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Photo: Navy pilot graduate Acting Sub Lieutenant Natika Dunn is awarded with ‘wings’ by Commander Fleet Air Arm Commodore Matthew Royals at 278 ADF Intermediate Pilots Course Graduation at 1 Flying Training School, RAAF Base East Sale. Photo: Flight Lieutenant Daina Sawade.

Acting Sub-Lieutenant Natika Dunn has made history as the first Navy trainee to graduate with wings from 1 Flying Training School at RAAF Base East Sale.

“It’s amazing to be the first Navy graduate here on the east coast,” Acting Sub-Lieutenant Dunn said.

“Being able to complete all my training on the east coast provided a quicker training pipeline, giving us continuous training throughout and support from the same instructors the whole way through.

“I am incredibly happy, it’s been a big year and a half to get here.”

The joint graduation of Navy and Air Force pilots from Course 278 ADF Intermediate Pilots Course marked a significant milestone in the progression of paralleled pilot training schools in Victoria and Western Australia.

Increased flying training capability will enable more ADF pilots to graduate across Australia this year.

Commander Fleet Air Arm Commodore Matthew Royals returned to RAAF Base East Sale to address the graduates as the Reviewing Officer.

Having spent three years of his career instructing students as the Senior Naval Officer at the School of Air Warfare in Sale, Commodore Royals was proud to return and oversee the historic graduation.

“This is not just another graduation, it is a monumental moment in our Defence Force’s history,” Commodore Royals said.

“For the first time, a Royal Australian Navy pilot has completed their entire Intermediate Flying Training here at 1 Flying Training School (FTS), something that has been traditionally shared by 1FTS and 2FTS at RAAF Base Pearce in WA.

“This significant shift underscores the growing integration between our services and demonstrates our collective commitment to a truly unified Defence Force.”

Since 1913, Australian military aviators have proudly worn the Wings badge, awarded to aircrew who have achieved the required proficiency in flying a military aircraft.

More than 100 years later, earning a pilot’s wings remains a significant accomplishment.

The Independent

The shift to green energy has seen an exponential rise in the number of wind farms. Wind turbines now dot our landscapes, heralding the promise of a sustainable future. Yet, as compelling as this clean energy source is, it carries with it significant environmental challenges that are often overlooked.

Loss of Wildlife and Koala Habitat

One of the most pressing concerns associated with wind farms is the impact on wildlife. The construction of wind turbines often requires clearing vast areas of land, which leads to the destruction of natural habitats. In Australia, this has resulted in the loss of critical koala habitats. These iconic creatures, already under threat due to deforestation and urban development, now face an additional challenge from wind farm expansions. Disrupting their natural environment has a cascading effect on biodiversity, leading to a decline in various species that depend on these ecosystems.

Bird and Bat Mortality

Wind turbines are notorious for causing bird and bat mortality. The rotating blades, while a marvel of engineering, are a significant threat to avian life. Birds, particularly raptors and migratory species, often fall victim to these spinning giants. The disruption to bat populations is equally concerning, as they play a vital role in controlling insect populations and pollinating plants. The ecological imbalance caused by these fatalities can have long-term repercussions on local ecosystems.

Devastation of the Horizon

The visual impact of wind farms on the horizon is another contentious issue. In rural and coastal areas, where natural landscapes are cherished, the sight of towering wind turbines can be jarring. For many, these structures disrupt the natural beauty of the land and diminish the cultural and aesthetic value of the countryside. This visual pollution can also impact tourism, as visitors may be deterred by the industrial appearance of once-pristine landscapes.

Cost of Construction and Maintenance

The financial cost of constructing and maintaining wind turbines is substantial. Each turbine requires extensive groundwork, including the use of heavy machinery and large-scale construction operations. The ongoing maintenance, particularly in remote areas, adds to the overall cost. While proponents argue that wind energy is cost-effective in the long run, the initial investment and upkeep are significant financial burdens that cannot be ignored.

The Volume of Oil and Concrete Required

Despite being marketed as a green energy solution, wind turbines require large quantities of non-renewable resources during their construction. Each turbine contains several tonnes of steel, copper, and rare earth elements. Additionally, the volume of oil required for lubrication is significant. A typical wind turbine requires hundreds of gallons of oil annually to keep its components running smoothly. Furthermore, each turbine base is anchored by massive concrete foundations, often requiring over 1,000 tonnes of concrete per unit. The environmental footprint of producing and transporting these materials is considerable and contradicts the green narrative.

Reliance on Wind to Generate Power

The effectiveness of wind turbines is inherently tied to the availability of wind. While some regions experience consistent wind patterns, others do not, leading to intermittent energy generation. This reliance on weather conditions makes wind energy less reliable compared to traditional energy sources. To compensate for periods of low wind, backup energy solutions, often fossil-fuel-based, are required to maintain a steady power supply. This dependency undermines the goal of reducing carbon emissions and highlights the limitations of wind energy as a standalone solution.

Conclusion

While wind energy presents an opportunity to move away from fossil fuels, it is essential to acknowledge its environmental and economic drawbacks. The loss of wildlife habitats, bird mortality, visual impact, high construction costs, and reliance on non-renewable resources challenge the perception of wind turbines as a wholly green solution. As we transition towards a more sustainable future, it is crucial to balance renewable energy initiatives with the protection of our natural environment. A comprehensive approach that includes careful site selection, wildlife protection measures, and diversified energy sources will be necessary to achieve truly sustainable energy solutions.

Ukraine has launched a renewed cross-border offensive in Russia’s Kursk region, aiming to bolster its territorial gains ahead of potential peace negotiations. This escalation comes as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump reiterates his intention to end the conflict swiftly once he takes office.

Reports of the offensive began circulating over the weekend, with unverified footage shared by Russian military bloggers showing a convoy of Ukrainian tanks and armoured vehicles advancing toward the village of Berdin. This village lies just beyond the territory currently controlled by Ukraine in the Kursk region.

Kyiv has not officially confirmed the new operation. However, Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian presidential office, hinted at progress, stating, “Kursk region, good news. Russia is getting what it deserves.” Meanwhile, Andrii Kovalenko, head of Ukraine’s Centre for Countering Disinformation, confirmed that Ukrainian forces had launched coordinated attacks on multiple fronts within Kursk.

Russian military bloggers, often privy to frontline realities, acknowledged the Ukrainian offensive with concern. Yuri Podolyaka, a prominent blogger, wrote on Telegram, “The morning in the Kursk region starts worryingly again. Yesterday’s failure won’t deter the enemy from trying again today.”

The U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) confirmed that Ukrainian forces had advanced into the southern outskirts of Berdin. The village lies northeast of Sudzha, the largest area captured by Ukraine during its initial incursion five months ago. The ISW reported that Ukraine’s forces were attacking in at least three areas: toward Berdin, toward Pushkarnoye to the east, and around Korenevo to the west.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in his nightly address on Saturday, highlighted the heavy casualties inflicted on Russian and North Korean forces near the village of Makhnovka, southeast of Sudzha. Citing General Oleksandr Syrskyi, he stated that hundreds of Russian and allied troops had been killed in the battle.

Other reports from Russian military sources indicated that Ukraine’s offensive involved hundreds of troops in a heavily mechanized assault. Analysts suggest that Kyiv’s actions could be aimed at diverting Russian forces from their gradual advance in eastern Ukraine, particularly in Donetsk. On Monday, Russia’s defence ministry announced its capture of Kurakhove in Donetsk after prolonged fighting.

Ukraine’s ability to maintain control over parts of Kursk is seen as a strategic advantage in upcoming peace talks. Russia still holds about 20% of Ukrainian territory after nearly three years of conflict. Securing a foothold in Russian territory strengthens Kyiv’s negotiating position as both sides prepare for diplomacy.

Both nations are racing to secure battlefield advantages before Trump’s inauguration on January 20. The incoming U.S. president has repeatedly pledged to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, though he has yet to outline his specific plan.

Since Ukraine’s daring cross-border assault on August 6 last year, Russian forces, aided by approximately 11,000 North Korean troops, have steadily pushed back Kyiv’s gains in Kursk. However, recent Ukrainian advancements suggest a renewed effort to solidify control over the contested region.

During a visit to South Korea over the weekend, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the strategic importance of Ukraine’s hold on parts of Kursk. “The positions of Ukraine’s armed forces in the Kursk region are crucial for any future negotiations,” Blinken stated, underscoring the significance of Kyiv’s territorial gains ahead of diplomatic discussions.

As the conflict intensifies, both Ukraine and Russia appear focused on shaping the battlefield in their favour, setting the stage for high-stakes negotiations in the coming months.

Uncover the shocking secrets of Lord Mountbatten in this revealing video. Learn more about Louis Mountbatten and the tragic assassination that shocked the world. The assassination of Louis Mountbatten was described as one of the most tragic deaths in British history. As the years passed, this man became one of the royal family’s most notable characters. His brilliance, decisiveness and hard work set him in a formidable light. But he also had a darker side, ending sadly with an untimed departure when the IRA killed him in 1979. Join me now as we discover the resilient story of Lord Louis Mountbatten.

Photo: The Bruce Highway is notorious for the bad condition of its road surface. (ABC News: Russel Talbot/Facebook)

The Albanese government has announced a $7.2 billion investment to improve safety and resilience along the Bruce Highway, which connects key regional centres such as Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Mackay, and Townsville. This critical route supports around 62 per cent of Queensland’s population and underpins the state’s economic and social connectivity.

The federal government says the funds will ensure priority sections of the highway meet a minimum three-star safety rating under the international road assessment system. Currently, nearly half the highway is rated at just two stars, posing significant safety risks to motorists.

Key sections targeted for upgrades include Maryborough to Benaraby, Rockhampton to St Lawrence, Bowen to Townsville, and Ingham to Innisfail. The funding will focus on installing safety barriers, widening road shoulders, creating additional overtaking lanes, and improving rest areas. Audible tactile line markings and wider centre lines will also be introduced to reduce head-on collisions by providing drivers with immediate feedback if they veer out of their lane.

In response to Queensland’s harsh weather conditions, the project will also prioritise resealing and rehabilitating sections of the highway damaged by floods and storms. These upgrades aim to make the Bruce Highway more resilient to future weather events and reduce costly disruptions.

Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King highlighted the importance of the project, stating, “This historic investment answers the call of Queenslanders to bring the Bruce Highway up to a three-star safety rating, so Australians stop losing their loved ones on this road.”

Critics have pointed out that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is using taxpayer-funded infrastructure projects to bolster his political campaign in Queensland, where road safety is a key issue. Despite earlier calls from the federal government for a 50:50 funding split, Labor will cover 80 per cent of the costs for these upgrades.

“Queensland deserves a long-term plan, and that is what my government is delivering,” Mr Albanese said, framing the investment as a critical step toward modernising one of the state’s most vital transport routes. While the upgrades are expected to save lives, the political debate over funding arrangements continues.

Aussie taxpayers have shelled out more than $450,000 over the past two years for government departments to host Welcome to Country ceremonies — an expenditure that raises serious questions about priorities. With Aboriginal health outcomes still lagging significantly behind non-Indigenous Australians, it’s time to ask if these funds are being spent wisely.

Freedom of Information requests reveal that the Infrastructure Department spent $35,618 on Welcomes, while the Industry, Science, and Resources Department allocated $30,896. In total, 33 ceremonies from various agencies drained hundreds of thousands of dollars from the public purse. Opposition waste reduction spokesman James Stevens called the amount “staggering.”

It’s essential to respect and acknowledge Indigenous culture, but has Welcome to Country become more about optics than outcomes? Critics, including Shadow Indigenous Australians Minister Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, argue that the ceremonies have evolved into a commercial product rather than a genuine cultural expression. Ms. Price has pointed out that some individuals make their entire livelihood from delivering these ceremonies, turning cultural acknowledgment into a money-making enterprise.

Meanwhile, pressing issues in Indigenous communities remain unaddressed. Poor health outcomes, limited access to education, and inadequate housing continue to plague remote areas. The money spent on Welcome to Country ceremonies could be better directed toward real solutions that improve lives and close the gap.

Even within Indigenous communities, discontent is growing. The Juru people of north Queensland recently banned Welcome to Country ceremonies on their ancestral land, citing overuse and misuse by individuals with little connection to the area. Juru spokesperson Randall Ross labelled the practice an “insult” to traditional owners.

Australians don’t need to be welcomed to their own country. What they need is accountability for how taxpayer money is spent. Let’s prioritise practical, lasting change over symbolic gestures.

Is an invasion of Australia by China possible? Rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific, military buildups, and fears over Taiwan have Australians on edge. Experts warn Australia could be dragged into a U.S.-China conflict—or face direct threats from Beijing. This video dives into the risks, military comparisons, and the strategic stakes for both nations. Is Australia ready for such a challenge?

The Straits Times

A local fisherman reportedly discovered a mysterious underwater drone near San Pascual, Masbate, on December 30. The device, marked HY-119, was later identified as a Chinese-made underwater navigation and communication system. Police Brigadier General Andre Dizon confirmed the origin and purpose of the device, noting that it was sent to the Philippine Navy forces stationed on Luzon Island for further examination.

The yellow drone’s presence in Philippine waters raises immediate concerns about potential espionage or surveillance activities, given the ongoing territorial disputes between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea.

The discovery of this drone adds fuel to an already volatile situation. China claims nearly all of the South China Sea, including areas that fall within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ). These claims have led to numerous conflicts between the two nations.

Since taking office in 2022, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been vocal in resisting Chinese maritime aggression. Clashes over disputed territories, such as the Spratly Islands, have escalated in recent years. Chinese coast guard vessels have used increasingly aggressive tactics to assert their control, including ramming Philippine government ships and deploying water cannons to drive them away from contested waters.

The presence of the drone in Philippine waters raises significant national security concerns. According to a police report, while the drone appears to be unarmed, its capabilities for underwater monitoring and reconnaissance are troubling.

This incident follows the appearance of China’s CCG 5901, the world’s largest coast guard ship, at Scarborough Shoal—another highly contested area in the South China Sea. Scarborough Shoal has long been a flashpoint for tense standoffs between Chinese and Philippine forces.

The discovery of the drone suggests that China is continuing to expand its maritime presence and technological capabilities in the region, further destabilizing the already tense situation.

Given the ongoing territorial disputes, China is unlikely to reduce its heavy maritime presence in the South China Sea. The Philippines, under President Marcos Jr., is expected to maintain its defiant stance against China’s sweeping claims.

However, President Marcos Jr. has expressed a preference for avoiding military escalation. He has stated that he would refrain from deploying naval warships to contested areas to prevent further conflict. Instead, the Philippines may focus on diplomatic pressure and strengthening alliances with other nations, such as the United States, to counter China’s influence in the region.

The discovery of the Chinese underwater drone serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing geopolitical struggle in the South China Sea and the complexities surrounding maritime sovereignty and national security in Southeast Asia.

The Times

Switzerland has taken a decisive step to uphold its cultural values and bolster public safety by officially implementing a ban on burqas, niqabs, and other forms of face coverings in public spaces from January 1. This move, which stems from a 2021 referendum where 51.2% of Swiss voters approved the proposal, reflects a growing trend across Europe to restrict face veils in public settings.

Support for the Ban

1. Enhancing Security

One of the primary arguments in favour of the ban is the enhancement of public security. By prohibiting face coverings, authorities can more easily identify individuals, reducing the risk of criminal activities and promoting a sense of safety in public spaces. Supporters claim that the ban makes it harder for individuals to conceal their identities during protests or while committing crimes.

2. Promoting Integration and Social Cohesion

Proponents believe that banning face coverings fosters greater social interaction and integration. In public spaces, open communication is essential for building trust and understanding within communities. Face coverings, they argue, create barriers to social cohesion and hinder effective communication.

3. Protecting Women’s Rights

Supporters of the ban also emphasize that it protects women’s rights by preventing practices that they see as oppressive. They argue that some women may be forced to wear face coverings by family or community members, and the ban offers them a degree of freedom and empowerment.

4. Preserving Swiss Cultural Values

For many supporters, the ban is about more than just security or women’s rights—it is a reflection of Swiss cultural values and traditions. Switzerland has long prided itself on its open, liberal society, where transparency and direct communication are key. The ban reinforces these cultural norms and sends a message that practices perceived as incompatible with Swiss values will not be tolerated.

A European Context

Switzerland’s ban is not an isolated case. Several European countries have introduced similar laws in recent years, reflecting a broader shift toward restricting face coverings in public spaces.

• France: In 2011, France became the first European country to implement a nationwide ban on full-face veils in public spaces. The law has been upheld by the European Court of Human Rights despite ongoing criticism.
• The Netherlands: The Dutch government implemented a partial ban on face coverings in public buildings, such as schools, hospitals, and public transport, in 2019.
• Denmark: Denmark introduced a ban on face veils in 2018, citing similar concerns about security and social integration.
• Austria and Bulgaria: Both countries have also enacted bans on face coverings, citing cultural and security concerns.

These measures across Europe indicate a growing concern over the balance between individual freedoms and societal values. While the bans are often framed as security measures, they also reflect deeper cultural anxieties about identity, integration, and the preservation of national traditions.

Conclusion

The implementation of Switzerland’s anti-burqa law marks a significant moment in the country’s ongoing debate over national identity, security, and cultural values. Supporters argue that the law is a necessary step to ensure public safety, promote social cohesion, protect women’s rights, and uphold Swiss traditions. Opponents, however, warn that the ban risks infringing on individual freedoms and further marginalizing Muslim communities.

As Switzerland joins a growing list of European countries with similar bans, the conversation about the balance between cultural values and personal freedoms continues to evolve. Whatever one’s stance on the issue, the majority vote in favour of the law underscores the importance that many Swiss citizens place on preserving their country’s cultural identity and security.