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Welcome to the "please pull me over" club

If you're like me – and most Aussie drivers – I do my best to avoid being pulled over. I check my mirrors, stick to the speed limit (mostly), and keep my rego up to date. But for some "people" out there, the road rules are more of a vague suggestion than a requirement. Enter the sovereign citizen number plate fiasco – because what better way to invite the attention of the cops than slapping an illegal plate on your car? In Adelaide this week, one particularly bold Toyota driver decided to test the limits of both the law and common sense by cruising around with a number plate that simply read "PRIVATE". If that wasn’t enough to get the attention of South Australia Police, the plate also featured the cryptic phrase "Special Trust Security" below that in tiny letter. Because nothing says "totally legitimate vehicle" like an official-looking but entirely made-up title. A sharp-eyed local spotted this masterpiece of vehicular rebellion and did what any responsible citizen would do: posted it online for all of Australia to mock. "What the F are these? Surely not legal?" they asked, unknowingly triggering a flood of gleeful internet ridicule. "They're plates which will guarantee SAPOL will pull them over at their first opportunity," one commenter noted. Others speculated that the driver might be part of the ever-growing "sovereign citizen" movement – a loose collection of legal theorists whose main belief is that laws are just an optional lifestyle choice. SAPOL wasted no time <a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/drivers-bizarre-number-plate-prompts-933-fine-warning-not-legal-010747837.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">confirming that these plates were, in fact, highly illegal</a>. Not just "a slap on the wrist" illegal – more like "here's a $933 fine before you even get to say 'but my rights!'" illegal. "These plates appear fake and are not plates that have been issued by SA Department for Infrastructure and Transport," a police spokesperson told Yahoo News. Translation: They might as well have written their rego number on a napkin. The online reaction was ruthless. "It’s the best way to show off your dreadful understanding of the law to an already disinterested police officer," one person quipped. Another called it "a sovereign citizen in the wild", while a third dubbed them "please pull me over plates". The internet, as always, did not disappoint. But this isn't a one-off. In 2023, a photo surfaced of a Holden in Queensland sporting an even more outlandish plate. This one featured the text "Private Property Non-Commercial, Living Woman, Terra Australia Incognito", and even claimed that removing the plate would incur a $50,000 fine. Extra points for creativity, but again, zero points for legal accuracy. Even more baffling, the plate included a real registration number – in absurdly tiny print. Presumably for that tiny sliver of plausible deniability. While most of us are content to pay our rego and drive without incident, these rogue motorists seem determined to treat traffic laws like a choose-your-own-adventure book. Unfortunately for them, SAPOL isn't in the habit of playing along. So next time you see someone cruising around with an official-looking but entirely nonsensical number plate, just remember – they’re not just driving, they’re providing free entertainment for the rest of us. Images: Reddit

Legal

Woman slammed for using GoFundMe for house deposit

A woman has been relentlessly mocked online after launching a GoFundMe page to ask strangers to contribute money to her house deposit. Emmalee Potter, a mother-of-three from Victoria, wrote on the page that she had been "suffering a rough few years" and relying on friends and family for help with accommodation. Now however, Potter is finally in the position where she is tantalising close to being able to purchase her new home after "working hard towards saving", but still finds herself $3,000 short of her goal. As she wrote on the fundraising page, "I'm almost at the final stage but I'm short on the deposit so I'm calling on my village. Please help me get over this last hurdle, every little bit truly helps, a house is more than just a place to live." "It's a foundation for the next chapter of life, a space where memories are made, and where I can really begin to feel settled. Your donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward helping me achieve this dream." While Ms Potter thanked those who could contribute, many were not impressed at her using the platform in order to fund her house. "No hate but you expect people to donate to you so you can buy a house?" one person asked, while another added, "I'm sorry but that is ridiculous. If we are all going to start GoFundMe accounts, I may as well start one so I can go on a holiday to Greece." Another person wrote, "It's a tough time for everyone trying to buy a house, especially with the cost of living, so I'm kind of confused why you're asking for donations. The first paragraph of your listing says 'I'm now in a position to purchase a home' but you're asking strangers to send you money for the deposit?" Ms Potter defended the fundraising page as she responded to one outraged commenter, writing, "It's not about 'funding me a house' it's the small amount still needed to buy something." "Me and my kids are living in a room at my friends. Buying is actually cheaper than renting. We've applied for over 100 rentals and been knocked back. I can get the home loan and pay the repayments [I'm] just needing the last bit of the deposit." Others were quick to defend the woman, as one person wrote, "There's nothing wrong with asking for help." Image credits: GoFundMe / Facebook

Money & Banking

Albo quizzed over luxury home purchase

Anthony Albanese has been grilled by Karl Stefanovic over the recent purchase of a multi-million dollar home, that was widely slammed by the public as being "out of touch". As part of his pre-election campaign, the Prime Minister and his fiancé Jodie Haydon sat down with 60 Minutes where they discussed the controversial real estate move. Karl Stefanovic described as the $4.1 million purchase of the Copacabana holiday home as “harebrained", as Albo defended his decision to buy the home. “Whose harebrained idea was Copacabana?” Stefanovic asked as the program began. Mr Albanese, who is notoriously sensitive about the purchase amid claims it was tone-deaf during a cost-of-living crisis, laughed at the question as he responded, “Look, Jodie and I are getting married.” “What you don’t do is move into the family home where Carmel and I raised Nathan together as a family. And guess what, Karl? At some stage … I won’t be Prime Minister into my 80s and therefore we have bought a place close to where Jodie grew up … where her family are all based.” In the program, Stefanovic observed that, “I’ve spent some time with her these last couple of days and I get the feeling the girl from the Central Coast would sooner rather than later have her feet up at Copacabana, whether you are there or not!” “No — well, she’s a Coastie and a proud one,” Mr Albanese replied. “And it was very much a personal decision, not a political one. And I think Australians get that.” Karl then asked about the controversy around the home, asking the PM, “Did it sting you at all the criticism around that, the perception being during a cost-of-living crisis, the PM shouldn’t be seen as being, you know, so lavish?” Albanese responded, “I’m pretty resilient, Karl, and if you’re worried about every bit of criticism that was out there, then life would be much more difficult than it is." Image credits: 60 Minutes <p style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 24px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">

Money & Banking

Driver reveals "surprising" way he got out of $410 seatbelt fine

An Aussie driver who copped a $410 fine and three demerit points after their passenger made a common seatbelt move has revealed how they argued his way out of the ticket. Numerous motorists have been fined in recent weeks over the little-known road rule, where the driver could be penalised if a passenger reclines their seat too far back. Aussie lawyer Hayder Shkara argued that the rule is "step too far" as well-rested passengers can help curb the growing rate of fatalities by taking over from fatigued drivers on long car trips. Shkara shared the story of how one of his followers had successfully overturned the seatbelt fine and demerit points on social media. "He applied for a review with the police, and he actually got approved," Shkara said. "In his review he focused on the fact that car manufacturers were allowed to import these vehicles with the ability to recline in the first place, and that if there was an actual issue with the vehicle in terms of its design, it should have been stopped at the importation basis. "[He] said to the police that they were practicing safe driving protocols by changing drivers and making sure that one driver was rested and at police actually withdrew the fine. He didn't have to pay anything, and he didn't get any demerit points." Shkara told Yahoo that "normally applications for review in traffic offences are extremely difficult to be successful in and there is a low margin of success." "What is the purpose of seat belts? It is for driver and passenger safety. But we all know that fatigue is a big problem for drivers, so if drivers are switching in and out, I believe that the safer thing to do is for one driver to have proper rest so they can continue to drive safely." He said he would also encourage others who receive a fine for the same offence to try and appeal their case, as the "review doesn't require you to pay any legal fees and it is worth a shot." Image: NSW Centre for Road Safety/ TikTok

Legal

Nine pulls reality TV series off the air over "staging" claims

Channel Nine's real estate reality show Find My Beach House has been pulled off air after producers were caught out "staging" scenes for the cameras. The show hosted by The Block's Shelley Craft, focuses on couples hunting to buy their "dream home". However, according to Media Watch, one couple featured on the show already owned the property that was showcased on a recent episode. According to the Media Watch report, couple Toneya and Lochie had owned the luxury pad for eight years. "In fact, days after the show was broadcast, Toneya and Lochie put the house on the market – asking price $3.8 to $4.15 million. Can’t buy advertising like that," Media Watch host Linton Besser said. Media Watch also claimed that another property featured on the show was owned by "home seeker" Kirsty, who had it listed on Airbnb for $4,000 a week. The show was pulled from 9Now after Media Watch made their enquiries In a statement shared with viewers of Media Watch, the producers admitted "reversed engineered the house-hunting process". "Abode Entertainment produces Find My Beach House, which is licensed to Channel 9,' the statement began. "The show is designed as light entertainment, offering viewers engaging tours of stunning homes. "At its core, the series follows a couple’s journey, adding a compelling narrative that keeps audiences invested," they continued. "To enhance storytelling and ensure a satisfying viewing experience, we sometimes reverse-engineer the house-hunting process." "Each episode is based on real property searches and purchases. In some cases, aspects of the home-buying journey have been reconstructed for storytelling purposes. "This means the buyers have already purchased their home before filming, and we then showcase additional properties to capture their reactions and insights authentically. "Moving forward we are making the change to include a disclaimer on each episode." Image: Nine

Coroner makes bombshell ruling over Jock Zonfrillo's death

A 16-month investigation into Jock Zonfrillo's death has come to an end, with the coroner making a shocking decision about the celebrity chef's cause of death. The coroner has decided not to publicly reveal the MasterChef judge's cause of death, which will now likely remain secret unless his family wish to disclose the information. Zonfrillo's body was found in a hotel room in Melbourne at about 2am on May 1st 2023 after police were called to conduct a welfare check on the 46-year-old. There was widespread speculation about the cause of Zonfrillo's sudden death due to his well-publicised history of drug abuse and mental health struggles. A spokeswoman for Victoria's Coroners Court told <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14357311/jock-zonfrillo-masterchef-coronial-investigation.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail Australia</a> the investigation into Zonfrillo's death was completed on August 27th last year. "At the close of the investigation, the coroner determined that the finding would not be published," the spokeswoman said. In the days following Zonfrillo's death, Daily Mail Australia revealed that it was Jock's wife Lauren who made the frantic phone call to police which led them to find her husband's body. She was travelling abroad and had reportedly became concerned about her husband's welfare when Zonfrillo failed to keep to their usual daily schedule of telephone calls. At the time, a senior Victoria Police source said that officers who attended the hotel found Zonfrillo unresponsive in his bed and saw no obvious signs of anything suspicious or unusual. There was no drug paraphernalia located and no one else in his room, with police at the scene forming the initial view Zonfrillo had died of natural causes. Image credits: Getty Images

Legal

Beloved Man About the House actor passes away

English actor Brian Murphy best known for his role as George Roper in Man About the House and its spinoff series George and Mildred has died aged 92. The star's agent confirmed he died on Sunday at his home in Kent, with his wife and actress, Linda Regan, by his side. "It is with the greatest of sadness that we have to announce the death of our client actor Brian Murphy," the actor's agent, Thomas Bowington, said in a statement to Deadline. "It is almost impossible to describe the depth of his talent and humanity. A truly joyful and profoundly good hearted man." Regan has since paid tribute to the actor, who she was married to for over 30 years, with an emotional message. "My love for you will never die. RIP sweetheart," she wrote to X, alongside a photo of them kissing. "I will love you forever darling, and all your wishes will be carried out as you wanted. My soulmate," she continued in a follow-up tweet. "I know we will meet again, until then I'll hold on to the love we shared for 35 years." <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> I will love you forever darling, and all your wishes will be carried out as you wanted. My soulmate. I know we will meet again, until then I’ll hold on to the love we shared for 35 years <a href="https://t.co/i8nNIkZYTc">https://t.co/i8nNIkZYTc</a> — Linda Regan (@Linda_Regan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Linda_Regan/status/1886769269150560670?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote> 'Allo 'Allo! star Vicki Michelle also paid tribute to the actor, saying she was "so so sad" to hear of his death. "Great actor and Gorgeous friend, always fun. My heart goes out to Linda and family. Such a Wonderful couple." Murphy started out acting in theatre and tv in the '60s before being cast in the sitcom, Man About the House, in 1973. He rose to fame shortly after, starring alongside Richard O'Sullivan, Paula Wilcox and Sally Thomsett in the sitcom which ran for six seasons. Murphy continued playing his character George in the spinoff series, George and Mildred, which ran for five seasons. He was also in films including The Booze Cruise, Sparrows Can't Sing and The Boy Friend. Image: Paul Grover/ Shutterstock Editorial

Caring

Aussie drivers warned over little-known "speed fine trap"

Road authorities are warning drivers of a "speed fine trap" in the lead-up to school's return. In NSW, four back-to-back pupil free days will take place from February 1 until February 5, as teachers and staff prep for the new school year, with students set to return on the 6th. While there will be no kids on campus, school zones will be in operation on those days, with speed limits being enforced. "Pupil-free days continue to be a major speed trap for motorists," NRMA spokesperson Peter Khoury said. Last year, 2,184 fines for speeding were issued to drivers in just two days prior to term one. An average of 1,092 fines were issued between January 30 and 31 in 2024, which was almost double the daily average for February (598). Khoury added that motorists are at risk of being fined at almost twice the rate during pupil-free days, as most drivers are "oblivious" to the rule. "It is extremely frustrating when drivers who normally abide by the 40 km/h speed limit in school zones are fined on pupil-free days because they were oblivious to the fact that the speed limits applied despite their children not being at school," he said. "The overwhelming majority of drivers go to great lengths to do the right thing around school zones and school zone speed limits have overwhelming public support — we just don’t want people inadvertently breaking the law and getting fined." He added: "Please be extra alert tomorrow as you drive through school zones as speed limits will apply." The number of pupil free days will increase from six days in 2024 to eight days in 2025. This includes the four pupil-free days on January 31 and February 3, 4 and 5. Image: Shutterstock

Legal

“Lesson learnt”: Expat fined for parking mistake

A British expat has copped a hefty fine after going against a "common sense" road rule. The man had just moved to Sydney and was visiting the famous beaches in Shoalhaven, NSW when he copped a $200 fine for parking on the wrong side of the road, facing against the direction of traffic flow. “Never heard of this before. It didn’t say anything about no parking and I’ve come back, and I’ve got a ticket, ” he said n the video posted on social media. While it is an offence in Australia, in the UK the parking technique is permitted, except at night. “Lesson learnt,” he ended his clip. The video received a lot of comments, with one asking the obvious question: “Didn’t you see what the other cars were doing?” Another added: “If the cars are all facing the one way, park that way. Why would you park facing the wrong way then all the other cars are facing the other way?” “Wasn’t it obvious?” a different person questioned. <div class="embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none !important; width: 535px;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7462819112226540833&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40archoz_2025%2Fvideo%2F7462819112226540833&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign-useast2a.tiktokcdn.com%2Ftos-useast2a-p-0037-euttp%2FogAIQEeARJOEnAQfRA5kCUnTbHGDECF1PRWDjH%7Etplv-dmt-logom%3Atos-useast2a-i-0068-euttp%2Fo0nbEYRzCBSwQAAwr8ARPoEAiB5iZIQdj0FCv.image%3Flk3s%3Db59d6b55%26x-expires%3D1737849600%26x-signature%3DbzHLO2CQeaQN%252BZr1Nmm%252Fw5t8q1A%253D%26shp%3Db59d6b55%26shcp%3D-&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> Others told him that it was just "common sense" but he insisted that everyone in the UK parks in different directions” despite also driving on the left-hand side of the road. A few people explained why they think the rule exists. “I think it’s because to get out of that park you would have to drive into oncoming traffic,” one user suggested. “Maybe in the UK your lanes are small and this would be okay but 99 per cent of our roads are wide and this is not needed.” “And to get into that park in the first place, you have to drive on the wrong side,” another person pointed out. Some British commenters could relate to the man's mistake, saying: “I’ve been caught out doing this too,” and “It did my head in when I first moved here!” The penalty for parking in the wrong direction of travel can reach up to 257, and in school zones, this fine can increase to $330 plus two demerit points. <em style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #323338; font-family: Figtree, Roboto, 'Noto Sans Hebrew', 'Noto Kufi Arabic', 'Noto Sans JP', sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff; outline: none !important;">Images: TikTok

Money & Banking

Ray Martin cashes in after selling luxury Sydney home

Ray Martin has made a whopping $7.1 million after selling the family home he has owned on Sydney's north shore for thirty-five years. The veteran journalist sold the five-bedroom, three-bathroom mansion in the suburb of Waverton for a reported $8 million, after Martin and his wife Dianne bought the luxurious 1930s-era house in 1990 for $900,000. The beautiful home, known as Finisterre, sold for between $8 million and $8.5 million after being listed on January 1st, according to reports from <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/news/ray-martins-8m-home-sale-bonanza/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener">The Daily Telegraph</a>. Located just 5km from the Sydney CBD, the gorgeous two-storey home features classic period stylings and luxurious interiors. The stunning home boasts impressive features such as grand scale living areas, a beautiful patio for entertaining and a glass-framed mosaic-tiled pool, while a chef's kitchen features the latest appliances and a breakfast island. Other highlights include a 'formal' living room, a separate family room, a home office and an open-plan dining area that opens out to the backyard and patio. The upper level offers a large open terrace which features views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline. Other luxury features on the estate also include a wine cellar, a second-floor study and landscaped gardens. Image credits: SBS / McGrath Real Estate

Money & Banking

Warning issued as drivers flout school zone rules

Motorists have confessed to speeding in school zones and using their phones while driving through drop-off areas, a new study has revealed. The study released by insurer AAMI on Wednesday, found that 56 per cent of primary school children in NSW are now driven or accompanied to and from school by an adult. Only 37 per cent of parents allow their children to travel to school independently or with peers, a huge shift compared to previous years, where nearly seven in ten Australians (69 per cent) regularly walked, biked, or scooted to and from school on their own. The main reason for this included dangerous driving behaviours by others, however, some parents have admitted to their own unsafe habits near schools. A quarter of the 1,000 survey respondents admitted speeding through school zones because they didn't notice signs. 12 per cent admitted to speeding through school zones when they don't see any children around, and others admitted to being distracted by their phone. A further 12 per cent admitted they do not always follow school 'Drop and Go' zone rules, with over 10 per cent having double parked or stopped in the middle of the road in front of their children's school. As children head back to school next week, AAMI Motor Claims Executive Manager Luisa Rose said the "findings indicate a generational shift" in how children are commuting to and from school. "With this shift in our approach to school travel we need to be aware children may not have road safety skills and awareness, increasing the risk of an accident occurring in a school zone," Rose said. "While understandably not everyone can walk, ride or scoot to school due to distance and time, one thing everyone can do is learn, and follow, is the road rules to ensure our children are safe when arriving at and leaving school." Russell White, chair and founder of the Australian Road Safety Foundation added that deaths among children aged zero to seven years has increased by 54 per cent last year compared to 2023. "This year, we hope to see a decrease in road fatalities especially involving children, and we're calling on the community to help," he added. "AAMI's research findings revealed that Australians are driving recklessly in and around school zones and need to pay attention to speed limits and rules that have been put in place to keep children safe. "Speed signs in school zones have been around for decades, so there is no excuse to be confused by them or to be caught speeding during those designated times." Image: Shutterstock

Legal

Big change for new buses after Hunter Valley crash

Australian buses and coaches fitted with seatbelts will soon be required to have announcements reminding people to buckle up, following the tragic Hunter Valley bus crash that killed 10 people almost two years ago. On Tuesday, the federal government announced that the new rule will require these vehicles to include visual and audio alerts reminding passengers to buckle up, similar to those on airplanes. “Travelling by bus is one of the safest forms of transport in Australia, and these new audible and visual signage requirements will ensure this continues to be the case,” federal assistant Regional Development Minister Anthony Chisholm said. The government also announced it had closed a loophole where some buses with seats under 1m high were exempted from requiring seatbelts. Under the regulations, all new bus and coach models must comply by November 1, 2026, while existing models will need to make the changes by November 1, 2027. “These safety outcomes further improve what is generally regarded as the most stringent seatbelt rules for buses in the world,” Bus industry confederation chair Tony Hopkins said. “With seat belt usage currently as low as 7 per cent on some services, this provides a simple but powerful message that reminds bus passengers to fasten a seat belt. “After all, if a seat belt is provided in a bus it must be worn by law.” Image: Mino Surkala / Shutterstock.com

Domestic Travel

New road initiatives rolling out this year

Several new road initiatives are set to be introduced this year, as government plans to trial out new technology in 2025. From wireless solar powered signs advising motorists of new hazards to in-road pods that collect data on traffic volume and speed, these initiatives will be trialled on regional roads as part of the NSW government's $5 million Smarter Highways program. Each trial will feature technology that detects an issue on the road, which will activate the Smarter Highway Activated Vehicle and Environment Systems (SHAVES) to warn drivers about hazards. The system will have self-adaptive electronic signage which will be able to predict events and advise motorist, including bad weather and animals approaching the road. The signs will communicate with each other using localised radio communications. The NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison said that the introduction of the technology aims to "reduce risky driving actions such as not driving to the conditions". They are also trialling a new in-road 4G traffic counter device which can detect and provide info on vehicle volumes, speeds, road temperatures and system health among other information in real time. It is being trialled on the Great Western Highway at Kelso and the Newell Highway at Dubbo, with its use particularly important for the start and end of holidays and during special events. “The more information you can give to the motoring public about an incident early, the better,” NRMA spokesperson Peter Khoury told Yahoo News. “We’ve always said more needs to be done to alert people earlier when there is an incident. It gives them the time they need to make a judgement on whether they need to proceed along a different route, or delay their journey”. The NRMA supports the trials and introduction of the new technology, with Khoury saying: "the more we are relying on new technology to make our roads more efficient and safer, the better the outcome for the public.” Here are the five Smarter Highways trials this year 1. Smarter Highway Activated Vehicle and Environmental Systems (SHAVES)- Self-adaptive electronic signage able to predict events and advise motorists of hazards. 2. Road Pod Vehicle Magnetometer - 4G powered devices in the road to provide data on traffic volumes, vehicle speeds and other issues. 3. Rural Intersection Activated Warning System - Road sensors advise motorists through Variable Speed Limit signs of a slow and large vehicle entering from a side road. 4. Improved local area traffic management during major disruptions 5. Permanent Congestion Management - Using radars and traffic signals to manage traffic congestion at a notorious breakdown location in the Blue Mountains. Image: NSW Govt

Domestic Travel

True meaning behind common Aussie road sign

Thousands of drivers past this Australian road sign every day - but very few know what it means. A confused motorist took to Reddit to share an image of the road sign they spotted on the Northern Territory's Stuart Highway, which featured a picture of a hand. He and and his travel companion assumed the sign meant there was a spot to wash your hands or windows nearby, however they were both wrong. The sign, which was part of a larger rest area sign, indicates there is Aboriginal artwork in the area. "According to the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (South Australia), published in 'Road Sign Guidelines' issued 28/03/2023, it means 'Aboriginal Attractions'," one person commented "Yep, usually rock art or some other Aboriginal site," said another. It is often seen in national parks and is the same symbol used nationally. People shared their own hilarious assumptions with one writing: "Warning, jazz hands in 2km", while another commented: "Beware of swarming ants". "Love that it's for indigenous art, but my first thought was a warning to tourists to not put bare skin on the bitumen," another commented. Others admitted they never paid any particular attention to the sign. "Oh I've never seen this before! And think it's great. Honestly my brain went to kids craft area for some reason but why would a random regional picnic stop have a kids craft area," one wrote. "I genuinely thought someone had just spray painted the sign with their hand on it. i have never seen this," another commented. A third person added their own hilarious interpretation saying: "This is so cool, have never seen one of these before. I have to admit my first thought was 'car scene in the titanic' though." Image: Reddit/ Google

Domestic Travel

Aussies reminded to look out for this lifesaving roadside marker

Aussie drivers are being reminded about a little-known roadside marker that could save your life. As the holiday season approaches, drivers have been reminded of the purpose of the small green circles that appear on roadside reflector poles. "With the holiday period fast approaching, I wanted to remind residents about green reflectors," federal MP Colin Boyce wrote over the weekend. "You may have noticed some green reflectors on guide posts beside the road on some highways. These indicate that there is a safe place to pull off the road coming up soon so you can indicate your intentions early and be prepared," he said. The number of dots indicate the distance between you and the place you can pull over. Three dots mean that drivers are approximately 500 metres from a safe place to pull over, two means you're 250 metres away and one green circle appears just before the area. "The idea is from road safety advocate and B double truck driver Rod Hannifey, alerting drivers that there is a safe place to pull off the road coming up," the Queensland MP added. "While the idea was originally intended for long haul truck drivers all road users can use them." Many Aussies have shared their enthusiasm for the highway initiative, and how important it was for caravan and motorhome drivers especially. "A lot more people need to know about this. Especially people with caravans," one woman commented. "Would love this all over Australia! There's nothing worse than driving at night with a screaming baby in the back who wants a feed and not knowing if it's a safe place to pull over," another said. Others have shared that they hadn't noticed the markings or realise what it meant. "Have asked a few people recently if they knew what these reflectors stood for, and not one knew. Explanation followed. Should be a compulsory question asked of caravaners," one local wrote. "One of the world's best kept secrets! Thanks," another said. Images: Truck Friendly/ Yahoo

Travel Tips

First driver fined under new road rules

The driver of a luxury car is believed to be the first person fined under new rules that requires high-powered vehicle owners to hold a special license. New legislation in South Australia came into force on December 1st this year that requires drivers of ultra high-powered vehicles (UHPV) to hold a U class licence. Drivers who flout the rules can be hit with six demerit points a maximum fine of $2,500 for the first offence, with the penalty for subsequent offences potentially leading to one year of imprisonment. On Monday, police in South Australia revealed a man driving a Lamborghini had been fined for allegedly breaching the new law on Sunday: the first day the legislation came into force. “About 7.30am on Sunday 1 December, police stopped a Lamborghini Huracan on Queensborough Ave, Hillcrest after noticing it was not bearing a rear number plate,” a South Australia Police spokesman wrote in a media release. “The officer identified the vehicle as being classed as an UHPV however checks on the man’s licence revealed that he did not have the required ‘U’ class licence endorsement." “A 36-year-old man from Evandale was issued with an expiation notice for driving with an expired licence for that class of vehicle.” The requirement for the licence was introduced following the death of Sophia Naismith, according to the Department for Infrastructure and Transport. In 2019, Sophia Naismith, 15, and her friend were struck luxury Lamborghini after the luxury car mounted the kerb and hit the teenagers before crashing into a restaurant. The Naismiths campaigned for changes and they were introduced, with Attorney-General Kyam Maher saying: “If you drive an ultra high-powered vehicle, you need to go through training to have that accredited on your licence.” Image credits: South Australia Police

Legal

"About time": Coles bold parking move sparks debate

Frustrated staff at a Coles-owned bottle shop in Brisbane have taken matters into their own hands and retaliated against drivers flouting parking rules outside their store. Management at a First Choice Liquor Market store in Newstead have locked in cars taking advantage of the customer-only spaces. It is understood that some cars remain parked in the 15-minute spots for extended periods, sometimes overnight, despite signs saying that fines apply. A photo shared on Facebook showed a car with P-plates blocked in by a yellow bollard and note that read: "Due to you not adhering to the parking rules, your vehicle has been locked in by management and will be kept on record." "Please see First Choice management to discuss your options". A local woman who shared the photos said there "were at least two other cars locked in" when she was passing by this week. Locals were divided by the store's actions, but many supported their decision. "About time. Pub takes all the spaces," one said. "I’ve been there when the store opens and there have been no car spaces available". "Don’t park where you shouldn’t. It’s simple," another added. A third said it was "about bloody time" something was done about the parking. However, a few others had a more understanding approach, with one local saying that the limited parking in a large apartment complex across the road could be contributing to the limited parking. Another suggested the staff had gone too far, noting the importance of being able to "flee" in a hurry, particularly in violent situations. "The thought of their vehicle being blocked in by bollard, should an unthinkable situation arise, is horrific to think of," she said. "While I understand this would be frustrating for your shop, it could be putting someone’s life in danger — as another perspective to think of." Coles have responded to the management's actions explaining that their commitment to customers means providing "parking and clear access to our stores." "The Newstead store carpark is owned by Coles and has signage throughout the carpark informing locals about parking time restrictions which are also painted on the parking bays," a Coles spokesperson told Yahoo News. "To ensure we are making our stores more accessible for customers, our store team may use its discretion to remind the community of the parking rules.” Images: Facebook

Legal

"Two strikes and you're out": Crackdown on dodgy taxi drivers

The NSW government is introducing tougher penalties for taxi drivers caught ripping off passengers, as they crackdown on dodgy practices. Taxi drivers caught committing two fare-related offences will be disqualified from driving a taxi, rideshare or any other type of transport from December 6. The offences include not using their meter, overcharging, refusing a passenger travelling a short distance, demanding a fare not displayed on the meter, adding a surcharge and charging a maxi-taxi surcharge for less than five passengers. Transport Minister Jo Haylen emphasised that the "two strikes and you're out" system would be used to crack down on a “minority of rogue drivers” in the industry, ahead of the holiday season. "We're sending a strong message to the minority of rogue drivers that if they continue overcharging, not using the meter or refusing fares they now risk being kicked out of the industry," Haylen said. "From 6 December, drivers convicted twice for fare-related offences will not only be disqualified from the taxi industry but also rideshare companies like Uber and DiDi. "With these better regulations in place, passengers can have a safe and fair ride, while supporting the taxi industry. “This is a really busy time for the taxi and rideshare industries. Christmas parties are starting to kick off, people will be starting to come home through the airport, and then there are people rushing around for those last-minute gifts,” she added. "The majority of our state's 15,000 taxi drivers are doing the right thing, but these new measures will ensure that those who aren't, are out." The laws will also apply to Taxi drivers with existing breaches on record, who will now be at risk of being banned from the industry by the Point to Point Transport Commissioner Anthony Wing. More than 900 fines have been issued to taxi drivers by commissioner inspectors in the last two years. "Let me reinforce, most drivers are consistently doing the right thing, but we want all passengers to know that there will be harsh consequences for drivers who continue to break the rules - they now face being kicked out of the industry," Wing said. "We take all fare-related offences seriously which is why my Inspectors are frequently out conducting plain clothes operations along with highly visible compliance activities." He added that "small time first offenders" would not necessarily be prosecuted but issued a fine instead of a strike. Image: Shutterstock

Legal

Mum appeals "incorrect" $410 seatbelt fine

April Miller and her husband had been visiting family in the Blue Mountains last month when the new detection cameras flagged her for not wearing her seatbelt properly. The Sydney mum argued otherwise, saying that the couple clearly had their seatbelts on and they were incorrectly fined. “We came back to a fine in the mail (claiming) our seatbelts weren’t on correctly,” she told 7NEWS. “In the corner you can clearly see that we have our seatbelts on, both of us. “If you’ve broken the law, you’ve broken the law, but if you haven’t and there’s no reason for it, then that is frustrating.” She has since appealed the $410 fine and three demerit points, and while her first appeal was denied, it is not stopping her from trying again. The seatbelt detection cameras were implemented on July 1 this year, with the intention of saving lives, as 15 per cent of deaths on NSW roads each year involve seatbelt noncompliance. Shadow Transport Minister Natalie Ward said, “if the seatbelt was on, then the fine should be repaid”. “Fining motorists who do the right thing is unacceptable because it reduces community confidence.” Transport for NSW Centre for Road Safety executive director Bernard Carlon told 7NEWS that “although the AI works to identify whether there is an offence that has been committed, there are two human reviews that happen after that” before an infringement is issued. “There can always be human error and we want to have a system that’s fair.” In just five months since the implementation of the cameras, 50,000 fines have been handed out. Fines for not wearing seatbelts have plummeted from more than 16,500 in July to about 9,800 in October. “There’s a massive reduction in the number of people offending, that’s really good,” Carlon said. Image: 7NEWS

Travel Trouble

Major driver's licence change for Victorian drivers

A major drivers licence change has been implemented in Victoria. Up to 800,000 learner and provisional drivers in the state will soon have electronic access to their licence in a bid to make "it easier for them to go about their lives". They join the 1.2 million motorists in the state who already have the capability to access their licence digitally, a feature that was only introduced in Victoria in May this year. While the digital licences are optional, the state government said that feedback from the public has been overwhelmingly positive. Like other digital licences, it features a highly secure, timed QR code" that can be scanned by businesses and other authorities to verify authenticity and prevent fraudulent use. Victoria Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne said the initiative aims to simplify life for young drivers in the state. "We’ve seen more than 1.2 million Victorians access their licence on their phones since we launched this technology in May, and I’m sure we’ll continue to see a strong take up from our younger drivers," she said. The licences can also be updated in real-time if there are changes to conditions, personal information or if a licence has been cancelled or suspended. The state government is also working with venues to ensure licences are compatible with major scanning technology making it easier for both customers and venues across Victoria. Image: Shutterstock

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