Stories from Australia

A judge ruled in defamation proceedings that Ben Robert Smith is a war criminal based on the balance of probabilities. Authorities currently lack access to blood splatter evidence or photos from the location. The complexity of the investigation stems from these physical and political barriers. The upcoming criminal trial for Robertsmith will operate under a different legal standard than his previous civil defamation case, moving from the balance of probabilities to the criminal standard of proof. Legal proceedings regarding Ben Robertsmith's alleged unlawful killings are distinguishing between civil defamation and upcoming criminal trials. The prosecution must meet the criminal standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a conviction. Graham Bluett discussed the legal way forward following the release.

A wildlife sanctuary in Lithgow has increased the population of miniature marsupials sixfold over the last six years. The species, which typically inhabits cold snowy peaks, is being protected in the warmer Lithgow climate to mitigate climate change impacts. The program aims to help the species adapt to changing environmental conditions.

The Australian military is developing the 'Bat' unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for surveillance and reconnaissance missions. The Australian defense company Boeing has demonstrated the Yu Ling Bat unmanned aerial vehicle to the Royal Australian Air Force. The Kangaroo drone features a sword-like metal component and a multi-faceted triangular structure. It can perform self-correction if artillery fire misses its target. The drone is capable of engaging infantry, tanks, armored vehicles, and supply trucks. It utilizes light guidance to bypass electronic jamming, allowing for long-range strikes against high-value targets. The development also includes anti-drone systems, such as man-portable gun-mounted launchers for individual soldiers to target small or long-range suicide drones.

Mitch Barnett and Ali Layar Tower suffered head knocks during the second half of the match against the Dragons. Coach Andrew Webster confirmed both players will miss next week's game against the Eels. The Roosters defeated the Dragons with a score of 62-16. No other injuries were reported in the match. Jake Averillo of the Dolphins left the field late with a suspected dislocated finger.

The St. George Illawarra Dragons rugby league team is facing criticism following an embarrassing performance, described by coach Craig Bellamy as one of the most embarrassing of his career. The team's recent form has been poor, with only one win since round two. Superstars on the team are reportedly not meeting expectations, contributing to the team's struggles.

Queensland has implemented a tiered royalty system that imposes a 40% tax on every dollar earned from coal exceeding $300 per tonne. This rate significantly exceeds the 7.5% royalty on iron ore in Western Australia and the 5% rate for copper and base metals in Queensland. Industry representatives state that these high royalty levels put jobs at risk. The policy represents the highest coal royalty rate in the region. The royalty structure is tiered based on revenue rather than profit. Industry experts suggest the current royalty levels may cause the coal industry to deteriorate over time. This system has been a point of discussion within the Queensland mining sector.

Australia's national fuel stocks have increased following recent Middle East conflicts. Current reserves sit at 44 days of petrol, 33 days of diesel, and 30 days of jet fuel. Approximately 58 fuel vessels are expected to dock in Australia as soon as today to bolster supplies.

Increased shark activity is anticipated in New South Wales following a large whale carcass washing ashore. Additionally, a woman in her 50s died in a motorbike accident in the Hunter Valley. A 37-year-old man remains in critical condition in a hospital following a separate crash. The acquisition cost the state $190 million. Approximately 1,800 staff members will join New South Wales Health as part of the transition. An operations centre has been established to support the takeover. Access to private services at the facility is expected to continue until June 30 next year. Ten other individuals were injured in the incident. The cause of the blaze and further details were not immediately available. A suspect opened fire at the scene, resulting in the deaths of two young children and injuries to ten others. The incident occurred on the evening of May 3rd.

Fremantle secured their sixth consecutive victory after defeating Carlton by 14 points in Perth. Shea Bolton delivered a strong performance to lead the win. The result marks a winning streak for the Dockers in the AFL. Shea Bolton earned best on ground honors with 33 disposals and two goals in the 103-89 win. Fremantle captain Alex Pearce stated the team improved in the second half by controlling the contest and defending better.

The Independent Sporting League (ISL) has reduced the suspension for St Kilda player Lance Collard following a review. The board noted that racist, sexist, and homophobic language was found to be commonplace among players. This decision follows a finding of misalignment between the league's disciplinary processes and its official policies. The reduction aims to address these systemic issues within the league.