Australia witnessed a diverse array of events recently, including a surge in snake handling courses, a record-breaking performance by bagpipe players, captivating marine wildlife footage, the appearance of a supermoon over Sydney, and significant protests against a weapons expo in Sydney. These events highlight the cultural, environmental, and social dynamics currently shaping Australian society.

Snake Handling Boom

In Queensland, the demand for professional snake handling has surged, prompting an increase in training courses for aspiring snake catchers. Joe Hinchcliffe from Guardian Australia attended a venomous snake handling course led by herpetologists Christina Zdenek and Chris Hay. They reported a notable rise in the number of snake catchers across all Australian states, attributing this trend to a growing human population that increases interactions with snakes. The course aims to equip individuals with the skills necessary to safely manage encounters with some of the world's most venomous snakes, reflecting a broader societal interest in wildlife management and safety.

Record-Breaking Bagpipe Performance

In Melbourne, a remarkable gathering of musicians took place at Federation Square, where 374 bagpipe players performed AC/DC's "It's a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock’n’Roll)" in an attempt to set a new world record for the largest bagpipe ensemble. This event surpassed the previous record of 333 players set in Bulgaria in 2012. The performance not only showcased the musical talent within the community but also highlighted the cultural significance of bagpipes in Australia, celebrating both local and international music heritage.

Marine Wildlife Insights

Scientists have captured rare footage that reveals the unique relationship between remora fish and humpback whales. The video, taken with camera tags attached to the whales, shows remora fish gripping onto the whales, feeding on their shed skin, and re-attaching after releasing. This footage provides valuable insights into the symbiotic relationship between the species, emphasizing the ecological dynamics of marine life.

Supermoon Over Sydney

Sydney's Bondi Beach was treated to a spectacular view of November's supermoon, described as the largest supermoon of 2025. The moon appeared particularly large due to its proximity to Earth and the phenomenon known as the moon illusion, which makes celestial bodies appear larger when near the horizon. The event attracted attention from both locals and tourists, showcasing the natural beauty of the Australian night sky.

Protests at Sydney Weapons Expo

In Sydney, a significant protest took place outside the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition, where hundreds gathered to voice their opposition to the presence of Israeli weapons companies at the event. The demonstration, organized by the Palestine Action Group, saw participants chanting slogans such as "hands off the West Bank" and "hands off Gaza." The protest resulted in twelve arrests, as law enforcement worked to maintain order and prevent disruptions to the expo. The event highlights ongoing tensions surrounding international arms trade and its implications for global conflicts.

Wrap-up

These events reflect a vibrant and complex tapestry of Australian life, from the increasing popularity of wildlife management to cultural celebrations and social activism. The surge in snake handling courses underscores a growing awareness of human-wildlife interactions, while the record-breaking bagpipe ensemble celebrates community spirit and musical heritage. Meanwhile, the protests at the Sydney weapons expo illustrate the ongoing debates surrounding international arms trade and its ethical implications.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team