UPDATE: The total fire ban in Brisbane has officially expired, with officials confirming it will not be renewed in the immediate future. This decision comes as the region faces ongoing bushfires, notably on Moreton Island and near Bundaberg, exacerbated by hot and dry conditions.
As of last night, a spokesperson for the Queensland Fire Department announced that the six-day fire ban, which started on October 5, will not be extended. Smoke from nearby blazes, including those near Mount Nebo Road and in Ripley, has contributed to an increasingly smoky atmosphere in the city. New fire bans have been instituted for the Townsville, Whitsunday, and Mackay Council areas, prompting concern among local residents.
Meanwhile, Brisbane’s Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner, is celebrating a victory in the sporting arena. He recently “cashed in” on a friendly wager with his Melbourne counterpart, Nick Reece, over the NRL grand final. Reece was spotted wearing a Broncos jersey—his punishment for betting against the winning team. Schrinner remarked, “Looking good, Nick,” as the photo circulated on social media.
In a separate economic update, the federal government is set to announce a significant bailout for Glencore’s Mount Isa copper smelter today, which is facing closure without financial assistance. Industry Minister Tim Ayres will visit Mount Isa to detail the deal aimed at preserving approximately 600 jobs in the region. This follows a previous commitment of about $2.4 billion to support the Whyalla Steelworks in South Australia earlier this year.
The Mount Isa smelter is Australia’s third-largest industrial facility, and its viability is crucial for the local economy. Glencore had previously warned that closure was imminent without government intervention.
In more local developments, Brisbane is expected to enjoy another warm day with temperatures reaching 30 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels are projected to be high at 82%, creating a “feels like” temperature of around 21 degrees. A late shower may be on the horizon for Saturday, providing some hope for relief amid the dry conditions.
Beyond Brisbane, other significant news includes three arrests in Sydney related to an alleged gangland hit near a daycare center. Additionally, tensions rise as the government faces backlash over the return of families of Islamic State fighters from Syria.
As the day unfolds, Brisbane residents are urged to stay updated on fire safety and government announcements that could impact their community.
