Stories from Australia

Swimmer Andy Donaldson completed a 55 kilometre non-stop swim along the Ord River in Western Australia's Kimberley region. The swim lasted more than 11 hours. Donaldson's feat follows a 2024 record by Simone Blazer, who completed the swim in 16 hours and 13 minutes. The river is known to be populated with thousands of freshwater crocodiles. Donaldson swam for more than 11 hours to finish the course. Fremantle swimmer Simone Blazer previously completed the swim in 2024 with a time of 16 hours and 13 minutes. Blazer told social media followers the water was smooth and silky during the challenge. A local skipper provided support from a boat during the swim. Donaldson stated the adventure aimed to engage with the local community and inspire residents. She expressed feeling exhausted but filled with pride and joy at the finish line.

Thousands of rail workers in Brisbane have commenced industrial action following wage disputes with Queensland Rail. The Rail Tram and Bus Union is involved in negotiations to resolve the dispute. There are concerns that the labor action could jeopardize Brisbane's ability to host the NRL's showpiece event. The event is estimated to provide a $40 million economic injection to the city. The strike occurs as pay negotiations with the state government continue. No specific duration or immediate impact on service schedules was provided.

Sydney FC captain Ryan Grant expects a fiery encounter in the upcoming A-League men's soccer elimination contest against Melbourne Victory this Saturday. Grant commented on the intensity expected for the match. The contest is part of the A-League elimination phase. Melbourne Victory finished fourth on the ladder and will host fifth-place Sydney FC.

Key forward Shanna Neal has signed an eight two-year contract extension with the Geelong Cats. The 23-year-old player will remain with the club until at least the end of the 2030 season.

Organized crime groups are operating within sections of the New South Wales building industry. A biker gang in Melbourne is reportedly infiltrating the labor hire sector. The CEO of Hanson and Junkin, a major building company, recently faced threats including house firebombings. A Victorian police task force is currently targeting these criminal activities in Victoria and has made multiple arrests. The source noted that building companies should be held accountable for misbehavior, but current enforcement is insufficient.

CFMEU leader Mark Irving has resigned from his role after serving for just over 18 months. This follows the sudden resignation of deputy Zack Smith in January amid allegations regarding his interactions with two female employees. The leadership changes occur as the union attempts to address internal criminality issues. The resignation follows a period where Irving reportedly faced death threats. The departure comes amid discussions regarding the need for union reform and restructuring.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong is in Japan to secure fuel supplies. Wong is scheduled to travel to China and South Korea later this week for a series of meetings. These diplomatic efforts precede a visit to Australia by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takahichi next week.

Meta has criticized the Australian federal government for a proposal that would require tech giants to pay for news content on their platforms. The company, which owns Facebook and Instagram, stated that news outlets post material voluntarily. Media companies argue Meta generates millions of dollars from content that is not shared with publishers. Communications Minister Annika Wells maintains that platforms must assist in funding news.

Bulldogs player Billy Armey-Kickout will undergo surgery tomorrow for a pec injury. The player is expected to be sidelined for 12 weeks. This injury is reported to be the same type as Corioreal from Manly. The injury will sideline him for 12 weeks, which is described as a blow for the Bulldogs.

Panthers player Thomas Jenkins is currently off contract at the end of the season. Jenkins is leading the tri-squaring tally but has not secured a contract for next year. He stated a desire to stay with the Panthers while leaving his options open for the coming weeks. Jenkins noted he is attempting to play well to secure a new contract.