Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern married Clarke Gayford at Craggy Range Winery in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand. The private ceremony was officiated by Grant Robertson and attended by notable guests including Chris Hipkins and Peter Gordon. Ardern's popularity rose during her leadership but waned due to dissatisfaction with her Covid policies. Since resigning, she has written a book and joined Prince William's Earthshot Prize as a trustee.

Richard Brookman, a 45-year-old fisherman, had a narrow escape when a 12ft saltwater crocodile leapt into his boat with jaws open at St Helens Beach, Queensland. The incident occurred on a Sunday evening after Brookman noticed the crocodile swimming past. He managed to force the crocodile back into the water by retrieving his anchor, causing the animal to overbalance. Wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science are investigating the unusual behavior and may relocate the crocodile. The incident has added to the ongoing concerns and discussions about crocodile attacks and safety in northern Australia.

Richard Brookman, a 45-year-old Australian fisherman, narrowly escaped a potentially dangerous encounter when a 12ft saltwater crocodile leapt into his boat with open jaws at St Helens Beach, north of Mackay, Queensland. The incident occurred on a Sunday evening after Brookman noticed the crocodile swimming past. He managed to evade the crocodile by stepping over it and retrieving his anchor, causing the animal to overbalance and fall back into the water. Wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science are investigating the unusual behavior and may relocate the crocodile if found. The incident has reignited discussions about crocodile management and public safety, as attacks have become more frequent in northern Australia.

A climber survived a nearly 2,000ft fall on Mount Taranaki, New Zealand, thanks to snow softened by spring temperatures. He sustained minor injuries and was found by two other climbers. Police highlighted the importance of proper equipment and experience for climbing the mountain. Mount Taranaki is known as one of New Zealand's deadliest mountains, with several fatalities in recent years. The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council warns of the mountain's year-round challenges. The mountain was originally named Mount Egmont by Capt James Cook in 1770 and was later renamed Mount Taranaki Maunga.

A 95-year-old woman with dementia, Clare Nowland, was allegedly subdued with a Taser by Australian police at Yallambee Lodge care home in Cooma, New South Wales. The incident led to Nowland sustaining a fractured skull and brain bleed. The New South Wales police have not confirmed the use of a Taser but stated that a critical incident team will investigate. The Snowy Monaro regional council acknowledged the incident and is supporting those affected. Nowland is currently in critical condition at Cooma District Hospital.

Australia's Labor government is preparing to deliver a federal budget aimed at addressing the economic slowdown, rising cost of living, and increased defence spending. The budget follows a recent interest rate hike by the Reserve Bank of Australia and comes amid challenges such as soaring rents and a multi-billion dollar defence bill. The government plans to provide cost of living relief without exacerbating inflation. Defence spending is set to rise by A$4 billion in response to perceived threats from China. Domestic issues include the cost of the national disability scheme and welfare support. The Salvation Army is working to raise funds for vulnerable Australians, while data shows a growing number of people struggle with housing costs. The upcoming budget may include a temporary rent freeze to alleviate financial pressures. Economic experts predict a slowdown in growth and a potential rise in unemployment, with the risk of a recession if interest rates continue to increase.

Scientists at Curtin University in Australia have discovered that echidnas, spiny creatures similar to hedgehogs, cool themselves by blowing snot bubbles and doing belly flops. These methods allow them to cool the blood at the top of their beaks and through contact with cool surfaces, compensating for their inability to sweat. This research, led by zoologist Christine Cooper and captured through thermal imaging, also aids in understanding how echidnas might adapt to climate change.

Australia's endangered marine species, the dugong, is facing a severe threat due to an underwater famine caused by the destruction of sea grass, their only food source. This has been exacerbated by extreme weather conditions, industrial activities, and hunting by indigenous fishermen. Professor Ellen Ariel from James Cook University has labeled the situation a national environmental disaster, with recovery of sea grass expected to take years. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has launched a campaign to protect the dugong and green turtles. Controversy also surrounds a multi-billion pound gas processing plant near the Great Barrier Reef and the indigenous hunting practices under the Native Title laws. Animal activists are campaigning for a moratorium on dugong hunting until population numbers can be assessed.