Police in New South Wales are set to carry long-arm rifles at the final Ashes Test in Sydney as a precaution following a recent terror attack in Bondi. Meanwhile, Melbourne is reeling from a fatal shooting in Fitzroy, and a missing worker is feared trapped underground after a mine collapse in Queensland. In a lighter note, a rare pink platypus has been spotted in Gippsland, drawing attention for its unusual coloration.

Heightened Security at Ashes Test
The New South Wales police have announced that officers will carry long-arm rifles during the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), which begins on Sunday. This decision follows the Bondi terror attack, although authorities have clarified that there is no active threat. The police chief stated that the presence of these weapons is intended to help the public feel safe during the event. Similar security measures were previously implemented during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne and New Year’s Eve celebrations in Sydney.

Fatal Shooting in Fitzroy
A man was shot dead in Melbourne’s inner north late Saturday night, prompting a homicide investigation. Gunshots were reported at the intersection of Brunswick and King William streets in Fitzroy just after midnight. Police arrived on the scene to find the victim with life-threatening injuries. Despite immediate medical attention, he succumbed to his wounds. Authorities are currently working to gather more information about the incident and any potential suspects.

Mine Collapse in Queensland
Rescue efforts are underway at the Curragh coalmine in central Queensland, where a roof collapse has left one worker missing and another hospitalized. The incident occurred around 3 PM on Friday. Two workers were successfully recovered, but the search continues for the missing man, who is believed to be trapped approximately 1 kilometer underground. Emergency services are coordinating efforts to locate him and ensure the safety of all personnel involved.

Prime Minister Rejects Royal Commission
In response to the Bondi terror attack, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has firmly rejected calls for a royal commission. During a press conference, he emphasized the need to avoid lengthy investigations, recalling that similar incidents in the past did not warrant such measures. Albanese expressed his sense of responsibility following the attack and criticized the opposition for politicizing the tragedy.

Unusual Pink Platypus Spotted
In a lighter story, a fisherman in Gippsland has captured footage of a rare pink platypus, which he has affectionately named Pinky. The sighting occurred during his first trout fishing trip of the season. Biologist Jeff Williams noted that while the platypus's coloring is unusual, it is not classified as albino but rather a lighter variant of the species. This discovery has sparked interest among wildlife enthusiasts and highlights the natural diversity of Australia’s fauna.

Wrap-up
Recent events across Australia highlight a mix of heightened security concerns and intriguing wildlife discoveries. While the community grapples with incidents of violence and safety, the sighting of a unique pink platypus offers a reminder of the country's rich biodiversity.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team