Former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn is in an induced coma due to meningitis, while Sydney prepares for a large-scale New Year’s Eve celebration in the wake of a recent terror attack. Meanwhile, passengers aboard the Coral Adventurer share contrasting accounts of a dramatic incident during their cruise, and an unusual pink platypus has been spotted in Gippsland, sparking curiosity among wildlife enthusiasts.

Health Crisis for Former Cricketer
Damien Martyn, a 54-year-old former Australian Test cricketer, is currently hospitalized and in an induced coma after being diagnosed with meningitis. He was admitted on Boxing Day, and according to former AFL player Brad Hardie, Martyn is facing a serious health battle. Martyn represented Australia in 67 Test matches from 1992 to 2006, and his condition has raised concerns among fans and the cricket community.

Sydney Prepares for New Year’s Eve
As Sydney gears up for its first New Year’s Eve celebration since the Bondi terror attack, Premier Chris Minns has urged residents to embrace the festivities with pride. More than one million people are expected to gather in the city, with key viewing spots for the fireworks already reaching capacity. Minns encouraged Sydneysiders to celebrate defiantly, stating that police are on high alert to ensure public safety during the event.

Diverging Accounts from Coral Adventurer Passengers
Passengers returning from the Coral Adventurer have provided mixed reactions regarding an incident where the cruise ship ran aground on a reef off Papua New Guinea. Ursula Daus described the situation as chaotic and life-threatening, leading her to vow never to travel with the cruise line again. However, other passengers expressed a more positive experience upon landing in Cairns, indicating a divide in perceptions of the event.

Prime Minister Defends Decision Against Royal Commission
In response to calls for a royal commission into the Bondi shooting, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has stood firm against such measures. At a press conference, he emphasized the desire to avoid prolonged inquiries, drawing parallels to past incidents where no royal commissions were conducted, such as the Port Arthur massacre and the Lindt cafe siege. Albanese acknowledged the weight of responsibility following the attack while criticizing the opposition for politicizing the issue.

Rare Pink Platypus Spotted
In Gippsland, a rare pink platypus has been observed by angler Cody Stylianou during a fishing trip. Stylianou, who filmed the unusual creature, has chosen to keep the location secret to protect the animal. According to biologist Jeff Williams, the platypus, nicknamed "Pinky," exhibits lighter coloring than typical specimens, but it is not considered an albino. Williams noted that variations in platypus color are not uncommon.

Wrap-up
These stories reflect a range of significant events in Australia, from health crises and public celebrations to wildlife encounters and political decisions. The nation's resilience is highlighted as it navigates these diverse challenges.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team