Illicit tobacco trade surges to 80% of Australian market

Tenterfield mayor speaks out after terrifying home invasion

A pensioner couple, Keith and Diane Blessing, were violently attacked and stabbed by an intruder in their home in Torrington, northern New South Wales. Keith Blessing shot the alleged attacker in self-defence, and while both victims are recovering in Gold Coast University Hospital, a police investigation is ongoing to determine whether charges will be laid against Mr Blessing for his defensive actions. The isolated rural community has rallied behind the couple, expressing concern about their rights to self-defence and the lack of mobile connectivity in the area. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Victorian Premier faces leadership spill threat

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen faces potential leadership challenge within two weeks as Labor Party insiders describe her as hopeless and inept. New polling shows her as the most unpopular Premier in Australia with a net minus 40 rating, with Labor potentially losing up to 30 seats in the November state election. The party's position is further complicated by One Nation's surging popularity in Victoria, while no replacement candidates have emerged. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Armed home invasion in Sydney's west

Four armed men forced their way into a Green Acre property in Sydney's west, attacking a 23-year-old victim with long-bladed weapons while demanding cash. The assailants fled the scene in a dark-coloured SUV just before 2am, leaving the victim with serious hand injuries. Police are actively searching for the suspects and requesting public assistance with information. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Community rallies behind victims; Astronauts take shelter; Sydney home invasion

A Queensland couple, Keith and Di Blessing, are recovering in hospital after an alleged home invasion in Torrington resulted in Keith shooting the intruder in self-defence. The small community of around 70 people has rallied in support of Keith Blessing, expressing concern that police have not ruled out charging him over the shooting. The alleged intruder, Joshua Trethewey, remains in an induced coma awaiting police interview. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Family mourns four-year-old killed in Canning Vale crash

Four-year-old Layna died in a car crash in Canning Vale when the Holden Astra she was travelling in collided with a Ford Mustang at the intersection of Boardman Road and Garden Street. Her mother and eight-year-old brother, who were also in the vehicle, survived the crash. The local community has created a memorial at the crash site with flowers, teddy bears and dolls in tribute to the young girl. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.