The Rapid Relief Team (RRT) was up from sunrise to serve up 1,200 meals in support of the annual Good Friday Appeal to raise funds for The Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) in Victoria.

Thirty RRT volunteers were on hand to provide hot, delicious food in the courtyard of RCH Melbourne, making sure kids and families, hospital staff, and other special guests were well-fed throughout the day.

Melbourne LTL Billy Salisbury said it is the ninth year RRT has supported the Good Friday Appeal for RCH.

“RRT loves events like the Good Friday Appeal – our volunteers provided quality food to the RCH community, making it a great day for all and helping them to reach their fundraising goal,” said Billy.

“Thirty volunteers were on the barbecues from the crack of dawn, cooking up bacon and egg rolls, sausage sandwiches and RRT Signature Burgers.

“We are so happy and humbled to have been part of this event since 2016, and we hope to be back for a tenth year in 2026,” he said.

“RCH has such a significant impact on the lives of kids in our community, and that is why the Good Friday Appeal has such incredible support and raises a huge amount of money.”

This year the Good Friday Appeal raised a total of $23,822,792.

As the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, RRT supports frontline workers and emergency services by providing food, donations and other resources, as well as hosting events for the community.

Established in 2013 to assist emergency services in times of disaster and crisis by providing meals and other support, it’s expanded to more than 16,000 volunteers and provides support to the community through charitable donations and events.

For more information on RRT, please go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rrtglobal.org/" target="_blank">www.rrtglobal.org/</a>.

The Rapid Relief Team (RRT) was up from sunrise to serve up 1,200 meals in support of the annual Good Friday Appeal to raise funds for The Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) in Victoria.Thirty RRT volunteers were on hand to provide hot, delicious food in the courtyard of RCH Melbourne, making sure kids and families, hospital staff, and other special guests were well-fed throughout the day.Melbourne LTL Billy Salisbury said it is the ninth year RRT has supported the Good Friday Appeal for RCH.“RRT loves events like the Good Friday Appeal – our volunteers provided quality food to the RCH community, making it a great day for all and helping them to reach their fundraising goal,” said Billy.“Thirty volunteers were on the barbecues from the crack of dawn, cooking up bacon and egg rolls, sausage sandwiches and RRT Signature Burgers.“We are so happy and humbled to have been part of this event since 2016, and we hope to be back for a tenth year in 2026,” he said.“RCH has such a significant impact on the lives of kids in our community, and that is why the Good Friday Appeal has such incredible support and raises a huge amount of money.”This year the Good Friday Appeal raised a total of $23,822,792.As the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, RRT supports frontline workers and emergency services by providing food, donations and other resources, as well as hosting events for the community.Established in 2013 to assist emergency services in times of disaster and crisis by providing meals and other support, it’s expanded to more than 16,000 volunteers and provides support to the community through charitable donations and events.For more information on RRT, please go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rrtglobal.org/" target="_blank">www.rrtglobal.org/</a>.

Volunteer

Campaign

Government offices / organizations

RAPID RELIEF TEAM SUPPORTS GOOD FRIDAY APPEAL FOR A NINTH YEAR

Victoria's biggest celebration of heritage returns on Friday, 18 April, with the launch of the&nbsp;Australian Heritage Festival (Victoria)&nbsp;– presented by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) and proudly supported by the Heritage Council Victoria and the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid.&nbsp;

Running until Sunday, 18 May, the festival features more than 300 free and ticketed events across Victoria and invites visitors to explore the people, places and cultures that have shaped the state’s rich story.&nbsp;

This year’s theme,&nbsp;Unearthed, brings to light hidden histories and untold stories – highlighting the contributions of migrant and queer communities, as well as the lasting legacy of women who helped build and shape our cities and towns.&nbsp;

The month-long program offers something for everyone, with walking tours, exhibitions, workshops, and family-friendly experiences spanning urban centres and regional towns. Visitors can step inside historic homes, board vintage trains, or uncover the secrets of Victoria’s gold rush past.&nbsp;

Festival highlights include&nbsp;The Alchemy of Gold&nbsp;forum in Campbells Creek from 16 to 18 May, which will examine how the 1850s gold rush transformed Victoria. Historians, experts, and community members will explore the profound and lasting impact of this era on the state’s identity.&nbsp;

In Geelong,&nbsp;The Heights Heritage Skills &amp; Traditions Autumn Fair&nbsp;on 26 April offers visitors a chance to step back in time with heritage gardens, traditional crafts, and hands-on demonstrations that showcase skills passed down through generations.&nbsp;

In Bendigo, families can enjoy&nbsp;The Heritage Fiesta&nbsp;on 17 May, with free entry to iconic sites including the Central Deborah Gold Mine, Bendigo Tramways, and the Bendigo Joss House Temple.&nbsp;

At&nbsp;Melbourne’s Trades Hall, special heritage tours on 21 and 28 April and 5 and 12 May invite visitors to walk in the footsteps of labour movement icons such as John Curtin, Zelda D’Aprano and Bob Hawke, while learning about more than 150 years of workers’ rights history.&nbsp;

Visitors can also gain exclusive access to behind-the-scenes Tours of the&nbsp;See Yup Temple&nbsp;in South Melbourne on 4 May. Historian and curator Dr. Sophie Couchman will guide guests through the fire-damaged temple, sharing insights into its restoration and showcasing rare heritage objects up close.&nbsp;

The 2025 Festival also comes at a significant moment for Victoria, following the addition of the Victorian Goldfields to Australia’s World Heritage Tentative List – a major milestone in recognising the global significance of the state’s gold rush legacy.&nbsp;

The Australian Heritage Festival runs from Friday 18 April to Sunday 18 May 2025. Full program details are available at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/ahf/vic" target="_blank">www.nationaltrust.org.au/ahf/vic</a>&nbsp;

The festival is proudly presented by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) in partnership with the Heritage Council Victoria and the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid.&nbsp;

Victoria's biggest celebration of heritage returns on Friday, 18 April, with the launch of the&nbsp;Australian Heritage Festival (Victoria)&nbsp;– presented by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) and proudly supported by the Heritage Council Victoria and the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid.&nbsp;Running until Sunday, 18 May, the festival features more than 300 free and ticketed events across Victoria and invites visitors to explore the people, places and cultures that have shaped the state’s rich story.&nbsp;This year’s theme,&nbsp;Unearthed, brings to light hidden histories and untold stories – highlighting the contributions of migrant and queer communities, as well as the lasting legacy of women who helped build and shape our cities and towns.&nbsp;The month-long program offers something for everyone, with walking tours, exhibitions, workshops, and family-friendly experiences spanning urban centres and regional towns. Visitors can step inside historic homes, board vintage trains, or uncover the secrets of Victoria’s gold rush past.&nbsp;Festival highlights include&nbsp;The Alchemy of Gold&nbsp;forum in Campbells Creek from 16 to 18 May, which will examine how the 1850s gold rush transformed Victoria. Historians, experts, and community members will explore the profound and lasting impact of this era on the state’s identity.&nbsp;In Geelong,&nbsp;The Heights Heritage Skills &amp; Traditions Autumn Fair&nbsp;on 26 April offers visitors a chance to step back in time with heritage gardens, traditional crafts, and hands-on demonstrations that showcase skills passed down through generations.&nbsp;In Bendigo, families can enjoy&nbsp;The Heritage Fiesta&nbsp;on 17 May, with free entry to iconic sites including the Central Deborah Gold Mine, Bendigo Tramways, and the Bendigo Joss House Temple.&nbsp;At&nbsp;Melbourne’s Trades Hall, special heritage tours on 21 and 28 April and 5 and 12 May invite visitors to walk in the footsteps of labour movement icons such as John Curtin, Zelda D’Aprano and Bob Hawke, while learning about more than 150 years of workers’ rights history.&nbsp;Visitors can also gain exclusive access to behind-the-scenes Tours of the&nbsp;See Yup Temple&nbsp;in South Melbourne on 4 May. Historian and curator Dr. Sophie Couchman will guide guests through the fire-damaged temple, sharing insights into its restoration and showcasing rare heritage objects up close.&nbsp;The 2025 Festival also comes at a significant moment for Victoria, following the addition of the Victorian Goldfields to Australia’s World Heritage Tentative List – a major milestone in recognising the global significance of the state’s gold rush legacy.&nbsp;The Australian Heritage Festival runs from Friday 18 April to Sunday 18 May 2025. Full program details are available at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/ahf/vic" target="_blank">www.nationaltrust.org.au/ahf/vic</a>&nbsp;The festival is proudly presented by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) in partnership with the Heritage Council Victoria and the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid.&nbsp;

Travel / Sightseeing

Event

Victorian Stories Unearthed at Australia’s Largest Heritage Festival

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is calling for the public’s help in its investigation into the suspected mass poisoning of hundreds of native&nbsp;Corella birds across multiple Newcastle suburbs, including Hamilton, Carrington, Waratah, Broadmeadow, Lambton, and near Newcastle University.

The EPA received initial reports on Monday 17 March 2025 of 14 sick and dead birds in Hamilton but by midday reports had escalated to hundreds of affected birds in Carrington and surrounding areas.

NSW EPA Executive Director of Regulatory Operations, Jason Gordon, said the EPA is investigating pesticide misuse as the possible cause based on EPA observations and advice from local veterinarians.

“This is a serious incident, and any assistance from the public could be critical to our investigation,” Mr Gordon said.

“This is a very distressing situation for everybody involved, particularly the wildlife carers and residents who are finding and collecting the birds as well as the vets who are treating them.

“The birds are exhibiting symptoms such as bleeding, staggering, paralysis, and an inability to fly and so far, we understand that veterinary clinics across Newcastle have reported over 200 bird deaths.

“We have collected samples for testing, and our officers will be visiting all sites where sick or dead birds have been found over the coming days. Anyone who thinks they may have information on how the birds have died or on potential pesticides misuse is strongly encouraged to call the EPA on 131 555.

“The misuse of pesticides, whether deliberate or unintentional, is completely unacceptable and carries heavy penalties. If you use pesticides, it is essential to follow label directions and be mindful of the surrounding environment and wildlife.”

Wildlife volunteers from Hunter Wildlife Rescue and WIRES, along with members of the public, have been assisting in the response and transporting sick birds to veterinary clinics. Members of the public should avoid handling affected wildlife.

The negligent use of pesticides in a manner that harms any non-target animal, or plant can attract penalties of up to $500,000 for an individual and $2,000,000 for a corporation.

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is calling for the public’s help in its investigation into the suspected mass poisoning of hundreds of native&nbsp;Corella birds across multiple Newcastle suburbs, including Hamilton, Carrington, Waratah, Broadmeadow, Lambton, and near Newcastle University.The EPA received initial reports on Monday 17 March 2025 of 14 sick and dead birds in Hamilton but by midday reports had escalated to hundreds of affected birds in Carrington and surrounding areas.NSW EPA Executive Director of Regulatory Operations, Jason Gordon, said the EPA is investigating pesticide misuse as the possible cause based on EPA observations and advice from local veterinarians.“This is a serious incident, and any assistance from the public could be critical to our investigation,” Mr Gordon said.“This is a very distressing situation for everybody involved, particularly the wildlife carers and residents who are finding and collecting the birds as well as the vets who are treating them.“The birds are exhibiting symptoms such as bleeding, staggering, paralysis, and an inability to fly and so far, we understand that veterinary clinics across Newcastle have reported over 200 bird deaths.“We have collected samples for testing, and our officers will be visiting all sites where sick or dead birds have been found over the coming days. Anyone who thinks they may have information on how the birds have died or on potential pesticides misuse is strongly encouraged to call the EPA on 131 555.“The misuse of pesticides, whether deliberate or unintentional, is completely unacceptable and carries heavy penalties. If you use pesticides, it is essential to follow label directions and be mindful of the surrounding environment and wildlife.”Wildlife volunteers from Hunter Wildlife Rescue and WIRES, along with members of the public, have been assisting in the response and transporting sick birds to veterinary clinics. Members of the public should avoid handling affected wildlife.The negligent use of pesticides in a manner that harms any non-target animal, or plant can attract penalties of up to $500,000 for an individual and $2,000,000 for a corporation.

Nature / Weather

Environment / SGDs / Recycling

 EPA INVESTIGATING SUSPECTED CORELLA MASS POISONING IN NEWCASTLE

Australians for Affordable Energy (AFAE) is calling for answers after a widely respected international expert questioned the cost and timeframe of building seven nuclear reactors in Australia.

Leading US climate diplomat Jonathan Pershing has warned the Coalition’s plan to delay the roll out of renewable energy in favour of delivering nuclear technology over a much longer time is a “big bet on an unknown future”.

“Australians have one main concern: dropping the price of their power bills. Important questions remain unanswered about how much nuclear will cost and when it will actually deliver power, and now new questions have now emerged,” AFAE spokesperson Jo Dodds says.

“We need to know why we would press pause on cost-effective and timely solutions in favour of a risky experiment funded by taxpayers?

“Jonathan Pershing is an expert and as he notes in the US, the high cost of building new nuclear facilities has led to nuclear energy declining as a share of the overall energy mix. Across the globe, the evidence shows us the cheapest option for reliable power is a combination of solar and batteries.”

Climate Change Authority Chair Matt Kean’s comments on ABC’s Q&amp;A have also raised new questions about the Coalition’s nuclear proposal.

“A formal Liberal state treasurer has branded his own party as ‘socialist’ and criticised the policy as far too expensive, further reiterating our fears the taxpayer will be left to fund nuclear as private investors avoid it,” Ms Dodds said.

“Energy bills are rising sharply, and households and small businesses are set to bear the brunt if real solutions aren’t found. Our energy future should not be shaped by unrealistic promises, Australians deserve clear answers on how to keep power affordable and reliable.”

Australians for Affordable Energy (AFAE) is calling for answers after a widely respected international expert questioned the cost and timeframe of building seven nuclear reactors in Australia.Leading US climate diplomat Jonathan Pershing has warned the Coalition’s plan to delay the roll out of renewable energy in favour of delivering nuclear technology over a much longer time is a “big bet on an unknown future”.“Australians have one main concern: dropping the price of their power bills. Important questions remain unanswered about how much nuclear will cost and when it will actually deliver power, and now new questions have now emerged,” AFAE spokesperson Jo Dodds says.“We need to know why we would press pause on cost-effective and timely solutions in favour of a risky experiment funded by taxpayers?“Jonathan Pershing is an expert and as he notes in the US, the high cost of building new nuclear facilities has led to nuclear energy declining as a share of the overall energy mix. Across the globe, the evidence shows us the cheapest option for reliable power is a combination of solar and batteries.”Climate Change Authority Chair Matt Kean’s comments on ABC’s Q&amp;A have also raised new questions about the Coalition’s nuclear proposal.“A formal Liberal state treasurer has branded his own party as ‘socialist’ and criticised the policy as far too expensive, further reiterating our fears the taxpayer will be left to fund nuclear as private investors avoid it,” Ms Dodds said.“Energy bills are rising sharply, and households and small businesses are set to bear the brunt if real solutions aren’t found. Our energy future should not be shaped by unrealistic promises, Australians deserve clear answers on how to keep power affordable and reliable.”

Electricity / Gas / Resources / Energy

Unanswered nuclear questions put Australians at risk

Nurses are often associated with hospitals, but in the heart of our communities, it's the primary care nurses who are the unsung heroes of healthcare. Across Australia there are approximately 98,000+ primary care nurses who play a critical role in disease prevention and support individuals and families through everyday health challenges.&nbsp;

From wound management and vaccinations to performing diagnostic screenings, blood tests, and providing triage, primary care nurses are fundamental to the wellbeing of our local communities. They are the first line of defence, ensuring patients receive the care they need in a timely and accessible way.&nbsp;

This Primary Care Nurses Day (February 5th), Sydney North Health Network (SNHN) is proud to celebrate the invaluable work of primary care nurses across the region. The importance of primary care is often overlooked, but these nurses&nbsp;truly make a difference by building lasting relationships with patients and empowering them to live healthier lives.&nbsp;

One of the key programs supporting nurses in the region is SNHN’s Nurse Transition Program, which offers nurses new to primary care a 12-month training position within a general practice setting. The program has seen over 80 nurses successfully transition into primary care, benefiting from mentorship and tailored training. Kerry McBride, Coordinator of the Nurse Transition Program, knows firsthand the value of Primary Care nursing. She started as a new graduate on the program herself.&nbsp;

“For primary care nurses, every day is about building relationships with patients and supporting them on their health journeys. I love teaching and supporting nurses to achieve their best and watching them blossom with guidance and support. I'm proud to be part of a program that nurtures and supports nurses and enables the best outcomes for patients. It’s humbling to work with such a dynamic and passionate team at SNHN as well as all the nurses across the Northern Sydney Region. Primary Care nurses are at the forefront of healthcare but are often underutilised. As the Nurse Co-ordinator I have the privilege to guide and mentor and to help nurses find their voices.”&nbsp;

SNHN also provide a range of support to nurses in the northern Sydney region including, educational resources. Nurse Network meetings are hosted monthly and keep local nurses up to date with the latest practices, ensuring they can deliver the best possible care to our local community.&nbsp;

Registered Nurse Rebecca Cromer works on SNHN’s GPs in Schools Program, a unique Health Literacy program for high school students delivered by GPs and Primary Care nurses in the classroom. She reflects on the rewarding nature of a career in nursing:&nbsp;

“I have always been compelled to help people, and I always knew that I wanted to be a nurse. Nursing can be very fulfilling and there are so many different paths you can take. Now, there is a movement toward partnership in the nurse/patient relationship and nurses are valued as professionals in their own right. We are an integral part of a multidisciplinary team.’ &nbsp;

The work of primary care nurses is vital to the future of healthcare. Their dedication to the health and wellbeing of their communities is something worth celebrating every day, not just on Primary Care Nurses Day.&nbsp;

If&nbsp;you’re&nbsp;a&nbsp;Primary Health Care professional who lives or works in the northern Sydney region, become a Sydney Norther Health Network Member&nbsp;to get access to member only education events and much more. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sydneynorthhealthnetwork.org.au/about-us/membership/" target="_blank">https://sydneynorthhealthnetwork.org.au/about-us/membership/</a>&nbsp;

&nbsp;1 APNA&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apna.asn.au/profession/what-is-primary-health-care-nursing#:~:text=Australia's%2098%2C000%2B%20primary%20health%20care,promotion%20to%20keep%20Australians%20well.&amp;text=What%20is%20primary%20health%20care%20nursing%3F,-apnanurses" target="_blank">https://www.apna.asn.au/profession/what-is-primary-health-care-nursing#:~:text=Australia's%2098%2C000%2B%20primary%20health%20care,promotion%20to%20keep%20Australians%20well.&amp;text=What%20is%20primary%20health%20care%20nursing%3F,-apnanurses</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nurses are often associated with hospitals, but in the heart of our communities, it's the primary care nurses who are the unsung heroes of healthcare. Across Australia there are approximately 98,000+ primary care nurses who play a critical role in disease prevention and support individuals and families through everyday health challenges.&nbsp;From wound management and vaccinations to performing diagnostic screenings, blood tests, and providing triage, primary care nurses are fundamental to the wellbeing of our local communities. They are the first line of defence, ensuring patients receive the care they need in a timely and accessible way.&nbsp;This Primary Care Nurses Day (February 5th), Sydney North Health Network (SNHN) is proud to celebrate the invaluable work of primary care nurses across the region. The importance of primary care is often overlooked, but these nurses&nbsp;truly make a difference by building lasting relationships with patients and empowering them to live healthier lives.&nbsp;One of the key programs supporting nurses in the region is SNHN’s Nurse Transition Program, which offers nurses new to primary care a 12-month training position within a general practice setting. The program has seen over 80 nurses successfully transition into primary care, benefiting from mentorship and tailored training. Kerry McBride, Coordinator of the Nurse Transition Program, knows firsthand the value of Primary Care nursing. She started as a new graduate on the program herself.&nbsp;“For primary care nurses, every day is about building relationships with patients and supporting them on their health journeys. I love teaching and supporting nurses to achieve their best and watching them blossom with guidance and support. I'm proud to be part of a program that nurtures and supports nurses and enables the best outcomes for patients. It’s humbling to work with such a dynamic and passionate team at SNHN as well as all the nurses across the Northern Sydney Region. Primary Care nurses are at the forefront of healthcare but are often underutilised. As the Nurse Co-ordinator I have the privilege to guide and mentor and to help nurses find their voices.”&nbsp;SNHN also provide a range of support to nurses in the northern Sydney region including, educational resources. Nurse Network meetings are hosted monthly and keep local nurses up to date with the latest practices, ensuring they can deliver the best possible care to our local community.&nbsp;Registered Nurse Rebecca Cromer works on SNHN’s GPs in Schools Program, a unique Health Literacy program for high school students delivered by GPs and Primary Care nurses in the classroom. She reflects on the rewarding nature of a career in nursing:&nbsp;“I have always been compelled to help people, and I always knew that I wanted to be a nurse. Nursing can be very fulfilling and there are so many different paths you can take. Now, there is a movement toward partnership in the nurse/patient relationship and nurses are valued as professionals in their own right. We are an integral part of a multidisciplinary team.’ &nbsp;The work of primary care nurses is vital to the future of healthcare. Their dedication to the health and wellbeing of their communities is something worth celebrating every day, not just on Primary Care Nurses Day.&nbsp;If&nbsp;you’re&nbsp;a&nbsp;Primary Health Care professional who lives or works in the northern Sydney region, become a Sydney Norther Health Network Member&nbsp;to get access to member only education events and much more. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sydneynorthhealthnetwork.org.au/about-us/membership/" target="_blank">https://sydneynorthhealthnetwork.org.au/about-us/membership/</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;1 APNA&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apna.asn.au/profession/what-is-primary-health-care-nursing#:~:text=Australia's%2098%2C000%2B%20primary%20health%20care,promotion%20to%20keep%20Australians%20well.&amp;text=What%20is%20primary%20health%20care%20nursing%3F,-apnanurses" target="_blank">https://www.apna.asn.au/profession/what-is-primary-health-care-nursing#:~:text=Australia's%2098%2C000%2B%20primary%20health%20care,promotion%20to%20keep%20Australians%20well.&amp;text=What%20is%20primary%20health%20care%20nursing%3F,-apnanurses</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;