The first Ashes test between Australia and England is set to commence this week in Perth, a highly anticipated event in the cricket calendar. As the head coach of the Australian cricket team, Andrew McDonald is under significant pressure to lead his team to victory. However, McDonald recently made headlines not for his coaching duties, but for a heartwarming personal moment shared with his son Ollie on the cricket field.
Over the weekend, McDonald took a brief respite from his professional commitments to play alongside his son for Geelong North’s fourth-grade team against St Peter’s Cricket Club. The father-son duo put on a remarkable 120-run stand, with McDonald finishing unbeaten on 68 and Ollie contributing 51 runs. The occasion was lightheartedly documented by the club, which posted a humorous note on its Facebook page about a low-profile local player making a comeback, only to later reveal McDonald’s participation.
The club expressed its support for McDonald, stating, “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.”
Local Politics in Turmoil: Macedon Ranges Mayor Resigns
In a separate development, Macedon Ranges Mayor Dom Bonanno has resigned following a drink-driving incident that occurred on October 31. Bonanno was caught speeding on McGeorge Road in Gisborne South with a blood alcohol level over the legal limit, leading to a six-month driving disqualification.
In a candid statement, Bonanno acknowledged his mistake, saying, “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.”
Bonanno’s resignation has left questions about his future role as a councillor for South Ward, though he assured that the mayoral vehicle remained undamaged. His council biography emphasizes his commitment to good governance, a principle now under scrutiny.
Reviving Local Journalism: The Story of Glen Innes News
As news deserts expand across regional Australia, the emergence of local news outlets like the Glen Innes News offers a refreshing change. Operating as a not-for-profit, this publication serves the Northern Tablelands in New South Wales, filling the void left by major media organizations.
Recently, the Glen Innes News featured a story about Tim Ayres, a former resident and now Minister for Industry, Innovation, and Science, who was part of the Australian delegation meeting with Donald Trump. Ayres, who attended Glen Innes High School, expressed 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.”
The publication highlighted Ayres’ achievements, noting his role in presenting the 2025 Prime Minister’s Prize for excellence in science teaching to a teacher from his alma mater.
Australia vs. Turkey: The Battle for COP31 Host
Meanwhile, at the climate summit in Belem, Brazil, Australia and Turkey are engaged in a competitive bid to host COP31 next November. The rivalry extends beyond mere logistics, with both countries showcasing their cultural offerings, from Australian flat whites to Turkish coffee.
The placement of their pavilions side by side has amused delegates, highlighting the friendly yet intense competition. The decision to host COP31 will either favor Adelaide, satisfying South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas’ enthusiasm for major events, or Antalya, if Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan prevails.
As the summit progresses, the outcome of this bid remains uncertain, but it underscores the global interest and investment in climate leadership.
