This week, the Eurovision Song Contest will burst onto the stage in Vienna, and onto screens around the globe, but behind the colour and campness, this year's competition is shaping up as one of the most politically charged in history.
A former cricketer reflects on growing up in diverse western Sydney, experiencing racism as the 'brown kid' rather than for his faith. He discusses how cricket, once a sanctuary of meritocracy, became a place where his Muslim identity overshadowed his athletic achievements, especially after the Christchurch mosque shootings. The author advocates for reporting Islamophobia to combat hate speech and foster true inclusion.
Sydney's property market is experiencing a cooling trend, with falling prices and more unsold homes at auctions. This shift is creating opportunities for first-home buyers like Ruban Parajuli and Arya Katel, who were previously priced out of areas like Glebe. While prices are still high, the market slowdown offers a more realistic chance for them to enter the market.
Mysterious basketball-sized metal balls, identified as likely pressure vessels from a space launch vehicle, washed ashore on Forrest Beach, Queensland. The incident sparked local curiosity, a media frenzy, and a creative response from a local shop owner.
Australia is strengthening its alliances in the Pacific and with India to counter China's growing influence. Recent diplomatic efforts include new security pacts with Fiji and Solomon Islands, and enhanced ties with Papua New Guinea, Tonga, and Samoa. Prime Minister Albanese's foreign policy week also saw a meeting with India's PM Modi, focusing on shared concerns about China.
Andy Bickers, the saxophone player for Australian rock band Cold Chisel for over 30 years, has died after a battle with cancer. The band announced his passing on Friday morning, remembering him as an "incredible musician and a great person." Lead vocalist Jimmy Barnes also paid tribute, noting Bickers' extensive touring career.
The Bayeux Tapestry, a 68-meter artwork depicting the 1066 Norman Conquest, has arrived in Britain for the first time in nearly 1,000 years. The meticulously planned, secret night-time transfer from France involved unprecedented security and logistical efforts, with the tapestry insured for £800 million. The loan, a symbol of closer UK-France ties, has already generated significant ticket sales for its upcoming exhibition at the British Museum.
