The first Ashes test between Australia and England is set to commence this week in Perth, drawing significant attention from the cricketing world. As the head coach of the Australian cricket team, Andrew McDonald is undoubtedly a busy man. However, over the weekend, McDonald made headlines for a different reason, choosing to spend quality time with his son Ollie on the cricket field, rather than solely focusing on the high-stakes Ashes series.
In a delightful turn of events, McDonald joined Geelong North’s fourth-grade team as a substitute player against St Peter’s Cricket Club. The father-son duo put on a remarkable 120-run stand, with McDonald remaining unbeaten on 68 and Ollie contributing a solid 51 runs. This unexpected appearance was initially shared as an inside joke by the club on its Facebook page, humorously suggesting a low-profile player had made a comeback. However, the truth soon emerged, revealing McDonald’s participation.
The club expressed their excitement and support in a statement, saying, “The pair put on 120 runs for the first wicket with Ollie making 51. Andrew also showing that he’s still got it, finishing unbeaten on 68. On behalf of the entire club, we wish Andrew all the best for the upcoming Ashes series and we can’t wait to see him back in the whites for his next game with us.”
Macedon Ranges Mayor Faces Consequences After Drink-Driving Incident
In a separate incident, Macedon Ranges Mayor Dom Bonanno has stepped down from his mayoral duties following a drink-driving charge. Bonanno was caught speeding in the mayoral car on McGeorge Road in Gisborne South on October 31, with a blood alcohol level exceeding the legal limit. As a result, he faces a six-month driving disqualification.
In a candid statement, Bonanno admitted, “I need to tell the community that I have let myself, my family, the council, and my community down for a major lapse in judgment, which I take full responsibility for. I can’t turn the clock back, but I will work each day to rebuild this trust in me over the months and years ahead. I am very disappointed in myself.”
Bonanno has taken personal leave until November 25, when a new mayor will be elected. It remains unclear whether he will continue as a councillor for South Ward, although he assured that the mayoral vehicle was undamaged during the incident. His council biography highlights his commitment to “ensuring good governance with a commonsense approach to challenges.”
Reviving Local News in Regional Australia
As news deserts continue to expand in regional Australia, the emergence of local news outlets like the Ballina News Daily and the Glen Innes News offers a refreshing change. The Glen Innes News, operating as a not-for-profit, publishes fortnightly and serves the Northern Tablelands in the New England district of New South Wales.
The publication recently featured a nostalgic headline, “OUR TIM AT THE TOP TABLE,” celebrating Tim Ayres, a former Glen Innes resident and now a prominent figure in Australian politics. Ayres, who serves as the Minister for Industry and Innovation and Science, was part of the Australian delegation meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Ayres expressed his pride in his roots, stating, “It’s a wonderful community, and I’d encourage anyone from the big smoke to give a holiday in the North West of NSW a go.” He also recently presented the 2025 Prime Minister’s Prize for excellence in science teaching to a teacher from his alma mater, Glen Innes High.
Climate Summit Sees Australia and Turkey Compete for COP31 Hosting Rights
Amidst a serious climate summit in Belem, Brazil, a light-hearted rivalry has emerged between Australia and Turkey, both vying to host COP31 next November. The competition has extended to the exhibition stalls, where the two countries’ pavilions are placed side by side, much to the amusement of delegates.
Australia and Turkey are locked in a fierce battle, with Adelaide and Antalya as the respective proposed host cities. The Australian government has invested $7 million in the event, showcasing its commitment to securing the hosting rights. Meanwhile, the rivalry has even spilled over into the realm of coffee, with Australian flat whites competing against Turkish brews for attention.
This playful competition highlights the broader geopolitical and environmental stakes involved in hosting such a significant international event, as both nations seek to bolster their global standing and influence in the climate change arena.
