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New Epstein files reveal Prince Andrew maintained contact with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein after 2010, contradicting his previous statements. The three million documents include emails showing Andrew sent Christmas cards featuring his daughters to Epstein in 2011 and 2012, and requested meetings with Epstein's associates. Australian figures including former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Catherine Keating, daughter of former PM Paul Keating, are also named in the files, though Rudd denies ever meeting Epstein.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new food trend transforms potato chips into gourmet snacks by loading them with cold cuts, cheeses, and various sauces. Known as 'charcuterie chippies' or 'chippy boys', these creations range from Italian antipasto-style combinations with prosciutto and parmigiano reggiano to vegetarian options with roasted garlic tomatoes and whipped ricotta, and even sweet versions featuring melted peanut butter and chocolate. The trend offers portable, customisable snacks suitable for picnics and casual dining.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Queensland government rebate scheme offering up to $500 for e-bikes and e-scooters resulted in approximately $374,000 being spent on illegal devices. Hundreds of Queenslanders used the rebates to purchase e-bikes and scooters that exceeded the legal maximum speed limit of 25 kilometres per hour. The scheme was designed to encourage active transport among locals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bondi Beach hosted a paddle-out tribute for 12-year-old Nico Antic, who died in a shark attack at Nielsen Park. The North Bondi Surf Lifesaving Club, where Nico was an active member of the Nippers program, organised the memorial gathering. Family, friends, schoolmates, and rugby club members came together to honour the boy whose life was tragically cut short.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian consumers are increasingly using AI-powered tools like ChatGPT and Gemini to research products and make purchasing decisions, with 86% having used AI for shopping research in the last three months. These AI chatbots now feature sponsored content that appears as advice, making it difficult to distinguish between genuine recommendations and paid advertisements. The technology is transforming both online and in-store shopping experiences, from price comparisons to predicting future sales, though concerns exist about accuracy and the need for regulatory oversight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Veteran Mentors is a military-inspired youth development program run by former and current defence personnel for young Australians aged 12 to 17. The nine-day junior leadership program removes technology and focuses on building accountability, confidence and resilience through three phases: self-leadership, teamwork, and leading others. The program includes a three-day reconnection expedition for parents and children to rebuild their relationship away from devices and distractions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Microplastics are infiltrating human bodies through everyday items including kettles, takeaway containers, tea bags, toothbrushes and sunscreen. Dr Scott Wilson, a leading microplastics researcher, explains that these particles cause inflammation and release harmful chemicals into the body, with evidence showing they distribute throughout all organs and systems. Practical alternatives include switching to glass kettles, bamboo toothbrushes, loose leaf tea, wax wraps and microplastic-free sunscreens.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 57-year-old man has been arrested in Lewisham, Sydney's inner west, accused of posing as a fake casting agent to exploit young actors. Police allege he falsified documents and offered fraudulent television opportunities to actors in exchange for sexual activity. The suspect faces 11 charges and has been refused bail.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia's property market is experiencing significant growth, with prices rising an average of 12% last year and up to 20% in Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane. Housing shortages across multiple states are driving prices higher, with the disparity between supply and demand particularly acute in cities like Perth where property values have more than doubled in five years. The Reserve Bank is expected to raise interest rates at its Tuesday meeting, with an 80% likelihood priced in by markets, which would add approximately $220 per month to a million-dollar mortgage.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Liberal Party faces a leadership crisis as Andrew Hastie withdraws from the race against Susan Ley, with Angus Taylor emerging as a potential candidate. The structural tensions between the Liberal and National parties have intensified, with the Nationals' demands pushing the Liberals rightward whilst Teal independents capture metropolitan seats. The junior coalition partner is insisting on leadership changes, creating unprecedented fault lines in Australia's centre-right politics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tough Mudder returns to Melbourne after a six-year absence, featuring obstacle courses that test participants' strength, stamina and mental grit. Over 7,000 participants are competing in the event, which includes various challenges such as electric shock obstacles and the 'Infinity' course that gives competitors nine hours to complete as many obstacles as possible. First-time participants and teams from local gyms are taking part in the gruelling but popular endurance event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gold Coast charity founder Yasmat Bolle faces 51 sexual assault charges allegedly committed between April and November of last year against three women in their 20s who were known to him. Bolle, who established the charity Serving Our People during COVID-19 which feeds approximately 2,000 people weekly across southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales, was not granted bail and appeared at Southport Magistrates Court. Police raided the charity's Mermaid Beach premises before Bolle presented himself at Southport Police headquarters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US Justice Department has released 3.5 million pages of documents known as the Epstein files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The release includes images that appear to be taken by Epstein and associates, along with 2,000 videos made public. The files do not contain the names of men who abused women in connection with the convicted sex offender.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Catherine O'Hara, the acclaimed Canadian actress known for her roles in Home Alone, Schitt's Creek and Beetlejuice, has died at age 71 following a short illness. The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from co-stars including Macaulay Culkin and Pedro Pascal, celebrating her comedic genius and warmth. She was last seen publicly at the Emmys three months ago and was scheduled to begin filming season two of The Studio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Summerland Camels is crowdfunding $1.5 million to expand production of camel milk for the US market, where demand is high but domestic supply is limited. Australia is the only country with disease-free camels, producing milk that averages 3-5 litres per camel daily and is suitable for people with dairy allergies. The farm has developed various products including gelato and the 'camelcino', positioning camel milk as an alternative agricultural product while addressing camel culling issues in Central Australia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Liberal Party leadership tensions continue as Angus Taylor and Andrew Hastie hold discussions about potentially challenging Sussan Ley, but neither has formally stepped forward, leaving Ley as unchallenged leader. The opposition prepares for parliament's return next week without the Nationals as coalition partners. Former Army Chief Peter Leahy calls for Australia to develop its own missile defence dome system, citing advanced rocket technology threats and arguing that geographic distance no longer protects Australian military bases and civilians from potential attacks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sam Mac met some of the fashionistas at Anglicare Castle Hill retirement village in Sydney this morning!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian astronomers have discovered HD 137010 b, a potentially habitable planet located 150 light years from Earth. The planet orbits a sun-like star, is approximately 6% larger than Earth, and has a surface temperature below minus 70 degrees Celsius. Despite being relatively close in galactic terms, the journey to this planet would take tens or hundreds of thousands of years with current technology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sam Mac met some of the fashionistas at Anglicare Castle Hill retirement village in Sydney this morning!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The New South Wales government is considering introducing an additional public holiday on the Monday when Anzac Day falls on a weekend, with Premier Chris Minns consulting the RSL about the proposal. Currently, only the ACT and Western Australia provide this extra day off, while other states have varying arrangements. The hospitality sector opposes the move, warning that up to 75 per cent of their profits go on wages during public holidays and additional penalty rates could force struggling businesses to close.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The parents of 19-year-old Canadian tourist Piper James will travel to Fraser Island (K'gari) where their daughter died earlier this month. Her body was discovered near the Mahino shipwreck, surrounded by dingoes after being attacked by a pack of up to 10, with an autopsy also revealing water in her lungs. A smoking ceremony with traditional owners will take place before her body is repatriated to Canada for a funeral service.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Queensland police are investigating a potential firebug in the Gold Coast region after two suspicious grass fires occurred in Pimpama, located half an hour south of Brisbane. The first fire required 10 crews and several hours to contain, followed by a second deliberately lit blaze five hours later where the perpetrator fled the scene. Authorities are examining multiple fires from the past month to determine if they are connected to a serial arsonist operating during the current dry, hot weather conditions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 16-year-old boy has been found dead in a creek in Blue Gum Forest following a multi-operational search in the New South Wales Blue Mountains. The teenager and a 17-year-old companion were on a three-day camping trip near Mount Hay when they became separated earlier this week. A post-mortem will determine the cause of death.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A kitten from a pet segment goes missing in a television studio after being startled during filming. The rescue operation takes over an hour, with the kitten eventually being lured out from underneath the set using tuna during the following morning show. The presenter who accidentally scared the animal expresses relief when the kitten is safely recovered.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Olympic beach volleyball player Nat Cook reveals she retired $300,000 in debt after five Olympic Games, having mortgaged her parents' house to fund her final campaign. The Great Aussie Athlete Barbecue fundraising initiative aims to support current Olympic athletes facing significant financial burdens from training, travel, equipment, and coaching costs. The Aussie Athlete Fund educates athletes on sustainable fundraising while connecting them with corporate networks and community support through backyard barbecue events.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 27-year-old Victorian man has been arrested after allegedly following an ambulance to Royal Adelaide Hospital and threatening paramedics and a stabbing victim. The victim, a 32-year-old from Victoria, had been seeking help at houses with neck and hand wounds before paramedics transported him to hospital. Police apprehended the suspect on the South Eastern Freeway in a Porsche Macan, and authorities believe the attack was targeted with other potential suspects involved.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canberra experienced its hottest day in years with temperatures reaching 43.5 degrees Celsius in Canberra South. Towns in Queensland's southwest Channel Country recorded even more extreme conditions at 48.5 degrees Celsius, forcing one town to truck in emergency water supplies as the heatwave strains local resources. The scorching temperatures are forecast to remain in the mid-40s throughout the weekend, offering little relief to affected communities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A devastating bushfire in Victoria's southwest has destroyed at least 16 properties and burned through more than 11,000 hectares. Hundreds of residents have evacuated to shelters across the Otways region, while six fires continue to burn out of control across the state. Strong winds have carried smoke as far north as Sydney, and authorities warn the heatwave affecting the northeast continues despite overnight conditions easing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bull sharks are remaining in Sydney waterways for extended periods due to warmer water temperatures and heavy rainfall, with experts confirming shark populations have stayed relatively stable over the past five years according to smart drumline data. A 150-kilogram, 2.5-metre bull shark was recently caught off Clifton Gardens in Sydney Harbour before being donated to scientific research. Central Coast Council is advocating for drone surveillance technology on all patrolled beaches to enhance swimmer safety as environmental conditions continue to attract sharks closer to shore.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chinese authorities are travelling to Brisbane to assist in investigating the August 2024 attack where a 33-year-old Chinese national threw scalding coffee on nine-month-old baby Luca at Stones Corner before fleeing to China. China has extraterritorial jurisdiction, allowing prosecution of Chinese nationals who commit crimes overseas. The baby has required extensive ongoing surgery following the attack.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new documentary titled 'Finding Harmony: A King's Vision' chronicles King Charles' lifelong commitment to environmentalism and sustainable living. The film, narrated by Kate Winslet and His Majesty, was shot across four continents and explores the King's philosophy of harmony, covering sustainable textiles, food, and community skills. The documentary premiered at Windsor Castle with VIP guests including Rod Stewart, Benedict Cumberbatch, Stanley Tucci, and Kenneth Branagh before its public release on Amazon on 6 February.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 49-year-old woman from Springvale was found dead on Eastern Beach near the Children's Pool in Geelong. Police homicide squad arrested a 53-year-old man who was located nearby in the CBD after CCTV footage helped track his movements. Evidence including a shopping trolley and suitcases were found at the scene where lifesavers attempted resuscitation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian actors Rose Byrne and Jacob Elordi have received nominations at the 2026 BAFTA Awards, following their Oscar nominations the previous week. Byrne is nominated for leading actress for her role in 'If I Had Legs I'd Kick You', while Elordi received a nomination for his portrayal of the creature in 'Frankenstein'. Both actors previously won at the Golden Globes and face strong competition in their respective categories.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victoria faces multiple severe bushfire emergencies with the Carlisle River fire impacting Jellybrand township, the Walwa fire experiencing 40-degree temperatures, and new fires at Lara Lee and Rocklands. Emergency warnings remain in place for Jellybrand and surrounding areas, with evacuation orders under review as conditions ease in southern regions. Agricultural assets and structures have been reported lost in the Lara Lee fire, while the Rocklands fire near Grampians National Park has been contained.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Six-year-old Ronnie, a young soccer fan who experienced bullying due to his disability, received a special visit from Hull City player Yu Hirakawa. The professional footballer offered words of comfort and gifted Ronnie his jersey in a heartwarming gesture that has been widely shared online. Ronnie's mother shared the video to promote kindness and awareness.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump is reshuffling immigration enforcement leadership in Minnesota, sending his top border enforcer to Minneapolis to report directly to him. The move follows growing national outrage over the deaths of two people killed by federal immigration agents, including American citizen Alex Petri. Republicans, business leaders and police chiefs are speaking out against the operations, whilst questions mount over whether the leadership change represents genuine policy reform or merely cosmetic adjustments to federal immigration enforcement tactics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New research shows one in three Australians feel guilty about their spending in 2025, with common regrets including excessive travel expenses, impulse purchases, and overspending on children during Christmas. Financial expert Matt Bowen from ING discusses the diverse money mistakes people make, from buying premium dating app subscriptions to purchasing unverified vehicles online. Saving money remains one of the most popular New Year's resolutions, though most people struggle to maintain their financial goals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian actor Josh Lawson stars as Dr. Bruce in the US hospital comedy St. Dennis Medical, which returns for its second season after scoring big ratings in America. The mockumentary-style series is created by the makers of The Office and Parks and Recreation. Lawson discusses his approach to mastering the American accent by staying in character throughout each workday and adapting to the fast-paced comedic timing required on set.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian Posing School in Mascot, Sydney, is the only dedicated posing school in Australia where bodybuilders prepare for competitions by learning and refining their posing techniques. The facility provides professional training and coaching for competitors looking to perfect their stage presentation. Weather forecasts across Australian capital cities show extreme heat conditions, with Melbourne reaching 45 degrees and Adelaide hitting 41 degrees.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Flag burning at an Invasion Day protest in Brisbane has reignited debate about criminalising desecration of the Australian flag, with 77% of Australians supporting such laws. Medical experts are calling for mandatory five-minute daily sunscreen application time in schools to reduce skin cancer rates. Sydney Harbour ranks third on a new list of the world's 20 most romantic landmarks, behind Switzerland's Matterhorn Mountain and Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni salt flats.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A discussion about Australian barbecue etiquette centres on what guests should bring when hosts say "don't bring a thing". Suggestions include salad, dessert, chocolates, tomato and barbecue sauce, and Zooper Doopers. The debate extends to whether wine brought as a gift should be returned to guests if not consumed during the barbecue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian households face electricity bill increases of up to 24% before July, adding approximately $500 to costs for average three-person households, as federal government energy rebates end. The Australian Bureau of Statistics figures show energy levels will be higher than before relief measures began, despite over 18 gigawatts of renewable energy added to the grid. Political debate centres on whether renewable energy transition or return to coal-fired power stations offers the solution to rising costs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Super Mario Bros. movie sequel is confirmed for April release, featuring Chris Pratt as Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, and introducing Yoshi to the adventure. Ralph Fiennes, the original Voldemort actor, has seemingly confirmed that Cillian Murphy will play the iconic villain in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter TV series set for release next year. The production team has not yet officially confirmed Murphy's casting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Frank Mitchell, a proud First Nations man and business owner, has been named the 2026 Australian of the Year Local Hero for his commitment to social justice. Since 2015, he has created over 70 Aboriginal upskilling positions in the construction industry. Mitchell advocates for decolonising workplaces and building frameworks to support First Nations people in construction, drawing from his own journey as a single father who began with an electrical apprenticeship.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sam Mac broadcasts live from the Sydney Opera House, where artist Gary Purchase's work 'Dancing in the Moonlight' is on display. The morning coverage includes a comprehensive weather forecast across Australia, with temperatures ranging from 20 degrees in Albany to 47 degrees in Ceduna. The broadcast will feature the Australia Day 10K wheelchair race taking place in the Rocks precinct.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Police bomb squad conducts 12 controlled explosions at an Airbnb property in Keilor East, Melbourne, after discovering multiple unexploded devices. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heavily armed police have established a major crime scene in Keilor East, Melbourne's northwest, after discovering an explosive device in a residential street. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Donald Trump has sparked international outrage by claiming NATO troops stayed back from the front lines during the Afghanistan war, despite hundreds of allied soldiers being killed in combat. UK Prime Minister called the remarks insulting and appalling, demanding an apology, while Prince Harry, who served in Afghanistan, released a statement defending the sacrifices of fallen NATO troops and their families.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Liberal Party leadership contest intensifies as Angus Taylor and Andrew Hastie canvas support from colleagues. Sussan Ley faces mounting pressure as opposition leader after the Nationals declared they would prefer to operate independently rather than continue under her leadership. David Littleproud enjoys strong support from his party following the split.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clear protein is a new formulation of protein powder that undergoes additional processing to remove lactose, carbohydrates and fats, resulting in a transparent, refreshing drink that dissolves completely. Unlike traditional milky protein shakes with flavours like chocolate and vanilla, clear protein comes in fruity flavours and contains fewer calories per serving. The recommended daily protein intake is 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight, which can be obtained through these supplements or whole food sources like lean meats and dairy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.