Local stories, community first — Melbourne and beyond.
The AFL's decision to clear Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale to play in the grand final has left fans baffled and questioning the league's consistency. Neale was successful in arguing that his good character should be taken into account, despite having been fined for similar incidents in the past.
A key witness in a cold case murder trial has admitted to lying to police about their connection to the victim, Christopher Jarvis, who disappeared from his Wangoom home near Warrnambool in 2006. The witness claimed to have assisted the accused, Steven Frederick Johnson, with the alleged killing.
A 29-year-old man from New South Wales has been charged with multiple offences, including possessing child abuse material, after a search warrant was executed at his home in North Albury. The suspect, who has a history of mental health conditions, was denied bail due to the serious nature of the charges and his potential risk to the community.
A former senior employee of the National Gallery of Victoria has been charged with misusing their position to allegedly purchase millions of dollars worth of mobile phones for personal gain. The scheme allegedly took place over several years, amassing about $8 million worth of devices.
Brisbane's Lachie Neale has launched an appeal against his one-match striking ban in a last-ditch effort to play in the grand final against Fremantle. The Appeal Board is now considering its decision after hearing submissions from both the AFL and Neale's defence team.
The 2026 AFL grand final is set to take place on Saturday, September 26 at the MCG, with the Brisbane Lions facing off against the Fremantle Dockers. The game starts at 2:30pm (AEST) and will be broadcast exclusively on Channel 7 and 7Plus.
A dramatic incident unfolded at the AFL preliminary final between Hawthorn and Brisbane, with a man expected to be charged for throwing a plate of food at a woman and child. Umpire Hayden Meyer felt threatened by abuse from Hawks players and fans.
Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has warned that a Coalition government teaming up with One Nation would be a disaster, saying the prospect "terrifies" him. Meanwhile, Liberal leader Jess Wilson remains unfazed by One Nation's popularity, focusing instead on winning a majority government.
The Victorian opposition has pledged an additional $100 million for the Albury Hospital redevelopment, sparking a mixed response from community leaders. The funding aims to provide 50 more beds, a multistorey car park, and clinical services building.
New data centres in Victoria will need to source their own renewable energy and cannot use drinking water under new government rules. The move aims to balance the sector's growth with community concerns.
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