House in Essendon with links to convicted gangland figure goes up in flames

Biggest bug bust: 100,000 exotic cockroaches seized

More than 100,000 live exotic cockroaches, including Dubia and Madagascar hissing cockroaches, have been seized from a commercial breeder in Bathurst in the central west of New South Wales. The haul has an estimated value of up to $200,000 and represents the biggest seizure of illegal exotic invertebrates ever made in Australia. Authorities warn the insects could threaten native wildlife and potentially spread disease. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

AI-powered vaccine could prevent next pandemic

Scientists at the University of Cambridge have developed a world-first vaccine using artificial intelligence that could protect against entire families of viruses, including future coronavirus strains. The AI-powered technology has the potential to prevent the next global pandemic and may eliminate the need for constant vaccine updates to keep pace with virus mutations. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Missing Tasmanian devil Mary sparks Gold Coast search

A Tasmanian devil named Mary escaped from her enclosure at Paradise Country wildlife park on the Gold Coast. Staff have discovered fresh droppings overnight and set up baited traps in the area to try to recapture her. Teams are checking the traps throughout the day with the assistance of a sniffer dog. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Australians waste $90 million monthly on unused subscriptions

Australians waste more than 90 million dollars monthly on unused streaming subscriptions, with a quarter of consumers unaware of their total monthly subscription spending. Those who track their expenses report spending approximately $44 per month on various subscriptions including streaming, fitness, music and meal kit delivery services. Financial experts recommend conducting regular audits of subscription services, as lenders consider these recurring payments when assessing loan applications, and consumers can often secure better deals by cancelling and resubscribing. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Non-citizens access home scheme amid housing crisis

Government data reveals 51,000 non-citizens have accessed the taxpayer-funded 5% home deposit scheme, representing 13% of participants in the Australian First Home Buyers Scheme. Victorian prisoners are receiving weight loss drugs for free while law-abiding citizens pay approximately $700 per month for the same medication. Journalist Melissa Hoyer has sparked discussion about birthday celebrations, revealing she dislikes her birthday due to the expectations surrounding the special day. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.