Sunrise

Severe storms and a slow-moving low pressure system are bringing widespread flooding across Central Australia, with some areas expected to receive four years' worth of rain in just days. Flash flooding warnings are active across the Northern Territory, South Australia, Western Queensland and northwestern New South Wales, while Victoria recovers from overnight storms. Adelaide faces damaging wind gusts up to 100km/h, and Queensland's coast is bracing for rain later in the week with potential tropical cyclone development.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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The Prime Minister was evacuated from the Lodge overnight following a bomb threat that triggered a major security response. Former detective and counter-terror investigator Peter Moroney discusses the significance of the threat level required to warrant such an evacuation and the current heightened security environment. The segment also covers the ongoing investigation into the murder of 85-year-old Chris Bagzarian, who was killed in a case of mistaken identity during a botched kidnapping attempt.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Sydney doctor advocates for the return of 34 Australian women and children from Syria, claiming the 11 women no longer have links to Islamic State. The Coalition pushes to block their return, with debate centring on security concerns, constitutional law limitations, and the circumstances under which these families originally left Australia for the conflict zone. Separately, the Prime Minister has reportedly demanded ministers find billions in budget savings to avoid fuelling inflation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The NRMA Resort in Yamba offers e-bike activities, rainforest exploration, and access to local attractions including the township, lighthouse, and the famous Angourie right-hand surf break. The resort is offering up to 30% off mid-week stays. Weather conditions across Australian capital cities and regional centres show varied temperatures ranging from 18 to 36 degrees, with showers and storms forecast in multiple locations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Giant tortoises have returned to the Galapagos island of Floriana after 175 years of extinction in the region. Scientists bred 158 juvenile hybrid tortoises aged 8 to 13 using genetics from the original Galapagos tortoises that were wiped out in the 19th century. The young tortoises have now been released into the wild to reclaim their ancient ecological role.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

American TV host Savannah Guthrie has announced a US$1 million family reward for information leading to the recovery of her mother Nancy, who has been missing for more than three weeks following a suspected abduction. Guthrie acknowledged that her mother may no longer be alive but emphasised the family's need for closure. Former LAPD Lieutenant Jeff Wenninger explains that the substantial reward is strategically targeted at individuals close to those responsible for the kidnapping, rather than the general public, and represents an amount significant enough to overcome their fear of coming forward.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A mandatory smart meter rollout is underway across New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and the ACT, scheduled to complete by November 2030. The digital electricity meters can be read remotely and will be installed free of charge during the mandatory rollout period, with customers maintaining choice of electricity plans for two years after installation. Time-of-use pricing may suit households that can shift electricity consumption to daytime hours when the grid has excess capacity, though flat-rate pricing options should remain available.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal government has released the business case for a high-speed rail link between Sydney and Newcastle, reducing travel time to one hour. The $55 billion first stage is planned as part of an 1,800-kilometre network connecting Brisbane to Melbourne, with a final investment decision scheduled for 2028. The project is expected to generate $250 billion in economic activity, create 99,000 jobs, and enable 160,000 new homes, with private sector investment required for construction.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jessica Mauboy returns to Australian Idol 20 years after her iconic 2006 audition as a 16-year-old from Darwin, this time serving as a mentor and guest judge to the show's top 30 contestants. The multi-platinum artist recently performed at Mighty Hoopla festival at Bondi Beach, whilst balancing motherhood to her one-year-old daughter Mia and running her skincare brand Desert Rose. Mauboy reflects on overcoming self-doubt as a young performer and shares insights on mentoring the next generation of Australian artists.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Trump family has partnered with Altus Property Group to develop a 335-metre hotel tower on Queensland's Gold Coast, potentially becoming Australia's tallest skyscraper. The $1.5 billion project would dominate the Glitter Strip skyline, though the development application has not yet been formally lodged with the Gold Coast City Council. Community reaction to the proposed Trump-branded hotel remains divided, with some supporting the investment while others express concerns about association with the Trump name.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Senate inquiry is examining the 50% capital gains tax discount on investment properties held for more than a year, with hearings scheduled over three days. The Housing Industry Association's Chief Economist argues that reducing the tax concession from 50% to potentially 25% will not solve housing affordability issues, as the fundamental problem is insufficient housing supply for Australia's 27 million population. The economist contends that building more homes would generate government revenue of $200,000 to $500,000 per dwelling while simultaneously addressing equity concerns and reducing investor competition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Outback Queensland faces another wave of heavy rain threatening northern and western regions, just weeks after catastrophic downpours. Cloncurry has already received double its annual rainfall of 400-500mm, with highways cut and fresh food supplies unable to reach isolated communities. The developing low pressure system poses risks of further town isolation, stranded travelers and livestock losses across the already saturated region.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A royal commission into the Bondi terror attack begins, examining Australia's worst terror incident where Naveed and Sajid Akram killed 15 innocent Jewish people. Bartender Ed Bickerstaff, who was shot in the hip while fleeing the attackers, shares his experience of encountering the gunmen. Rabbi Levi Wolfe discusses the heightened security measures at Jewish schools and synagogues, the rising concerns about antisemitism in Australia, and the community's hopes that the royal commission will address the division and hate that has escalated over the past two and a half years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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A powerful winter storm has brought blizzard conditions to New York City, prompting a state of emergency declaration. Roads have been closed to non-essential vehicles and airlines have cancelled thousands of flights, with 10-13 inches of snow blanketing the financial district. Despite the severe weather conditions, local businesses like Old Mate's Pub remain open, with New Yorkers continuing to venture out even in minus 15-degree temperatures.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pop superstar Ed Sheeran has been crowned honorary co-mayor of Ipswich, Queensland, after making a surprise appearance in the city following a concerted campaign by locals. Ipswich Mayor Theresa Harding attended his Sunday night concert at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, where she presented him with her mayoral chains backstage and received a shout-out during the performance. Sheeran gifted the mayor a signed Loop Tour merchandise shirt addressed to 'the mayor of the second-best Ipswich' and expressed interest in attending a Bunnings sausage sizzle during his upcoming Melbourne shows.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SailGP returns to Sydney Harbour this weekend, with Australia's Flying Roos team leading the championship leaderboard after winning in Auckland. Driver Tom Slingsby discusses the high-speed hydrofoil racing format, the physical dangers including crew injuries, and the team's new celebrity owners Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman who joined in June 2023. The event will feature the first-ever Twilight Race on Sydney Harbour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Private health insurance premiums in Australia will increase by an average of 4.41% from April 1, marking the largest rise in nearly a decade. The four major providers are implementing even steeper increases, with NIB leading at 5.47%, while some smaller providers are only raising rates by 1.9%. Consumers can save money by comparing providers, reviewing their coverage extras, paying annual premiums before April 1, and understanding that switching between providers with equivalent cover doesn't reset waiting periods.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli addresses the delayed public reporting of an anti-Semitic attack on a Brisbane synagogue, where a 32-year-old suspect allegedly rammed the front gates and was charged with wilful damage as a hate crime. The Premier discusses his government's anti-Semitism legislation, recent polling showing One Nation's rise, his firm opposition to daylight saving in Queensland, and a new tourism campaign promoting outback Queensland communities recovering from recent flooding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli addresses the delayed public reporting of an anti-Semitic attack on a Brisbane synagogue, where a 32-year-old suspect allegedly rammed the front gates and was charged with wilful damage as a hate crime. The Premier discusses his government's anti-Semitism legislation, recent polling showing One Nation's rise, his firm opposition to daylight saving in Queensland, and a new tourism campaign promoting outback Queensland communities recovering from recent flooding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2026 AFL season begins in 10 days with Sydney Swans hosting Carlton at the SCG in the opening round. Both teams missed finals last season and are looking to return to the top eight. Swans captain Callum Mills discusses the team's extended pre-season preparation and their determination to bounce back from a 10th place finish.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Australia's Labor government has pledged to abolish stamp duty for downsizers aged 60 and over who sell their existing home and purchase a newly built property or apartment worth up to $2 million. The scheme aims to release at least 2,000 larger homes into the market over four years for growing families whilst incentivising new housing construction. Premier Peter Malinauskas defends the $70 million policy cost, arguing it creates new housing supply rather than driving up prices on existing stock like the opposition's alternative plan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor faces mounting pressure as newly released Epstein files suggest his royal protection officers acted as bouncers at Jeffrey Epstein's New York apartment. The British government is considering unprecedented legislation to remove him from the line of succession, whilst King Charles reportedly holds crisis talks with Andrew's daughters. The controversy intensifies following revelations about Andrew's entitled behaviour during his removal from Royal Lodge, where he cited his status as the Queen's second-born son.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Coalition proposes new laws making it a crime to assist ISIS brides returning to Australia, with penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment. The federal government has been conducting secret talks with New South Wales and Victoria about managing the return of 11 women and 23 children from former ISIS territories. Attorney General Michelle Rowland discusses the government's approach to security measures, temporary exclusion orders, and monitoring arrangements with state law enforcement agencies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One Nation proposes mandatory regional service requirements for Australian-trained GPs before they can access Medicare bulk billing incentives in metropolitan areas, with Barnaby Joyce advocating for up to 10 years of regional service. The government's Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek defends Labor's approach of investing $816 million in GP training with half of training places in regional areas, plus increased bulk billing incentives and 33 new endometriosis clinics. The debate centres on competing solutions to address doctor shortages in regional and remote Australian communities, with disagreement over whether incentives or mandatory service requirements are more effective.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rosie is a 26-year-old American alligator weighing approximately 30 kilograms who serves as an ambassador species at the Australian Reptile Park. The park houses 53 alligators in total and is located 30 minutes from Umina, where the NRMA Beach Holiday Resort offers discounted entry to park members. Alligators are reptiles that eat only a few times per week, consuming various meats including chicken, rats and quails, with their metabolism slowing during winter months.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UK police are conducting their fourth day of investigation at Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's former residence following his arrest for misconduct in public office. The probe involves 10 police forces examining multiple allegations connected to his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein, and he faces potential removal from his current position as eighth in the royal line of succession. Andrew was arrested after six unmarked police cars arrived at the King's Sandringham estate, interviewed for over 11 hours, and has been released under investigation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than 446,000 Australians currently live with dementia, the leading cause of death in the country, with numbers expected to exceed 1 million by 2065 without intervention. Professor Henry Brodati from UNSW's Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing explains that cognitive decline is not inevitable, noting half of centenarians live without dementia. Research involving over 6,000 participants demonstrates that brain training, physical exercise, Mediterranean diet, social interaction, and blood pressure control can significantly reduce dementia risk at any age.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sibling rivalry is a common challenge in families, manifesting through frequent squabbles during pressure points like meals, bedtime and car trips. Developmental paediatrician Dr Billy Garvey explains that while some conflict is normal, daily fighting can have lasting negative consequences on sibling relationships. The key to managing sibling conflict involves parental co-regulation, building problem-solving skills during calm moments, creating protected one-on-one time with each child, and teaching pro-social skills like empathy and conflict resolution through play.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The northern Tasmanian village of Evandale hosted Australia's largest gathering of penny-farthing enthusiasts, featuring riders of all skill levels competing in vintage bicycle races. The event included both competitive and leisurely rides, with participants enjoying the nostalgic atmosphere. The broadcast also referenced television presenter Monique Wright's past experience riding a penny-farthing on air.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New KPMG analysis reveals a dramatic shift in Australia's property market over the past six years, with homes valued between $500,000 and $600,000 dropping to less than 1% of new builds. Properties worth over $2 million have doubled during this period, while most new constructions now exceed $1 million in value. Approximately one-third of prospective buyers are being priced out of the housing market.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Cabbage is experiencing a culinary renaissance after decades of being associated with restrictive diets and overcooked preparations. The vegetable offers significant nutritional benefits including vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and cholesterol-lowering properties, while being available year-round and highly versatile. Three modern recipes showcase cabbage's potential: roasted cabbage parmigiana with caramelised edges, a colourful red cabbage salad with edamame and miso dressing, and gluten-free Japanese-style pancakes with zucchini and a Greek yoghurt-sriracha topping.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Burnout is a state of mental and physical exhaustion caused by chronic stress that hasn't been successfully managed, with statistics showing one in two people experiencing it. The condition manifests through behavioural symptoms like shutting down and agitation, psychological symptoms including low mood and anxiety, and physical symptoms such as muscle tension and sleep problems. Clinical psychologist Dr Jodie Lowinger identifies three key factors contributing to burnout: mindset (anxiety and the need for certainty leading to perfectionism), context (when expectations exceed capacity and lack of psychological safety), and balance (disconnection from replenishing activities and living out of alignment with personal values).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Morning coffee raves are emerging as a popular alcohol-free alternative to traditional nightclub culture in Australia, with events attracting up to 1,800 people to sunrise dance sessions. Farmers Union is sponsoring these early morning gatherings at venues like Cali Beach Club on the Gold Coast, where attendees enjoy coffee, Greek yoghurt and live DJ sets in the sunshine. The events cater to Australians seeking social experiences without alcohol, positioning themselves as an alternative to activities like run clubs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New research reveals Australian women face significantly higher rates of misdiagnosis for strokes, with a 25% greater chance of having symptoms mistaken for migraines or stress in emergency departments. Women often experience different stroke symptoms than men, including catastrophic headaches and vomiting rather than the classic facial drop and slurred speech. Australian research from Queensland has also found that bedroom temperatures above 24 degrees Celsius can put additional stress on the heart in people over 65, potentially increasing risks of high blood pressure and strokes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Actor Eric Dane, best known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan 'McSteamy' on Grey's Anatomy, has died at age 53 after battling ALS (motor neuron disease). Diagnosed in April last year, Dane became a passionate advocate for ALS awareness and research funding. He spent his final days surrounded by his estranged wife Rebecca Gayheart and their two daughters, Billy and Georgia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chicken salt, a popular Australian chip seasoning, has gained viral attention after an American comedian discovered it and revealed its ingredients. The condiment contains garlic powder, onion powder, salt and MSG, surprising many Australians who assumed it contained actual chicken. The seasoning has been served in Australian chicken shops since the late 1980s and early 1990s.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brock Feeney wins the opening race of the 2026 Supercars season at the Sydney 500, marking a strong start after switching to Ford and recovering from a difficult end to the previous season. The driver discusses adapting to the new Mustang, noting challenges with side mirror visibility but expressing satisfaction with the car's overall performance. Feeney and his team now focus on maintaining momentum through the remaining two races of the weekend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hollywood actor Jacob Elordi was spotted making a casual appearance at a newsagent in Mullumbimby, northern New South Wales, where he purchased a pair of thongs. The Brisbane-born star, currently on a global press tour for the Wuthering Heights film, was described by staff as friendly and approachable, posing for photos in casual attire. He appears to be taking downtime close to his Australian home between promotional commitments.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian renters are spending a record proportion of their income on rent, with prices rising 5% in the past year and 44% over five years. Rental price growth is occurring at three times the rate of wage growth, driven by reduced investor activity as first home buyers enter the market and stagnant construction of new homes. Government commitments to build 40,000 social and affordable homes by 2029 have only achieved 2% completion after two years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MotoGP will relocate from Phillip Island in Victoria to Adelaide, South Australia, for at least the next six years. The new street circuit will follow the old Formula 1 course layout in Adelaide's CBD. Five-time MotoGP champion Mick Doohan endorses the move, noting it aligns with the sport owners' preference for an in-town race, while his son Jack Doohan serves as a reserve F1 driver aiming for a full-time seat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Liberal Party is facing a potential historic defeat in South Australia, with One Nation surging to 24% in the polls while the Liberals have dropped to just 14%. Labor Premier Peter Malinauskas is positioned for a landslide victory in the March 21 state election, as Pauline Hanson's party experiences unprecedented growth in the state.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crispy skin chicken thighs are cooked in a Thai-inspired red curry sauce made with store-bought curry paste, coconut milk, ginger, fish sauce, lime and honey. The recipe is demonstrated using Coles' new KitchenAid cookware range, which features PFAS-free ceramic non-stick pans that can be collected through the Flybuys rewards programme. The dish is served with fragrant kaffir lime-infused rice and garnished with coconut, coriander and chilli.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2026 Repco Supercars Championship kicks off with the iconic Sydney 500 at Sydney Motorsport Park in Western Sydney. The season opener features night racing under lights with several new drivers and rookies joining the grid. Free registration is available for spectators to attend the weekend's racing events.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Duke of York and brother of King Charles III, has been arrested and questioned by Thames Valley Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office before being released. The investigation centres on allegations that he forwarded classified government emails about trade visits and business opportunities to Jeffrey Epstein within minutes of receiving them in 2011, whilst serving as the UK's trade envoy. This marks the first arrest of a British royal in 400 years, with nine UK police forces now investigating various allegations against the former prince.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian political debate centres on the return of ISIS brides and their children to Australia, with the Prime Minister expressing contempt for their return while the Opposition offers to work with the government on tightening existing legislation. Mark Butler defends current passport laws, explaining that refusals must be based on strict constitutional grounds determined by national security agencies, noting that approximately 40 people already returned from Syria under the previous government. Jane criticises the Morrison government's laws that Angus Taylor now questions, arguing the government must clarify risk assessments for women who joined a terrorist organisation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 44-year-old man has been arrested following four separate vehicle fires across Greater Sydney overnight. Police responded to reports of two cars alight on Schofield's Farm Road in Tulliwong around 11pm, a third vehicle fire on nearby Queensbury Street, and a fourth car fire in bushland at Oakley Park just before 1.30am. The man remains in custody and has not yet been charged as investigations continue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 33-year-old Perth man has been sentenced to more than 24 years in prison for sexually abusing six children, including a two-month-old baby. Michael Becton pleaded guilty to 77 child sex offences, with police discovering nearly 18,000 photos and videos documenting the abuse. The sentence is one of the longest ever handed down in Western Australia for such crimes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.