Welcome to the morning live blog, where we bring you the latest updates on crime, traffic, and weather across Australia. Stay informed with comprehensive coverage to start your day.
Water Safety Alert Issued Ahead of Australia Day Long Weekend
Beachgoers are being urged to exercise caution this Australia Day long weekend, following what police describe as a "busy start to summer" on Victorian waters. The Victorian Water Police Squad has responded to more than 500 incidents across the state since December, highlighting significant safety concerns.
Details of Water Incidents
Authorities report that approximately 400 of these callouts involved serious incidents such as vessel collisions, sinkings, rescues of individuals in distress, injuries sustained on boats and jet skis, and mechanical failures. The remaining 100 incidents were linked to dangerous jet ski behaviour, including excessive speeding and operating too close to swimmers.
With temperatures expected to soar above 40 degrees Celsius this weekend, police are emphasising the importance of safe practices. "While it's only natural to see a rise in incidents as people take to the water to escape the heat, we need everyone to play their part in ensuring safety," stated Water Police Squad Inspector James Dalton.
Inspector Dalton further warned, "We are seeing far too many collisions occur and jet skiers travelling way too close to other swimmers and vessels and approaching shore at high speed. People need to remember that a split-second decision can have lifelong consequences."
Increased Police Patrols
To enhance safety, police will ramp up patrols at popular beaches over the weekend. Key locations include:
- St Kilda
- Mordialloc
- Rye
Additional patrols will be conducted at other destinations such as Altona, Williamstown, Port Melbourne, Safety Beach, and Portsea as part of Operation Summersafe.
Major Police Manhunt Underway After Triple Fatal Shooting in Central NSW
In a separate and tragic incident, a major police manhunt remains active in central New South Wales after three people were shot dead and another critically injured. The shooting occurred in Lake Cargelligo, located in the state's Central West region.
Timeline of the Shooting
The incident unfolded on Thursday afternoon around 4:20 PM. Police responded to reports of shots fired into a car on Bokhara Street, where they discovered the bodies of a man and a woman. Shortly thereafter, another male and female were found with gunshot wounds on nearby Walker Street.
Tragically, the woman could not be saved, and the man was rushed to hospital in critical condition. NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Andy Holland confirmed the details, urging the local community to remain vigilant.
Police Appeal for Information
Authorities have identified an offender who is still at large and are conducting a "large search area" for the gunman. Assistant Commissioner Holland emphasised, "At this stage police have identified an offender who is still at large." Residents have been advised to stay indoors as the search continues.
Police are pleading for public assistance, asking anyone with potential evidence to come forward. This includes:
- Mobile phone or dashcam footage
- CCTV recordings
- Photographs or screenshots
- Any other relevant material
Individuals are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers to aid in the investigation.
The community is reeling from this violent event, which has left three dead and one fighting for life, underscoring the urgent need for information to apprehend the suspect.
