Sunrise

Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela's former president, is in custody at a New York detention centre following a CIA-led military operation that extracted him from Venezuela in the dead of night. The Trump administration has announced it will run Venezuela until a stable government is installed, whilst China and Russia have condemned the intervention and demanded Maduro's immediate release. The operation involved months of intelligence gathering, including a double agent within Maduro's inner circle, and has sparked debate about the precedent it sets for international military intervention.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New childcare reforms guarantee all eligible Australian families three days of subsidised childcare per week, removing activity requirements for the first 72 hours of fortnightly care. Households earning up to a combined $530,000 can now access the subsidy without meeting work or study requirements for these initial three days, with activity tests only applying to additional days of care. The changes aim to help parents return to the workforce while providing children access to regulated early childhood education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Robert Irwin has grown a moustache during the 2026 holiday period, embracing his new facial hair look with references to Top Gun and Magnum P.I. His mother Terri Irwin is not enthusiastic about the new moustache, which features a hint of ginger colouring reminiscent of Tom Selleck's iconic look.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured in an extraordinary CIA-led operation and transported to New York. The mission involved Delta Force and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, supported by recruited assets within the Maduro government and a cyber attack that plunged Caracas into darkness at 2:01am local time. Former CIA agent Mike Baker explains the extensive planning, intelligence gathering, and rehearsals required for such high-risk operations, drawing parallels to the bin Laden raid.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

iFLY features Australia's largest wind tunnel where instructors and competitors practice indoor skydiving. Competitor Donnie demonstrates advanced flying techniques, racing through specific patterns at high speeds as part of competitive wind tunnel flying. Beginners start in the traditional belly-down skydiving position to learn body control and wind navigation before progressing to more complex manoeuvres.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Billy Joel performed a two-song set with a cover band in Florida, marking his first stage appearance since revealing his brain disorder diagnosis in February 2023. BTS, the South Korean boy band, has confirmed their return as a full group in 2026 with plans for a new album and tour after a three-year hiatus. Taylor Swift has made history by joining the Beatles as the only acts to achieve the biggest album of the year in two consecutive years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Major film studios are releasing highly anticipated sequels throughout 2025, including The Devil Wears Prada 2 with Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway in April, Marvel's Spider-Man 4 and Avengers Doomsday, Scream 7 in February, and Practical Magic 2 in September. Family franchises return with Toy Story 5 in June, a Super Mario Galaxy film in April, and The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping in November. Additional sequels include new instalments of Mortal Kombat and Jumanji releasing throughout the year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australians are increasingly embracing traditional hobbies like crochet, baking and gardening as they seek alternatives to screen time. Google searches for crochet kits have surged 250% over two years, while searches for sourdough starter and gardening gloves have doubled. The trend reflects a growing interest in hands-on, creative activities traditionally associated with older generations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brisbane Lions co-captain Lachie Neale has stepped down from his leadership role following personal issues, including a marriage breakdown with long-term partner Jules. The 32-year-old midfielder made the decision after 12 months of consideration, acknowledging he let his family down and needs to rebuild trust. The club now faces the question of whether Harris Andrews will continue as sole captain or if another player will step into the co-captaincy vacancy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A retired mother from Adelaide has claimed the $20 million Christmas Day Powerball prize after the winning ticket sat unchecked in her purse for weeks. The winner plans to use the funds to support her family and donate to charities close to her heart. Lottery officials confirmed the prize was finally claimed as 2025 drew to a close.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stranger Things creators the Duffer Brothers have announced plans for a new spin-off series featuring a different decade and characters while remaining connected to the Stranger Things universe. Chris Hemsworth appears as Thor in the first footage from Avengers Doomsday, showing the character caring for his daughter. Zootopia 2 has become Disney's highest-grossing animated film with 2.1 billion Australian dollars, surpassing Frozen 2, while ABBA's Gimme Gimme Gimme has re-entered the global Spotify chart at number 29.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cardiologists are warning Australians about a surge in heart attacks and cardiac stress during the Christmas and New Year period. The combination of overindulgence, alcohol consumption, heat, disrupted sleep patterns and sudden increases in exercise creates dangerous conditions for heart health. Dr David O'Donnell recommends focusing on five key pillars of heart health: exercise, sleep, alcohol moderation, nutrition and stress management, while emphasising the importance of cardiac screening for those over 45.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Selma Blair, Hollywood actress known for Cruel Intentions and Legally Blonde, shares her journey living with multiple sclerosis since her 2018 diagnosis. After years of unexplained symptoms, she underwent chemotherapy and stem cell transplant treatment and is now relapse-free. The actress has partnered with Australian skincare brand ESK and its founder, Sunrise GP Dr Ginny Mansberg, becoming an investor in the company.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 17-year-old Sydney boy is facing attempted murder charges after an allegedly stolen Porsche crashed into a Guildford golf course following a high-speed police pursuit on Monday. Detectives allege the teenager was involved in underworld plans for a public shooting. The boy has been charged with multiple offences, refused bail, and is appearing in children's court.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three people drowned in separate incidents on New Year's Day along the New South Wales coastline, with two people still missing at sea. Lifesavers conducted more than 100 rescues between Christmas Day and New Year's Eve as large and dangerous swells threatened beachgoers. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a hazardous surf warning for the entire NSW coastline, with all drownings occurring at unpatrolled locations without lifeguards on duty.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A devastating fire broke out at Le Constellation Bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, just after midnight on New Year's Day, killing approximately 40 people and injuring more than 100. Witnesses reported seeing champagne sparklers ignite the bar's flammable roof material during New Year's Eve celebrations at the popular alpine ski resort. Emergency services deployed 42 ambulances and 13 helicopters, with many victims in critical condition overwhelming local medical facilities, while authorities work to identify victims from multiple countries including 16 missing Italians.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A coastal carpet python hitched an eight-hour ride from Toowoomba, Queensland to the Central Coast of New South Wales by hiding on top of a family's fuel tank. The Australian Reptile Park's resident wrangler Dylan Wallace safely removed the snake after the family discovered it upon arrival at the park. Coastal carpet pythons are not native to the Central Coast area, and the family likely had their hands near the snake multiple times while refuelling during the journey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2025 Diving Chess World Championships crowned Zion Collin as victor after he defeated 39 opponents in this hybrid sport. Players must hold their breath underwater while moving pieces across custom-built, weighted magnetic chessboards submerged beneath the surface. The competition combines traditional chess strategy with freediving endurance skills.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Non-alcoholic beverage sales have surged by almost 20% in the last year, with more Australians choosing to reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption, particularly among younger generations. This shift is driven by health consciousness, increased participation in fitness activities like park runs and marathons, and cost of living pressures, with drinks at venues reaching as high as $19.75 for a pint. New Year's Eve 2025 reflects this broader trend, with many Australians opting for earlier, more sober celebrations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nutritionist Sarah DiLorenzo provides guidance on making healthier alcohol choices for New Year's Eve celebrations. She identifies high-calorie drinks like piña coladas and cocktails containing soft drinks, and offers lower-calorie alternatives using soda water and mineral water instead of sugary mixers. The segment includes a demonstration of making a skinny margarita and a hangover remedy using coconut water, honey and banana.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

British boxer Anthony Joshua was hospitalised following a car crash near Lagos, Nigeria, that killed two members of his entourage. The accident occurred when the SUV he was travelling in suffered a burst tyre and crashed into a stationary truck on one of Nigeria's most dangerous roads. Joshua had been in Nigeria celebrating his recent knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami, just one week before the fatal incident.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Record rainfall has caused severe flooding across outback Queensland, with up to 500 millimetres already recorded near Julia Creek, creating an inland sea. Major flood warnings are in place for the Flinders River and Mount Isa region, with communities cut off as roads have turned to rivers. The Carpentaria Council is organising emergency deliveries of essential supplies, while a separate weather system continues to drench the north tropical coast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A man has been arrested in Western Sydney after a Porsche suspected to be a gangland kill car crashed into Woodville Golf Course following a high-speed police pursuit near Guildford. Police seized a gun and jerry can of fuel from the vehicle after the driver fled on foot, with the arrest made by the dog squad.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A woman was filmed balancing on a chair while cleaning windows on the 16th floor of a peninsula building in Surfers Paradise. The footage, captured by a concerned neighbour, shows the woman performing the dangerous task at significant height. The incident has sparked online discussion about the risks people take during routine cleaning activities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Record rainfall has caused severe flooding across outback Queensland, with up to 500 millimetres already recorded near Julia Creek, creating an inland sea. Major flood warnings are in place for the Flinders River and Mount Isa region, with communities cut off as roads have turned to rivers. The Carpentaria Council is organising emergency deliveries of essential supplies, while a separate weather system continues to drench the north tropical coast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

British boxer Anthony Joshua was hospitalised following a car crash near Lagos, Nigeria, that killed two members of his entourage. The accident occurred when the SUV he was travelling in suffered a burst tyre and crashed into a stationary truck on one of Nigeria's most dangerous roads. Joshua had been in Nigeria celebrating his recent knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami, just one week before the fatal incident.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malaysian Airlines flight MH370, which disappeared in 2014 with 239 people on board including six Australians, will be the subject of a new 55-day search operation beginning this week. Private robotics company Ocean Infinity will use advanced satellite tracking and radio wave interference analysis technology to locate the aircraft wreckage in waters approximately three kilometres deep. The search aims to recover the aircraft's black boxes, which could reveal what happened during the flight's final moments.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Home burglaries increase by up to 19% during the summer holiday period in Australia, with 31% of homes still being left unlocked. Security experts recommend locking all doors and gates, avoiding hiding spare keys under rocks or pot plants, using motion sensor lighting, maintaining the appearance of an occupied home, and ensuring electronic security systems are serviced before leaving for holidays. Neighbours or family should be enlisted to maintain regular activities like bin collection and keeping driveways occupied.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and e-scooters have caused almost 300 fires in New South Wales in 2025, with injuries doubling since 2024. The NSW Coroner's Court has launched a major inquiry into the dangers of these batteries. NSW Fire and Rescue Commissioner Jeremy Futrell recommends purchasing reputable brands with Australian compliance standards, proper charging practices, and installing smoke alarms in garages where these devices are typically charged.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Families of the Bondi terror attack victims are calling on the federal government to launch a royal commission into anti-Semitism, despite Prime Minister Anthony Albanese rejecting the proposal. New South Wales police will carry long-arm weapons at Sydney's New Year's Eve celebrations for the first time, with the Premier also considering deploying the army to protect Jewish communities. The debate centres on whether a royal commission or review is the appropriate response to investigate the attack and rising anti-Semitism in Australia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brigitte Bardot, the iconic French actress and singer who revolutionised 1960s cinema, has died aged 91 at her home in the south of France. The blonde bombshell starred in nearly 50 films including the controversial 1956 hit 'And God Created Woman', which was banned by the Vatican for being too sexualised. After retiring from acting in 1973, Bardot devoted her later life to animal rights activism, establishing the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, though her legacy remains complicated by later controversies including fines for inciting racial hatred.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A major fire has broken out at an abandoned house in North Lakes, Brisbane's north, prompting a large-scale evacuation of the surrounding area. Seven fire crews were deployed to the single-storey property just after 6 o'clock to battle the blaze. Authorities believe the house was likely occupied by squatters and are conducting property checks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Robert Irwin has offered Australia Zoo as a wedding venue for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, suggesting the location would provide a nature-filled ceremony. The offer joins other celebrity contributions, including Martha Stewart's offer to organise the wedding. Current reports indicate the couple is considering a luxurious Rhode Island venue with a tentative date of 13 June next year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

71% of Australians have already set resolutions for 2026 before the new year begins. Physical health tops the list, with a third aiming to get fitter and eat healthier, while 25% want to lose weight. Other popular goals include improving sleep quality, achieving better work-life balance, starting meditation practices, and prioritising travel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guide Dogs Australia is conducting its Christmas appeal donation drive to support guide dogs and therapy dogs for Australians. The weather forecast shows warm, sunny conditions across most Australian capital cities, with temperatures ranging from 24 degrees in Sydney to 39 degrees in Alice Springs. Guide dog puppies are featured during the weekend sunrise weather segment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New South Wales police are deploying extra officers across Sydney for New Year's Eve celebrations, with Premier Chris Minns encouraging residents to attend harbour festivities following the Bondi terror attack. The security response includes sniffer dogs, long-arm patrols and officers recalled from leave to ensure public safety. Meanwhile, 71% of Australians have already begun their 2026 resolutions, with 32% focussing on fitness and healthy eating goals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sam Kerr is set to marry fiancée Christy Mewis on New Year's Eve in Perth, with their seven-month-old son Jagger accompanying the Matildas captain down the aisle in a matching outfit. The couple are considering attending the Men's World Cup for their honeymoon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reuven Morrison was killed confronting one of the shooters during the Bondi terror attack. His family has joined calls for a royal commission into anti-Semitism, stating they have not heard from the Prime Minister or his office since the attack. Foreign Minister Penny Wong has apologised to Australia's Jewish community and acknowledged the government could have done more, while the Albanese government has announced a review of intelligence and security agencies instead of a royal commission.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Severe flooding warnings are in effect across Queensland, with the northwest region expecting up to 500 millimetres of rain over three to five days in areas west of Richmond, Mount Isa, and Julia Creek. The tropical north, including Mackay, Townsville, Cairns, and Cooktown, faces 50 to 150 millimetres of localised heavy rainfall expected mid next week. SES centres are preparing for potential flooding in already sodden regions like Ingham, which experienced flooding less than a year ago.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A television broadcast concludes on Christmas Eve with hosts discussing children's Christmas wishes, including a Nintendo Switch 2 and cameras. The presenters thank their production team and wish viewers a merry Christmas before signing off until Boxing Day, with one host travelling to Melbourne for the holiday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sunrise television hosts Wayne Eddy and his co-host compete in a Christmas-themed game called Reindeer Ring Toss on the morning before Christmas. The challenge involves throwing rings onto reindeer antlers within 60 seconds, with elves assisting in the festive competition. The host defeats Wayne Eddy in the final tally of successful ring tosses.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Twelve people remain hospitalised ten days after a terror attack in Sydney, with five in critical but stable condition. Constable Scott Dyson has woken from a medically induced coma following multiple surgeries, while police officer Jack Hibbert, who lost vision and an eye after being shot, has been released to spend Christmas with his family.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New South Wales Parliament has passed significant gun and protest legislation in response to the Bondi terror attack. The bill cleared the upper house on Christmas Eve with support from Labor and the Liberals, while the Nationals opposed the reforms, splitting the coalition. The Greens supported the gun law changes but rejected the public assembly provisions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Courtney Roulston demonstrates three simple no-cook appetiser recipes perfect for Christmas entertaining using Alina's Bakehouse and Ritz Crackers. The recipes include fig and black olive crackers topped with blue cheese, fresh figs, thyme and honey; Dayton apricot crackers with brie, prosciutto, peaches and basil; and Ritz cracker sandwiches filled with cream cheese, smoked salmon, chives and lemon, garnished with dill or bagel seasoning. Tips are shared for creating an impressive cheese platter using seasonal ingredients, herbs and simple presentation techniques.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One in 100 packages are damaged, lost or stolen during delivery in Australia, with 110 million parcels moving through networks this holiday season. Sydney and Melbourne experience the highest rates of porch piracy, with organised and opportunistic criminals targeting doorstep deliveries. Freight insurance experts recommend choosing reputable couriers, using sturdy packaging, and purchasing transit insurance to protect Christmas gifts, noting that 80% of claims involve damage rather than theft.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ambulance Victoria is preparing for its busiest period of the year as the festive season approaches, with triple zero calls expected to surge from an average of 2,500 to higher numbers on Christmas Day. Common seasonal injuries include falls from high-risk activities like skateboarding, barbecue burns, alcohol-related incidents, and champagne cork injuries. Paramedics are urging Australians to exercise caution, utilise alternative medical services like urgent care centres and the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department for non-life-threatening emergencies, and maintain vigilance around pools during the holiday period.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New polling reveals three quarters of Australians support tougher gun laws, with support spanning 80-82% across Labor, Coalition and One Nation voters. The polling comes as questions emerge about enforcement of existing firearms legislation and concerns about illegal weapons. Meanwhile, comedian Rowan Atkinson has sparked debate about voice notes, arguing they shift the communication burden from sender to receiver.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New data reveals that over a third of Australian gift buyers purchase their Christmas presents in the week leading up to Christmas, with 9% buying gifts on Christmas Day itself. The research highlights the tendency for Australian shoppers to leave their festive shopping until the last minute. Cash and vouchers emerge as popular gift choices, particularly for those avoiding the crowded shopping centres during the holiday rush.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Southeastern Queensland is experiencing extreme heat with temperatures reaching 36 degrees in Brisbane and 33 degrees on the Gold Coast. A high fire danger rating is currently in effect across the region. The heatwave conditions are expected to ease by midweek.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Beckham family is experiencing a public rift, with younger son Cruz revealing on Instagram that eldest son Brooklyn blocked his parents David and Victoria on social media. The family conflict reportedly stems from Brooklyn's wedding to wife Nicola Peltz, with no resolution expected before Christmas despite Victoria hanging a Christmas stocking for Brooklyn as a potential peace gesture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.