddle announces retirement from international cricket

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - December 28, 2019

It looks like water restrictions in Sydney are the reason behind the bushfires raging in Australia. Basically, the Warragamba dam is running out of water supplies. #Australia #AustraliaBushfire #SydneyWaterRestrictions

Australia: Sydney faces toughest water restrictions in decades

New Zealand collapsed under an unrelenting Australian pace barrage led by Pat Cummins on Saturday, all out for 148 and in danger of a big defeat in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-smith-strikes-a-blow-against-new-zealand-on-boxing-day-270526">second Test in Melbourne</a>.

The visitors began the day in trouble on 44 for two in reply to Australia's 467, having lost batting kingpin Kane Williamson and makeshift opener Tom Blundell in a fiery bowling spell late Friday.

They didn't last long with world-class bowling from Cummins, James Pattinson and Mitchell Starc destroying the middle order.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/de-grandhomme-removes-labuschagne-as-australia-move-to-155-3-at-tea-270279">Australia</a> could have enforced the follow-on but opted to bat again and rubbed salt in the wounds by going to tea at 28 without loss. David Warner was not out 16 and Joe Burns on four, leaving them 347 runs ahead on day three.

Opener Tom Latham offered the only resistance for New Zealand, surviving 144 balls in a dogged 50 before he too succumbed to the Australian fast-bowling machine.

The world's number one bowler Cummins was the chief destroyer, ending with 5-28.

New Zealand needs&nbsp;a result at the Melbourne Cricket Ground to keep the three-Test series alive after being crushed by 296 runs in the opening day-night clash in Perth.

They resumed with Latham on nine with Ross Taylor on two, but had a disastrous morning and went to lunch at 102 for six before Australia finished the job.

The experienced Taylor was removed in just the third over and Henry Nicholls followed for a golden duck as they crumbled under consistent pace and accuracy.

Cummins was virtually unplayable, with Taylor getting an edge to a searing delivery on four. Marnus Labuschagne juggled the slip catch and Joe Burns grabbed the ball.

A stunned Nicholls was then out lbw after unsuccessfully reviewing the decision before BJ Watling nervously managed to defend Cummins' hat-trick ball.

At the other end Pattinson, playing for the injured Josh Hazlewood, was equally menacing and Latham should have gone the next over, but a diving Steve Smith put down a slip catch he would normally hold.

Pattinson soon got his reward with a rising ball catching Watling's glove and Burns taking an easy catch to leave them at 58 for five.

New Zealand staged a mini recovery before Starc got in on the action, having Colin de Grandhomme caught in the gully by David Warner for 11.

Mitchell Santner was lucky to survive a review decision before scoring after he was caught off a Starc bouncer.

Australia were convinced he was out and replays showed it skimmed off the wristband of his glove, but third umpire Aleem Dar deemed it inconclusive and Santner remained.

Latham brought up his 16th Test half-century before he got a thick edge to wicketkeeper Tim Paine off Cummins, and once he was gone Australia wrapped up the tail.

A Head century and 79 from Paine took the game away from New Zealand on Friday with former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum slamming his team's tactics, claiming they "rolled over".

New Zealand collapsed under an unrelenting Australian pace barrage led by Pat Cummins on Saturday, all out for 148 and in danger of a big defeat in the second Test in Melbourne.

New Zealand collapsed under an unrelenting Australian pace barrage led by Pat Cummins on Saturday, all out for 148 and in danger of a big defeat in the second Test in Melbourne. The visitors began the day in trouble on 44 for two in reply to Australia's 467, having lost batting kingpin Kane Williamson and makeshift opener Tom Blundell in a fiery bowling spell late Friday. They didn't last long with world-class bowling from Cummins, James Pattinson and Mitchell Starc destroying the middle order. Australia could have enforced the follow-on but opted to bat again and rubbed salt in the wounds by going to tea at 28 without loss. David Warner was not out 16 and Joe Burns on four, leaving them 347 runs ahead on day three. Opener Tom Latham offered the only resistance for New Zealand, surviving 144 balls in a dogged 50 before he too succumbed to the Australian fast-bowling machine. The world's number one bowler Cummins was the chief destroyer, ending with 5-28. New Zealand needs a result at the Melbourne Cricket Ground to keep the three-Test series alive after being crushed by 296 runs in the opening day-night clash in Perth. They resumed with Latham on nine with Ross Taylor on two, but had a disastrous morning and went to lunch at 102 for six before Australia finished the job. The experienced Taylor was removed in just the third over and Henry Nicholls followed for a golden duck as they crumbled under consistent pace and accuracy. Cummins was virtually unplayable, with Taylor getting an edge to a searing delivery on four. Marnus Labuschagne juggled the slip catch and Joe Burns grabbed the ball. A stunned Nicholls was then out lbw after unsuccessfully reviewing the decision before BJ Watling nervously managed to defend Cummins' hat-trick ball. At the other end Pattinson, playing for the injured Josh Hazlewood, was equally menacing and Latham should have gone the next over, but a diving Steve Smith put down a slip catch he would normally hold. Pattinson soon got his reward with a rising ball catching Watling's glove and Burns taking an easy catch to leave them at 58 for five. New Zealand staged a mini recovery before Starc got in on the action, having Colin de Grandhomme caught in the gully by David Warner for 11. Mitchell Santner was lucky to survive a review decision before scoring after he was caught off a Starc bouncer. Australia were convinced he was out and replays showed it skimmed off the wristband of his glove, but third umpire Aleem Dar deemed it inconclusive and Santner remained. Latham brought up his 16th Test half-century before he got a thick edge to wicketkeeper Tim Paine off Cummins, and once he was gone Australia wrapped up the tail. A Head century and 79 from Paine took the game away from New Zealand on Friday with former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum slamming his team's tactics, claiming they "rolled over".

Cricket: New Zealand collapse to 148 all out under Australian pace barrage

Residents of two small communities in the southern Australian state of Victoria were told to evacuate on Saturday, as a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-wildfires-threaten-sydney-water-supplies-270491">bushfire</a> burned out of control nearby and as temperatures were set to rise.

Authorities said the fire could affect the town of Goongerah, nearly 450 km&nbsp;east of Melbourne with a population of 60 people, and the nearby community of Martins Creek over the next 48 hours and residents should leave now.

"This may be your last opportunity to do so before fire activity increases," VicEmergency said in an alert.

"If you choose to stay, emergency services may not be able to help you."

Cooler conditions in many parts of Australia during <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firefighters-in-australia-spend-christmas-day-containing-wildfires-270247">Christmas week</a> helped contain some fires but temperatures are forecast to rise, once again challenging firefighters.

Temperatures in parts of South Australia rose above 40 Celsius on Friday, while Victoria's capital of Melbourne is forecast to hit 43C&nbsp;on Monday.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Australia-&nbsp;Sydney, Brisbane residents get rain respite amid wildfire

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Large parts of Australia have suffered through several years of drought, creating tinder-dry conditions and proving stressful to the country's native wildlife population.

A video taken in South Australia during Friday's extreme heat showed a koala guzzling water from a cyclist's drink bottle after it had stopped the group of cyclists by sitting in the middle of the road.

Bushfires have destroyed more than 4 million hectares in five states since September and eight deaths have been linked to the blazes.

Local police said on Saturday they had charged one man for lighting a fire without a permit that caused a 40-hectare wildfire to start and have charged another man for allegedly deliberately lighting two bushfires.

Residents of two small communities in the southern Australian state of Victoria were told to evacuate on Saturday, as a bushfire burned out of control nearby and as temperatures were set to rise.

Residents of two small communities in the southern Australian state of Victoria were told to evacuate on Saturday, as a bushfire burned out of control nearby and as temperatures were set to rise. Authorities said the fire could affect the town of Goongerah, nearly 450 km east of Melbourne with a population of 60 people, and the nearby community of Martins Creek over the next 48 hours and residents should leave now. "This may be your last opportunity to do so before fire activity increases," VicEmergency said in an alert. "If you choose to stay, emergency services may not be able to help you." Cooler conditions in many parts of Australia during Christmas week helped contain some fires but temperatures are forecast to rise, once again challenging firefighters. Temperatures in parts of South Australia rose above 40 Celsius on Friday, while Victoria's capital of Melbourne is forecast to hit 43C on Monday. Also Watch: Australia- Sydney, Brisbane residents get rain respite amid wildfire × Large parts of Australia have suffered through several years of drought, creating tinder-dry conditions and proving stressful to the country's native wildlife population. A video taken in South Australia during Friday's extreme heat showed a koala guzzling water from a cyclist's drink bottle after it had stopped the group of cyclists by sitting in the middle of the road. Bushfires have destroyed more than 4 million hectares in five states since September and eight deaths have been linked to the blazes. Local police said on Saturday they had charged one man for lighting a fire without a permit that caused a 40-hectare wildfire to start and have charged another man for allegedly deliberately lighting two bushfires.

Australian bushfire: Residents of small communities told to evacuate as blaze approaches

Australian authorities said on Friday they are focused on protecting water plants, pumping stations, pipes and other infrastructure from intense <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firefighters-in-australia-spend-christmas-day-containing-wildfires-270247">bushfires surrounding Sydney</a>, the country's largest city.

Firefighters battling the blazes for weeks received a reprieve of slightly cooler, damper conditions over Christmas, but the respite is not expected to last long.

Temperatures in New South Wales (NSW) state are forecast to head back towards 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) early next week, fuelling fires near Warragamba Dam, which provides water to about 80 per cent&nbsp;of Sydney's 5 million residents.

"In recent days up to the cool change, the fires had been a potential threat to supply and assets, particularly in Warragamba and in the Blue Mountains," a spokesman for the state's water authority, WaterNSW, told Reuters.

"With the coming very hot conditions the fire situation may escalate in both those fronts and possibly elsewhere."

Warragamba Dam is located 65km (40 miles) west of Sydney, catching water flowing from the mountains.

It is at 44.8 per cent&nbsp;capacity, down from almost being full less than three years ago, as a prolonged drought ravage the continent's east.

Despite the widespread destruction, the state's water infrastructure network has not been damaged, the spokesman said.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Australia: Sydney, Brisbane residents get rain respite amid wildfire

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There have been eight deaths, including two volunteer firefighters, linked to the blazes since they flared in spring.

With more than 40 dams across the state, WaterNSW supplies two-thirds of untreated water to the state's water utilities, which then treat and clean the resource to provide drinking water to cities and regional towns.

Large quantities of ash and burnt material could pose a threat to the quality of water in the dams if the fires are followed by heavy rain.

However, there is no significant rain forecast for NSW in the short-term and WaterNSW has put containment barriers to catch potential debris run-off, the water authority said.

Volunteer force

Australia's reliance on a large volunteer firefighting force has been tested during this fire season that still potentially has months to run through the southern hemisphere summer.

While conservative <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-prime-minister-under-pressure-as-bushfires-fuel-climate-debate-269899">Prime Minister Scott Morrison</a> previously said compensation for volunteers was not a priority, he said on Tuesday that government workers could receive additional paid leave for volunteering.

A senior government minister said on Friday the government was now looking into providing wider relief.

"The prime minister is looking at this issue further on how we can provide targeted support in these extreme circumstances so that our volunteers get the support they need to keep volunteering," Defence Minister Linda Reynolds told media in Perth.

While there are different rules across Australia's states, volunteers tend to negotiate time off directly with their employer.

Morrison has been under intense political pressure after it was revealed he was holidaying in Hawaii shortly before Christmas while the country grappled with an emergency and two volunteers near the fire frontlines had been killed.

Fires are travelling immense distances through bushland before hitting towns and containment lines where volunteer firefighters concentrate their resources.

The bushfires have destroyed more than 4 million hectares (9.9 million acres) across the country, dwarfing the terrain burnt by fierce <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-cave-fire-threatens-thousands-of-homes-and-triggers-evacuation-264757">fires in California</a> during 2019.

Australian authorities said on Friday they are focused on protecting water plants, pumping stations, pipes and other infrastructure from intense bushfires surrounding Sydney, the country's largest city.

Australian authorities said on Friday they are focused on protecting water plants, pumping stations, pipes and other infrastructure from intense bushfires surrounding Sydney, the country's largest city. Firefighters battling the blazes for weeks received a reprieve of slightly cooler, damper conditions over Christmas, but the respite is not expected to last long. Temperatures in New South Wales (NSW) state are forecast to head back towards 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) early next week, fuelling fires near Warragamba Dam, which provides water to about 80 per cent of Sydney's 5 million residents. "In recent days up to the cool change, the fires had been a potential threat to supply and assets, particularly in Warragamba and in the Blue Mountains," a spokesman for the state's water authority, WaterNSW, told Reuters. "With the coming very hot conditions the fire situation may escalate in both those fronts and possibly elsewhere." Warragamba Dam is located 65km (40 miles) west of Sydney, catching water flowing from the mountains. It is at 44.8 per cent capacity, down from almost being full less than three years ago, as a prolonged drought ravage the continent's east. Despite the widespread destruction, the state's water infrastructure network has not been damaged, the spokesman said. Also Watch: Australia: Sydney, Brisbane residents get rain respite amid wildfire × There have been eight deaths, including two volunteer firefighters, linked to the blazes since they flared in spring. With more than 40 dams across the state, WaterNSW supplies two-thirds of untreated water to the state's water utilities, which then treat and clean the resource to provide drinking water to cities and regional towns. Large quantities of ash and burnt material could pose a threat to the quality of water in the dams if the fires are followed by heavy rain. However, there is no significant rain forecast for NSW in the short-term and WaterNSW has put containment barriers to catch potential debris run-off, the water authority said. Volunteer force Australia's reliance on a large volunteer firefighting force has been tested during this fire season that still potentially has months to run through the southern hemisphere summer. While conservative Prime Minister Scott Morrison previously said compensation for volunteers was not a priority, he said on Tuesday that government workers could receive additional paid leave for volunteering. A senior government minister said on Friday the government was now looking into providing wider relief. "The prime minister is looking at this issue further on how we can provide targeted support in these extreme circumstances so that our volunteers get the support they need to keep volunteering," Defence Minister Linda Reynolds told media in Perth. While there are different rules across Australia's states, volunteers tend to negotiate time off directly with their employer. Morrison has been under intense political pressure after it was revealed he was holidaying in Hawaii shortly before Christmas while the country grappled with an emergency and two volunteers near the fire frontlines had been killed. Fires are travelling immense distances through bushland before hitting towns and containment lines where volunteer firefighters concentrate their resources. The bushfires have destroyed more than 4 million hectares (9.9 million acres) across the country, dwarfing the terrain burnt by fierce fires in California during 2019.

Australian wildfires threaten Sydney water supplies

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - December 27, 2019

Australia has launched a new tourism campaign starring singer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kylie-minogue-sparkles-on-glastonbury-stage-14-years-after-cancer-battle-231919">Kylie Minogue</a> aiming to attract British tourists fatigued by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-stresses-reconciliation-after-bruising-brexit-year-269917">Brexit </a>to escape on a laid-back Down Under holiday.

The three-minute advertisement, which premiered ahead of the queen's televised Christmas Day address in Britain, begins with a primly dressed Minogue apparently at Sandringham, the monarch's country home, before the set disappears to show the pop star on a beach of the same name in Australia.

London-based Minogue begins by singing&nbsp;"This year's been tough and confusing, but&nbsp;progress&nbsp;is moving" before antipodean comedian Adam Hills jumps in with "Well, at a glacial pace".

"But all of Australia loves you, and we'll never judge you," the 51-year-old former Neighbours star continues.

The "Matesong" video later alludes to Brexit again with the lyrics "negotiating tricky trade deals&nbsp;is a shocker".

Tourism Australia said the Aus$15 million ($10 million) campaign was its largest investment in the British market for more than a decade.

"At a time of uncertainty in the UK, the light-hearted musical tribute represents a symbolic hand of friendship from Australia that warmly celebrates the deep and long-standing ties that exist between the two countries," the marketing agency said in a statement.

While the ad is timed to reach Brits as they face the chill of winter, it also comes as Australia's tourism industry weighs the potentially negative effects of devastating bushfires that have been raging across the country for months.

With Sydney's usually pristine blue harbour regularly obscured by thick smoke haze and badly burned koalas losing large swathes of their habitat, traditional tourism drawcards have featured heavily in global media coverage of the disaster.

Some internet users noted an incongruity between the reality of the bushfire crisis and the advertised&nbsp;images of clear blue skies and healthy marsupials.

The ad which also features world tennis number one Ashleigh Barty, Olympic swimmer<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/end-gold-medal-targets-says-australian-ian-thorpe-142334"> Ian Thorpe</a>, and ex-cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shane-warne-hired-to-coach-lords-based-london-team-in-the-hundred-241877">Shane Warne</a> is part of a three-year global Tourism Australia campaign worth Aus$38 million.

Australia has launched a new tourism campaign starring singer Kylie Minogue aiming to attract British tourists fatigued by Brexit to escape on a laid-back Down Under holiday.

Australia has launched a new tourism campaign starring singer Kylie Minogue aiming to attract British tourists fatigued by Brexit to escape on a laid-back Down Under holiday. The three-minute advertisement, which premiered ahead of the queen's televised Christmas Day address in Britain, begins with a primly dressed Minogue apparently at Sandringham, the monarch's country home, before the set disappears to show the pop star on a beach of the same name in Australia. London-based Minogue begins by singing "This year's been tough and confusing, but progress is moving" before antipodean comedian Adam Hills jumps in with "Well, at a glacial pace". "But all of Australia loves you, and we'll never judge you," the 51-year-old former Neighbours star continues. The "Matesong" video later alludes to Brexit again with the lyrics "negotiating tricky trade deals is a shocker". Tourism Australia said the Aus$15 million ($10 million) campaign was its largest investment in the British market for more than a decade. "At a time of uncertainty in the UK, the light-hearted musical tribute represents a symbolic hand of friendship from Australia that warmly celebrates the deep and long-standing ties that exist between the two countries," the marketing agency said in a statement. While the ad is timed to reach Brits as they face the chill of winter, it also comes as Australia's tourism industry weighs the potentially negative effects of devastating bushfires that have been raging across the country for months. With Sydney's usually pristine blue harbour regularly obscured by thick smoke haze and badly burned koalas losing large swathes of their habitat, traditional tourism drawcards have featured heavily in global media coverage of the disaster. Some internet users noted an incongruity between the reality of the bushfire crisis and the advertised images of clear blue skies and healthy marsupials. The ad which also features world tennis number one Ashleigh Barty, Olympic swimmer Ian Thorpe, and ex-cricketer Shane Warne is part of a three-year global Tourism Australia campaign worth Aus$38 million.

Escape Brexit with Down Under holiday, Australia tells UK

Queensland quick <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iplauction-complete-players-list-and-their-base-price-30869">Michael&nbsp;Neser</a>&nbsp;looks set to make his test&nbsp;debut&nbsp;against New Zealand on Thursday with Australia considering an unconventional&nbsp;five-man attack for the Boxing Day Test at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rain-fails-to-dampen-spirits-as-indian-fans-flock-melbourne-cricket-ground-for-second-t20-178922">Melbourne&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Ground</a> (MCG).

The hosts, who can clinch the three-match series with a second successive victory, are wary of the surface at MCG where&nbsp;bowlers had to really toil for any success in recent times.

They will unveil their playing XI on Thursday morning but captain Tim Paine suggested playing a fifth specialist&nbsp;bowler, a&nbsp;ploy&nbsp;they last employed in 2013 in Sydney against Sri Lanka.

"Looking at the wicket in the last two or three Boxing Day test matches, it's been very hard to take 20 wickets," Paine told reporters on Wednesday.

"Our batting team has been scoring a lot of runs so if we were to go one more&nbsp;bowler, we would be comfortable they could do the job.

"The&nbsp;bowlers we would be bringing in an all bat so while we're taking a batter out, we're probably lengthening our line-up."

Travis Head could be sacrificed to accommodate&nbsp;Neser&nbsp;while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/james-pattinson-banned-for-first-test-against-pakistan-for-personal-abuse-262662">James Pattinson</a>, replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood, will join the pace attack which also features Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Nathan Lyon is their lone specialist spinner.

Earlier this month, a Sheffield Shield match at the MCG was abandoned after several batsmen sustained blows to the body on a dangerous pitch.

New Zealand have confirmed two changes with Tom Blundell shoehorned into the makeshift opener's role replacing the off-color Jeet Raval, and quick Trent Boult returning from a rib muscle injury.

"It's a brilliant opportunity. I guess there's a sense of romance about being involved in the Boxing Day Test," skipper Kane Williamson said.

"The guys have all grown up watching whoever's been involved so it's quite cool to be part of it."

"He's a positive player and a smart&nbsp;cricketer so it's just trying to adapt to the conditions," Williamson said of Blundell who will be playing his first test in two years.

With 10 days to recover from the shellacking in the day-night test in Perth, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nzvsl-new-zealand-thrash-sri-lanka-to-level-series-1-1-245853">New Zealand </a>are confident of doing better with the red ball.

"Perth was tough and Australia is very good and tactically sound," Williamson said.

"It's important we learn from some bits of Perth but turn our focus to Melbourne and changing conditions and perhaps not be too reactive to that performance."

Queensland quick Michael Neser looks set to make his test debut against New Zealand on Thursday with Australia considering an unconventional five-man attack for the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Queensland quick Michael Neser looks set to make his test debut against New Zealand on Thursday with Australia considering an unconventional five-man attack for the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The hosts, who can clinch the three-match series with a second successive victory, are wary of the surface at MCG where bowlers had to really toil for any success in recent times. They will unveil their playing XI on Thursday morning but captain Tim Paine suggested playing a fifth specialist bowler, a ploy they last employed in 2013 in Sydney against Sri Lanka. "Looking at the wicket in the last two or three Boxing Day test matches, it's been very hard to take 20 wickets," Paine told reporters on Wednesday. "Our batting team has been scoring a lot of runs so if we were to go one more bowler, we would be comfortable they could do the job. "The bowlers we would be bringing in an all bat so while we're taking a batter out, we're probably lengthening our line-up." Travis Head could be sacrificed to accommodate Neser while James Pattinson, replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood, will join the pace attack which also features Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Nathan Lyon is their lone specialist spinner. Earlier this month, a Sheffield Shield match at the MCG was abandoned after several batsmen sustained blows to the body on a dangerous pitch. New Zealand have confirmed two changes with Tom Blundell shoehorned into the makeshift opener's role replacing the off-color Jeet Raval, and quick Trent Boult returning from a rib muscle injury. "It's a brilliant opportunity. I guess there's a sense of romance about being involved in the Boxing Day Test," skipper Kane Williamson said. "The guys have all grown up watching whoever's been involved so it's quite cool to be part of it." "He's a positive player and a smart cricketer so it's just trying to adapt to the conditions," Williamson said of Blundell who will be playing his first test in two years. With 10 days to recover from the shellacking in the day-night test in Perth, New Zealand are confident of doing better with the red ball. "Perth was tough and Australia is very good and tactically sound," Williamson said. "It's important we learn from some bits of Perth but turn our focus to Melbourne and changing conditions and perhaps not be too reactive to that performance."

Cricket: Neser likely to debut in Australia's five-bowler ploy

As parts of Australia continue to battle bushfires, residents in Sydney celebrated as the city received much-need rainfall on Christmas Eve.

Australia: Sydney, Brisbane residents get rain respite amid wildfire

Calls for Australian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-pm-scott-morrison-hits-out-at-reckless-calls-to-cut-coal-industry-269654">Scott Morrison</a> to resign have littered social media platforms after it was revealed he was holidaying in Hawaii while the country battled a bushfire emergency and his return has failed to douse the criticism.

Voters have taken to social media calling for leadership at a time of crisis, and along with some of the country's political editors, have criticised Morrison's refusal to take tougher action on climate change.

Similar to the criticism of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-moved-to-freeze-ukraine-aid-90-minutes-after-trump-phone-call-report-269643">US&nbsp;President Donald</a> Trump by American comedians, Morrison has been ridiculed on social media, portrayed as a deformed creature sitting in a burnt out forest on Christmas Day patting a lump of coal he calls "precious" to a flying superhero called "Bullshit Man".

On Twitter on Tuesday, #NotMyPrimeMinister, #MorrisonMustGo and #ScoMoResign were the top trending topics in Australia after a viral video showed a volunteer firefighter, Jacqui, shaking hands with Morrison as she said "not my prime minister".

"Jacquie is all of us," Twitter user Yabba said. Another user @bugwannostra tweeted "she's only saying what more than 12 million think..."

The tweet prompted Morrison to issue a clarification on Tuesday. "Indeed, as Jacqui joked with me yesterday, I’m not her PM, because she's British, Boris Johnson is," he tweeted.

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Indeed, as Jacqui joked with me yesterday, I’m not her PM, because she’s British, Boris Johnson is. But with local MP Andrew Gee, we made a decent pitch for her to become an Aussie yesterday. She &amp; the other RFS volunteers have been doing an incredible job battling these blazes. <a href="https://t.co/28z3c4bTMG">pic.twitter.com/28z3c4bTMG</a>
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP/status/1209245828230959106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bushfires-hit-emergency-level-on-sydneys-outskirts-one-dead-in-south-australia-269445">Devastating bushfires</a> have burnt more than 4 million hectares&nbsp;of land across five states and killed nine people since September.

Uncontrolled fires are still burning in South Australia, after ripping through the state's prominent wine region, and around the country's largest city Sydney.

Hazardous smoke blanketed Sydney for days this month, heightening public anger and raising political pressure on the government to do more to battle climate change.

Also watch:&nbsp;Bushfires hit emergency level on Sydney's outskirts; one dead in South Australia

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When it was revealed Morrison and his family had slipped away to Hawaii for a holiday voters became angry.

On his return Morrison further inflamed his political critics by saying there would be no change to climate policy and denied suggestions of a split within his government after his deputy agreed more action was needed.

He also ruled out holding a summit with the nation's fire chiefs and compensation for thousands of volunteer firefighters who have battled blazes for months.

A series of photo opportunities of Morrison with firefighters and animals affected by the fires was ridiculed on social media on Tuesday.

Morrison stunned the nation in May by winning an election, securing a parliamentary majority, but his political capital six months later is now being questioned.

"He has lost any personal link to that deep, crucial, reservoir of gravitas we confer, automatically, on our PMs simply because of their position," The Canberra Times newspaper columnist Nicholas Stuart wrote on Tuesday.

But some analysts say it is too early to write Morrison's political epitaph, but concede Australia's summer bushfires may eventually see a change in climate policy.

In Australia, the world's largest exporter of coal, climate and energy policy have infused politics for a decade, helping to bring down both liberal and conservative lawmakers.

Australia is one of the world's largest carbon emitters per capita due to coal-fired power plants. It has pledged to cut carbon emissions by 26% from 2005 levels by 2030, but critics say Morrison is paying lip service to the commitment.

"These bushfires could potentially lead to a shift in public opinion and public concern on climate change that we have not seen in Australia so far," said Haydon Manning, professor at the college of business, government and law at Flinders University.

Calls for Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison to resign have littered social media platforms after it was revealed he was holidaying in Hawaii while the country battled a bushfire emergency and his return has failed to douse the criticism.

Calls for Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison to resign have littered social media platforms after it was revealed he was holidaying in Hawaii while the country battled a bushfire emergency and his return has failed to douse the criticism. Voters have taken to social media calling for leadership at a time of crisis, and along with some of the country's political editors, have criticised Morrison's refusal to take tougher action on climate change. Similar to the criticism of US President Donald Trump by American comedians, Morrison has been ridiculed on social media, portrayed as a deformed creature sitting in a burnt out forest on Christmas Day patting a lump of coal he calls "precious" to a flying superhero called "Bullshit Man". On Twitter on Tuesday, #NotMyPrimeMinister, #MorrisonMustGo and #ScoMoResign were the top trending topics in Australia after a viral video showed a volunteer firefighter, Jacqui, shaking hands with Morrison as she said "not my prime minister". "Jacquie is all of us," Twitter user Yabba said. Another user @bugwannostra tweeted "she's only saying what more than 12 million think..." The tweet prompted Morrison to issue a clarification on Tuesday. "Indeed, as Jacqui joked with me yesterday, I’m not her PM, because she's British, Boris Johnson is," he tweeted. Indeed, as Jacqui joked with me yesterday, I’m not her PM, because she’s British, Boris Johnson is. But with local MP Andrew Gee, we made a decent pitch for her to become an Aussie yesterday. She & the other RFS volunteers have been doing an incredible job battling these blazes. pic.twitter.com/28z3c4bTMG — Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) December 23, 2019 × Devastating bushfires have burnt more than 4 million hectares of land across five states and killed nine people since September. Uncontrolled fires are still burning in South Australia, after ripping through the state's prominent wine region, and around the country's largest city Sydney. Hazardous smoke blanketed Sydney for days this month, heightening public anger and raising political pressure on the government to do more to battle climate change. Also watch: Bushfires hit emergency level on Sydney's outskirts; one dead in South Australia × When it was revealed Morrison and his family had slipped away to Hawaii for a holiday voters became angry. On his return Morrison further inflamed his political critics by saying there would be no change to climate policy and denied suggestions of a split within his government after his deputy agreed more action was needed. He also ruled out holding a summit with the nation's fire chiefs and compensation for thousands of volunteer firefighters who have battled blazes for months. A series of photo opportunities of Morrison with firefighters and animals affected by the fires was ridiculed on social media on Tuesday. Morrison stunned the nation in May by winning an election, securing a parliamentary majority, but his political capital six months later is now being questioned. "He has lost any personal link to that deep, crucial, reservoir of gravitas we confer, automatically, on our PMs simply because of their position," The Canberra Times newspaper columnist Nicholas Stuart wrote on Tuesday. But some analysts say it is too early to write Morrison's political epitaph, but concede Australia's summer bushfires may eventually see a change in climate policy. In Australia, the world's largest exporter of coal, climate and energy policy have infused politics for a decade, helping to bring down both liberal and conservative lawmakers. Australia is one of the world's largest carbon emitters per capita due to coal-fired power plants. It has pledged to cut carbon emissions by 26% from 2005 levels by 2030, but critics say Morrison is paying lip service to the commitment. "These bushfires could potentially lead to a shift in public opinion and public concern on climate change that we have not seen in Australia so far," said Haydon Manning, professor at the college of business, government and law at Flinders University.

Australian PM Scott Morrison slammed on social media over Hawaii visit

A frantic scramble for gift promotions left a dozen people injured in an Australian mall on Tuesday after hundreds of balloons with prizes inside were dropped on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/when-elephant-santa-arrives-with-christmas-presents-and-candies-269770">Christmas</a> shoppers gathered below.

Around 150 people jostled for prime position as two massive bags full of balloons hovered overhead in the shopping centre in Sydney's western suburbs.

When they were opened at midnight, cries went up as the crowd surged forwards, crushing people and knocking over a Christmas prop, which sent a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-canadian-military-tracker-norad-eyes-santa-christmas-gift-from-north-korea-269861">Santa</a> careening back several metres, footage of the event shows.

"People were screaming at each other, telling each other to get off them," said one witness.

Twelve people were treated for minor injuries, with five taken to hospital with a "mixture of leg and ankle injuries, chest pain and muscular skeletal injuries due to being stepped on," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-pm-scott-morrison-hits-out-at-reckless-calls-to-cut-coal-industry-269654">New South Wales</a> state ambulance.&nbsp;

"Once the ballons were released in the air, the crowd rushed towards the balloons, causing a number of people to be knocked over and injured," police said in a statement.

The shopping centre management told local media it was investigating the incident.

A frantic scramble for gift promotions left a dozen people injured in an Australian mall on Tuesday after hundreds of balloons with prizes inside were dropped on Christmas shoppers gathered below.

A frantic scramble for gift promotions left a dozen people injured in an Australian mall on Tuesday after hundreds of balloons with prizes inside were dropped on Christmas shoppers gathered below. Around 150 people jostled for prime position as two massive bags full of balloons hovered overhead in the shopping centre in Sydney's western suburbs. When they were opened at midnight, cries went up as the crowd surged forwards, crushing people and knocking over a Christmas prop, which sent a Santa careening back several metres, footage of the event shows. "People were screaming at each other, telling each other to get off them," said one witness. Twelve people were treated for minor injuries, with five taken to hospital with a "mixture of leg and ankle injuries, chest pain and muscular skeletal injuries due to being stepped on," said New South Wales state ambulance. "Once the ballons were released in the air, the crowd rushed towards the balloons, causing a number of people to be knocked over and injured," police said in a statement. The shopping centre management told local media it was investigating the incident.

Australia Christmas gift scramble leaves several injured

Australia's $6 Billion Wine Industry Struggling Due To Bush Fire Crisis. #Gravitas #AustraliaWineIndustry #AustraliaBushfire

Gravitas: Australia: Bush Fire Crisis Cripples Wine Industry

Australia's opening batsman David&nbsp;Warner&nbsp;has been declared&nbsp;fit&nbsp;for the team's&nbsp;second T<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-new-zealand-by-296-runs-to-win-first-test-in-perth-268378">est</a>&nbsp;against New Zealand that starts on Thursday despite&nbsp;being&nbsp;hit&nbsp;on the&nbsp;hand&nbsp;while batting in the nets on Monday.

Warner&nbsp;had to have medical checks&nbsp;after&nbsp;he was struck on the thumb. He returned to training with his&nbsp;hand&nbsp;strapped.

"I've got absolutely no worries that he'll be raring to go," Australia&nbsp;coach&nbsp;Justin Langer told reporters on Tuesday. "There was a little concern for about two&nbsp;seconds, but then he saw the doctor and he's&nbsp;hitting balls again."

"We know how well he's playing at the moment, we know how much all the boys love playing Test&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealands-trent-boult-on-track-for-dream-boxing-day-test-against-australia-268852">Boxing Day</a>&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;... so he'll be ready to go."

Warner&nbsp;faced about 45 minutes of throw-downs on Tuesday, according to local media reports, although he did appear at times to be in pain and took his&nbsp;hand&nbsp;off the bat.

Langer added that fast bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/james-pattinson-banned-for-first-test-against-pakistan-for-personal-abuse-262662">James Pattinson</a> would almost certainly make his first&nbsp;test&nbsp;appearance in Australia in almost four years for the injured Josh Hazlewood, who sustained a hamstring injury in the 296-run first&nbsp;test&nbsp;victory in Perth.

"I've said it all week, he (Pattinson) was the 12th man the last game, we try to be as consistent as possible," Langer said.

"We've got some great depth of talent there, we've got Michael Neser here, we've got Peter Siddle, James Pattinson so I think at this stage, Patto will probably get one of the nods."

While the 29-year-old was likely to partner Mitchell Starc and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-cummins-becomes-ipls-most-expensive-overseas-buy-269295">Pat Cummins</a> for his first&nbsp;test&nbsp;in Australia since January 2016, Langer said they were still working through their final playing selections.

Langer mooted last week selecting five specialist bowlers with the Melbourne&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Ground (MCG) pitch favouring batsmen in the previous two years, but said on Tuesday finalising the starting eleven could be a match-day decision.

"We'll work out what the set-up of our team is going to be, whether we play ... an extra bowler or not," he said.

"We'll have a look at the wicket. The wicket looks pretty good at the moment two days out."

Australia's opening batsman David Warner has been declared fit for the team's second Test against New Zealand that starts on Thursday despite being hit on the hand while batting in the nets on Monday.

Australia's opening batsman David Warner has been declared fit for the team's second Test against New Zealand that starts on Thursday despite being hit on the hand while batting in the nets on Monday. Warner had to have medical checks after he was struck on the thumb. He returned to training with his hand strapped. "I've got absolutely no worries that he'll be raring to go," Australia coach Justin Langer told reporters on Tuesday. "There was a little concern for about two seconds, but then he saw the doctor and he's hitting balls again." "We know how well he's playing at the moment, we know how much all the boys love playing Test cricket and Boxing Day cricket ... so he'll be ready to go." Warner faced about 45 minutes of throw-downs on Tuesday, according to local media reports, although he did appear at times to be in pain and took his hand off the bat. Langer added that fast bowler James Pattinson would almost certainly make his first test appearance in Australia in almost four years for the injured Josh Hazlewood, who sustained a hamstring injury in the 296-run first test victory in Perth. "I've said it all week, he (Pattinson) was the 12th man the last game, we try to be as consistent as possible," Langer said. "We've got some great depth of talent there, we've got Michael Neser here, we've got Peter Siddle, James Pattinson so I think at this stage, Patto will probably get one of the nods." While the 29-year-old was likely to partner Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins for his first test in Australia since January 2016, Langer said they were still working through their final playing selections. Langer mooted last week selecting five specialist bowlers with the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) pitch favouring batsmen in the previous two years, but said on Tuesday finalising the starting eleven could be a match-day decision. "We'll work out what the set-up of our team is going to be, whether we play ... an extra bowler or not," he said. "We'll have a look at the wicket. The wicket looks pretty good at the moment two days out."

David Warner fit for second Test against New Zealand: Australia coach Langer

As the toll of South Australia's devastating bushfires begins to reveal itself, the Adelaide Hills community has rallied behind wineries destroyed by the blaze that tore through the region. #Australia #Vineyard #Adelaide hills #SouthAustralia

Australia: Almost 40,000 hectares vineyard burnt in Adelaide hills

The&nbsp;prize&nbsp;pool&nbsp;for the 2020&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andreescu-out-of-season-opener-in-auckland-with-knee-issues-269883">Australian&nbsp;Open</a>&nbsp;has been boosted by 14 per cent&nbsp;to A$71&nbsp;million&nbsp;($49.1&nbsp;million), organisers said on Tuesday, with the&nbsp;biggest&nbsp;gains&nbsp;for players exiting in the&nbsp;early&nbsp;rounds.

Players losing in the first round of qualifying at the year's first Grand Slam will take home A$20,000, up by a third from last year, while singles players who exit in the first round of the main draw will earn A$90,000, a jump of 20 per cent.

Before the start of the 2018&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;Open, Serb champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-guides-serbia-into-davis-cup-quarter-finals-263723">Novak Djokovic</a> had to distance himself from media reports that he had pushed for a revolt over the way revenues from the four Grand Slams were distributed to help reward a larger group of players.

"We have long been committed to improving the pay and conditions for a deeper&nbsp;pool&nbsp;of international tennis players," tournament director Craig Tiley said in a statement, noting that overall&nbsp;prize&nbsp;money has more than tripled since 2007.

"This year, we pushed to reward players competing&nbsp;early&nbsp;in the tournament in both singles and doubles."

The 2020 women's and men's singles champions will receive smaller increases in&nbsp;prize&nbsp;money, with both winners taking home A$4.12&nbsp;million, up $20,000.

Players can usually secure a main draw appearance in the tournament, which starts on January&nbsp;20, by having a ranking in the top 100.

Naomi Osaka of Japan is the reigning women's singles champion at the&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;Open&nbsp;while Djokovic claimed a record seventh title by defeating great rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-had-nothing-left-to-give-says-rafael-nadal-after-spain-win-davis-cup-264343">Rafa Nadal</a> in the 2019 final.

In a report published last year, an International Review Panel commissioned to address betting-related and other integrity issues said that players in the lowest tiers were susceptible to being corrupted because of the difficulty of making a living, with only 250-350 players earning enough money to break even.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-rout-pakistan-4-0-to-seal-davis-cup-qualifiers-spot-265459">International Tennis Federation</a> last week announced a series of measures as part of its fight against corruption in the sport's lower levels.

The prize pool for the 2020 Australian Open has been boosted by 14 per cent to A$71 million ($49.1 million), organisers said on Tuesday, with the biggest gains for players exiting in the early rounds.

The prize pool for the 2020 Australian Open has been boosted by 14 per cent to A$71 million ($49.1 million), organisers said on Tuesday, with the biggest gains for players exiting in the early rounds. Players losing in the first round of qualifying at the year's first Grand Slam will take home A$20,000, up by a third from last year, while singles players who exit in the first round of the main draw will earn A$90,000, a jump of 20 per cent. Before the start of the 2018 Australian Open, Serb champion Novak Djokovic had to distance himself from media reports that he had pushed for a revolt over the way revenues from the four Grand Slams were distributed to help reward a larger group of players. "We have long been committed to improving the pay and conditions for a deeper pool of international tennis players," tournament director Craig Tiley said in a statement, noting that overall prize money has more than tripled since 2007. "This year, we pushed to reward players competing early in the tournament in both singles and doubles." The 2020 women's and men's singles champions will receive smaller increases in prize money, with both winners taking home A$4.12 million, up $20,000. Players can usually secure a main draw appearance in the tournament, which starts on January 20, by having a ranking in the top 100. Naomi Osaka of Japan is the reigning women's singles champion at the Australian Open while Djokovic claimed a record seventh title by defeating great rival Rafa Nadal in the 2019 final. In a report published last year, an International Review Panel commissioned to address betting-related and other integrity issues said that players in the lowest tiers were susceptible to being corrupted because of the difficulty of making a living, with only 250-350 players earning enough money to break even. The International Tennis Federation last week announced a series of measures as part of its fight against corruption in the sport's lower levels.

Australian Open prize pool jumps to $49 million, biggest gains for early rounds

The small village of Balmoral, south-west of Sydney, has been all but wiped out by the Green Wattle Creek firestorm that roared through the area twice in three days. #WION #Balmoral #Australia #Australiafires

Australia catastrophic fires: 'Not much left' in Balmoral village

The World is One News, WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis. We provide much more than the news of the day. Our aim is to empower people to explore their world. #WION #WIONSpeedNews #Australia #Australiabushfires

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - December 23, 2019

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison apologised as bushfires rage, PM visited the Rural Fire Service headquarters in Sydney on December 22 after returning from a holiday in Hawaii.

Australia: PM Scott Morrison apologises as bushfires rage

Australian Prime Miniter Scott Morrison on Sunday visited firefighters who have been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bushfires-hit-emergency-level-on-sydneys-outskirts-one-dead-in-south-australia-269445">battling bushfires in the country</a> for months.

Morrison recently apologised for a Hawaiian holiday that ended early after public outrage.

He went on a tour of the New South Wales Rural Fire Service, whereby the volunteers have been struggling to contain blazes.

The PM faced flak for going on a family holiday amid the national crisis which has cloaked major cities like Brisbane and Sydney.

"I get it that people would have been upset to know that I was holidaying with my family while their families were under great stress... If you had your time over again and the benefit of hindsight we would have made different decisions," he said.

"I apologise," he said. "There have been lessons learned this week," adding that he believed it was time to move on from the controversy.

"I'm sure Australians are fair-minded and understand that when you make a promise to your kids, you try and keep it," the conservative leader said by way of explanation.

Watch: Catastrophic fires sweep across Australia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/catastrophic-fires-sweep-across-australia-269508/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The embattled prime minister again acknowledged some link between climate change and weather patterns that scientists say has fuelled the fire crisis, but he indicated there would be no change in pro-coal policies.

Morrison also praised volunteer firefighters, who in the last 24 hours have faced <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deeply-regret-any-offence-caused-to-australians-pm-scott-morrison-apologises-for-hawaii-vacation-amid-bushfire-crisis-269362">catastrophic conditions</a> brought by a record heatwave, gale-force winds and prolonged drought.

Australia's firefighting force is overwhelmingly made up of volunteers who have been strained by the intensity and the length of this year's fire season.

Officials said two fires, already big enough to create their own thunderstorms, to the southwest of Sydney had joined to form another "megafire" on the doorstep of Australia's largest city.

Conditions eased markedly on Sunday, giving them time to try to contain massive blazes near Sydney that are only likely to be extinguished with heavy rainfall.

The news of his vacation has recently triggered protests. People on social media used the hashtag #WhereTheBloodyHellAreYa?

(With inputs from agencies)

Australian Prime Miniter Scott Morrison on Sunday visited firefighters who have been battling bushfires in the country for months. Morrison recently apologised for a Hawaiian holiday that ended early after public outrage.

Australian Prime Miniter Scott Morrison on Sunday visited firefighters who have been battling bushfires in the country for months. Morrison recently apologised for a Hawaiian holiday that ended early after public outrage. He went on a tour of the New South Wales Rural Fire Service, whereby the volunteers have been struggling to contain blazes. The PM faced flak for going on a family holiday amid the national crisis which has cloaked major cities like Brisbane and Sydney. "I get it that people would have been upset to know that I was holidaying with my family while their families were under great stress... If you had your time over again and the benefit of hindsight we would have made different decisions," he said. "I apologise," he said. "There have been lessons learned this week," adding that he believed it was time to move on from the controversy. "I'm sure Australians are fair-minded and understand that when you make a promise to your kids, you try and keep it," the conservative leader said by way of explanation. Watch: Catastrophic fires sweep across Australia The embattled prime minister again acknowledged some link between climate change and weather patterns that scientists say has fuelled the fire crisis, but he indicated there would be no change in pro-coal policies. Morrison also praised volunteer firefighters, who in the last 24 hours have faced catastrophic conditions brought by a record heatwave, gale-force winds and prolonged drought. Australia's firefighting force is overwhelmingly made up of volunteers who have been strained by the intensity and the length of this year's fire season. Officials said two fires, already big enough to create their own thunderstorms, to the southwest of Sydney had joined to form another "megafire" on the doorstep of Australia's largest city. Conditions eased markedly on Sunday, giving them time to try to contain massive blazes near Sydney that are only likely to be extinguished with heavy rainfall. The news of his vacation has recently triggered protests. People on social media used the hashtag #WhereTheBloodyHellAreYa? (With inputs from agencies)

Australian PM visits firefighters after stirring controversy for Hawaii vacation

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said he regrets being away on vacation with his family as fires raged across South Australia. #Australia #ScottMorrison #Australiafire

Australia's eastern coast has been hit by a record breaking heat wave. #Australia #Sydneyfire

Catastrophic fires sweep across Australia

Catastrophic conditions fuelled massive bushfires across <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/state-of-emergency-declared-in-australia-after-unprecedented-bushfires-269043">Australia's New South Wales </a>state on Saturday, with three blazes around Sydney burning at emergency level, while in South Australia one person was found dead in a fire zone.

Some major roads outside Sydney were closed and authorities asked people to delay travel, at the start of what is normally a busy Christmas holiday period, warning of the unpredictability of the fires as winds of up to 70 kph (44 mph) were set to fan the flames as temperatures soared above 40C (104F).

The heat and strong winds created "catastrophic fire conditions", the head of fire services in rural areas of NSW state told journalists.

"They are the very worst of conditions," said NSW Rural Fire Services Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons. "Given we have a landscape with so much active fire burning, you have a recipe for very serious concern and a very dangerous day."

Close to 100 fires were burning across NSW on Saturday afternoon - of which six were characterised as emergency level.

Just days out from Christmas, local police warned people to avoid travelling throughout the day as roads would likely close and temperatures would soar.

"Today is not the day to start your holiday," a NSW police spokeswomen said.

Close to 10,000 emergency personnel would be working across NSW on Saturday. The state's Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said it was probably the largest emergency deployment ever seen in NSW.

Wind change expected

A southerly wind change is expected late on Saturday afternoon. It is forecast to bring winds of up to 90 kph (56 mph), which Fitzsimmons said would initially worsen fire conditions before leading to a dramatic drop in temperatures.

The death of two firefighters on Thursday night when their fire truck was struck by a falling tree as it travelled through the front line of a fire brought the wildfires death toll in New South Wales to eight since the start of October.

Shortly after the two deaths were announced, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deeply-regret-any-offence-caused-to-australians-pm-scott-morrison-apologises-for-hawaii-vacation-amid-bushfire-crisis-269362">Prime Minister Scott Morrison </a>issued a statement saying he would return as soon as possible from a family holiday in Hawaii, a trip that had drawn sharp criticism as the wildfires crisis deepened.

South Australia, Victoria fires

In South Australia, authorities said one person had been found dead, another was critically injured and 15 homes had been destroyed by a fire in the Adelaide Hills, just 40 kilometres (25 miles) east of the state capital of Adelaide.

The death followed another fatality in South Australia on Friday, the result of a car crash which sparked a fire.

Authorities said fires had burnt through some 40,000 hectares in the state and 23 firefighters suffered injuries on Friday.

In Victoria, authorities said 142 fires had started in the state since Friday, with two burning at an emergency level on Saturday afternoon.

Australia has been fighting wildfires for weeks, with blazes destroying more than 700 homes and nearly 3 million acres (1.2 million hectares) of bushland.

Catastrophic conditions fuelled massive bushfires across Australia's New South Wales state on Saturday, with three blazes around Sydney burning at emergency level, while in South Australia one person was found dead in a fire zone.

Catastrophic conditions fuelled massive bushfires across Australia's New South Wales state on Saturday, with three blazes around Sydney burning at emergency level, while in South Australia one person was found dead in a fire zone. Some major roads outside Sydney were closed and authorities asked people to delay travel, at the start of what is normally a busy Christmas holiday period, warning of the unpredictability of the fires as winds of up to 70 kph (44 mph) were set to fan the flames as temperatures soared above 40C (104F). The heat and strong winds created "catastrophic fire conditions", the head of fire services in rural areas of NSW state told journalists. "They are the very worst of conditions," said NSW Rural Fire Services Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons. "Given we have a landscape with so much active fire burning, you have a recipe for very serious concern and a very dangerous day." Close to 100 fires were burning across NSW on Saturday afternoon - of which six were characterised as emergency level. Just days out from Christmas, local police warned people to avoid travelling throughout the day as roads would likely close and temperatures would soar. "Today is not the day to start your holiday," a NSW police spokeswomen said. Close to 10,000 emergency personnel would be working across NSW on Saturday. The state's Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said it was probably the largest emergency deployment ever seen in NSW. Wind change expected A southerly wind change is expected late on Saturday afternoon. It is forecast to bring winds of up to 90 kph (56 mph), which Fitzsimmons said would initially worsen fire conditions before leading to a dramatic drop in temperatures. The death of two firefighters on Thursday night when their fire truck was struck by a falling tree as it travelled through the front line of a fire brought the wildfires death toll in New South Wales to eight since the start of October. Shortly after the two deaths were announced, Prime Minister Scott Morrison issued a statement saying he would return as soon as possible from a family holiday in Hawaii, a trip that had drawn sharp criticism as the wildfires crisis deepened. South Australia, Victoria fires In South Australia, authorities said one person had been found dead, another was critically injured and 15 homes had been destroyed by a fire in the Adelaide Hills, just 40 kilometres (25 miles) east of the state capital of Adelaide. The death followed another fatality in South Australia on Friday, the result of a car crash which sparked a fire. Authorities said fires had burnt through some 40,000 hectares in the state and 23 firefighters suffered injuries on Friday. In Victoria, authorities said 142 fires had started in the state since Friday, with two burning at an emergency level on Saturday afternoon. Australia has been fighting wildfires for weeks, with blazes destroying more than 700 homes and nearly 3 million acres (1.2 million hectares) of bushland.

Bushfires hit emergency level on Sydney's outskirts; one dead in South Australia

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