Australia news live: ‘Blue Blob’ googly eye case back in court; domestic air fares surge with Qantas and Virgin dominance

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 15 min read 100% complete by Nick VisserDecember 8, 2025 at 11:52 PM

AI Summary

long article 15 min

Several news events are unfolding in Australia. Amelia Vanderhorst appeared in court today in South Australia, charged with property damage for allegedly affixing googly eyes to the town's "Blue Blob" sculpture, causing damage upon removal. In Sydney and surrounding areas, a smoky haze from bushfires and hazard reduction burns has resulted in fair to poor air quality. A TPG Telecom executive revealed to a Senate inquiry that a second customer may have died due to a failed triple zero connection involving an incompatible Samsung phone. Additionally, domestic airfares have surged due to the dominance of Qantas and Virgin airlines.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Australia ×230% Qantas ×240% Virgin 40% Cast in Blue sculpture 50% Mount Gambier 60% Amelia Vanderhorst ×280%

Keywords

googly eye case 90% public art damage 80% qantas virgin dominance 70% domestic air fares 70% triple zero connection failure 70% air quality 60% bushfires 60% property damage 50% emergency service network 40%