Cyclone Fina Intensifies to Category 3 as Darwin Braces for Impact

Cyclone Fina Intensifies to Category 3 as Darwin Braces for Impact

  November 23, 2025

Severe Tropical Cyclone Fina has intensified to a Category 3 system as it tracks toward the Northern Territory coast, bringing destructive winds, heavy rain, and widespread power outages across Darwin.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) confirmed that the storm could strengthen further, possibly reaching Category 4 intensity by midday on Sunday while still within Northern Territory waters. Fina is the first cyclone of this strength to form in Australian waters in November in more than 20 years, packing gusts of up to 205 km/h.

Darwin Airport and Businesses Closed as Cyclone Hits

Darwin’s airport, supermarkets, and many local businesses have been forced to close as Cyclone Fina barrels past the city. The storm is expected to be at its most dangerous around 9 p.m. Saturday, when the cyclone’s center will pass through the Van Diemen Gulf, bringing sustained winds of 150 km/h and gusts above 200 km/h.

Once it moves westward into the Joseph Bonaparte Gulf, meteorologists say Fina will likely intensify further as it continues toward the Kimberley coast.

“We expect it to reach severe Category 4 by this time tomorrow,” said BOM senior meteorologist Jonathan How.

Damage and Local Impacts Across Darwin

Residents across Darwin have already begun counting the cost of the cyclone. Near Fisherman’s Wharf, a massive palm tree was blown onto the roof of the National Storage building, crushing parts of the structure.

In Nightcliff, locals gathered to mourn the loss of the much-loved Resilience Tree -  a gum tree that had clung to its cliffside perch for years. “It’s sad to see it gone,” one resident said, “but the Nightcliff community’s resilience remains as strong as ever.”

Boats Washed Ashore at Dinah Beach

At Dinah Beach, stunned onlookers found a yacht stranded on the sand, with several smaller boats sunk in nearby mangroves. Locals Steven Chin and his son Archer stopped by to survey the damage.

“Just having a bit of a sticky-beak, doing what locals do,” Chin joked. “True Territorian valet parking, I suppose.”

Festive Decorations Toppled by Cyclone Winds

In the Darwin CBD, Cyclone Fina’s powerful gusts have ripped through decorations and signage, scattering debris across the streets and toppling several early Christmas displays. “And this,” one resident quipped, “is exactly why we wait until December to put up the tree.”

Community Urged to Stay Safe

Emergency services have warned residents to remain indoors until the all-clear is given, as conditions remain too dangerous for cleanup or travel. Power lines are down across parts of the city, and authorities are asking people to avoid flooded areas and fallen trees.

Darwin is expected to move into recovery mode in the coming days, once winds ease and BOM declares the region safe.

Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates from the Bureau of Meteorology and local emergency services throughout the weekend.

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South East Queensland on Alert as Severe Storms Loom

South East Queensland on Alert as Severe Storms Loom

  October 18, 2025

South East Queensland could be facing another dangerous bout of severe weather this weekend, with forecasters warning of large hail, damaging winds, and potential flash flooding across the region.

Queensland meteorologist Tony Auden says Saturday’s weather pattern carries “the right mix of ingredients” to trigger powerful thunderstorms, particularly across the Gold Coast hinterland, Brisbane, and the Sunshine Coast.

“Right Mix of Ingredients” Could Spark Dangerous Storms

“We could potentially have the right mix of ingredients to trigger some dangerous cells,” Auden said. “There’s decent wind shear in the upper atmosphere, but my main concern is a wind change.”

The wind change, expected during the afternoon, could act as the main trigger for storm formation. Thunderstorms are forecast to begin over the Gold Coast hinterland before tracking towards Brisbane later in the day, and reaching the Sunshine Coast by evening.

Remembering Brisbane’s ‘Gap Storm’

Auden compared the setup to the infamous “Gap Storm” of 2008 - one of Brisbane’s worst natural disasters - which brought winds up to 130km/h, destroyed dozens of homes, and left over 230,000 households without power.

“On some occasions, when timed just right, these wind changes bring a complex interaction with sea breezes and the surrounding environment to cause thunderstorms to become really nasty,” Auden explained. “Researchers are still trying to fully understand this.”

The 2008 event and the November 2014 Brisbane storm - which caused more than $1 billion in damages - were both driven by similar atmospheric patterns.

Residents Urged to Prepare

While the Bureau of Meteorology says severe outcomes are not guaranteed, residents are urged to prepare ahead of potential storm activity.

“It’s well worth tidying up the yard, planning to get the car undercover, and keeping an eye on warnings through the afternoon and evening,” Auden advised.

Key Tips for Residents

• Secure outdoor furniture and loose items
• Move vehicles under cover
• Monitor updates from the Bureau of Meteorology
• Avoid driving through flooded roads

Forecasters will continue to monitor the situation closely, as the entire South East Queensland region remains “potentially in the firing line” for severe storms this weekend.

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Australians Warned of Limited Cash Access as TWU Backs Major Cash-In-Transit Strike

Australians Warned of Limited Cash Access as TWU Backs Major Cash-In-Transit Strike

  October 18, 2025

Australians may face limited access to cash in coming days, as the Transport Workers Union (TWU) has endorsed industrial action by cash-in-transit workers in Victoria and Tasmania. The move could cause major disruptions at ATMs, banks and retail businesses.

Strike Threat and “Cash Stops” Warning

The TWU said the strike stems from “crisis-level” safety concerns and unsustainable operating models in the cash handling industry involving providers like Armaguard and Prosegur. The union warned that if the dispute isn’t resolved, cash deliveries will be rolled back significantly.

The proposed measures include:

• Stopping overtime and weekend work
• Potential escalation to full 24-hour work stoppages over several days

Sam Lynch, TWU’s Victorian and Tasmanian Director of Organising, put it simply: “Cash stops when the strikes come into effect.”

Why the Dispute Has Escalated

The TWU says negotiations fell apart after banks delayed promised funding to improve safety conditions in the cash-in-transit sector. The union alleges that contracting pressures from large clients, including the major banks, have squeezed margins and worker protections.

Michael Kaine, TWU National Secretary, said: “Strike action is always a last resort, but over 500 workers have made it clear they need all industry participants to step up for a fair deal.”

Potential Real-World Impacts

With fewer cash deliveries, the following are at risk of disruption:

• ATM replenishment schedules
• Retailers reliant on cash payments
• Bank branches handling cash operations

In short: if cash-in-transit workers halt operations, the physical flow of money slows, and many consumers and merchants may feel the effects.

Expansion Beyond Victoria & Tasmania

Although Victoria and Tasmania are already targeted, the TWU notes that cash-in-transit workers in New South Wales and Queensland have also voted in favor of industrial action. Plans are underway to coordinate broader escalation if necessary.

What You Can Do

Some steps to take now:

• Withdraw cash earlier than usual, if you rely on it
• Use digital payment options where possible
• Watch for announcements from banks and cash delivery firms
• Check with your local branch or ATM supplier about service status

The TWU is pushing for responsible action from all stakeholders - including banks and retailers - to safeguard fair wages, safety, and the viability of physical cash services in Australia’s economy.

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Anti-Immigration Protests Draw Thousands Across Australian Cities

Anti-Immigration Protests Draw Thousands Across Australian Cities

  August 31, 2025

 

Major cities across Australia saw large turnouts today as “March for Australia” rallies and counter-protests took place, with police estimating tens of thousands of participants nationwide. While most gatherings were peaceful, some incidents led to arrests in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney.

Anti-Immigration Protest Turns Violent in Melbourne

As nationwide “March for Australia” rallies unfolded today, Melbourne became a flashpoint for violent clashes, prompting police to use pepper spray and make at least one arrest in the CBD.

 

Melbourne Rally Erupts into Chaos

The protest began near Flinders Street Station and quickly escalated as anti-immigration demonstrators, including far-right figures, clashed with counter-protesters. Police deployed riot squads and mounted units to maintain control amid flying objects and tense standoffs. 

During the conflict, at least one person was arrested. The individual was detained as violence intensified in the downtown streets.

Authorities Readiness and Community Impact

Victoria Police issued warnings ahead of the event, designating the CBD as a ‘designated area’, granting officers increased powers such as searching attendees and preventing face coverings. 

National Response

Government officials struck back against the rallies. Premier Jacinta Allan famously condemned the protesters as “unhinged grubs,” while the Labor Government labelled the events far-right and divisive. 

The Federal Government and multicultural advocates reaffirmed support for diversity and inclusion, calling on all Australians to resist intolerance, and emphasised that this protest did not represent the broader community values.

Looking Ahead

While calm has somewhat returned to the CBD, the events in Melbourne underscore growing tensions around immigration and the influence of extremist groups. As authorities assess the damage and implications of the clashes, support for peaceful dialogue and community unity remains critical.

15,000 Rally in Adelaide

South Australian police reported that around 15,000 people took part in protests in Adelaide, including both the March for Australia rally and a counter-rally. Authorities described the crowds as “generally well-behaved” but confirmed three arrests - including one for assaulting police and two others for refusing to provide details while wearing disguises.

The Adelaide march began at Rundle Park, moved to Parliament House, and ended at Peace Park. Tensions flared briefly when a member of the National Socialist Network attempted to speak on stage, sparking a scuffle before police intervened. Organisers later clarified that the group was not invited to participate.

 

Brisbane Counter-Rallies

In Brisbane, protesters were met by counter-demonstrators at Roma Street Parklands. Supporters of multiculturalism waved flags and chanted in support of migrants as police maintained a heavy presence. Exchanges were heated, but the rallies remained largely under control.

Melbourne Confrontations

In Melbourne’s CBD, clashes broke out on Bourke Street, forcing mounted police to move in and disperse crowds. One arrest was confirmed after skirmishes between opposing groups. Shoppers and pedestrians were caught in the disruption as chanting echoed through the city streets.

 

Sydney Protest Remains Largely Peaceful

NSW Police deployed hundreds of officers across Sydney, including riot squads, mounted units, and even PolAir. While one woman was arrested in Hyde Park for breaching the peace, police described the day overall as free of “major incidents.” The Sydney Harbour Bridge and nearby routes were closely monitored throughout the afternoon.

Political Leaders React

South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said the rallies represented a “minority view,” stressing that multiculturalism is celebrated in South Australia. “97.6% of South Australians have immigrant heritage,” he said, “and the vast majority are proud of it.”

Opposition Leader Vincent Tarzia echoed calls for calm, noting that Australia had long been a “country of abundance for migrants” and urging protestors to avoid violence. 

Organisers Defend Motives

Adelaide rally organiser Mark Aldridge rejected claims that the movement is “anti-migration,” saying it was about addressing “mass immigration at a time when Australians are struggling”. He pointed to housing shortages and pressure on hospitals as reasons why immigration levels should be reduced until resources improve.

A Divided Debate

The protests highlight the deepening divide over immigration policy in Australia. While some argue that migration levels should be reduced due to housing and infrastructure strains, others stress that immigrants remain vital to Australia’s cultural and economic strength.

With tensions flaring but thousands participating peacefully, the rallies show that immigration remains one of the most contested issues in Australia’s national conversation.

Read next: Housing crisis and migration in Australia · Multiculturalism and social cohesion in Australian cities

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Records Shattered at Historic Sydney Marathon as 35,000 Runners Take Over the City

Records Shattered at Historic Sydney Marathon as 35,000 Runners Take Over the City

  August 31, 2025

The 2025 Sydney Marathon has made history, drawing more than 35,000 participants through the city’s most iconic landmarks - and setting new records on the way.

Hailemaryam Kiros Sets Australian Record

Ethiopian athlete Hailemaryam Kiros produced a stunning run, clocking 2:06:06, the fastest marathon ever recorded on Australian soil. He broke away from the lead pack late in the race, holding off fellow Ethiopian Addisu Gobena, while Tebello Ramakongoana of Lesotho finished third. The effort carved more than a minute off the previous record.

Australia’s own Haftu Strintzos was the fastest local competitor, crossing in 2:11:27 to place 14th overall.

Sifan Hassan Breaks Barriers in Women’s Race

In the women’s event, Dutch running star Sifan Hassan dominated in her Sydney debut, finishing in 2:18:20. Her time made her the first woman ever to run under 2 hours 20 minutes in an Australian marathon. Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei also dipped under that barrier to claim second place.

“It’s amazing, I’m so happy to win a course record. It feels like history,” Hassan said after the race, adding that she had pushed hard early on but managed to hold strong.

Three Australian women placed inside the top 10: Leanne Pompeani (2:25:27), Jessica Stenson (2:28:56), and Lisa Weightman (2:29:34).

A World Marathon Major Comes to Sydney

This year marked a milestone as the Sydney Marathon officially joined the Abbott World Marathon Majors, putting it alongside legendary races in Boston, New York, London, Chicago, Berlin, and Tokyo. The new status attracted elite fields and huge crowds of participants.

The 42.2-kilometre course began in North Sydney, wound its way across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and finished with a dramatic backdrop at the Sydney Opera House.

More Than Just Elite Racing

The marathon wasn’t just about the professionals - thousands of recreational runners and charity participants filled Sydney’s streets. The event began around 6:20am with the wheelchair race, followed by the elite runners just after 6:30am.

For many, running through Sydney’s most famous landmarks was as memorable as the finishing medal itself.

Video Source : 9news.com

Check the Full Results

To see the complete results and track individual runners, visit the official Sydney Marathon website.

Read more: Upcoming Australian running events in 2025 · Tips for training for your first marathon

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Melbourne to Open a Huge New Urban Park — the Size of 18 MCGs

Melbourne to Open a Huge New Urban Park — the Size of 18 MCGs

  August 31, 2025

Melbourne’s green map is expanding again. A new 35-hectare public park is set to open in the city’s east by mid-2026, transforming the Healesville Freeway Reserve into a major community oasis - roughly the size of 18 MCGs.

‘ngarrak nakorang wilam’ - Mountain Meeting Place

The park will be known as ngarrak nakorang wilam (Mountain Meeting Place), a name chosen by the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, honouring Traditional Owners’ connections to Country and the role of parks in bringing people together.

What’s Included

• 3.5 km shared-use trail for walking and cycling along the length of the park
• Playgrounds, sheltered seating areas, and BBQ facilities
• Lighting along the main path, accessible toilets and drinking fountains
• Extensive native revegetation to boost biodiversity and habitat for gang-gang cockatoos, kookaburras, echidnas and more

The Victorian Government is investing $10.5 million in restoration and construction to convert the under-used reserve into quality public open space.

Why It Matters

Beyond the new play spaces and paths, the project will improve urban cooling, create wildlife corridors and give locals more places to walk, ride, meet and relax. As John Mullahy, Member for Glen Waverley, put it: “The new facilities, walking trails and green space will transform how our community connects with nature and spends time together outdoors.”

Timeline

• Construction: starting soon
• Opening: mid-2026 (subject to works and weather)

Once complete, ngarrak nakorang wilam will be one of Melbourne’s largest linear parklands — a major win for the east and another step toward a greener city.

Related reads: Best new walking trails in Melbourne · Family-friendly parks and playgrounds

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Could $10 Billion in Australian-Made Underwater Drones Reshape Global Naval Warfare?

Could $10 Billion in Australian-Made Underwater Drones Reshape Global Naval Warfare?

  August 23, 2025

Australia’s defence industry is quietly working on a new generation of autonomous underwater drones that could redefine naval strategy worldwide. Developed under the AUKUS security pact, these drones are designed to strengthen national security while raising debates about risks, funding, and pace of progress.

From Whale Monitoring to Military Intelligence

In a warehouse south of Perth, rows of bright yellow drones are being built by Blue Ocean Marine Tech Systems. Originally developed to monitor whale migration patterns and assist the offshore gas industry, these unmanned vehicles may soon serve a very different purpose: covert defence operations.

Equipped with acoustic sensors, the drones can detect whale vocalisations and help companies reduce noise pollution during migration. But with their unique ability to operate for three to four months on a single charge, change buoyancy instead of using propellers, and even land on the seabed, they are equally suited to monitoring naval activity in contested waters.

“We can go to places where other naval or air force assets can’t -  and very quietly, gather intelligence,” said Mike Deeks, a former submarine commander now leading the company.

AUKUS and the Role of Underwater Drones

The drones are being developed under Pillar 2 of AUKUS, which focuses on advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, hypersonics, and autonomous systems. While Pillar 1 covers nuclear-powered submarines, experts argue that Pillar 2 isn’t receiving the same level of urgency or funding.

“Pillar 2 is in some ways the poorer cousin of Pillar 1,” Deeks admitted. Malcolm Davis, a defence analyst from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, echoed this concern: “We are not moving fast enough on either pillar. Risk aversion and caution are slowing the deployment of these technologies.”

The Future of Naval Warfare

Defence experts suggest that armed underwater drones could soon operate in tandem with nuclear-powered submarines. Swarms of drones, numbering in the hundreds or even thousands, could monitor, track, and potentially engage adversaries without risking human lives.

“The future undersea battlespace will combine nuclear-powered submarines with autonomous underwater drone capabilities,” Davis explained. “This mix will expand Australia’s reach and resilience in naval operations.”

Strategic Promise, Lingering Risks

Supporters argue the drones offer Australia an affordable way to expand its surveillance and strike capabilities. Critics, however, warn that delays in development and limited investment in Pillar 2 could leave the country vulnerable. Additionally, activists in Western Australia have raised concerns about the nuclear risks associated with the broader AUKUS deal.

As Australia weighs a $10 billion investment in these technologies, the question remains: will underwater drones revolutionize global naval warfare, or will slow timelines and funding shortfalls blunt their impact?

The answer may shape the future of maritime security in the Indo-Pacific for decades to come.

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