ED: I am drawing attention to the escalating issue of youth crime in Queensland, it is imperative that we address this growing concern. The situation has reached a critical point, with adolescents and even children as young as 10 engaging in criminal activities. Law enforcement finds themselves in a challenging position, the judicial system appears to be taking insufficient action, and juveniles released on bail persist in committing crimes.

The scope of the problem is evident in the theft of vehicles from private garages, and the brazen display of criminal activities on social media further compounds the issue. The frustration within the Queensland Police Force is palpable, leading to officers leaving in significant numbers.

Acknowledging that this is a politically charged matter, I am sharing information about the LNP’s proposed plan to address youth crime. As of now, this plan stands as the primary initiative put forth to tackle the issue. It is crucial to recognize that many Queenslanders, if not directly affected, are connected to someone who has experienced the impact of youth crime in their communities.

QUEENSLAND YOUTH CRIME OUT OF CONTROL.

In 2015 the Labor State Government watered down criminal laws in Queensland.

Since then, crime rates have exploded across the state to crisis levels.

Newly released data from the Queensland Police Service (QPS) sadly proves what Queenslanders from across the state are saying – they no longer feel safe in their own homes or walking in their neighbourhood.

For the first time in 17 years, police data shows nearly 50,000 break and enter offences were recorded across Queensland last year. Police data also shows car theft rose by 116% with nearly 11,000 more vehicles stolen during 2023 compared to 2015.

At the same time there are 322 fewer police now than 18 months ago

This is the result of a third term State Labor Government’s watering down of criminal laws and reduction in police numbers – this is the impact of Labor’s untouchable youth criminals.

For Gold Coast residents between 2015 and 2023 increased:

Car theft increased by 71%;

Break and enters increased by 41%;

Theft increased by 31%; and

Assault increased by 210%.

This explosion in crime is also costing You money.

Crime is driving up insurance premiums for everyone including victims who can least afford it.

The LNP has announced practical solutions to tackle Queensland’s Youth Crime Crisis, reduce crime, and help cut insurance premiums.

These include:

Rewriting the Youth Justice Act and embedding consequences for actions – putting victims’ rights ahead of young criminals;

Unshackling the judiciary by removing Labor’s policy of detention as a last resort;

Delivering gold standard early intervention to turn young offenders around;

Prioritising discipline, guidance, and opportunity for children in residential care to prevent them ending up in the youth justice system; and-

Attracting and retaining more police by giving them the laws and resources needed to do their job.

For too long Queenslanders have been forced to endure the chaos and crisis.

A key responsibility of a government is to create a safe environment for people to live their lives; an LNP Government will have no greater priority than providing this to Queenslanders.

Norma Jeane Mortenson, known by her stage name Marilyn Monroe, was born on June 1, 1926, and passed away on August 4, 1962. She was an American actress, model, and singer, gaining fame for her portrayal of comic “blonde bombshell” characters. Monroe emerged as one of the most iconic sex symbols of the 1950s and early 1960s, becoming a symbol of the era’s sexual revolution. As a top-billed actress for a decade, her films grossed an impressive $200 million by the time of her death in 1962 (equivalent to $2 billion in 2024).

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Monroe’s early life was marked by residence in 12 foster homes and an orphanage. At the age of sixteen, she married James Dougherty. During World War II, while working in a factory, Monroe’s life took a turn when she encountered a photographer from the First Motion Picture Unit. This meeting kickstarted her successful pin-up modelling career, leading to short-lived film contracts with 20th Century Fox and Columbia Pictures.

After a series of minor film roles, Monroe signed a new contract with Fox in late 1950. Over the next two years, she gained popularity with roles in comedies like “As Young as You Feel” and “Monkey Business,” as well as in dramas such as “Clash by Night” and “Don’t Bother to Knock.” Despite a scandal involving nude photographs from her past, Monroe’s career remained unscathed and, in fact, garnered increased interest in her films.

Even after her death, Monroe continues to be a prominent pop culture icon. In 1999, the American Film Institute recognized her as the sixth-greatest female screen legend from the Golden Age of Hollywood.

This video is a story done by the ABC.

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Calls for an overhaul in government handling of veterans’ claims – ABC News

The Australian Government has awarded RSL LifeCare with a $5 million grant to establish the Queanbeyan Veterans’ and Families’ Hub.

Today’s announcement means that veterans and families across the Southeast of NSW, the ACT and surrounding regions will soon have better access to tailored supports and services. This is a wonderful outcome for more than 26,000 current and ex-service personnel who live in these regions.

The hub will be tailored to the needs of local veterans and families and offer enhanced access to services supporting physical and mental health, wellbeing, education, skills and employment, housing and accommodation support, and more.

The Hub will connect with a number of RSL Sub-Branches in Queanbeyan, the ACT and surrounding regions, to provide outreach into regional areas such as Goulburn.

RSL LifeCare has significant experience in providing veteran and family services through hubs; it currently operates three self-funded hubs located in the Riverina (Wagga Wagga), Dee Why and Newcastle, as well as the Nowra Hub funded under the Veterans’ and Families’ Hub Program.

All current serving ADF members, veterans and families can access support services and activities through any Veterans’ and Families’ Hub.

Visit the Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs webpage to learn more.

The Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers of the Battalion concluded their induction week on Friday with Professional Military Education lead by Battalion legend Chad Sherrin, Platoon Sergeant in Vietnam, and Scott Brennan OAM, Olympic gold medal winning rower.

From there they attended a Dining In Night at the Officer’s mess, to welcome new march ins and their partners to the unit.

The 8/9 RAR Command Team warmly extends the invitation to all partners of current serving Battalion members to attend a Cheese and Wine Evening at Gaythorne RSL on Tuesday 30 January. The evening will commence at 1830h (6.30pm) and will include a welcome from the CO, presentations on the training year, and most importantly, support networks for families and an opportunity to meet other partners of current serving members. Refreshments and charcuterie boards will be served throughout.

Please RSVP via Direct Message to their Facebook page at (16) Facebook by Monday 29 January.

Australia Day serves as a powerful symbol of unity and national pride, encapsulating the remarkable journey that the country has undertaken to become the ‘Lucky Country’ it is today. It is a day to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures and histories that have intertwined to create a nation known for its diversity and inclusivity. As we gather to commemorate this special day, we reflect on the extraordinary amalgamation of individuals who have contributed to shaping the Australian identity.

From the early days when some arrived as convicts seeking redemption, others as refugees escaping hardship, and some in pursuit of a brighter future, our nation has grown into a vibrant melting pot. The collective efforts of those who came before us, along with the indigenous peoples who have inhabited this land for millennia, have cultivated a society that embraces resilience, tolerance, and mutual respect.

Australia Day is a moment for all Australians to stand together, acknowledging our shared past and looking optimistically towards the future. It is a day to recognize the stories of those who laid the foundation for the nation, as well as those who have continued to build upon it. We revel in the fact that, despite our diverse origins, we have forged a common bond that unites us as one people, proudly moving forward as a nation.

The commendable initiative taken by some shopping centres, exemplified by the noteworthy efforts of Bonnyrigg Plaza, reflects a broader commitment to fostering a sense of national pride. As these participating centres embrace the significance of Australia Day, they play a vital role in amplifying the message of unity and celebration. It’s heartening to witness businesses joining hands in promoting a shared identity, acknowledging the importance of community, and contributing to the collective spirit that defines Australia.

The enthusiastic participation and engagement of the community, as highlighted by the praise for Bonnyrigg Plaza, showcase the resonance of these efforts. It is a testament to the strength of the Australian spirit, as the community proudly lends its voice to the celebration of this nation’s achievements and potential. The acknowledgment of such initiatives fosters a sense of belonging and reinforces the idea that every individual, regardless of their background, is an integral part of the Australian story.

In applauding the team at Bonnyrigg Plaza, we not only commend their dedication to fostering a sense of national pride but also recognize the broader societal impact of such endeavours. As we collectively celebrate Australia Day, let us take pride in the harmonious mosaic that is our nation, a testament to the enduring spirit of inclusivity, resilience, and the shared values that bind us together.

Written by Ray Payne OAM

Townsville, Australia’s largest garrison city, is set to undergo a $35 million upgrade encompassing both its army and air force bases. Currently hosting over 4,500 Australian Defence Force personnel, an additional 500 will relocate to Townsville by 2025 as part of a significant defence restructuring unveiled in September.

Last year’s strategic defence review underscored the necessity of enhancing the capabilities of Australia’s northern bases. With Townsville emerging as the new focal point for the Australian Army, the federal government emphasized the imperative for modern, purpose-built facilities at both Lavarack Barracks and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Townsville to support crucial defence capabilities.

This is part of the government’s commitment to ensuring necessary upgrades across Australia’s northern bases, crucial for enhancing the defence force’s capacity to safeguard Australians.

The refurbishment plan allocates $16 million to RAAF Base Townsville, specifically targeting Hangar 75, housing vital air capabilities. This funding is in addition to the $700 million designated for RAAF Base Townsville to accommodate the army’s new AH-64E Apache helicopters, scheduled to be stationed in Townsville from 2025.

Lavarack Barracks will receive $19 million for the development of a new military working dog facility, training yard, dog obstacle course, messing facilities, and other critical capability infrastructure. Construction has already commenced at both bases, undertaken by local businesses, fostering opportunities in the trades and construction sectors, and generating over 600 jobs in North Queensland.

The emergence of Ukraine’s kamikaze drones, specifically the first-person view (FPV) drones, on the battlefield has indeed garnered attention due to their effectiveness and low cost. Here are some key points regarding these drones:

1. Adaptation from Hobbyist Drones: The FPV drones in question were originally designed for hobbyist racing, weighing no more than 500g. However, in response to the conflict, these drones have been adapted and modified to carry munitions, such as rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), turning them into inexpensive and agile weapons.
2. Munition Capabilities: Despite their small size, these racing drones can carry RPGs weighing up to 1kg. This allows them to effectively target and damage Russian tanks and groups of soldiers in high-speed, one-way “suicide” missions.
3. Low Cost: One of the significant advantages of these kamikaze drones is their affordability. Costing less than $1,000, they are disposable, and Ukrainians do not need to worry about retrieving them after use, making them a cost-effective option compared to more traditional military drones.
4. Evolution in Battlefield Drone Technology: Experts suggest that FPV drones represent the next evolution in battlefield drone technology. They combine speed, manoeuvrability, and affordability, making them a specialized tool for specific military applications.
5. Limited Range: The range of these FPV drones is relatively limited, typically around 5km to 10km. However, within this range, they can be highly effective in targeted attacks.
6. Control via First-Person View: The unique aspect of these drones is their control mechanism. Pilots use goggles with a live-streamed camera feed from the drone, providing them with a first-person view. This immersive control allows for greater accuracy and the ability to execute surprise attacks in enclosed spaces or patiently wait for a target.
7. Strategic Advantages: The combination of speed, manoeuvrability, low cost, and immersive control provides these drones with strategic advantages, allowing for flexible and targeted military operations.
8. Concerns and Impact: The use of such drones has raised concerns and garnered attention on social media platforms. Their impact on the battlefield, particularly in asymmetrical warfare, underscores the evolving nature of military technology and tactics.

In summary, Ukraine’s kamikaze FPV drones represent a cost-effective and innovative addition to the military’s arsenal, showcasing the adaptability and ingenuity of improvised drone technology in conflict zones.

While both Australia and the rest of the world adjusted to the challenges posed by economic headwinds during this period, the People’s Republic of China, ever the revolutionary force, began reasserting its influence in the region, often engaging in actions that fell just below the threshold of direct armed conflict.

China’s increasing hostility towards and aspirations for the post-Second World War order have become more pronounced in recent years. This has prompted nations across the Indo-Pacific to realize that the concept of the “End of History” may not be a reality, and the world is once again confronted with the possibility of armed conflicts between nations.

The nation faces numerous challenges that demand a thoughtful and targeted approach to ensure that Australia, traditionally known as the “Lucky Country,” maintains its fortunate status.

Australia has traditionally enjoyed its position as the “Lucky Country,” benefiting from abundant resources and opportunities while being geographically isolated from the major centres of power and competition that fuelled devastating conflicts in the 20th century. However, the contemporary world presents a vastly different landscape.

The global balance of power has gradually shifted away from Europe and North America towards Asia and the Indo-Pacific. This shift is driven primarily by the resurgence of China and, to a lesser extent, India – ancient powers supported by the remarkable rise of regional nations such as Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Pakistan, and others.

Australia’s economic growth over the past three decades, fuelled by the strong demand for its raw mineral and agricultural wealth, as well as its services, economy, and the lucrative real estate market, has shielded the nation from the harsh realities of the contemporary world. This economic insulation proved effective during the Asian Financial Crisis and the Global Financial Crisis of 2008, further solidifying Australia’s “Long Holiday from History.”