An Australian mother, Jenitar Sau Na'amoana, gave birth to naturally conceived identical quadruplets at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital in Queensland on July 14, 2026. The girls—Emily, Harriet, Alexa, and Catherine—were delivered via C-section at 28 weeks and four days gestation.


 Australian doctors celebrate the unprecedented miracle

An Indian-origin former nurse has been convicted of killing an Australian woman, bringing closure to a case that began seven years ago when the victim’s body was found on a remote Queensland beach. Toyah Cordingley, who worked in a pharmacy, was discovered partially buried in the sand dunes of Wangetti Beach, roughly 40 km north of Cairns, on October 22, 2018. Authorities said the accused, Rajwinder Singh, had driven to the beach after an argument with his wife, carrying a kitchen knife and some fruit.&nbsp;Cordingley had taken her dog for a walk along the shore when their paths crossed. After her dog allegedly barked at Singh, the encounter escalated into a heated dispute. Prosecutors argued that Singh reacted violently, fatally stabbing her before concealing the body in the dunes and securing her dog to a nearby tree.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-india-and-russia-should-work-together-beijing-welcomes-putin-modi-meet-in-delhi-1765215057313">China, India and Russia should work together: Beijing welcomes Putin–Modi meet in Delhi</a>&nbsp;As the jury in the Cairns Supreme Court announced its verdict, Cordingley’s father shouted at Singh, telling him to “rot in hell, you bas****,” while Singh appeared unfazed. Two days after the killing, Singh abruptly left Australia, abandoning his family and job under the pretext of visiting an ill grandfather. Police soon identified him as a suspect, linking the movements of his vehicle to data from Cordingley’s phone.&nbsp;A record one-million-dollar reward was issued by Queensland Police for information leading to his capture. Singh managed to evade authorities for four years and had no contact with his family during his disappearance. In November 2022, he was located and arrested by Delhi Police at a gurudwara, before being extradited to Australia the following year.&nbsp;Although the trial was initially set for 2024, it was delayed due to slow document transfers. Partway through the proceedings, a juror was dismissed over claims of bias, but the court ruled the remaining panel could proceed fairly. Sentencing submissions are scheduled for Tuesday, signaling the next step in the long-running case.

'Rot in hell, you bas****': Seven years on, jury convicts former India-origin nurse in Queensland beach killing

An Indian-origin former nurse has been convicted of killing an Australian woman, bringing closure to a case that began seven years ago when the victim’s body was found on a remote Queensland beach. Toyah Cordingley, who worked in a pharmacy, was discovered partially buried in the sand dunes of Wangetti Beach, roughly 40 km north of Cairns, on October 22, 2018. Authorities said the accused, Rajwinder Singh, had driven to the beach after an argument with his wife, carrying a kitchen knife and some fruit. Cordingley had taken her dog for a walk along the shore when their paths crossed. After her dog allegedly barked at Singh, the encounter escalated into a heated dispute. Prosecutors argued that Singh reacted violently, fatally stabbing her before concealing the body in the dunes and securing her dog to a nearby tree. Also Read: China, India and Russia should work together: Beijing welcomes Putin–Modi meet in Delhi As the jury in the Cairns Supreme Court announced its verdict, Cordingley’s father shouted at Singh, telling him to “rot in hell, you bas****,” while Singh appeared unfazed. Two days after the killing, Singh abruptly left Australia, abandoning his family and job under the pretext of visiting an ill grandfather. Police soon identified him as a suspect, linking the movements of his vehicle to data from Cordingley’s phone. A record one-million-dollar reward was issued by Queensland Police for information leading to his capture. Singh managed to evade authorities for four years and had no contact with his family during his disappearance. In November 2022, he was located and arrested by Delhi Police at a gurudwara, before being extradited to Australia the following year. Although the trial was initially set for 2024, it was delayed due to slow document transfers. Partway through the proceedings, a juror was dismissed over claims of bias, but the court ruled the remaining panel could proceed fairly. Sentencing submissions are scheduled for Tuesday, signaling the next step in the long-running case.

Former hospital nurse Rajwinder Singh is convicted of killing Toyah Cordingley at a remote Queensland beach in 2018 after years on the run and a long-delayed trial

The Australian prime minister has warned there is "worse to come" after a low tropical weather system brought heavy rain, strong winds and flooding to the country's east coast.

Anthony Albanese said the impacts of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred are already being felt across parts of Queensland and New South Wales, with the hours ahead expected to bring more downpours.

Cyclone Alfred: 'Worse to come', Warns Australian PM - as Heavy Rain Batter East Coast | WION

Over a dozen people were stranded in the air minutes after a theme park ride malfunctioned in Gold Coast, Australia. The ride stopped mid-air due to a "sensor communication fault", said an official from Sea World.

According to the theme park, the Vortex ride experienced a "standard ride stoppage" on Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp;

“All 13 guests onboard are safe and our team are communicating with them as we prepare to exit them from the ride,” Sea World said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-dramatic-circus-stunt-goes-wrong-as-aerial-hoop-artist-falls-on-ground-753753">Watch: Dramatic circus stunt goes wrong as aerial hoop artist loses grip, falls down</a>

The passengers were rescued from the 15-metre high ride after Sea World's engineering team manually lowered the ride and the people exited safely after 90 minutes.

The Queensland ambulance arrived at the rescue site in case any assistance was needed.&nbsp;

“Our on-site nurse provided welfare checks in an abundance of caution with them upon exiting the ride,” the theme park said.

Queensland fire department also reached the scene "should the manual process not work", however, they were not needed, said Sea World.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/tourists-go-for-real-life-temple-run-in-cambodias-angkor-wat-experts-express-concern-753761">Tourists go for real-life 'Temple Run' in Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, experts express concern</a>

"The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest priority and ride stoppages are proof rides systems and operators are doing as they are designed and trained to do to keep our guests safe," The company added. "Our team regularly train for these exercises and we have a strong working relationship with the QFES team."

This incident was the second in less than a week when a side stopped working, leaving passengers trapped. Last Thursday, the Leviathan roller-coaster stopped working, due to a sensor issue as well, leaving passengers stuck for about an hour.

“At all times throughout the stoppage, the guests were safe and our team were in constant communication with them,” the company said about the incident earlier. “The guests onboard exited the ride from the safe stop zones with the help of our team.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Over a dozen people were stranded in the air minutes after a theme park ride malfunctioned in Gold Coast, Australia. The ride stopped mid-air due to a "sensor communication fault", said an official from Sea World.

Over a dozen people were stranded in the air minutes after a theme park ride malfunctioned in Gold Coast, Australia. The ride stopped mid-air due to a "sensor communication fault", said an official from Sea World. According to the theme park, the Vortex ride experienced a "standard ride stoppage" on Tuesday afternoon. “All 13 guests onboard are safe and our team are communicating with them as we prepare to exit them from the ride,” Sea World said in a statement. Also read | Watch: Dramatic circus stunt goes wrong as aerial hoop artist loses grip, falls down The passengers were rescued from the 15-metre high ride after Sea World's engineering team manually lowered the ride and the people exited safely after 90 minutes. The Queensland ambulance arrived at the rescue site in case any assistance was needed. “Our on-site nurse provided welfare checks in an abundance of caution with them upon exiting the ride,” the theme park said. Queensland fire department also reached the scene "should the manual process not work", however, they were not needed, said Sea World. Also read | Tourists go for real-life 'Temple Run' in Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, experts express concern "The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest priority and ride stoppages are proof rides systems and operators are doing as they are designed and trained to do to keep our guests safe," The company added. "Our team regularly train for these exercises and we have a strong working relationship with the QFES team." This incident was the second in less than a week when a side stopped working, leaving passengers trapped. Last Thursday, the Leviathan roller-coaster stopped working, due to a sensor issue as well, leaving passengers stuck for about an hour. “At all times throughout the stoppage, the guests were safe and our team were in constant communication with them,” the company said about the incident earlier. “The guests onboard exited the ride from the safe stop zones with the help of our team.” (With inputs from agencies)

Thirteen people trapped for 90 minutes after a theme park ride stopped mid-air in Australia

Australia’s Northern Territory (NT) and Queensland brace for the crossing of Tropical Cyclone Megan which developed into a category three cyclone and is set to bring heavy rains and potentially destructive wind gusts and lead to widespread damage and flooding in coastal regions in the upcoming week.&nbsp;

<h2>Storm to strengthen?</h2>

The storm, as per Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), is set to cross the Northern Territory town of Borroloola. On Sunday (Mar 17) afternoon, emergency services advised residents who would not be able to shelter safely to move elsewhere.&nbsp;

“Borroloola as of this morning has a heightened risk that was intensified with the intensification of Tropical Cyclone Megan,” said NT Police Superintendent Sonia Kennon, as quoted by ABC News.&nbsp;

The official has also urged the residents to shelter in a safe place and stay inside until the authorities have given an all-clear.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-village-distraught-after-dozens-of-dead-animals-found-dumped-outside-local-shop-701042">UK village ‘distraught’ after dozens of dead animals found dumped outside local shop</a>

There is also a 20 per cent chance that Megan could develop into a category four storm when it makes landfall, said BOM.&nbsp;

“It does have enough time that it can strengthen,” said the agency’s Shenagh Gamble, as quoted by the Australian Associated Press, adding that their current forecast indicates that it will not.&nbsp;

<h2>About the storm</h2>

The severe Tropical Cyclone Megan formed over the Gulf of Carpentaria, near the island of Groote Eylandt, on Saturday (Mar 16) afternoon and moved south towards the NT and Queensland border.&nbsp;

As of Sunday morning, it was a category-two storm but intensified as the day progressed. Megan is expected to make landfall as a category three storm late Monday (Mar 18) or early Tuesday near the border between Queensland and NT.&nbsp;

“It’s quite a large tropical cyclone, taking up around one third of the Gulf of Carpentaria area,” said Gamble. According to BOM, the cyclone would have a “very destructive core” when it makes landfall on Monday.&nbsp;

The bureau has also particularly warned residents near the coastal regions between Nathan River and the border as there is a “very dangerous storm tide associated with this system” and they are expected to be “significantly higher than the normal high tides,” said Gamble.&nbsp;

<h2>Situation in Groote Eylandt</h2>

A cyclone alert was in place from Groote Eylandt to Mornington Island and included the far inland town of Borroloola. The authorities have also expressed concern, particularly for remote indigenous communities on Groote Eylandt.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-it-destroyed-houthi-drone-over-red-sea-to-protect-freedom-of-navigation-700968">US says it destroyed Houthi drone over red sea 'to protect freedom of navigation'</a>

The small island has received more than 400 millimetres of rainfall in the past 24 hours. Alia Stevenson, a long-time resident of Groote Eylandt told ABC News, that many trees were down across the island, the wharf had been damaged, and water bubbles had formed under the roads.&nbsp;

The rains have also led to the closure of highways, and supermarkets, and residents could not travel between communities, said Stevenson.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Australia’s Northern Territory (NT) and Queensland brace for the crossing of Tropical Cyclone Megan which developed into a category three cyclone and is set to bring heavy rains and potentially destructive wind gusts and lead to widespread damage and flooding in coastal regions in the upcoming week.

Australia’s Northern Territory (NT) and Queensland brace for the crossing of Tropical Cyclone Megan which developed into a category three cyclone and is set to bring heavy rains and potentially destructive wind gusts and lead to widespread damage and flooding in coastal regions in the upcoming week. Storm to strengthen? The storm, as per Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), is set to cross the Northern Territory town of Borroloola. On Sunday (Mar 17) afternoon, emergency services advised residents who would not be able to shelter safely to move elsewhere. “Borroloola as of this morning has a heightened risk that was intensified with the intensification of Tropical Cyclone Megan,” said NT Police Superintendent Sonia Kennon, as quoted by ABC News. The official has also urged the residents to shelter in a safe place and stay inside until the authorities have given an all-clear. Also Read | UK village ‘distraught’ after dozens of dead animals found dumped outside local shop There is also a 20 per cent chance that Megan could develop into a category four storm when it makes landfall, said BOM. “It does have enough time that it can strengthen,” said the agency’s Shenagh Gamble, as quoted by the Australian Associated Press, adding that their current forecast indicates that it will not. About the storm The severe Tropical Cyclone Megan formed over the Gulf of Carpentaria, near the island of Groote Eylandt, on Saturday (Mar 16) afternoon and moved south towards the NT and Queensland border. As of Sunday morning, it was a category-two storm but intensified as the day progressed. Megan is expected to make landfall as a category three storm late Monday (Mar 18) or early Tuesday near the border between Queensland and NT. “It’s quite a large tropical cyclone, taking up around one third of the Gulf of Carpentaria area,” said Gamble. According to BOM, the cyclone would have a “very destructive core” when it makes landfall on Monday. The bureau has also particularly warned residents near the coastal regions between Nathan River and the border as there is a “very dangerous storm tide associated with this system” and they are expected to be “significantly higher than the normal high tides,” said Gamble. Situation in Groote Eylandt A cyclone alert was in place from Groote Eylandt to Mornington Island and included the far inland town of Borroloola. The authorities have also expressed concern, particularly for remote indigenous communities on Groote Eylandt. Also Read | US says it destroyed Houthi drone over red sea 'to protect freedom of navigation' The small island has received more than 400 millimetres of rainfall in the past 24 hours. Alia Stevenson, a long-time resident of Groote Eylandt told ABC News, that many trees were down across the island, the wharf had been damaged, and water bubbles had formed under the roads. The rains have also led to the closure of highways, and supermarkets, and residents could not travel between communities, said Stevenson. (With inputs from agencies)

Tropical Cyclone Megan: Australia’s Northern Territory and Queensland brace for category-three storm

A three-year-old who had embarked on a unique adventure in a Queensland shopping centre got&nbsp;trapped inside a claw machine while exploring for toys. Police were called to the scene, and a video captured the child named&nbsp;Ethan surrounded by toys as officers pondered the rescue mission.

On a Sunday evening&nbsp; at Capalaba shopping centre, police responded to reports of a child stuck in a claw machine. The video footage shows&nbsp;the carefree toddler amid a pile of Hello Kitty plushies, seemingly unfazed by the situation.

Despite the unconventional circumstances, the child obediently followed police instructions, covering his eyes as they shattered the glass to free him.

The child's father,&nbsp;Timothy Hopper, told reporters on&nbsp;it was “unbelievable” how quickly his son got inside the claw machine after he had turned his back for a “split second’ while out grocery shopping.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-couple-executed-for-murder-of-two-children-wished-to-start-a-new-family-685956">Also read |&nbsp;Chinese couple executed for murder of two children wished to start a new family: Report</a>

He humorously recounted messaging his father about how many two-dollar coins they had while his son was inside the machine.&nbsp;

Senior Constable Stuart Power, with 11 years of policing experience told the Guardian that it was&nbsp;a unique incident in his career. He shared a light-hearted moment with his colleague, both fathers contemplating their own children's potential adventures.&nbsp;

Following the incident, the claw machine was removed after the glass was shattered to free the child.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Researchers find proof of at least 9 hidden cultural groups during Ice Age Europe

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/researchers-find-proof-of-at-least-9-hidden-cultural-groups-during-ice-age-europe-686033/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

A three-year-old who had embarked on a unique adventure in a Queensland shopping centre got trapped inside a claw machine while exploring for toys. Police were called to the scene, and a video captured the child named Ethan surrounded by toys as officers pondered the rescue mission.

A three-year-old who had embarked on a unique adventure in a Queensland shopping centre got trapped inside a claw machine while exploring for toys. Police were called to the scene, and a video captured the child named Ethan surrounded by toys as officers pondered the rescue mission. On a Sunday evening at Capalaba shopping centre, police responded to reports of a child stuck in a claw machine. The video footage shows the carefree toddler amid a pile of Hello Kitty plushies, seemingly unfazed by the situation. Despite the unconventional circumstances, the child obediently followed police instructions, covering his eyes as they shattered the glass to free him. The child's father, Timothy Hopper, told reporters on it was “unbelievable” how quickly his son got inside the claw machine after he had turned his back for a “split second’ while out grocery shopping. Also read | Chinese couple executed for murder of two children wished to start a new family: Report He humorously recounted messaging his father about how many two-dollar coins they had while his son was inside the machine. Senior Constable Stuart Power, with 11 years of policing experience told the Guardian that it was a unique incident in his career. He shared a light-hearted moment with his colleague, both fathers contemplating their own children's potential adventures. Following the incident, the claw machine was removed after the glass was shattered to free the child. Also watch | Researchers find proof of at least 9 hidden cultural groups during Ice Age Europe (With inputs from agencies)

Australian police rescue 3-year-old stuck inside Hello Kitty claw machine

A countless number of rats, some of which are now dead, have arrived on the shores in coastal areas in northern Australia. The spike in rat population on beaches in Queensland is believed to be induced by the rainy season. Two factors contributed to their rising numbers which has now left residents of the area wary.

Rat plague spreads in Australia's Queensland, smelly heaps causing trouble for residents

A countless number of rats, some of which are now dead, have arrived on the shores in coastal areas in northern Australia. The spike in rat population on beaches in Queensland is believed to be induced by the rainy season. Two factors contributed to their rising numbers which has now left residents of the area wary.&nbsp;

First off, the wet season is conducive to rodent breeding and secondly, more harvest resulting from the rains attracts rats as they trickle down the coastal areas looking for food. However, not all rats survive their journey to the beaches. Media reports quoting experts say that some of these rats do not survive the journey, triggering rat plague in the region.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-unravel-why-skin-conditions-like-eczema-lead-to-itching-new-research-says-662056">Scientists unravel why skin conditions like eczema lead to itching. New research says...</a>

&nbsp;

Now, with heaps of rats lying on the beaches, residents are down with cleaning drives to remove the smell infused in the region.&nbsp;The towns that are impacted due to the rat menace include the gulf towns of Karumba and Normanton in the state of Queensland.&nbsp;

<h2>Pets 'going mad'&nbsp;</h2>

The rats have not only become a troublemaker for residents of the area but they are also causing problems for pets. They are breaking into cages meant for pet animals and harassing them. Moreover, they are climbing on boats and cutting car wiring, making the lives of residents difficult.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/devil-comet-heading-towards-earth-loses-its-iconic-horns-and-turns-green-after-explosion-662036">'Devil Comet' heading towards Earth loses its iconic horns and turns green after explosion</a>

A 49-year-old Normanton local Derek Lord who has a vehicle hire business told AFP news agency, "Mate, there's rats everywhere."&nbsp;"They're that bold they're coming out during the day."

Speaking about how the rats are wreaking havoc on his pet ducks, he said that the ducks are "going mad" after rats entered their cages and took away their eggs.&nbsp;

<section>
Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-boosts-security-after-finland-shuts-border-points-661985">Russia boosts security after Finland shuts border points</a>

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"Last night, the ducks were going mad and I went downstairs to see what was going on thinking maybe there's a cat in there or something," he said adding, "And there's bloody lots of rats running through the cages, through the pens chasing ducks."&nbsp;
</section>

"They're just like, bold as hell."

As Queensland is set to witness more wet weather, Fishing charter owner Jemma Probert told AFP, "We've heard there are still more that are coming."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

A countless number of rats, some of which are now dead, have arrived on the shores in coastal areas in northern Australia. The spike in rat population on beaches in Queensland is believed to be induced by the rainy season.

A countless number of rats, some of which are now dead, have arrived on the shores in coastal areas in northern Australia. The spike in rat population on beaches in Queensland is believed to be induced by the rainy season. Two factors contributed to their rising numbers which has now left residents of the area wary. First off, the wet season is conducive to rodent breeding and secondly, more harvest resulting from the rains attracts rats as they trickle down the coastal areas looking for food. However, not all rats survive their journey to the beaches. Media reports quoting experts say that some of these rats do not survive the journey, triggering rat plague in the region. Also Read | Scientists unravel why skin conditions like eczema lead to itching. New research says... Now, with heaps of rats lying on the beaches, residents are down with cleaning drives to remove the smell infused in the region. The towns that are impacted due to the rat menace include the gulf towns of Karumba and Normanton in the state of Queensland. Pets 'going mad' The rats have not only become a troublemaker for residents of the area but they are also causing problems for pets. They are breaking into cages meant for pet animals and harassing them. Moreover, they are climbing on boats and cutting car wiring, making the lives of residents difficult. Also Read | 'Devil Comet' heading towards Earth loses its iconic horns and turns green after explosion A 49-year-old Normanton local Derek Lord who has a vehicle hire business told AFP news agency, "Mate, there's rats everywhere." "They're that bold they're coming out during the day." Speaking about how the rats are wreaking havoc on his pet ducks, he said that the ducks are "going mad" after rats entered their cages and took away their eggs. Watch | Russia boosts security after Finland shuts border points × "Last night, the ducks were going mad and I went downstairs to see what was going on thinking maybe there's a cat in there or something," he said adding, "And there's bloody lots of rats running through the cages, through the pens chasing ducks." "They're just like, bold as hell." As Queensland is set to witness more wet weather, Fishing charter owner Jemma Probert told AFP, "We've heard there are still more that are coming." (With inputs from agencies)

Australia's Northern State of Queensland is facing massive bushfires. Australia and New Zealand have ordered residents living near the bushfires to evacuate according to the authorities at least about 70 vegetation fires are burning across the state.

Australia: Dozens of bushfires burn across state of Queensland

The University of Queensland research finds being funny or having a good sense of humour doesn’t necessarily make you more attractive to potential partners.

Gravitas: Humour isn’t a deal-breaker when finding ‘the one’

A low-flying chopper apparently signalled the mating season for crocodiles on a farm in Queensland, Australia. It may sound bizarre, but it is what it is.&nbsp;

It happened when a Chinook pilot reportedly attempted to fly particularly low over a saltwater crocodile farm.&nbsp;

The aim was to let the visitors on board take photos of some of the farm's inmates - the 3000 crocodiles.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/faking-death-female-frogs-have-unique-sex-strategy-they-also-avoid-persistent-males-646032">Faking death? Female frogs have unique sex strategy, they also avoid persistent males</a>&nbsp;

The helicopter flying low, however, shockingly awakened the crocodiles' sexual desires, prompting them to "mate like mad".&nbsp;

When the&nbsp;crocodiles heard the disturbance, all the large bulls rose up, screamed, and rumbled at the skies, according to John Lever, who is the owner of the Koorana Crocodile Farm.&nbsp;

And by the time the helicopters left, they'd already started making some serious orgiastic baby-making.&nbsp;

Lever told ABC: "All of the big males got up and roared and bellowed up at the sky, and then after the helicopters left they mated like mad."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/amphibians-are-vanishing-at-an-alarming-rate-scientists-warn-645511">Amphibians are vanishing at an alarming rate, scientists warn</a>&nbsp;

Notably, saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) mate annually and time their mating to coincide with the ideal time to lay eggs in a burrow or nest.&nbsp;

Thunderstorm seasons are not ideal as the hatchlings may drown in flood waters following severe rains and storms.&nbsp;

Hence, they wait for the thunderstorm season&nbsp;to pass for the mating, when the offspring are more likely to hatch. Also, with the warm and wet weather, October is a great time in Northern Australia.&nbsp;

Therefore, some experts believe that the crocodiles misunderstood the noise and vibrations caused by the helicopter rotors and thought it's&nbsp;thunderstorm season.&nbsp;

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

A low-flying chopper apparently signalled the mating season for crocodiles on a farm in Queensland, Australia. It may sound bizarre, but it is what it is. It happened when a Chinook pilot reportedly attempted to fly particularly low over a saltwater crocodile farm.

A low-flying chopper apparently signalled the mating season for crocodiles on a farm in Queensland, Australia. It may sound bizarre, but it is what it is. It happened when a Chinook pilot reportedly attempted to fly particularly low over a saltwater crocodile farm. The aim was to let the visitors on board take photos of some of the farm's inmates - the 3000 crocodiles. Also read: Faking death? Female frogs have unique sex strategy, they also avoid persistent males The helicopter flying low, however, shockingly awakened the crocodiles' sexual desires, prompting them to "mate like mad". When the crocodiles heard the disturbance, all the large bulls rose up, screamed, and rumbled at the skies, according to John Lever, who is the owner of the Koorana Crocodile Farm. And by the time the helicopters left, they'd already started making some serious orgiastic baby-making. Lever told ABC: "All of the big males got up and roared and bellowed up at the sky, and then after the helicopters left they mated like mad." Also read: Amphibians are vanishing at an alarming rate, scientists warn Notably, saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) mate annually and time their mating to coincide with the ideal time to lay eggs in a burrow or nest. Thunderstorm seasons are not ideal as the hatchlings may drown in flood waters following severe rains and storms. Hence, they wait for the thunderstorm season to pass for the mating, when the offspring are more likely to hatch. Also, with the warm and wet weather, October is a great time in Northern Australia. Therefore, some experts believe that the crocodiles misunderstood the noise and vibrations caused by the helicopter rotors and thought it's thunderstorm season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Did a Chinook helicopter send crocodiles into mating frenzy on Australian farm?

Disaster relief work is under way after heavy rains battered the tourist town of Queenstown in New Zealand. The local government was forced to declare a state of emergency due to heavy flooding.

New Zealand's Queenstown hit by heavy rains

Australia's Queensland suspended its Human Rights Act for the second time this year and worryingly the step has been reportedly taken as the juvenile centres are at their full capacity.

Australia: Queensland suspends Human Rights Act second time this year as centres at full capacity

In Australia's Queensland, Sikh students may soon once again be able to wear a Kirpan — a religious article — on campus. As per media reports, a court in the state on Thursday (August 3rd) overturned a law that had banned the religious symbol in schools.

<h2>Discrimination or not</h2>

In Australia, the Weapons Act bans individuals from carrying knives in public places, including school, unless they have a reasonable excuse.

Kamaljit Kaur Athwal, a Sikh woman, took the state government to court last year over the ban, which also included the knife-like 'Kirpan'. She claimed that the ban was discriminatory.

As per an Australian Broadcasting Corporation report, the Queensland Supreme Court ruled that "the ban is unconstitutional under the Racial Discrimination Act (RDA)."

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While the initial court ruling had dismissed the claim that the law was discriminatory, the Thursday ruling found that "Carrying a kirpan as a symbol of a religious commitment would, at least ordinarily, constitute a use of the knife for a lawful purpose—namely, religious observance."

"To say that both Sikhs and non-Sikhs cannot practise their religion while wearing a knife ignores the fact that carrying a knife is only a feature of the religious observance of Sikhs."

As per news agency PTI, Bill Potts, of Potts Lawyers Queensland, said that the original legislation meant Sikhs "were not able to go to school, not able to go to effectively carry out their religion".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ocean-temperatures-set-new-record-scientists-warn-were-in-hot-soup-622413">Ocean temperatures set new record, scientists warn we are in hot soup</a>

The overturning of the law gives freedom back to those practising the faith and is a "great step forward,"&nbsp;said Potts, adding, "This just simply means that they have the same freedoms that everybody else has and are not discriminated against by the state legislation."

<h2>What is a Kirpan?</h2>

A Kirpan is one of the five religious symbols that a practising Sikh is supposed to carry on their person at all times, as part of their faith. The other four religious symbols are Kes (hair), Karha (a steel wristband), Kangha (a wooden comb worn in a hair knot), Kaccherha (shorts or underwear).

Kirpan, the religious symbol which resembles a knife or a short sword, is part of the Sikh religious uniform and is prescribed by the religion's code of conduct. It is typically worn, sheathed and concealed beneath one's clothes.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Australia's Queensland, Sikh students may soon once again be able to wear a Kirpan — a religious article — on campus. As per media reports, a court in the state on Thursday (August 3rd) overturned a law that had banned the religious symbol in schools.

In Australia's Queensland, Sikh students may soon once again be able to wear a Kirpan — a religious article — on campus. As per media reports, a court in the state on Thursday (August 3rd) overturned a law that had banned the religious symbol in schools. Discrimination or not In Australia, the Weapons Act bans individuals from carrying knives in public places, including school, unless they have a reasonable excuse. Kamaljit Kaur Athwal, a Sikh woman, took the state government to court last year over the ban, which also included the knife-like 'Kirpan'. She claimed that the ban was discriminatory. As per an Australian Broadcasting Corporation report, the Queensland Supreme Court ruled that "the ban is unconstitutional under the Racial Discrimination Act (RDA)." Also read | Greta Thunberg to skip Edinburgh International Book Festival over 'greenwashing' concerns While the initial court ruling had dismissed the claim that the law was discriminatory, the Thursday ruling found that "Carrying a kirpan as a symbol of a religious commitment would, at least ordinarily, constitute a use of the knife for a lawful purpose—namely, religious observance." "To say that both Sikhs and non-Sikhs cannot practise their religion while wearing a knife ignores the fact that carrying a knife is only a feature of the religious observance of Sikhs." As per news agency PTI, Bill Potts, of Potts Lawyers Queensland, said that the original legislation meant Sikhs "were not able to go to school, not able to go to effectively carry out their religion". Also read | Ocean temperatures set new record, scientists warn we are in hot soup The overturning of the law gives freedom back to those practising the faith and is a "great step forward," said Potts, adding, "This just simply means that they have the same freedoms that everybody else has and are not discriminated against by the state legislation." What is a Kirpan? A Kirpan is one of the five religious symbols that a practising Sikh is supposed to carry on their person at all times, as part of their faith. The other four religious symbols are Kes (hair), Karha (a steel wristband), Kangha (a wooden comb worn in a hair knot), Kaccherha (shorts or underwear). Kirpan, the religious symbol which resembles a knife or a short sword, is part of the Sikh religious uniform and is prescribed by the religion's code of conduct. It is typically worn, sheathed and concealed beneath one's clothes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia: Queensland Supreme Court overturns ban on carrying Sikh religious symbol 'Kirpan' in schools

The state of Queensland witnessed a second crocodile get murdered. The killer calls himself an "apex predator". Investigations are still going on. Who is this proud killer? Why is he killing crocodiles? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Serial killer severs a crocodile's head

The world’s largest sand island, which has been known as Fraser Island for centuries, is finally getting rid of its colonial title. The name of the island, situated off Queensland’s coast in Australia, has now been restored to its old indigenous name -- K'gari. &nbsp;The name was restored in a governmental ceremony held by the Queensland administration in the presence of hundreds of traditional owners hailing from the local Butchulla community.

<h2>Significance of the new name</h2>

The name K'gari, pronounced gurri, holds deep meaning in the local Butchulla language as it translates to paradise. Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to K'gari to witness its breathtaking beauty, including its Dingo population and half of the world's freshwater dune lakes.

<img alt="Fraser Island - Wikipedia" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fc/Fraser_island_locator_map2.jpg/400px-Fraser_island_locator_map2.jpg" />

The restoration of the island's Indigenous name is the result of a decades-long campaign by the Butchulla people. In 2017, a partial victory was achieved when the island's Great Sandy national park was renamed K'gari. However, the recent decision goes a step further by entirely dropping the name Fraser Island.

<h2>Why&nbsp;was it previously named Fraser?</h2>

The name Fraser Island became culturally inappropriate due to its association with Eliza Fraser, a Scotswoman who was shipwrecked on the island in the 1830s. Fraser wrote a debunked negative tale of her "captivity" by the Butchulla people, referring to them as "savages" and "cannibals." Despite being contradicted by fellow survivors, these lies spread throughout the English colony, tarnishing the reputation of the Butchulla people.

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For the Butchulla people, this renaming corrects a historic wrong. K'gari, which represents their home, was unjustly taken away.&nbsp;But now that K'gari has reclaimed&nbsp;its name,&nbsp;the oral history and the creation story of the Butchulla people will be shared and learned as it should be.

<h2>Queensland's premier expresses pride</h2>

Queensland's premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, expressed pride in officially welcoming K'gari back and honouring the name used by the traditional owners for centuries. “While steps like these can’t change the wrongs of the past, it goes a long way to building a future where all Queenslanders value, trust and respect each other,” she said.

“This always was and always will be Butchulla Country,” she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-arrested-in-india-in-2018-queensland-murder-extradited-to-australia-567080">Also read:&nbsp;Man arrested in India in 2018 Queensland murder extradited to Australia</a>

Queensland’s minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander partnerships, Leeanne Enoch, said: “As Queensland continues on its Path to Treaty, the lands, placenames and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples will form a much greater part of our shared experience.”

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The world’s largest sand island, which has been known as Fraser Island for centuries, is finally getting rid of its colonial title. The name of the island, situated off Queensland’s coast in Australia, has now been restored to its old indigenous name -- K'gari.

The world’s largest sand island, which has been known as Fraser Island for centuries, is finally getting rid of its colonial title. The name of the island, situated off Queensland’s coast in Australia, has now been restored to its old indigenous name -- K'gari. The name was restored in a governmental ceremony held by the Queensland administration in the presence of hundreds of traditional owners hailing from the local Butchulla community. Significance of the new name The name K'gari, pronounced gurri, holds deep meaning in the local Butchulla language as it translates to paradise. Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to K'gari to witness its breathtaking beauty, including its Dingo population and half of the world's freshwater dune lakes. The restoration of the island's Indigenous name is the result of a decades-long campaign by the Butchulla people. In 2017, a partial victory was achieved when the island's Great Sandy national park was renamed K'gari. However, the recent decision goes a step further by entirely dropping the name Fraser Island. Why was it previously named Fraser? The name Fraser Island became culturally inappropriate due to its association with Eliza Fraser, a Scotswoman who was shipwrecked on the island in the 1830s. Fraser wrote a debunked negative tale of her "captivity" by the Butchulla people, referring to them as "savages" and "cannibals." Despite being contradicted by fellow survivors, these lies spread throughout the English colony, tarnishing the reputation of the Butchulla people. Watch: Australia: Queensland cafe for Dementia patients aims to improve community engagement × For the Butchulla people, this renaming corrects a historic wrong. K'gari, which represents their home, was unjustly taken away. But now that K'gari has reclaimed its name, the oral history and the creation story of the Butchulla people will be shared and learned as it should be. Queensland's premier expresses pride Queensland's premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, expressed pride in officially welcoming K'gari back and honouring the name used by the traditional owners for centuries. “While steps like these can’t change the wrongs of the past, it goes a long way to building a future where all Queenslanders value, trust and respect each other,” she said. “This always was and always will be Butchulla Country,” she added. Also read: Man arrested in India in 2018 Queensland murder extradited to Australia Queensland’s minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander partnerships, Leeanne Enoch, said: “As Queensland continues on its Path to Treaty, the lands, placenames and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples will form a much greater part of our shared experience.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Fraser Island: World's largest sand island in Australia finally washes off its colonial name

A former Queensland teacher missing for over three weeks is thought to have been dumped in a bin outside her home. The authorities are now looking to comb through 3,000 tonnes of garbage at the Swanbank Renewable Energy and Waste Management Facility, west of Brisbane, to look for the body of 78-year-old Lesley Trotter.

A former Queensland teacher missing for over three weeks is thought to have been dumped in a bin outside her home. The authorities are now looking to comb through 3,000 tonnes of garbage at the Swanbank Renewable Energy and Waste Management Facility, west of Brisbane, to look for the body of 78-year-old Lesley Trotter. Multiple police units were collaborating with Australian Defence Force to sift through the garbage which will be exhumed from the ground. "There is sum of 3,000 tonne of general waste we have to sort through. The waste will be exhumed from the ground, tipped into lanes approximately 30 centimetres deep, and police and ADF personnel will sift through by hand and using rakes...in an attempted to find Ms Trotter's body," Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham informed the media. The search operation is expected to take some time as the crew will be able to search through 200 tonnes of garbage per day only. "We've been able to use certain technologies to pinpoint an area that we believe is most likely to yield Ms Trotter's body," added Massingham. WATCH | London's Met Police is racist, misogynistic and homophobic, says new report × Trotter goes missing Trotter was last seen by her family on March 27 as the police initially treated her disappearance as a missing persons case. However, the agencies later received a tip, informing them Trotter's body was dumped in a wheelie bin and taken out by the garbage trucks as part of a weekly collection. “Ongoing investigations can reveal that on the morning of Tuesday, the 28th of March this year, the body of a female we believe was Lesley Trotter was located in a general waste wheelie bin,” the police said in a statement at the time. “It was evident she was deceased. Due to the positioning of the body, we can’t rule out foul play. Later that morning that bin was collected by a rubbish truck.” ALSO READ | Australian man loses life in shark attack in New Caledonia The police have also questioned the neighbours for any leads but so far have got nothing. However, some reports state that Trotter often sorted through wheelie bins in front of her residence and neighbouring properties in order to remove recycling from general waste bins. The police have urged anyone who knew of Trotter's movement between March 27 and midday March 28 or her recycling habits to come forward and provide more information. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian authorities comb through garbage dump for missing teacher's body

An Australian opposition leader's claim that scientists are not considering the role of gravity in the heating of Earth received massive flak from scientists worldwide. Queensland senator Gerard Rennick said that it is "categorically false" for scientists to argue that Carbon dioxide traps heat in the same way that a greenhouse.&nbsp;

Rennick posted a video in which he can be heard saying that, "scientists ignore the fact that gravity plays a role in heating the earth… That’s why ‘Net Zero’ CO2 emissions won’t stop ‘Climate Change’."

In an article linked to his tweet, Rennick asserted that CO2 was not responsible for heating of the plant. Climate Change was "junk science", he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-advertisers-promoted-false-claims-about-climate-change-during-cop26-summit-430321">Facebook advertisers promoted false claims about climate change during COP26 summit</a>

Dr Chris Colose, a climate scientist at NASA, replied on Twitter that Rennick’s question "do gases trap convection", "doesn’t even make sense as a statement. Nor does it discount the importance of [greenhouse gases]."

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;New IPCC report on climate change

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Mann described Rennick’s statement as "gibberish" and a "stringing together of scientific terms reminiscent of monkeys typing on a typewriter".

When Rennick accused Mann of "cancelling gravity" while describing the greenhouse effect, Mann showed a mathematical explanation of how air temperatures change with rise in altitude.&nbsp;

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p.s. "canceling gravity"? Given your extensive background in atmospheric physics, surely you're aware of what "g" stands for in this derivation? 😆<a href="https://t.co/vsPEMxko13">https://t.co/vsPEMxko13</a>
— Prof Michael E. Mann (@MichaelEMann) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelEMann/status/1642641142767386627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Another expert, Associate Prof Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick, a climate scientist at the University of New South Wales Canberra, pointed to Rennick’s areas of expertise, which does not include climate science.

"He has got no expertise whatsoever. It’s a bit like me going and doing someone else’s taxes. I wouldn’t. There’s no point," she was quoted as saying by The Guardian.&nbsp;

The volume of greenhouse gases, causing the planet to heat up, has doubled between 2005 and 2019, according to a 2021 peer-reviewed study. Scientists also point to the "knowledge gap that exists currently in the world" over climate science, and have urged the authorities to take steps to rectify the same.&nbsp;

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An Australian opposition leader's claim that scientists are not considering the role of gravity in the heating of Earth received massive flak from scientists worldwide.

An Australian opposition leader's claim that scientists are not considering the role of gravity in the heating of Earth received massive flak from scientists worldwide. Queensland senator Gerard Rennick said that it is "categorically false" for scientists to argue that Carbon dioxide traps heat in the same way that a greenhouse. Rennick posted a video in which he can be heard saying that, "scientists ignore the fact that gravity plays a role in heating the earth… That’s why ‘Net Zero’ CO2 emissions won’t stop ‘Climate Change’." In an article linked to his tweet, Rennick asserted that CO2 was not responsible for heating of the plant. Climate Change was "junk science", he added. ALSO READ | Facebook advertisers promoted false claims about climate change during COP26 summit Dr Chris Colose, a climate scientist at NASA, replied on Twitter that Rennick’s question "do gases trap convection", "doesn’t even make sense as a statement. Nor does it discount the importance of [greenhouse gases]." ALSO WATCH | New IPCC report on climate change × Mann described Rennick’s statement as "gibberish" and a "stringing together of scientific terms reminiscent of monkeys typing on a typewriter". When Rennick accused Mann of "cancelling gravity" while describing the greenhouse effect, Mann showed a mathematical explanation of how air temperatures change with rise in altitude. p.s. "canceling gravity"? Given your extensive background in atmospheric physics, surely you're aware of what "g" stands for in this derivation? 😆https://t.co/vsPEMxko13 — Prof Michael E. Mann (@MichaelEMann) April 2, 2023 × Another expert, Associate Prof Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick, a climate scientist at the University of New South Wales Canberra, pointed to Rennick’s areas of expertise, which does not include climate science. "He has got no expertise whatsoever. It’s a bit like me going and doing someone else’s taxes. I wouldn’t. There’s no point," she was quoted as saying by The Guardian. The volume of greenhouse gases, causing the planet to heat up, has doubled between 2005 and 2019, according to a 2021 peer-reviewed study. Scientists also point to the "knowledge gap that exists currently in the world" over climate science, and have urged the authorities to take steps to rectify the same. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Lawmaker says gravity has role in climate change, faces scorn from scientists

Australia's Bureau of Meteorology predicted that a record-breaking flood in the country's Queensland state was forecast to peak on Sunday. Almost 100 residents of an outback town were moved to higher ground. The flood has been triggered by heavy rain over the past week. The remote town of Burketown has been the worst hit. It is about 2100 km northwest of state capital Brisbane.

Dan McKinlay, chief executive of the local council responsible for Burketown, said on Sunday that 97 residents had been airlifted out in the past 48 hours.

McKinlay told ABC radio that water levels in the area were "at heights not previous known" and that the town looked like it was "sitting in the middle of an ocean"

The Bureau of Meterology said that the current flood has already topped a March 2011 record of 6.78 metres.

The crisis comes after frequent flooding in Australia's east over the last two years due to a multi-year La Nina weather event, including once-in-a-century floods that hit remote areas in the neighbouring Northern Territory, in January.

On Saturday, police released aerial images of the Burketown flooding, showing properties and swaths of land submerged.

The Bureau of Meteorology expected the weather event to continue this week, but said it was now in a "receding" phase.

"Further showers and isolated thunderstorms are forecast for the remainder of Sunday, however widespread rainfall has generally eased in the area," the forecaster said, adding that the peak of the flood waters could extend into Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

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Australia's Bureau of Meteorology predicted that a record-breaking flood in the country's Queensland state was forecast to peak on Sunday. Almost 100 residents of an outback town were moved to higher ground.

Australia's Bureau of Meteorology predicted that a record-breaking flood in the country's Queensland state was forecast to peak on Sunday. Almost 100 residents of an outback town were moved to higher ground. The flood has been triggered by heavy rain over the past week. The remote town of Burketown has been the worst hit. It is about 2100 km northwest of state capital Brisbane. Dan McKinlay, chief executive of the local council responsible for Burketown, said on Sunday that 97 residents had been airlifted out in the past 48 hours. McKinlay told ABC radio that water levels in the area were "at heights not previous known" and that the town looked like it was "sitting in the middle of an ocean" The Bureau of Meterology said that the current flood has already topped a March 2011 record of 6.78 metres. The crisis comes after frequent flooding in Australia's east over the last two years due to a multi-year La Nina weather event, including once-in-a-century floods that hit remote areas in the neighbouring Northern Territory, in January. On Saturday, police released aerial images of the Burketown flooding, showing properties and swaths of land submerged. The Bureau of Meteorology expected the weather event to continue this week, but said it was now in a "receding" phase. "Further showers and isolated thunderstorms are forecast for the remainder of Sunday, however widespread rainfall has generally eased in the area," the forecaster said, adding that the peak of the flood waters could extend into Monday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Record-breaking Queensland flooding to peak, says forecaster

Residents in Australia's Queensland state were evacuated on Saturday (March 11) as record-breaking floods sparked by heavy rain lashing the region's northwest. The police said that 53 residents of the isolated Gulf of Carpentaria of Burketown had been evacuated since the floods earlier this week. Around 100 residents remained in Gulf Country town, with police urging a full evacuation on Saturday, as Australia's weather forecaster predicted river levels in the area to peak on Sunday, the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, the police shared visuals of the flooding in Burketown and urged all remaining residents to leave.&nbsp;"Police are strongly urging all remaining residents to leave the community of Burketown as soon as possible. This is particularly relevant to the elderly and people with young children," the police tweeted.

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Police have released vision of flooding in Burketown today. 
 
All remaining residents are being urged to leave. 
 
For up-to-date information, visit: <a href="https://t.co/5XobASxKXh">https://t.co/5XobASxKXh</a> <a href="https://t.co/nEsSQ0s766">pic.twitter.com/nEsSQ0s766</a>
— Queensland Police (@QldPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/QldPolice/status/1634406513442975744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Burke Shire Council, meanwhile, issued a final alert on Saturday urging the residents to evacuate. "Waters are continuing to rise in the Burketown Community and surrounding shire. At the moment, the water movements are unpredictable and are rising at a rapid rate. The safety of our community members is paramount and we strongly encourage residents to leave," the council said.&nbsp;

It also warned residents that sewer and power services are expected to be cut from Saturday night, according to a report by news.com.au.&nbsp;

Australia has been lashed by heavy rain in the last two years, driven by back-to-back La Nina climate cycles over the Pacific. However, the country's meteorology bureau has predicted drier and warmer weather in the months ahead as La Nina nears its end. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Residents in Australia's Queensland state were evacuated on Saturday (March 11) as record-breaking floods sparked by heavy rain lashing the region's northwest. The police said that 53 residents of the isolated Gulf of Carpentaria of Burketown had been evacuated since the floods earlier this week.

Residents in Australia's Queensland state were evacuated on Saturday (March 11) as record-breaking floods sparked by heavy rain lashing the region's northwest. The police said that 53 residents of the isolated Gulf of Carpentaria of Burketown had been evacuated since the floods earlier this week. Around 100 residents remained in Gulf Country town, with police urging a full evacuation on Saturday, as Australia's weather forecaster predicted river levels in the area to peak on Sunday, the news agency Reuters reported. Taking to Twitter, the police shared visuals of the flooding in Burketown and urged all remaining residents to leave. "Police are strongly urging all remaining residents to leave the community of Burketown as soon as possible. This is particularly relevant to the elderly and people with young children," the police tweeted. Police have released vision of flooding in Burketown today. All remaining residents are being urged to leave. For up-to-date information, visit: https://t.co/5XobASxKXh pic.twitter.com/nEsSQ0s766 — Queensland Police (@QldPolice) March 11, 2023 × The Burke Shire Council, meanwhile, issued a final alert on Saturday urging the residents to evacuate. "Waters are continuing to rise in the Burketown Community and surrounding shire. At the moment, the water movements are unpredictable and are rising at a rapid rate. The safety of our community members is paramount and we strongly encourage residents to leave," the council said. It also warned residents that sewer and power services are expected to be cut from Saturday night, according to a report by news.com.au. Australia has been lashed by heavy rain in the last two years, driven by back-to-back La Nina climate cycles over the Pacific. However, the country's meteorology bureau has predicted drier and warmer weather in the months ahead as La Nina nears its end. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia: Govt evacuates residents of Queensland amid record-breaking floods in region

Fifty-three residents of the isolated Gulf Country town of Burketown, about 2,115km northwest of state capital Brisbane, had been evacuated since heavy rain triggered floods earlier this week, police said Saturday.

Heavy rain in Australia triggers flood evacuations in Queensland

Tropical cyclone Gabrielle has formed off the Queensland coast. The storm is currently enhancing and moving towards the Australian outpost.&nbsp;Around 2,200 people living on Norfolk Island have been warned as they are battling the tropical cyclone.

<h2>What is Cyclone Gabrielle?</h2>

Cyclone Gabrielle is a category-one storm about 730 kilometres northwest of Mackay. On Wednesday,&nbsp;February 8, the storm started to form with sustained winds of more than 95 kilometres per hour.&nbsp;

The Meteorological Department predicted Cyclone Gabrielle might soon transform into a category-three cyclone. Forecasts say Cyclone Gabrielle would pack winds between 165-224 kilometres per hour on Thursday.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the Meteorological Department expects the storm to pass or potentially make landfall on Norfolk Island, located 1440 kilometres east, on Saturday or Sunday morning. The Bureau of Meteorology predicts that Cyclone Gabrielle will remain offshore. However, it could bring gigantic waves and heavy winds to the coastal areas of Queensland and northern NSW from Thursday, February 9.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/australia-and-new-zealand/australian-football-legend-barry-cable-sued-over-historical-child-sexual-abuse-claims-559639">Australian Football legend Barry Cable sued over historical child sexual abuse claims</a>

The bureau has also issued a warning to the islanders. It predicted that Cyclone Gabrielle might bring an extended period of gale-force winds. Moreover, heavy rainfall and damaging surf are possible. However, it depends on the movement and intensity of Cyclone Gabrielle.&nbsp;

The local emergency controller informed that the authorities have issued a green alert for islanders to start preparations to grapple with Cyclone Gabrielle in the next 72 hours.&nbsp;

<h2>What does 'Gabrielle' stand for?</h2>

Meteorologists have used Gabrielle in nine other storms. Six occurred in the Atlantic Ocean, two in Australian regions, and one in the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;

The first time meteorologists used Gabrielle was in 1989, when a hurricane hit the east coast of the United States and killed eight. Hurricane Gabrielle was a category-four cyclone. Most of the other Gabrielle cyclones have been tropical storms.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Tropical cyclone Gabrielle has formed off the Queensland coast. The storm is currently enhancing and moving towards the Australian outpost. Around 2,200 people living on Norfolk Island have been warned as they are battling the tropical cyclone.

Tropical cyclone Gabrielle has formed off the Queensland coast. The storm is currently enhancing and moving towards the Australian outpost. Around 2,200 people living on Norfolk Island have been warned as they are battling the tropical cyclone. What is Cyclone Gabrielle? Cyclone Gabrielle is a category-one storm about 730 kilometres northwest of Mackay. On Wednesday, February 8, the storm started to form with sustained winds of more than 95 kilometres per hour. The Meteorological Department predicted Cyclone Gabrielle might soon transform into a category-three cyclone. Forecasts say Cyclone Gabrielle would pack winds between 165-224 kilometres per hour on Thursday. Furthermore, the Meteorological Department expects the storm to pass or potentially make landfall on Norfolk Island, located 1440 kilometres east, on Saturday or Sunday morning. The Bureau of Meteorology predicts that Cyclone Gabrielle will remain offshore. However, it could bring gigantic waves and heavy winds to the coastal areas of Queensland and northern NSW from Thursday, February 9. ALSO READ | Australian Football legend Barry Cable sued over historical child sexual abuse claims The bureau has also issued a warning to the islanders. It predicted that Cyclone Gabrielle might bring an extended period of gale-force winds. Moreover, heavy rainfall and damaging surf are possible. However, it depends on the movement and intensity of Cyclone Gabrielle. The local emergency controller informed that the authorities have issued a green alert for islanders to start preparations to grapple with Cyclone Gabrielle in the next 72 hours. What does 'Gabrielle' stand for? Meteorologists have used Gabrielle in nine other storms. Six occurred in the Atlantic Ocean, two in Australian regions, and one in the Indian Ocean. The first time meteorologists used Gabrielle was in 1989, when a hurricane hit the east coast of the United States and killed eight. Hurricane Gabrielle was a category-four cyclone. Most of the other Gabrielle cyclones have been tropical storms. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Cyclone Gabrielle forms off Queensland coast, Norfolk island residents warned: Check full details here

Living next to the ocean is a dream for many. That is one of the reasons so many move to the state of Queensland which boasts Australia's second longest coastline. Climate change and the potential rising sea levels are pushing local coastal communities to come up with ways to protect their beachfront houses.

WION Climate Tracker: Climate crisis threatens Australia's Queensland

Six people were killed, including two police officers, at a remote property in Australia's Queensland state, authorities said on Tuesday. The police had visited the place to investigate reports of a missing person. The police said that three people, including a woman, were shot dead after specialist officers and air support responded to a siege situation at the property.&nbsp;A member of the public was also killed in the incident.

Queensland police commissioner Katarina Carroll told reporters that the offenders responsible for the incident are still at large and requested the local residents to stay indoors “until further notice”. “We are an organisation in mourning tonight,” Carroll said according to The Guardian. &nbsp;

The incident took place when the police officers were called to a property at Wains Road in the Western Downs region in connection to a missing person case involving a man from New South Wales. The area is around 270 km away from Brisbane and Carroll said that four officers travelled to the scene. &nbsp;

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While two police officers were killed on the spot, the third officer suffered a bullet wound that grazed past him. ABC News reported that he is currently receiving treatment in a hospital.&nbsp;

“While we are yet to learn the full extent of what has occurred today, we do know this event is extraordinarily distressing on many levels,” Carroll said in the media briefing. “Those officers paid the ultimate sacrifice to keep our community safe. It is, sadly, a reminder of the unpredictable nature of policing and the incredible dangers our officers face while protecting our community.” &nbsp;

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The Western Downs regional council mayor, Paul McVeigh, also informed the media that the officers who responded to the call belonged to the towns of Tara and Chinchilla. &nbsp;

“It’s an absolute tragedy in our community,” McVeigh told Guardian Australia. &nbsp;

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Six people were killed, including two police officers, at a remote property in Australia's Queensland state, authorities said on Tuesday. The police had visited the place to investigate reports of a missing person.

Six people were killed, including two police officers, at a remote property in Australia's Queensland state, authorities said on Tuesday. The police had visited the place to investigate reports of a missing person. The police said that three people, including a woman, were shot dead after specialist officers and air support responded to a siege situation at the property. A member of the public was also killed in the incident. Queensland police commissioner Katarina Carroll told reporters that the offenders responsible for the incident are still at large and requested the local residents to stay indoors “until further notice”. “We are an organisation in mourning tonight,” Carroll said according to The Guardian. The incident took place when the police officers were called to a property at Wains Road in the Western Downs region in connection to a missing person case involving a man from New South Wales. The area is around 270 km away from Brisbane and Carroll said that four officers travelled to the scene. Also read | Indian soldiers clash with Chinese Army in Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang sector While two police officers were killed on the spot, the third officer suffered a bullet wound that grazed past him. ABC News reported that he is currently receiving treatment in a hospital. “While we are yet to learn the full extent of what has occurred today, we do know this event is extraordinarily distressing on many levels,” Carroll said in the media briefing. “Those officers paid the ultimate sacrifice to keep our community safe. It is, sadly, a reminder of the unpredictable nature of policing and the incredible dangers our officers face while protecting our community.” Also read | EU calls corruption charges 'very worrisome' as Greece freezes Kaili's assets The Western Downs regional council mayor, Paul McVeigh, also informed the media that the officers who responded to the call belonged to the towns of Tara and Chinchilla. “It’s an absolute tragedy in our community,” McVeigh told Guardian Australia.

Six people, including two police officers, killed in gunfight in rural Australia

A long, arduous four-year legal battle has come to an end for the Nadesalingam family in Australia. Reportedly, the family has been granted permanent residency, ending a community-wide campaign that protested against their deportation. Andrew Giles, the&nbsp;federal immigration minister became their guardian angel by intervening and ensuring that the family received their visas.&nbsp;

"This government made a commitment before the election that, if elected, we would allow the family to return to Biloela and resolve the family's immigration status," said Giles.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Priya Nadaraja, elated at the decision remarked, "Now I know my daughters will get to grow up safely in Australia. Now my husband and I can live without fear."

The Genesis

Priya Nadaraja, Nades Murugappan and their daughters&nbsp;Kopika and Tharnicaa had been living in an&nbsp;immigration detention centre after Priya's visa expired, back in 2018. The couple's request for being included in the mainstream with the 'refugee' status was turned down by the government, repeatedly.&nbsp;

It is pertinent to note that Priya and her husband arrived in the down under country after fleeing Sri Lanka on refugee boats. This was nearly a decade ago. The couple soon met each other, got married and had two kids.

But soon trouble came their way as the Australian government detained them, citing they did not have any legal rights to stay in Australia. First transferred to an immigration detention centre in Melbourne, the family was later shifted to a detention centre on Christmas Island, where they spent the majority of the last two years, fighting courtroom immigration battles.&nbsp;

However, after the government&nbsp;changed and labour Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his administration came to power, good news came for the&nbsp;Nadesalingam family.

In June, the family was granted a bridging visa and allowed in Biloela, a town in Queensland, from where they were detained four years back by the border force agents in a 5 AM raid.&nbsp;

Illegal immigrants will be turned away:&nbsp;Andrew Giles

The Nadesalingam family has now become the face of fighting Australia's tough asylum-seeking policies. However,&nbsp;Giles made it clear it might have been a one-off case as&nbsp;those entering Australia illegally through unauthorised vessels will be turned away.&nbsp;

"For anyone who attempts to migrate via an unauthorised boat to Australia – you will be caught, returned or sent to a regional processing country.&nbsp;"This has not changed since the last government. We are not considering changing this policy." said Giles.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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A long, arduous four-year legal battle has come to an end for the Nadesalingam family in Australia. Reportedly, the family has been granted permanent residency, ending a community-wide campaign that protested against their deportation.

A long, arduous four-year legal battle has come to an end for the Nadesalingam family in Australia. Reportedly, the family has been granted permanent residency, ending a community-wide campaign that protested against their deportation. Andrew Giles, the federal immigration minister became their guardian angel by intervening and ensuring that the family received their visas. "This government made a commitment before the election that, if elected, we would allow the family to return to Biloela and resolve the family's immigration status," said Giles. Meanwhile, Priya Nadaraja, elated at the decision remarked, "Now I know my daughters will get to grow up safely in Australia. Now my husband and I can live without fear." The Genesis Priya Nadaraja, Nades Murugappan and their daughters Kopika and Tharnicaa had been living in an immigration detention centre after Priya's visa expired, back in 2018. The couple's request for being included in the mainstream with the 'refugee' status was turned down by the government, repeatedly. It is pertinent to note that Priya and her husband arrived in the down under country after fleeing Sri Lanka on refugee boats. This was nearly a decade ago. The couple soon met each other, got married and had two kids. But soon trouble came their way as the Australian government detained them, citing they did not have any legal rights to stay in Australia. First transferred to an immigration detention centre in Melbourne, the family was later shifted to a detention centre on Christmas Island, where they spent the majority of the last two years, fighting courtroom immigration battles. However, after the government changed and labour Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his administration came to power, good news came for the Nadesalingam family. In June, the family was granted a bridging visa and allowed in Biloela, a town in Queensland, from where they were detained four years back by the border force agents in a 5 AM raid. Illegal immigrants will be turned away: Andrew Giles The Nadesalingam family has now become the face of fighting Australia's tough asylum-seeking policies. However, Giles made it clear it might have been a one-off case as those entering Australia illegally through unauthorised vessels will be turned away. "For anyone who attempts to migrate via an unauthorised boat to Australia – you will be caught, returned or sent to a regional processing country. "This has not changed since the last government. We are not considering changing this policy." said Giles. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Tamil asylum seeker family allowed to stay in Australia after a lengthy legal battle

Parts of Australia's Queensland have been hit by heavy rainfall which triggered flash floods. Queensland is bracing for more rainfall.

Australia: Heavy rains trigger flash floods in Queensland

A severe storm system pummelled&nbsp;Australia's&nbsp;northeastern city of Brisbane on Sunday, causing evacuations, power outages and school closures as the death toll climbed to&nbsp;seven&nbsp;from accompanying flash&nbsp;floods.

More than 1,400 homes in the capital of Queensland state were at risk of flooding while more than 28,000 homes were without power statewide, as pristine beaches on the Gold and Sunshine coasts, which are key tourist attractions, all closed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-rains-floods-hit-eastern-australia-456814">Deadly rains, floods hit eastern Australia</a>

"We never expected this rain," state premier Annastacia Palaszczuk told a briefing. "This rain bomb is just really, you know, it's unrelenting ... It's just coming down in buckets."

More than 100 schools across the southeast of a state famed for abundant sunshine will be closed on Monday. State rescue services said they received 100 requests an hour for help in recent days.

Among the six killed in the flooding were a 34-year-old man who tried to swim to safety after the waters submerged his car and another whose vehicle was swept away in the most populous state of New South Wales (NSW).

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About 700 people were asked to evacuate from the city of Gympie on Saturday after the Mary River system surged beyond 22.06 m (72.4 ft) for the town's worst flood since the 1880s.

Meteorologists said the deluge and thunderstorms would continue through Monday, before starting to ease off in Queensland, but moving south to New South Wales, where some communities at risk in its&nbsp;northeast&nbsp;have been told to evacuate.

The risk of riverine and flash flooding was "very real over coming days," said Steph Cooke, the state's emergency services minister.

A severe storm system pummelled Australia's northeastern city of Brisbane on Sunday, causing evacuations, power outages and school closures as the death toll climbed to seven from accompanying flash floods.

A severe storm system pummelled Australia's northeastern city of Brisbane on Sunday, causing evacuations, power outages and school closures as the death toll climbed to seven from accompanying flash floods. More than 1,400 homes in the capital of Queensland state were at risk of flooding while more than 28,000 homes were without power statewide, as pristine beaches on the Gold and Sunshine coasts, which are key tourist attractions, all closed. Also read | Deadly rains, floods hit eastern Australia "We never expected this rain," state premier Annastacia Palaszczuk told a briefing. "This rain bomb is just really, you know, it's unrelenting ... It's just coming down in buckets." More than 100 schools across the southeast of a state famed for abundant sunshine will be closed on Monday. State rescue services said they received 100 requests an hour for help in recent days. Among the six killed in the flooding were a 34-year-old man who tried to swim to safety after the waters submerged his car and another whose vehicle was swept away in the most populous state of New South Wales (NSW). Also read | France removes Australia as 'strategic partner' in a new Indo-Pacific strategy About 700 people were asked to evacuate from the city of Gympie on Saturday after the Mary River system surged beyond 22.06 m (72.4 ft) for the town's worst flood since the 1880s. Meteorologists said the deluge and thunderstorms would continue through Monday, before starting to ease off in Queensland, but moving south to New South Wales, where some communities at risk in its northeast have been told to evacuate. The risk of riverine and flash flooding was "very real over coming days," said Steph Cooke, the state's emergency services minister.

'Rain bomb' hits Australia's northeast, killing seven in floods

Torrential downpours lashed&nbsp;eastern&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;on Saturday, raising&nbsp;deadly&nbsp;floodwaters to decades-long highs, swamping homes and sweeping away cars.

Police in the&nbsp;eastern&nbsp;state of Queensland said they had found the body of a 37-year-old man, raising the flooding death toll to five people since early this week. At least one person is still missing.

Images of southeast Queensland broadcast on Australian media showed&nbsp;homes and roads flooded, areas of land transformed into lakes and a large chunk of a concrete pier floating down the fast-running Brisbane River.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-removes-australia-as-strategic-partner-in-a-new-indo-pacific-strategy-455604">France removes Australia as 'strategic partner' in a new Indo-Pacific strategy</a>

The water snatched the car of a team of four emergency services workers who were heading to rescue a family from their flooded home overnight, said state police disaster coordinator Steve Gollschewski.

"The vehicle in which they were travelling was swept off the road into floodwaters. Three of our members were rescued. One of those members is deceased," Gollschewski told a news conference.

Elsewhere, another man's body was found overnight.&nbsp;

"In some parts of southeast Queensland, this is the biggest event that they will see in a number of decades," said state police and emergency services minister Mark Ryan.

"And the rain has not stopped -- in fact, there are some parts where it is intensifying."

The Queensland town of Gympie was facing a "hell of a lot of water" as the Mary River rose, Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig was quoted as saying by national broadcaster ABC.

In the town's Royal Hotel, "without a submarine or a snorkel, you will not be having a beer," Hartwig said.&nbsp;

"It's floor-to-ceiling and over the roof in some areas."

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Dangerous

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the Mary River could rise above 21 metres (69 feet) at Gympie. It may exceed levels last seen there in February 1999, the bureau of meteorology said.

As a precaution, Queensland would be issuing evacuation alerts, notably targeting about 700 residents in the Gympie area, the premier said.

"If we don't do this now people will become isolated and trapped," she warned.

The premier said her "heart goes out" to the volunteer emergency services worker, 62-year-old Merryl Dray, who died "trying to save her community".

Emergency services had responded to more than 1,800 calls for help in 24 hours in southeast Queensland, officials said.&nbsp;

Rainfall in some areas of the state had exceeded records going back decades, said senior Queensland meteorologist David Grant.

He predicted further rain on Sunday as the weather system moved away more slowly than had been anticipated.

"There is now going to be an increased risk of dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding, and even the potential for localised landslides," he told a news conference.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Has China infiltrated the Australian parliament?

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Heavy rain also&nbsp;hit&nbsp;the state capital Brisbane.

"Essentially we've seen a month's worth of rainfall fall in one day for just Brisbane alone," Grant said.

Rescuers undertook 132 rescues in swift water conditions in 24 hours, said Greg Leach, Queensland's commissioner for fire and emergency services.

"Our catchments are completely saturated. Our rivers are rising. We have flash flooding. Now is not the time to be out in southeast Queensland if you don't have to be," Leach said.

Torrential downpours lashed eastern Australia on Saturday, raising deadly floodwaters to decades-long highs, swamping homes and sweeping away cars. Police in the eastern state of Queensland said they had found the body of a 37-year-old man, raising the flooding death toll to five people since early this week.

Torrential downpours lashed eastern Australia on Saturday, raising deadly floodwaters to decades-long highs, swamping homes and sweeping away cars. Police in the eastern state of Queensland said they had found the body of a 37-year-old man, raising the flooding death toll to five people since early this week. At least one person is still missing. Images of southeast Queensland broadcast on Australian media showed homes and roads flooded, areas of land transformed into lakes and a large chunk of a concrete pier floating down the fast-running Brisbane River. Also read | France removes Australia as 'strategic partner' in a new Indo-Pacific strategy The water snatched the car of a team of four emergency services workers who were heading to rescue a family from their flooded home overnight, said state police disaster coordinator Steve Gollschewski. "The vehicle in which they were travelling was swept off the road into floodwaters. Three of our members were rescued. One of those members is deceased," Gollschewski told a news conference. Elsewhere, another man's body was found overnight. "In some parts of southeast Queensland, this is the biggest event that they will see in a number of decades," said state police and emergency services minister Mark Ryan. "And the rain has not stopped -- in fact, there are some parts where it is intensifying." The Queensland town of Gympie was facing a "hell of a lot of water" as the Mary River rose, Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig was quoted as saying by national broadcaster ABC. In the town's Royal Hotel, "without a submarine or a snorkel, you will not be having a beer," Hartwig said. "It's floor-to-ceiling and over the roof in some areas." Also read | After months of COVID-19 closure, Australia fully reopens borders to international visitors Dangerous Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the Mary River could rise above 21 metres (69 feet) at Gympie. It may exceed levels last seen there in February 1999, the bureau of meteorology said. As a precaution, Queensland would be issuing evacuation alerts, notably targeting about 700 residents in the Gympie area, the premier said. "If we don't do this now people will become isolated and trapped," she warned. The premier said her "heart goes out" to the volunteer emergency services worker, 62-year-old Merryl Dray, who died "trying to save her community". Emergency services had responded to more than 1,800 calls for help in 24 hours in southeast Queensland, officials said. Rainfall in some areas of the state had exceeded records going back decades, said senior Queensland meteorologist David Grant. He predicted further rain on Sunday as the weather system moved away more slowly than had been anticipated. "There is now going to be an increased risk of dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding, and even the potential for localised landslides," he told a news conference. Watch | Gravitas: Has China infiltrated the Australian parliament? Heavy rain also hit the state capital Brisbane. "Essentially we've seen a month's worth of rainfall fall in one day for just Brisbane alone," Grant said. Rescuers undertook 132 rescues in swift water conditions in 24 hours, said Greg Leach, Queensland's commissioner for fire and emergency services. "Our catchments are completely saturated. Our rivers are rising. We have flash flooding. Now is not the time to be out in southeast Queensland if you don't have to be," Leach said.

Deadly rains, floods hit eastern Australia

Heavy torrential rains have left streets of Queensland completely inundated. Parts of eastern Australia reported flash floods and set off a string of emergency warnings up and down the pacific coast.

Heavy rains have left streets of Queensland completely inundated, 1 dead, 10 missing

New South Wales Health Minister Brad Hazzard has blasted Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk for being ‘passive aggressive’ on COVID-19 testing.

According to Hazzard, ''It’s time that the PCR test for tourism testing was dropped, preferably today… rapid antigen tests make more sense for people who are crossing the border.''

“This is passive-aggressive stupidity from the Queensland Premier at her worst,” Hazzard said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-protests-people-march-against-vaccine-mandate-demand-removal-of-victorian-premier-daniel-andrews-432299">Also read |&nbsp;Australia protests: People march against vaccine mandate; demand removal of Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews</a>

“South Australia has seen the light and someone needs to switch on the lights in the Queensland Premier’s office,” he added.

"Although we are seeing increased case numbers... we are not seeing the impacts on our hospital system," said Annastacia Palaszczuk, premier of Queensland which reported 784 new cases with four people in hospital.

With reports of six-hour wait times for COVID testing for people hoping to meet requirements for interstate holiday travel, Palaszczuk defended the tourism-friendly state for mandatory testing, saying "everyone knew when they booked a ticket that if they wanted to come here they would have to do a PCR test".

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However, she added that Queensland was considering whether to relax testing requirements for domestic visitors. Tasmania, another tourist-popular state, also said it was considering changes to state border testing rules.

Omicron variant, which has been dubbed as the most transmissible variant of coronavirus, has been rapidly spreading through the island country.&nbsp;

It is also believed that the increase in cases happened as domestic travel restrictions were lifted and more people were able to return to the state. This, many believe, led to an increase in the number of Covid cases in New South Wales.

The man who became the first victim to be consumed by the Omicron variant was among the six Covid deaths reported in the country on the previous day. Out of these six, this man was the only one who was suffering from Omicron variant of the deadly coronavirus.

(With inputs from agencies)

New South Wales Health Minister Brad Hazzard has blasted Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk for being ‘passive aggressive’ on COVID-19 testing. According to Hazzard, ''It’s time that the PCR test for tourism testing was dropped, preferably today… rapid antigen tests make more sense for people who are crossing the border.

New South Wales Health Minister Brad Hazzard has blasted Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk for being ‘passive aggressive’ on COVID-19 testing. According to Hazzard, ''It’s time that the PCR test for tourism testing was dropped, preferably today… rapid antigen tests make more sense for people who are crossing the border.'' “This is passive-aggressive stupidity from the Queensland Premier at her worst,” Hazzard said. Also read | Australia protests: People march against vaccine mandate; demand removal of Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews “South Australia has seen the light and someone needs to switch on the lights in the Queensland Premier’s office,” he added. "Although we are seeing increased case numbers... we are not seeing the impacts on our hospital system," said Annastacia Palaszczuk, premier of Queensland which reported 784 new cases with four people in hospital. With reports of six-hour wait times for COVID testing for people hoping to meet requirements for interstate holiday travel, Palaszczuk defended the tourism-friendly state for mandatory testing, saying "everyone knew when they booked a ticket that if they wanted to come here they would have to do a PCR test". Also read | Australia recognises Covishield vaccine: Looks forward to welcome Indian students However, she added that Queensland was considering whether to relax testing requirements for domestic visitors. Tasmania, another tourist-popular state, also said it was considering changes to state border testing rules. Omicron variant, which has been dubbed as the most transmissible variant of coronavirus, has been rapidly spreading through the island country. It is also believed that the increase in cases happened as domestic travel restrictions were lifted and more people were able to return to the state. This, many believe, led to an increase in the number of Covid cases in New South Wales. The man who became the first victim to be consumed by the Omicron variant was among the six Covid deaths reported in the country on the previous day. Out of these six, this man was the only one who was suffering from Omicron variant of the deadly coronavirus. (With inputs from agencies)

NSW health minister slams Queensland premier for being ‘passive aggressive’ on COVID-19 testing

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