A remarkable tale of serendipity unfolded off the west coast of New Zealand when a custom-made surfboard, lost at sea for nearly 18 months, was discovered by French kitesurfer Alvaro Bon. The board, which had drifted approximately 2,400 kilometers (1,490 miles) from Tasmania, was found in Raglan Harbour on New Zealand’s North Island. Covered in barnacles and mussels, the 7ft 6in (229cm) board was remarkably intact despite its long journey. Bon, a 30-year-old kitesurfer who has lived in New Zealand for a decade, made the discovery after being forced to let go of his kite due to strong currents. He later posted images of the board on social media, leading to its Australian owner, Liam, being identified. The board, which holds sentimental value as it was designed by a now-retired surfboard maker, will soon be reunited with Liam in Auckland. Bon reflected on the experience philosophically, noting that sometimes letting go of one thing can lead to finding something even more meaningful.
标签： Oceania
大洋洲
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Cummins ruled out of first Ashes Test
Australia’s cricket team has confirmed that their star captain and fast bowler, Pat Cummins, will miss the opening Ashes Test due to a persistent back injury. Steve Smith, a seasoned leader and one of the game’s most prolific batsmen, will step in to captain the side in Cummins’ absence. The first Test is scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth, but Cummins, who has not bowled since July, is yet to resume full training. Cricket Australia announced on Sunday that the 32-year-old is expected to return to bowling soon, with hopes of being fit for the second Test in Brisbane starting December 4. Cummins’ absence is a significant setback for Australia, given his dual role as captain and premier bowler. Reports of his fitness concerns first emerged in September, leading to his withdrawal from the white-ball series against New Zealand and India due to a lumbar stress fracture. Cummins himself acknowledged the tight timeline for recovery, stating he needed at least a month of net practice to regain match fitness. Smith, who previously led Australia to Ashes glory, is a capable replacement. The 36-year-old has captained the team six times in Cummins’ absence and remains a key figure in the squad. In Cummins’ absence, Scott Boland is likely to join Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood in the pace attack. The series, comprising five Tests in just over seven weeks, will test Australia’s depth, with potential call-ups for less experienced players like Michael Neser, Brendan Doggett, or Fergus O’Neill.
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Norris dominates in Mexico to take championship lead
Lando Norris of McLaren seized the championship lead for the first time since April with a commanding performance at the Mexico City Grand Prix. Starting from pole position, Norris maintained his lead into the first corner and dominated the race, finishing a staggering 30 seconds ahead of his closest competitor. This victory marks his sixth win of the season, placing him just one point ahead of teammate Oscar Piastri in the championship standings. Piastri, who started seventh, fought back to secure fifth place, showcasing his resilience after a challenging qualifying session. Meanwhile, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who finished third behind Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, remains 36 points adrift with four races remaining. The race’s climax was marred by a virtual safety car in the final laps, which prevented Verstappen from challenging Leclerc and Piastri from overtaking Haas driver Oliver Bearman. Bearman, a British rookie, delivered an exceptional performance to secure fourth place, his best-ever finish in Formula 1. The race also featured intense battles, including Verstappen’s controversial maneuvers and Hamilton’s penalty for track violations. Norris’s victory underscores his resurgence since a fuel-line failure at the Dutch Grand Prix in August, erasing Piastri’s 34-point lead in just five races. The championship battle now intensifies as the season heads into its final stages.
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Two Australia players ‘touched inappropriately’
Two members of the Australian Women’s Cricket Team were subjected to an inappropriate encounter while in Indore, India, for the Women’s Cricket World Cup. The incident occurred on Thursday morning, shortly after Australia’s victory over England, as the players were walking to a local café. According to Cricket Australia, a motorcyclist approached the athletes and touched them inappropriately. The matter was immediately reported to local authorities by the team’s security personnel. The Press Trust of India later confirmed that a suspect was arrested on Friday after allegedly following the players from their hotel. Indore Police are currently investigating the incident. The Australian team is scheduled to play their final group-stage match against South Africa on Saturday in Indore. Cricket Australia has emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its players throughout the tournament.
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Slow-motion footage reveals secrets of snake bites
In a groundbreaking study conducted at a venom research facility in Paris, scientists have utilized high-speed cameras to delve into the mechanics of snake strikes. The research aimed to determine which snake species exhibit the fastest predatory strikes. By analyzing slow-motion footage, the team was able to capture the intricate details of these rapid movements, providing new insights into the biomechanics of snake attacks. This study not only enhances our understanding of snake behavior but also contributes to the development of more effective anti-venom treatments and safety measures for regions where snake bites are prevalent. The findings are expected to have significant implications for both biological research and public health strategies.
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Australian women launch landmark sexual abuse lawsuit against military
In a groundbreaking move, four Australian servicewomen have initiated a class action lawsuit against the Australian Defence Force (ADF), accusing it of systemic sexual abuse, harassment, and discrimination. The lawsuit, filed in the Federal Court on Friday, is expected to attract thousands of women who have served between November 12, 2003, and May 25, 2025. The plaintiffs, whose identities remain confidential for legal reasons, have detailed harrowing experiences, including being forcibly groped, waking up naked and bruised after social events, and enduring hostile, sexist remarks and unsolicited explicit content. One plaintiff, an air force member, recounted being told by her sergeant that women should not earn as much as men because they are ‘not as strong.’ Another, a navy recruit, described enduring lewd comments and unwanted physical advances, including being kissed against her will while on duty abroad. The lawsuit follows a major report last year that revealed approximately 800 sexual assault cases were reported within the ADF between 2019 and 2024, with an estimated 60% under-reporting rate. The report highlighted that sexual misconduct remains a pervasive issue, with female personnel often fearing sexual violence more than the dangers of war. Lawyers representing the plaintiffs, including Josh Aylward from JGA Saddler, emphasized that these women enlisted to serve their country, not to fend off harassment from their colleagues. The ADF has acknowledged the need for improvement, stating that all personnel deserve respect and a positive workplace experience. The case underscores the urgent need for systemic reform within the military to address sexual misconduct and ensure a safe environment for all service members.
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Watch: Millions of red crabs begin annual migration on Christmas Island
Every summer, the remote Christmas Island, located off the coast of mainland Australia, becomes the stage for one of nature’s most extraordinary phenomena: the annual migration of millions of red crabs. This year, an estimated 50 million crabs have begun their journey from the island’s lush forests to the shoreline, where they will lay their eggs. The migration, a critical part of the crabs’ life cycle, transforms the island into a vibrant sea of red as the crustaceans scuttle across roads, trails, and even human-made structures. Local authorities have implemented measures to protect the crabs, including road closures and specially constructed crab bridges, ensuring their safe passage. This natural spectacle not only highlights the island’s unique biodiversity but also draws tourists and researchers from around the globe, eager to witness this awe-inspiring event. The migration typically lasts several weeks, culminating in the release of crab larvae into the ocean, where they will begin their own journey of survival and growth.
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‘Cleary’s their general’ – Morley’s five Australia players to watch
The much-anticipated Rugby League Ashes series is set to ignite the sporting world as Australia and England prepare to face off in a historic three-match Test series. The first match kicks off at Wembley Stadium on October 25, followed by games at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium on November 1 and AMT Headingley on November 8. All matches will be broadcast live on BBC One, promising thrilling action for fans worldwide.
Adrian Morley, a legendary figure in rugby league and a 2022 inductee into the Rugby League Hall of Fame, expressed his excitement about the series. ‘It’s been over 20 years since the last Ashes series, and this rivalry is the pinnacle of rugby league,’ Morley said. The former Leeds, Sydney Roosters, and Warrington forward, who played in the 2003 series, emphasized the significance of this historic clash.
This year’s series features a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents. Reece Walsh, the 23-year-old Brisbane Broncos full-back, has been dubbed the ‘Justin Bieber of rugby league’ for his star quality and massive social media following. Walsh’s electrifying performance in the NRL Grand Final, where he scored a memorable try and made a game-saving tackle, earned him his first Australia call-up. Despite his occasional off-field antics, including a viral video of him drinking water from a toilet bowl, Walsh’s on-field prowess is undeniable.
Nathan Cleary, the 27-year-old half-back for Penrith Panthers, remains one of rugby league’s modern greats. Despite a challenging season, Cleary’s leadership and skill have been instrumental in Penrith’s recent dominance. His partner, Manchester City and Australia footballer Mary Fowler, adds to his elite sporting pedigree.
Gehamat Shibasaki, the 27-year-old centre for Brisbane Broncos, has had a remarkable comeback season. After struggling to secure a spot in the NRL, Shibasaki’s perseverance paid off with a Grand Final title and an Ashes call-up. His story is a testament to hard work and determination.
Isaah Yeo, the 30-year-old loose forward and captain of the Kangaroos, continues to be a cornerstone for Penrith Panthers. His leadership and work ethic have been pivotal in Penrith’s sustained success.
Mark Nawaqanitawase, the 25-year-old winger for Sydney Roosters, has also earned his first Kangaroos call-up. Known for his incredible try-scoring ability, Nawaqanitawase’s transition from rugby union to league has been seamless.
Morley highlighted the depth of Australia’s squad, acknowledging the challenge it poses for England. ‘They are world champs and have been the benchmark for years, but playing on home soil will be huge for England,’ he said. The series promises to be a gripping contest, with both teams vying for supremacy in one of rugby league’s oldest and fiercest rivalries.
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British man drowns in Australia after surfboard snaps in wild weather
A tragic incident unfolded at Frankston Beach, located approximately 45 kilometers southeast of Melbourne, Australia, on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The victims, a 36-year-old British surfer and his 43-year-old friend, succumbed to the perilous conditions brought on by severe weather. Authorities were alerted to the scene after reports of two men struggling in the water. Despite a swift response from emergency services, including a police helicopter that arrived within 15 minutes, both men were pronounced dead after being winched back to shore. The officer involved in the rescue also required medical attention after ingesting water but was later released from the hospital. The identities of the deceased have not been formally released as their families are yet to be notified. Detective Inspector Melissa Nixon, who addressed the media, emphasized that the surfer had minimal experience and was likely in the early stages of learning the sport. She highlighted that the weather conditions, characterized by wind gusts of up to 130 kilometers per hour, were highly unsuitable for any water activities. The friend, who attempted to rescue the surfer after his board snapped, also fell victim to the treacherous waves. Nixon described the scene as deeply distressing and underscored that the fatalities could have been avoided. She urged the public to refrain from surfing or swimming during hazardous weather conditions to prevent similar tragedies. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unpredictable natural elements and the importance of adhering to safety warnings.
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MP names person of interest in Cheryl Grimmer disappearance case
In a dramatic turn of events, the identity of a key person of interest in the 1970 disappearance of three-year-old Cheryl Grimmer has been revealed in the New South Wales parliament. The man, referred to as Mercury, was named by Jeremy Buckingham, a member of the Legislative Council, using parliamentary privilege. Mercury’s identity had been legally protected until now. Cheryl vanished from Fairy Meadow beach in Wollongong, Australia, on January 12, 1970, while her family was packing up after a day at the beach. Despite extensive searches, no trace of her was ever found. In 2017, Mercury was charged with her abduction and murder based on a teenage confession from 1971. However, the case was dismissed after a judge ruled the confession inadmissible. Mercury maintains his innocence. Cheryl’s family, who migrated to Australia from Bristol as part of the Ten Pound Poms scheme, has endured decades of anguish. They have been pushing for a fresh investigation since the case collapsed six years ago. Last week, they issued an ultimatum to Mercury, urging him to reveal his identity and clarify the details of his confession. The family has also criticized the handling of the case by NSW authorities, releasing a document detailing alleged missteps. Despite a four-year review of the case concluding there was no new evidence to secure a conviction, the family remains hopeful. Recent searches using cadaver detection dogs in an “area of interest” yielded only animal bones. Meanwhile, NSW Police have defended their efforts, emphasizing that homicide detectives continue to investigate and a A$1 million reward for information remains active. In a broader context, the NSW parliament has announced an inquiry into long-term missing persons cases, including Cheryl’s, to evaluate investigative practices and improve outcomes.