Sunrise

Three-year-old Augie rang the bell at the Blues versus North Melbourne game to celebrate being cancer-free for a year. The emotional moment occurred during the Good Friday appeal in front of 45,000 people at Marvel Stadium. Augie was joined by his family and siblings for the tribute to his bravery and the work of oncologists and support staff at the children's hospital.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Sydney Royal Easter Show enters its third day, with gates opening to expected crowds of tens of thousands following Good Friday's attendance of 80,000 visitors. The show bag pavilion features 430 different show bags, with 88 options priced under $10, including popular items like the Capybara bag with bunny ears. Activities planned for the day include animal encounters with sheep, lambs, and Darren the donkey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brisbane Airport anticipates over one million passengers during the holiday period, with international travel demand up nearly 5% compared to last year while domestic travel holds steady. Queensland's hotel industry reports its worst downturn in years, with some destinations experiencing a 30% decline in bookings as high fuel costs deter road trips.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victoria's Good Friday Appeal has raised a record-breaking $25,268,485 for the Royal Children's Hospital in its 95th year, bringing the total amount raised since inception to over half a billion dollars. The fundraising effort included street collections by volunteers, a house auction in Melbourne's West that generated over $1.2 million, and phone room donations coordinated by CFA volunteers. Despite cost of living pressures, Victorians demonstrated significant generosity to support sick children and their families at the hospital.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A tropical low is developing off the coast of Papua New Guinea in the Solomon Sea, with wind gusts reaching up to 85 kilometres per hour. The Weather Bureau expects it to intensify into a cyclone by tomorrow morning and continue moving southwest towards the Queensland coast. The system is not forecast to impact Queensland towns during the Easter period.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian Reptile Park is celebrating Easter with a collection of recently born baby animals, including koala joeys emerging from pouches, a young potoroo named Jinx, and Tiny Tim, an Indian star tortoise. The park offers hands-on encounters with wildlife during the Easter school holidays, featuring an obstacle course and opportunities for visitors to meet baby farm animals. Indian star tortoises like Tiny Tim grow to approximately 5 kilograms and can live up to 80 years, drinking water through their nostrils.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victorian police conducted a two-night operation in Ballarat targeting car thieves and high-risk driving, utilising local officers, the dog squad, and air wing units. The operation resulted in 12 arrests, including two 18-year-olds charged after being spotted in an allegedly stolen Subaru. Police seized four stolen vehicles and issued five infringement notices for traffic offences during the crackdown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A high-speed police pursuit involving a stolen vehicle crossed from New South Wales into Queensland at approximately 1.45am. The driver fled into a second stolen vehicle and remains at large after police terminated the chase for safety reasons. One police officer was injured during the incident and was transported to hospital in stable condition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The wife-carrying Outback Championship returns to Roma's Easter in the Country Festival in Queensland, featuring an obstacle course where competitors navigate hay bales and water buckets while carrying their partner. Competitors Georgia Nicholls and Thomas DeSanto demonstrate the unique upside-down carrying technique, with the winning couple receiving the wife or partner's weight in 4X beer as their prize.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NASA's Artemis II mission has successfully launched four astronauts on a 10-day journey to the Moon, marking the first human spaceflight to lunar orbit in more than 50 years. The crew completed two Earth orbits before preparing for the translunar injection manoeuvre, which accelerates the spacecraft from 25,000 to 40,000 kilometres per hour to break Earth's orbit. Minor technical issues including a toilet malfunction and a Microsoft Outlook software problem were resolved during the early phase of the mission.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian supermarkets including Coles, Woolworths and Ritchies are facing supplier requests for price increases due to rising fuel costs and operational expenses. Under the grocery code of conduct, price reviews could take between four to thirteen weeks to implement, with fuel levies particularly affecting fresh produce. Retailers are attempting to maintain competitive pricing despite cost pressures, with the situation dependent on how long fuel prices remain elevated.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump has imposed a 100% tariff on pharmaceuticals, affecting Australia's $1.6 billion pharmaceutical exports to the US. Health Minister Mark Butler and Opposition Leader Angus Taylor discuss the impact on Australian exporters like CSL, while confirming the tariffs won't affect domestic PBS medicine prices. The government is also exploring options to lower fuel standards to increase fuel imports amid ongoing global supply concerns, with over 700 service stations currently out of fuel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump has imposed a 100% tariff on pharmaceuticals, affecting Australia's $1.6 billion pharmaceutical exports to the US. Health Minister Mark Butler and Opposition Leader Angus Taylor discuss the impact on Australian exporters like CSL, while confirming the tariffs won't affect domestic PBS medicine prices. The government is also exploring options to lower fuel standards to increase fuel imports amid ongoing global supply concerns, with over 700 service stations currently out of fuel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carol Davis, a 75-year-old Gold Coast grandmother, is breaking world records in athletics after starting her competitive running career at age 64. She competes in multiple disciplines including sprinting, hurdles, javelin and long jump, and is currently training for the 200-metre hurdles. Davis credits running with keeping her fit, preventing cognitive decline, and bringing her joy, while encouraging others to take up the sport for longevity and health benefits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prime Minister delivered a rare primetime television address to the nation, pledging to shield Australia from economic pressures caused by an international war and warning of tough times ahead. The address has drawn criticism over crisis management, with debate emerging about potential fuel supply issues and whether the government's messaging will cause public panic or encourage conservation. Energy expert John Blackburn emphasises the need for collective national response rather than political division during the crisis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Weldon presents a three-course Easter menu featuring Queensland banana prawns with garlic butter, slow-cooked lamb shoulder with tahini yoghurt and herb salad, and hot cross bun ice cream sandwiches with spiced caramel. The lamb shoulder requires four to five hours of cooking at 140 degrees, making it ideal for preparing ahead. The dessert transforms leftover hot cross buns into a creative treat with salted caramel ice cream.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to address Americans with an update on military operations involving Iran, following speculation about a potential withdrawal from the Middle East. Financial markets have reacted to reports that Trump may scale back U.S. operations, though Iran has denied claims that it requested a ceasefire. The situation creates significant uncertainty for global supply chains and the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for international oil transport.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NASA's Artemis 2 mission marks humanity's first return to lunar orbit in over 50 years, sending four astronauts on a 10-day journey aboard the Orion spacecraft to test systems for future deep space missions. Australia plays a crucial role through the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex, one of three main sites communicating with the Orion capsule, with Australian companies also contributing components to the spacecraft. The mission serves as a critical test ahead of plans to land astronauts on the moon by 2028.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian cruise holidays are offering better value as the industry avoids fuel price increases affecting other travel sectors. Cruise lines purchased fuel in advance, keeping prices stable, with families potentially saving $3,000 on 10-night cruises compared to resort holidays. The local cruise season continues for another month with Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Oceania among lines still operating in the region.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian families are shifting from caravanning to camping for the Easter school holidays due to rising fuel prices. Campers face extreme temperature fluctuations in tents, experiencing freezing conditions at night followed by intense heat when sunrise hits the tent. Social media users share camping experiences and etiquette tips, including maintaining distance from other campers' tents and using designated paths in caravan parks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prime Minister delivered a primetime address to the nation regarding fuel supply concerns amid the Iran war, announcing measures including halving the fuel excise and urging Australians to conserve fuel where possible. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Miles defended the speech against criticism of lacking detail, emphasising the government's actions to secure supply, release national stockpile reserves, and underwrite fuel cargoes. Western Australia's Premier Roger Cork has declared a fuel emergency as energy experts warn harsher restrictions may be imposed after the Easter holidays.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matildas star Mary Fowler has signed a reported $10 million five-year deal with Adidas, one of the most lucrative contracts in women's football history. The deal followed a bidding war between Adidas, New Balance and Nike, sparked in part by Fowler becoming the first women's footballer to walk at Paris Fashion Week. Her agent describes the signing as brands pursuing a cultural icon rather than just a footballer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian health insurance premiums are increasing by an average of 4.41%, the largest rise in nearly a decade. Gold policyholders will pay approximately $167 more for singles and $330 more for families annually, with major providers like NIB implementing increases up to 5.47%. Australians earning over $101,000 without private health insurance face a Medicare levy surcharge of $1,010, while basic hospital policies cost around $977, making coverage financially advantageous for many despite the premium increases.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New laws targeting unethical migration agents commence today, introducing stricter oversight and enhanced continuing professional development requirements. The regulations respond to cases of agents supplying false information and exploiting vulnerable clients, with 14 registered migration agents sanctioned this year after the Department of Home Affairs tripled funding to the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA). The changes limit daily training classes from 10 to six and require more interactive education, while less than 1% of agents have been sanctioned overall.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jackie O is suing her former employer ARN for unfair contract termination, seeking $82.25 million in compensation. The lawsuit follows a similar action by her ex-co-host Kyle Sandilands just one week earlier, with Jackie citing psychosocial health and safety issues and bullying in the workplace. ARN has stated they will challenge both lawsuits from their former radio stars.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shark nets have been removed from New South Wales beaches one month earlier than usual, just before the Easter long weekend. The decision follows a summer that recorded the highest number of shark attacks in January for the past decade. Alternative mitigation strategies include acoustic receivers that track bull sharks through buoys at beaches like Vaucluse and Balmoral, providing data on shark seasonality and activity patterns, particularly during weather events and murky water conditions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Donald Trump declares America will no longer assist countries with oil supply issues if they didn't support the US regarding Iran, as 20% of global oil supplies remain blocked behind the Strait of Hormuz due to US-Iran tensions. Australian private health insurance premiums increase by 4.41% from today, the largest rise in nearly a decade, with one in four Australians considering abandoning their coverage. The Australian Government launches Medicare Mental Health Check-In, a free service without GP referral requirements for people experiencing mild to moderate psychological distress.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank of Australia has scrapped surcharge payments on card transactions, but small businesses warn they will pass these costs onto consumers through higher prices. Small business owners report struggling with mounting expenses including fees, taxes, payday super payments, minimum wage increases, and the abolition of junior award rates. The debate centres on whether banks making record profits should absorb transaction processing costs, or whether small businesses and consumers will bear the burden.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A landmark report into Australia's childcare sector has revealed significant failures in child protection systems, identifying major loopholes that child predators have exploited to access children. The report contains 23 recommendations aimed at strengthening fundamental safeguards that currently provide a false sense of security. The government has indicated it will actively consider all recommendations and work with opposition parties in a bipartisan effort to improve childcare safety standards across the nation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Donald Trump has criticised allies including Australia in a social media post about oil independence and military support, stating the United States won't help countries that weren't there for America. Australian Housing Minister Claire O'Neill responds that the government wants to see de-escalation of the Iran conflict and a clear timeline for resolution, while Shadow Attorney General Michaelia Cash emphasises Australia needs stronger fuel security and clarity on the government's response to US requests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump has publicly stated the United States will no longer assist other nations in securing oil supplies, telling allies to "get your own oil" via social media. The comments come amid escalating conflict with Iran, which recently launched 15 ballistic missiles and 27 drones at the UAE, despite Trump's claims of winning the conflict. Security experts warn that a US withdrawal from the Straits of Hormuz could be disastrous, particularly for European nations and the UK who rely heavily on trade through the region, and Trump may threaten to withdraw from NATO entirely if allies don't increase their contributions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 40th Melbourne International Comedy Festival is being celebrated with performances from Circus Oz at Melbourne Town Hall. Steve, who performed at the very first festival 40 years ago as a French juggler, reflects on how both the festival and Circus Oz have grown together over the decades. The festival has become the biggest English-speaking comedy festival in the world, with Circus Oz performances scheduled to begin on the 8th with multiple shows daily.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Desi Freeman, Australia's most wanted fugitive, was fatally shot by police after a 216-day manhunt following his murder of two police officers during a search warrant execution at his Paupunker property on 26 August. The fugitive opened fire on 10 attending officers, killing Detective Leading Senior Constable Neil Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim Devart Hothart before fleeing into dense bushland. Police located Freeman at a rural hideout approximately 200 kilometres from Paupunker, where he was shot after failing to surrender peacefully during a three-hour standoff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian seniors research reveals significant generational conflicts between grandparents and adult children over parenting approaches, with the biggest differences emerging in discipline, boundaries, behaviour expectations, manners and screen time management. Fifty per cent of grandparents surveyed believe today's parents are more lenient and rely heavily on negotiating with their children. The discussion highlights how modern parents working multiple jobs to meet financial pressures face different challenges than previous generations, suggesting grandparents could provide support rather than criticism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five major social media platforms—Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube—face potential fines of nearly $50 million each for allegedly failing to comply with Australia's under-16s ban. The eSafety Commission has flagged the companies for non-compliance, though enforcement faces challenges as the platforms have significant resources to contest the penalties. Debate centres on whether financial penalties are sufficient deterrents or if more severe measures, such as temporary service suspensions, would be necessary to ensure compliance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called on US President Donald Trump to provide clarity on objectives in the escalating Iran conflict. Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirms Australia maintains engagement with the United States while emphasising Australia's defensive-only role and concerns about economic impacts on Australians, particularly rising fuel prices. Wong reiterates Australia's position on maintaining sanctions against Russian oil despite Asian countries turning to Russia for energy supplies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Online furniture brand Koala launches on the ASX with a $3.40 share price, valuing the company at approximately $300 million. The direct-to-consumer retailer challenges traditional furniture retailers like Harvey Norman, Nick Scali, and Temple & Webster, but enters the market during a period when consumers are reducing spending on large household items. Furniture retail stocks are down 30% to 50% year to date, making this IPO a significant test of investor confidence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Desi Freeman, Australia's most wanted fugitive, was shot dead by police after a 216-day manhunt, found 150 kilometres from where he fled after shooting two police officers in August. Authorities discovered evidence at a secluded site including a mobile phone, beer bottles and cooking utensils, suggesting he may have received assistance. Police are now investigating potential connections to the sovereign citizen community and searching for anyone who may have harboured the cop killer during his time on the run.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five major social media platforms—Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube—are under investigation by Australia's e-Safety Commissioner for potential breaches of the under-16 social media ban. Communications Minister Annika Wells confirms enforcement action has begun, with evidence being gathered on how children are circumventing age verification through VPNs, false IDs and other methods. The platforms face potential fines of up to $50 million, with the e-Safety Commissioner building cases to take to federal court.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Uluru hosts the 10th anniversary celebration of Bruce Munro's Field of Light installation, featuring 50,000 glowing spheres spread across an area the size of seven football fields. The installation allows visitors to walk through illuminated spheres while experiencing the silence and natural beauty surrounding the sacred rock. The broadcast includes weather reports for Australian cities and showcases aerial and ground-level views of Uluru, with traditional owners the Anangu acknowledged.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Niall Horan's fourth solo album, titled Dinner Party, drops in June 2025, featuring a title track about meeting his long-term girlfriend Amelia at a dinner party. The multi-platinum singer-songwriter, who has sold 100 million albums since his One Direction days, discusses his creative process and how his girlfriend provides feedback on new music. Horan expresses his love for Australia, particularly Melbourne's sporting culture, and hints at future tour plans while revealing he's now a fan of Vegemite.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Baker Elliot Steich demonstrates three Easter-themed desserts perfect for making with children: a chocolate cornflake nest cheesecake with an Oreo base topped with Easter eggs, carrot-shaped pieces of carrot cake decorated with orange icing and sprinkles, and bunny-shaped meringue lollipops made from egg whites and sugar on sticks. The recipes feature simple ingredients and playful presentations designed to appeal to kids during the Easter holiday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.