Get the appAustralia's batters are determined to turn starts into big scores ahead of Tuesday's third and deciding Test against South Africa in Cape Town. The tourists are yet to pick their line-up after a heavy defeat in Gqeberha, where they were bowled out for 99. Alex Carey admitted the batting group has failed to convert recent starts. South Africa's wicketkeeper Ryan Rickelton said the Proteas will target Marnus Labuschagne's run of starts.
The Sea Heritage Foundation, which manages the MV Cape Don, has been shortlisted for the 2026 DCN Australian Shipping & Maritime Industry Awards' Diversity and Inclusion Award. The organisation's work with the historic vessel has fostered maritime education, supported Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, veterans, and university research. The Foundation urges governments and industry partners to collaborate on preserving the ship, highlighting its educational and historical significance. The recognition comes amid ongoing discussions about the vessel's future following its seizure by the NSW Government due to environmental concerns.
Josh Inglis is in contention to play as a batter in the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town, despite recovering from a broken finger. The 31-year-old, Australia's first-choice limited-overs wicketkeeper, has had a stop-start Test career, playing only five of the last 20 Tests. Inglis hopes to replicate Matthew Renshaw's successful middle-order return if selected. He has been adaptable, batting in various positions, and aims to secure a consistent role in the team.
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Get the appThe Queensland Government has announced plans to unlock 2000 megalitres of water in the Lakeland area, with smaller releases across seven Cape catchments. The move is part of the Unlocking Water Project, which aims to support agriculture and other industries. Cook MP David Kempton said Lakeland farmers have suffered chronic water shortages for years. Minister Ann Leahy said the project would drive agricultural growth and stronger regional economies. Plans for the proposed Lakeland Irrigation Area Scheme remain uncertain, with environmental concerns and opposition from some traditional owners.
Cameron Green has impressed in training nets at Newlands ahead of Australia's third Test against South Africa in Cape Town. The all-rounder is not yet cleared to bowl after a rare abdominal injury suffered in an ODI. He is expected to resume a specialist batting role, possibly away from the No.5 position. Matthew Renshaw has strong claims on that spot after his strong showing in Durban. The Test starts on Tuesday.
The US Space Force has no firm plan yet for when it will set up a new military launch base. Officials say the country's existing spaceports will need to handle 700 launches a year by 2036. A third site would take pressure off Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg and reduce the risk of one disaster or attack shutting down launches. Officials are considering public, private and state land options, including leasing commercial property, but have not made a decision.
The NSW Government will seize and dispose of the historic MV Cape Don, moored at Balls Head in Waverton. NSW Maritime says the 76-metre vessel is severely deteriorated and at risk of sinking. The department says it has held nearly fifty meetings with the owners about the ship's condition. An independent report commissioned by NSW Maritime found that scrapping the vessel is the most prudent option without substantial restoration funding. The Sea Heritage Foundation, which cares for the boat, has asked for an independent review.
Anglers from as far as South Australia will compete in the Sovereign Resort Hotel Community Day Barramundi Fishing Competition in Cooktown. The 10th event runs from Friday 23 October to Sunday 25 October, with a Quintrex boat for the adult winner and another for junior fishers aged 12 and under. Last year drew more than 1075 fishers, compared with about 80 at the inaugural event. Organisers expect late registrations, while attendance is uncertain due to fuel and cost-of-living pressures. Tickets include entry and can be bought online or at hotel reception.
Former crew member John Adderley says the lighthouse tender MV Cape Don is rusting in Sydney Harbour, far from her home port of Fremantle. The ship is recognised as national marine heritage, but the NSW Government has seized her over fears of harbour pollution, and her conservation is in doubt. Built in Australia in 1963, the 2,100-tonne vessel serviced lights, beacons and buoys along the Western Australian coast and into the Northern Territory. Adderley calls on the State Government and Maritime Museum to highlight her history and help prevent its loss.
Northern Peninsula Area community leaders have travelled to Canberra to press politicians for funding to address a chronic housing shortage in the Cape region. Mayor Robert Poipoi and councillors have made housing their top priority. The council wants $120 million over six years for at least 120 new homes across five communities, plus $3 million for immediate housing needs and $14 million for social housing upgrades. The push follows an outbreak of acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis in Injinoo, a condition linked to household overcrowding.
A social charity in Cook Shire, HOPE Inc, held another free movie night on the Cooktown waterfront. Families gathered at the Blue Water Club on Friday 9 October to watch The Greatest Showman, with a dress-up and sing-along theme. The organisation says the events celebrate individuality, promote inclusion and help people build friendships. HOPE Inc also plans to offer two training certificates to young people in the Cooktown region, aimed at building confidence and practical skills.
Far North communities have been urged to apply for funding for new early intervention programs to prevent youth offending. The State Government has opened the third round of $50 million Kickstarter grants. Grants of up to $300,000 are available for at-risk youth aged eight to 17. Queensland Police say 790 people have been charged with 2241 offences since Operation Yankee Forge began on 27 February. Youth Justice and Victim Support Minister Laura Gerber says early intervention is crucial to stop young people entering a life of crime.
Cape York Indigenous rangers and a consulting biologist have trekked more than 60 kilometres to search for endangered palm cockatoos. The team is retracing its 2024 survey route, not knowing how many birds survived Tropical Cyclone Narelle. The 2024 survey found 36 palm cockatoos, mostly along the Wenlock River. Results of the latest survey are due soon. A Queensland Government grant of more than $69,300 is funding a strategic burning project to protect the birds' habitat.