New South Wales Premier Chris Minns' chief of staff, James Cullen, is contesting a court's ability to compel him to testify in a parliamentary inquiry. This legal battle coincides with alarming reports of hundreds of sharks feeding in the shallow waters near Byron Bay, prompting safety warnings for local swimmers and snorkelers. Meanwhile, the eSafety commissioner has raised concerns about the impact of social media regulations on teenagers, and Pinterest has made predictions about visual trends for 2026.

Legal Challenge for Chief of Staff
James Cullen is seeking to avoid giving evidence in a parliamentary inquiry regarding the leaking of confidential information about the proposed sale of Rosehill racecourse. His legal team argues that compelling him to testify could politicize the judicial process. The case is currently before the New South Wales court of appeal, where Cullen's barrister expressed concerns about the potential implications of the court's involvement in political matters.

Shark Feeding Frenzy at Byron Bay
In a dramatic turn of events, hundreds of sharks have been spotted feeding on a large school of baitfish off the coast of Byron Bay. The phenomenon has attracted significant attention from locals and visitors alike, with footage of the feeding frenzy circulating widely. Experts have issued warnings for swimmers and snorkelers to avoid the waters during this time, highlighting the presence of various shark species, including blacktip whalers and bull sharks.

Teenagers and Social Media Regulations
In related news, eSafety commissioner Inman Grant has commented on the ongoing social media ban affecting under-16s. She noted that the enforcement of this ban has been challenging, particularly with larger social media companies. Grant anticipates that as the ban continues, teenagers may lose interest in social media, leading to significant changes in their online behavior. The commissioner emphasized the varying responses from companies, suggesting that some are more cooperative than others in adapting to the new regulations.

Pinterest Trends for 2026
Pinterest has released its predictions for visual trends expected to dominate in 2026, based on search data. The platform forecasts a shift towards aesthetics such as "glitchy glam," "aliencore," and "poetcore," reflecting a growing interest in maximalism and individuality. These trends are anticipated to influence various creative fields, from fashion to interior design, as users seek to express their unique identities.

Wrap-up
The legal proceedings involving James Cullen highlight the intersection of politics and the judicial system in New South Wales. Simultaneously, the shark feeding frenzy near Byron Bay raises public safety concerns, while developments in social media regulations and Pinterest's trend forecasts reflect broader societal shifts. As these stories unfold, they underscore the dynamic nature of local news in Australia.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team