Sunrise

Amazon MGM Studios has begun auditions for the 26th James Bond film, with casting director Nina Gold leading the search. Current top contenders include Calum Turner and Aaron Taylor-Johnson. The casting process has sparked debate about whether the iconic 007 role should remain male or potentially be played by a woman for the first time in the franchise's history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A group of Australian passengers are returning home after being stranded on the MV Hondias cruise ship, which was infected with the deadly Hunter virus and left in the Canary Islands. The evacuees, who have tested negative for the virus, departed from the Netherlands via Dubai and are expected to arrive at RAAF Base Pearce outside Perth at 11am local time. Upon arrival, they will undergo three weeks of quarantine at Bullsbrook Centre for National Resilience, following three deaths and 11 confirmed cases from the outbreak.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Magic Round brings approximately 150,000 rugby league fans to Brisbane, with 40% travelling from interstate or New Zealand. The event generates a $40 million economic boost for Brisbane over just a few days, including a 22% increase in hotel room nights and $14 million in additional hotel revenue. The event benefits flights, hotels, restaurants, and bars throughout the city, particularly in the Caxton Street precinct.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Donald Trump met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, where the two leaders engaged in a 14-second handshake. The lengthy handshake drew comparisons to Trump's previous handshake encounter with King Charles, which occurred weeks earlier and featured similar power dynamics including Trump's characteristic power pat technique.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian singer Delta Goodrem has qualified for the Eurovision grand final after delivering a standout performance in the semi-final. The announcement confirms her progression to the competition's final stage. Her semi-final performance is being described as one of the best Australian performances in the contest's history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A National Road Safety Week study reveals that 50% of Gen Z drivers and 40% of millennials admit to taking photos or videos while driving, with even more reading texts at traffic lights. The behaviour is attributed to shortened attention spans from social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, as well as increased phone addiction across all age groups. Despite high fines and demerit points, the dangerous practice remains prevalent, with truck drivers reporting they can easily spot distracted drivers looking down at their devices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A worker went viral on social media after calling in sick just 20 minutes before their shift was due to start, sparking debate about workplace etiquette and employee responsibility. The incident prompted discussion about work ethic standards, with business owners highlighting the difficulties of managing last-minute staff absences. While sick leave is an entitlement for Australian workers, the extremely short notice period was criticised as unprofessional and disruptive to business operations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maria, a student from Catch Arena Senior College in the Tiwi Islands, designed a football jersey featuring cultural elements including Frangipani flowers, Tokopini birds, and turtles. The design was showcased during Sir Doug Nicholls Round, with each element representing personal connections to her home in Melville Island and Tiwi culture. Maria also competed in the Santos Aboriginal Power Cup, where her team faced challenging conditions and Year 12 opposition, while pursuing her dream of playing in the AFLW.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brisbane climber Oliver Foran survived a dramatic avalanche that crashed into his camp at 6.5 kilometres above sea level on Mount Everest, capturing the terrifying moment on his phone as the snow tsunami destroyed tents around him. Despite this close call and earlier setbacks from altitude sickness, Foran remains on track to break the world record for the fastest climb from sea to summit within 66 days, having already cycled through India during a brutal heatwave. He is undertaking the challenge to raise funds for youth mental health charity U-Turn and in memory of his mother.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hollywood actor Kevin Costner has been spotted around Brisbane, shopping in New Farm, visiting James Street, and attending a Brisbane Lions match at the Gabba. The Oscar-winning Yellowstone star is currently in the city filming the new production Honeymoon with Harry alongside Jake Gyllenhaal and Sarah Pidgeon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 72-year-old grandmother named Wendy has decorated the front of her Paradise Point home on the Gold Coast with an extensive collection of rubber ducks in various themes and outfits. The display, which began as a joke during COVID when her daughter mailed her some ducks, has attracted a complaint to the body corporate from someone claiming it doesn't fit the luxury aesthetic of the area. Hundreds of local residents have rallied behind Wendy in defiance, donating even more ducks to support her cheerful display.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Magic Round, the four-day rugby league festival, is underway in Queensland with matches taking place at the Cauldron in Brisbane. The Women's State of Origin opened the event with New South Wales claiming victory. Tonight's doubleheader features the Sharks versus the Bulldogs, followed by South Sydney, with Magic Land precinct opening at midday for families.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Celebrity chef Miguel Maestre demonstrates how to make fresh pici pasta from scratch on morning television, showing viewers a traditional Tuscan hand-rolled pasta technique paired with a simple fresh tomato and prawn sauce. The segment promotes the Good Food and Wine Show, an annual Australian culinary event celebrating local and international cuisines for over 25 years. Miguel emphasises the simplicity of Italian cooking, using basic ingredients like egg yolks, flour, fresh tomatoes, garlic, chilli and prawns to create an authentic rustic dish.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Celebrity chef Miguel Maestre demonstrates how to make fresh pici pasta from scratch on morning television, showing viewers a traditional Tuscan hand-rolled pasta technique paired with a simple fresh tomato and prawn sauce. The segment promotes the Good Food and Wine Show, an annual Australian culinary event celebrating local and international cuisines for over 25 years. Miguel emphasises the simplicity of Italian cooking, using basic ingredients like egg yolks, flour, fresh tomatoes, garlic, chilli and prawns to create an authentic rustic dish.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump has arrived in Beijing for his first visit in nearly a decade to meet with President Xi Jinping for high-stakes diplomatic talks. The discussions are expected to focus on pressuring Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global trade. Technology issues and Taiwan are also key items on the agenda.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A deadly Hunter virus outbreak originating from a cruise ship has reached 11 reported cases, with Australian passengers stranded in the Netherlands as countries refuse refuelling stops due to infection fears. The virus, transmitted primarily from rodents, has caused over 100 human cases in Argentina this year, with severe symptoms requiring intensive life support treatment in some patients. Infectious disease experts indicate the virus has low mutation potential and limited transmission capability, though its severity warrants strict quarantine and protective measures.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Princess Kate has completed her first solo overseas trip since announcing her cancer is in remission, visiting Reggio Emilia in northern Italy. The two-day visit focused on early childhood research and development, with the Princess receiving a warm welcome from crowds in the town square. This marks her first solo international appearance in more than three years, following her cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy treatment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Coalition has announced a plan to block new migrants from accessing welfare benefits until they become Australian citizens. Currently, non-citizens can access 17 different welfare and benefit programmes, including the Age Pension and Youth Allowance, with waiting periods up to 10 years. The proposal would not affect migrants currently receiving benefits, but would apply to future arrivals, with particular focus on programmes like the NDIS where 8% of participants are non-citizens.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian wage growth has reached 3.3% over the past 12 months according to ABS data, but with inflation at 4.6%, most households are experiencing real wage cuts as pay rises fail to keep pace with rising costs of fuel, energy and essentials. Mining, energy and healthcare sectors show the strongest wage growth, while administrative, hospitality and retail workers lag behind with the slowest increases.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A temporary pro shop at the North Adelaide golf course site, designated for a $45 million Live Golf redevelopment, was destroyed by fire in suspicious circumstances. The incident occurred amid days of rolling protests involving thousands of demonstrators opposing the removal of hundreds of trees for the controversial golf development. Arson investigators and forensics teams are examining the scene to determine the cause of the blaze.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A temporary pro shop at the North Adelaide golf course site, designated for a $45 million Live Golf redevelopment, was destroyed by fire in suspicious circumstances. The incident occurred amid days of rolling protests involving thousands of demonstrators opposing the removal of hundreds of trees for the controversial golf development. Arson investigators and forensics teams are examining the scene to determine the cause of the blaze.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ScienceWorks Planetarium in Melbourne features a 16-metre dome with 7.6 surround sound, offering visitors immersive astronomical experiences including views of constellations, planets, and the night sky without light pollution. The planetarium shows approximately 2,500 stars and 88 constellations used by astronomers to map the sky, with sessions typically combining a show with a 15-minute 'what's in the sky tonight' presentation. The custom-built reclining seats allow audiences to comfortably view projections of the sun, Melbourne from above, and journeys to the moon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Benito, a Tasmanian devil at Healesville Sanctuary, has successfully undergone dental surgery after veterinarians discovered a fractured tooth during a routine check-up. Tasmanian devils possess an incredibly powerful bite with almost twice the jaw pressure of a lion, making healthy teeth essential for the endangered carnivores to crunch bones. The surgery has allowed Benito to return to normal feeding activities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National Apple Pie Day celebrates the classic dessert combining sweet and tart apples with warm spices in a buttery crust. Singing baker Elliot Sticke demonstrates how to make mini air fryer apple pies using shop-bought pastry and finely chopped apples cooked at 200 degrees for 18 minutes. The recipe is designed to be simple and accessible, requiring minimal equipment while delivering a warm, comforting autumn dessert.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harry Potter the Exhibition opens in Sydney this week, showcasing hundreds of authentic film props and costumes from all eight Harry Potter films. The 3,000 square metre exhibition at Homebush features iconic items including Harry's golden egg from the Triwizard Tournament and Hermione's enchanted bag, displayed in recreated environments where visitors can experience the Great Hall, play Quidditch, cast spells and explore the cupboard under the stairs. The exhibition celebrates the 25th anniversary of the film franchise and displays the detailed craftsmanship behind the beloved wizarding world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dogs exhibiting destructive behaviours like chewing furniture, barking excessively, or digging may be experiencing boredom rather than being poorly trained. Exercise, particularly daily walks, is the most important solution for releasing pent-up energy and reducing anxiety. Additional boredom-busting strategies include leaving the television or radio on for company, using puzzle feeders that engage their food drive, and providing appropriate chew toys that allow dogs to self-soothe naturally.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

24-year-old Johnny Charles has converted his Toyota Corolla hatchback into a mobile café called Cafe Corolla, serving coffee from scenic locations across Australia. The former engineer is using the venture to fund his travels around the country, sleeping in a rooftop tent while operating a commercial coffee machine and grinder from the back of his wagon. The unique side hustle has attracted a large online following, though weather challenges like rain have tested the setup's practicality.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A rooftop community garden at Europa on Alma has grown from six founders to 84 resident members out of 92 total residents over three and a half years. Members pay $24 annually to access fresh produce from raised garden beds, including herbs, vegetables and lettuce, with harvest distributions occurring most Wednesday mornings. The rooftop space also serves as a gathering spot for residents to enjoy sunrise views and socialise whilst volunteers maintain the garden.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A $1.5 billion, 91-storey Trump Tower planned for Surfer's Paradise on the Gold Coast has been cancelled just three months after the deal was reportedly signed. The development, which would have been Australia's tallest building, was scrapped after the Trump organisation withdrew from the agreement with Altus Property Group.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An unplanned moment at Australian Fashion Week sees a beachgoer casually walk through the Commas Seaside Show at Tamarama Beach, waving to cameras as he makes his way down for a swim. The man, later identified as the founder of Sculptures by the Sea, sparked debate about whether the fashion show was crashing his regular beach routine or vice versa. The incident highlighted the uniquely Australian clash between high fashion events and public beach access.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Australia is set to become the first Australian state featured in the prestigious Michelin Guide. Anonymous Michelin inspectors are currently evaluating Adelaide restaurants, with the official selection scheduled for release in October this year. This marks a significant milestone for the state's culinary industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian singer Delta Goodrem experienced a severe thunderstorm and hailstorm in Vienna that forced the evacuation of the Eurovision village and cancelled scheduled performances. Despite the disruption, Goodrem announced her new album Pure, set for release in June. She is scheduled to perform at the international song contest later in the week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian sprint sensation Gout Gout is training in the United States alongside American Olympic gold medallist and eight-time world champion Noah Lyles. Both athletes are preparing for their 150-metre showdown at the Estrada Golden Spike meeting in Checha.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Princess Kate is undertaking her first solo overseas visit since announcing her cancer remission, travelling to northern Italy for a two-day engagement. She will meet with experts in early childhood research and development and receive a prestigious honour recognising her work in promoting early childhood growth and education. The visit marks a significant milestone in her recovery and return to public duties.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Princess Kate is undertaking her first solo overseas visit since announcing her cancer remission, travelling to northern Italy for a two-day engagement. She will meet with experts in early childhood research and development and receive a prestigious honour recognising her work in promoting early childhood growth and education. The visit marks a significant milestone in her recovery and return to public duties.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Triple murderer Julian Ingram, 37, was found dead in central western New South Wales, ending one of the state's largest manhunts. Ingram had been on the run since January when he shot dead his pregnant ex-girlfriend, her new boyfriend and her aunt at Lake Carjelago. Questions have been raised about how he obtained firearms despite never holding a gun licence in NSW, and why he was granted bail in November after being charged with domestic violence despite having six AVOs issued against him from five different people.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five Australians are being evacuated from a location affected by the Andes variant, with their return journey routing through the Netherlands before arriving in Perth. The Andes variant has an incubation period of up to eight weeks, significantly longer than typical infectious diseases. Upon arrival in Australia, the evacuees will undergo three weeks of quarantine in Perth, a more cautious approach compared to the 72-hour quarantine periods implemented by the US and UK.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Communications Minister Annika Wells faces scrutiny over travel expenses following a trip to Adelaide, where she claimed to have held a meeting with a state Labor member at his wife's birthday party. An Independent Expenses Authority audit found some initial accusations incorrect, but Wells was required to repay certain amounts, which she has done along with issuing an apology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal budget includes major property tax reforms, with negative gearing facing a significant overhaul and the 50% capital gains tax discount under review. These changes represent the largest shake-up to property taxes this century, despite breaking previous election promises made by the Prime Minister in April last year. Finance Minister Katie Gallagher defends the policy reversals as necessary to address housing affordability and intergenerational equity, particularly for young Australians increasingly locked out of the housing market.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A driver in the UK received a fine after police stopped them for transporting a football goal insecurely on their car roof. The incident sparked discussion about overestimating one's abilities when it comes to transporting large items on vehicles. The conversation included personal anecdotes about misjudging whether objects will fit in cars and the common tendency to think items can be secured with minimal effort.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A survey by a major recruitment firm reveals 77% of employers admit that regular office attendance directly influences pay rises and promotional opportunities. Workers who operate remotely may be disadvantaged as managers tend to notice and reward employees who are physically present in the workplace. The practice raises questions about fairness in hybrid work arrangements, particularly for younger workers who have advocated strongly for work-from-home flexibility.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Communications Minister Annika Wells claimed almost $4,000 in taxpayer funds for a business trip to Adelaide in June last year, where a scheduled meeting with a South Australian minister did not proceed as planned. The pair instead met informally during a function that evening at the minister's wife's 40th birthday party. This follows an earlier incident where Wells was required to repay $10,000 to taxpayers after an audit, prompting renewed calls for her resignation and debate about overhauling the parliamentary travel entitlements system.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian federal budget is set to be delivered tonight, with the Treasurer navigating the challenge of providing cost-of-living relief while managing inflation concerns. Key changes are expected to capital gains tax benefits for investment properties, NDIS eligibility and benefits, and regulatory reforms aimed at boosting business productivity. Channel 7 will provide comprehensive coverage with Mark Reilly and Michael Usher hosting a special budget breakdown at 9pm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peace negotiations between the US and Iran have reached a deadlock after Iran responded to America's 14-point peace plan, which President Trump rejected. Chinese President Xi Jinping has proposed a four-point peace plan for the Middle East and will meet with Trump in Beijing this week. The ceasefire remains fragile, with both sides accusing each other of unreasonable demands and demonstrating deep mutual distrust.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Queensland Children's Hospital Foundation serves as the philanthropic partner of Queensland Children's Hospital, raising funds for life-saving research, medical equipment, and support services for patients and families. The Bike for Burns event, launching in Bundaberg, has raised over one million dollars and supported more than 10,000 young people affected by burns over its 20-year history. Donations fund critical treatments including scar management and grafting, as well as daily support services in the burns centre.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A McDonald's restaurant in Budapest transforms into a nightclub on weekends, featuring DJs, lights and dancing from 10pm to 4am. The venue follows a similar concept to Hong Kong's Dim Sim Rave, which combines dumplings with an underground nightclub atmosphere. The Budapest McDonald's is noted for its impressive architecture and ornate interior design.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeff Sutton's boat ran aground on Byron Bay beach after his anchor broke and tore the winch off the deck while he was ashore sourcing repair parts for a broken boom. The sailor, who has been voyaging for three and a half years, faces a potential $20,000 fine and was initially told by Maritime and Salvage they would dismantle his boat for up to $200,000. With help from the local Byron Bay community, he has secured a salvage operator to remove the vessel from the beach at a significantly lower cost.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A mother and daughter duo, who returned to Australia from the ISIS caliphate, are facing charges of crimes against humanity in a Melbourne court. The charges are described as extraordinarily rare in modern legal history, with authorities expected to push for them to be upgraded to terror-related offences. The accused will need to prove exceptional circumstances to secure bail, while their trial could be two to three years away due to the complexity of gathering evidence from overseas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Four Australians remain stranded on the MV Honduras cruise ship after a deadly Hantavirus outbreak resulted in three deaths and eight infections. Spanish authorities have confirmed the Australians will be the last of more than 100 passengers to be evacuated, with a government plane scheduled to transport them to Perth before entering a 45-day quarantine period. One British passenger showing symptoms has been isolated on a remote island where military personnel parachuted medical supplies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Trump has rejected Iran's response to his 14-point peace proposal, calling it 'totally unacceptable'. Iran's counter-proposal focused on ending the conflict and securing shipping routes but avoided major nuclear concessions, which Trump requires to justify withdrawing from the Obama-era deal and launching military action. Both sides continue limited military strikes but are avoiding full-scale escalation, with potential Chinese diplomatic intervention being discussed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.