Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern married Clarke Gayford at Craggy Range Winery in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand. The private ceremony was officiated by Grant Robertson and attended by notable guests including Chris Hipkins and Peter Gordon. Ardern's popularity rose during her leadership but waned due to dissatisfaction with her Covid policies. Since resigning, she has written a book and joined Prince William's Earthshot Prize as a trustee.

Richard Brookman, a 45-year-old fisherman, had a narrow escape when a 12ft saltwater crocodile leapt into his boat with jaws open at St Helens Beach, Queensland. The incident occurred on a Sunday evening after Brookman noticed the crocodile swimming past. He managed to force the crocodile back into the water by retrieving his anchor, causing the animal to overbalance. Wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science are investigating the unusual behavior and may relocate the crocodile. The incident has added to the ongoing concerns and discussions about crocodile attacks and safety in northern Australia.

Richard Brookman, a 45-year-old Australian fisherman, narrowly escaped a potentially dangerous encounter when a 12ft saltwater crocodile leapt into his boat with open jaws at St Helens Beach, north of Mackay, Queensland. The incident occurred on a Sunday evening after Brookman noticed the crocodile swimming past. He managed to evade the crocodile by stepping over it and retrieving his anchor, causing the animal to overbalance and fall back into the water. Wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science are investigating the unusual behavior and may relocate the crocodile if found. The incident has reignited discussions about crocodile management and public safety, as attacks have become more frequent in northern Australia.

Richard Brookman, a 45-year-old Australian fisherman, had a narrow escape when a 12ft saltwater crocodile leapt into his boat with jaws open at St Helens Beach, north of Mackay, Queensland. The incident occurred on a Sunday evening after Brookman noticed the crocodile swimming past. He managed to force the crocodile back into the water by retrieving his anchor. Wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science are investigating the unusual behavior and may relocate the crocodile. The incident has added to the ongoing debate about crocodile attacks in northern Australia, with some calling for a cull following increased frequency of attacks.

Richard Brookman, a 45-year-old fisherman, had a narrow escape when a 12ft crocodile leapt into his boat at St Helens Beach, Queensland. The incident occurred on a Sunday evening after Brookman noticed the crocodile swimming past. Wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science plan to investigate the crocodile's behavior, which is considered atypical and concerning. This event comes amid increasing crocodile attacks in northern Australia and discussions about authorizing wildlife rangers to issue fines for safety violations.

America and Australia are increasing efforts to address gender bias in healthcare. Australia has created a National Women’s Advisory Council to investigate disparities in treatment and diagnosis for women, especially indigenous women. In the U.S., President Joe Biden signed a memorandum to initiate the first White House research on women's health, led by first lady Jill Biden. The initiative aims to improve research and treatment for women's health issues. Disparities in healthcare affect indigenous women in Australia, who face both social and racial prejudices, leading to poorer health outcomes. In the U.S., the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advocates for a patient-centered approach, but experiences like Kimberly Turbin's, who suffered trauma from an unwanted medical procedure, highlight the need for change. The White House directive calls for federal agencies to propose actions to enhance women's health research.

Australia has voted against a referendum proposing the creation of an indigenous advisory body, the 'Voice to Parliament,' with a 60% to 40% majority. The referendum aimed to give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people a say in government decisions affecting them and would have been the first mention of First Nations people in the constitution. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who supported the referendum, acknowledged the defeat but remains committed to Aboriginal reconciliation. The 'No' campaign, led by conservative opposition, argued the proposal would create extra bureaucracy and racial privilege. The result has raised concerns among academics and human rights advocates about potential setbacks in reconciliation efforts. Indigenous Australians face significant socio-economic disadvantages, and the referendum's failure is seen as a missed opportunity to address these issues.

A climber survived a nearly 2,000ft fall on Mount Taranaki, New Zealand, thanks to snow softened by spring temperatures. He sustained minor injuries and was found by two other climbers. Police highlighted the importance of proper equipment and experience for climbing the mountain. Mount Taranaki is known as one of New Zealand's deadliest mountains, with several fatalities in recent years. The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council warns of the mountain's year-round challenges. The mountain was originally named Mount Egmont by Capt James Cook in 1770 and was later renamed Mount Taranaki Maunga.

David Seymour, leader of New Zealand's Libertarian ACT party, asserts the country is ready for substantial change, as indicated by polling that positions ACT as a potential kingmaker in the upcoming October elections. Seymour criticizes the current government's handling of crime and living costs and mocks the Ministry of Pacific Peoples' spending. The ACT party's rise in polls suggests a possible coalition with the National Party, while the Labour Party's support declines. The ACT's proposals include tax cuts, reduced government spending, and increased public safety measures. Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, acknowledging his underdog status, warns against a National-ACT coalition, while remaining optimistic about New Zealand's future.

David Seymour, leader of New Zealand's Libertarian ACT party, has expressed confidence in bringing 'real change' to the country amidst a crime wave and cost of living crisis. With increased support for ACT and the National Party, they could form a coalition government after October's elections. Seymour's controversial comments about the Ministry of Pacific Peoples have drawn criticism but seem unlikely to affect ACT's rising political fortunes. The current Labour government, now led by Chris Hipkins after Jacinda Ardern's resignation, faces a potential defeat as support for Labour has fallen. Seymour's vision includes tax cuts, reduced government spending, and increased public safety measures.

A 95-year-old woman with dementia, Clare Nowland, was allegedly subdued with a Taser by Australian police at Yallambee Lodge care home in Cooma, New South Wales. The incident led to Nowland sustaining a fractured skull and brain bleed. The New South Wales police have not confirmed the use of a Taser but stated that a critical incident team will investigate. The Snowy Monaro regional council acknowledged the incident and is supporting those affected. Nowland is currently in critical condition at Cooma District Hospital.

Australia's Labor government is preparing to deliver a federal budget aimed at addressing the economic slowdown, rising cost of living, and increased defence spending. The budget follows a recent interest rate hike by the Reserve Bank of Australia and comes amid challenges such as soaring rents and a multi-billion dollar defence bill. The government plans to provide cost of living relief without exacerbating inflation. Defence spending is set to rise by A$4 billion in response to perceived threats from China. Domestic issues include the cost of the national disability scheme and welfare support. The Salvation Army is working to raise funds for vulnerable Australians, while data shows a growing number of people struggle with housing costs. The upcoming budget may include a temporary rent freeze to alleviate financial pressures. Economic experts predict a slowdown in growth and a potential rise in unemployment, with the risk of a recession if interest rates continue to increase.

Scientists at Curtin University in Australia have discovered that echidnas, spiny creatures similar to hedgehogs, cool themselves by blowing snot bubbles and doing belly flops. These methods allow them to cool the blood at the top of their beaks and through contact with cool surfaces, compensating for their inability to sweat. This research, led by zoologist Christine Cooper and captured through thermal imaging, also aids in understanding how echidnas might adapt to climate change.

Ashley Jenkinson, a 40-year-old British pilot, was killed in a mid-air helicopter crash at Sea World on Queensland’s Gold Coast, along with two other Britons, Ron and Diane Hughes. Jenkinson, who had recently married and was a father to a 17-month-old son, was the chief pilot and head of operations at Sea World Helicopters. Tributes have been paid to him and the other victims, including Vanessa Tadros, a mother from Sydney. The crash also resulted in three serious injuries and five minor injuries. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is investigating the incident, which was mitigated by the skill of the second pilot who managed to land safely despite damage to his helicopter.

Shalom Brune-Franklin, known for her role as DC Chloe Bishop in Line of Duty, attributes her acting career to her struggle with maths in school. Encouraged to pursue drama, she discovered her passion for acting. Despite initial dreams of athletics and journalism, an administrative error at university led her to audition for the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Her talent was evident, earning her the Chris Edmund scholarship, established by Hugh Jackman. Andrew Lewis, head of performance at WAAPA, praised her development into a star.

Australia's endangered marine species, the dugong, is facing a severe threat due to an underwater famine caused by the destruction of sea grass, their only food source. This has been exacerbated by extreme weather conditions, industrial activities, and hunting by indigenous fishermen. Professor Ellen Ariel from James Cook University has labeled the situation a national environmental disaster, with recovery of sea grass expected to take years. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has launched a campaign to protect the dugong and green turtles. Controversy also surrounds a multi-billion pound gas processing plant near the Great Barrier Reef and the indigenous hunting practices under the Native Title laws. Animal activists are campaigning for a moratorium on dugong hunting until population numbers can be assessed.

Roger Maynard recounts the loss of his trailer to a fire caused by a faulty heater and the subsequent hardships he faced, including a lack of work and housing. Despite these challenges, he speaks positively about the last year, which has seen improvements in his living situation, such as getting electricity, water, and a new stove. Maynard reflects on his life in a small, poverty-stricken community reliant on the coal industry, expressing his love for the area's peace and beauty and his determination to stay despite the difficulties.

A Suzuki Swift driver engaged in a road rage chase with a Lamborghini Gallardo through Sydney's rush-hour traffic, triggered by the Lamborghini driver's reaction to loud music from the Suzuki. The pursuit lasted over half an hour and ended with the Lamborghini driver seeking refuge at a police station. The Suzuki driver fled and was still at large.

Several reported sightings of Peter Falconio in Australia have added to the mystery surrounding his disappearance at Barrow Creek. A notable sighting occurred at a service station in Bourke, New South Wales, where Robert Brown and Melissa Kendall reported seeing a man resembling Falconio. Despite no financial gain from a life-insurance policy, rumors suggest Falconio may have been involved in a drug deal and needed to disappear. His family has dismissed these claims as mischievous and offensive.

Former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser criticized the current government's anti-terrorism legislation as 'tyrannical,' likening it to laws in authoritarian regimes. He highlighted that the laws allow detention without suspicion and prevent media reporting on such detentions. Fraser's comments were made to the Board of Jewish Deputies in Sydney and elaborated on ABC radio. Attorney-General Philip Ruddock defended the laws, while High Court Judge Michael Kirby had previously noted the significant number of legislations restricting civil rights since 2001.

The World Bank's report on East Timor presents a grim outlook, highlighting the nation's struggle with poverty and corruption despite better performance post-conflict compared to other countries. The report suggests that establishing a stable state could take decades, and governance issues are emerging. East Timor's potential wealth from oil and gas reserves is also at risk. World Bank country manager Elisabeth Huybens emphasized the importance of caution, noting East Timor's significant achievements but also the dangers of resource wealth becoming a liability.

Australia's bid to join the inaugural East Asia Summit, set to be held in Kuala Lumpur under Asean, has been supported by US President George W. Bush, who encouraged Australia to secure an invitation. This move is seen as a counter to China's growing influence in the region. Australian Prime Minister John Howard, after a meeting with Bush, is expected to sign the Treaty of Amity and Co-operation, which he previously criticized. The decision is likely to be announced at a regional security forum in Laos, with Malaysia's Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi emphasizing the treaty's importance for summit participation.

Australia is increasingly seen as a vulnerable target for people-smugglers, with 4,175 asylum-seekers arriving last year and 4,500 so far this year. Intelligence reports indicate thousands more await passage in Southeast Asia. Most recent arrivals are from the Middle East and South Asia, with a significant number from Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. The journey involves multiple stages, often starting in Malaysia and moving through Indonesia. Australia's border protection services, with limited resources, face challenges in monitoring its extensive coastline and vast ocean territories, leading to a high number of illegal entries and undetected illicit activities.

Syd Long, the father of Robert Long who is wanted for questioning in connection with a deadly fire at a backpacker hostel in Childers, Queensland, has appealed to his son to surrender. The fire resulted in the deaths of 15 tourists, and while the cause has not been confirmed as deliberate, Robert Long's criminal history has come to light. The police are continuing to recover bodies and investigate the incident.

An Australian study has revealed that doctors have significantly higher rates of drug abuse, suicide, and mental illness compared to the general population. The study found that young, successful doctors in their 30s, often with families, are particularly at risk. Over 100 of the 23,000 registered doctors in New South Wales were reported to have serious drug problems, with pethidine addiction being common. The study also noted ten deaths, including three suicides, and several professionals leaving the field. The Medical Journal of Australia responded to the study by advocating for increased drug rehabilitation efforts.

Prime Minister John Howard and independent senator Brian Harradine reached a compromise on native title legislation, sparking criticism from both Aboriginal and farming groups. Aboriginal leaders, including Gavin Andrews and Richie Ahmat, feel betrayed and predict the agreement will lead to more problems and litigation. Farming representatives, like Mike Keogh, also express dissatisfaction with the unresolved uncertainty. Despite the backlash, Howard avoids a snap election that could have benefited Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party.

Australia marked a national Sorry Day to acknowledge the historical mistreatment of Aborigines, with many citizens expressing remorse. Despite widespread participation, the Australian Government, led by Aboriginal Affairs Minister John Herron, did not issue a formal apology, a stance supported by Western Australia Premier Richard Court. In contrast, public figures like New South Wales Governor Gordon Samuels and the Chief Justice of the Family Court called for recognition of past injustices, including the 'stolen generation' of Aboriginal children.

Yachtsman Tony Bullimore was rescued from the Southern Ocean and expressed his eagerness to continue sailing despite his ordeal. He spent four days in the hull of his capsized yacht before being saved by HMAS Adelaide. Bullimore, who may suffer from frostbite-related amputations, was reunited with his wife Lalel in Perth after being hospitalized. Australia's Channel Seven network acquired the rights to their reunion footage.