Recap of Today's Top News Stories Thursday 22 May

NSW Flood Crisis

Recap of Today's Top News Stories

1. NSW Flood Crisis Deepens: 50,000 Isolated, Fatality Confirmed

Severe flooding continues to devastate New South Wales's Mid North Coast, with over 50,000 residents isolated and more than 339 flood rescues conducted in the past 24 hours. The Manning River in Taree has reached its highest level on record, submerging homes and prompting rooftop evacuations. A 63-year-old man was found deceased in a flood-affected home. Communities including Glenthorne, Kempsey, and Port Macquarie face evacuation orders, with forecasts predicting up to 300mm more rain in some areas. Emergency services are working tirelessly to assist affected residents. dailytelegraph

2. Victoria's Suburban Rail Loop Rebranded Amid Budget Blowout

The Victorian government has rebranded the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) as a housing initiative in its latest budget, claiming it will support the development of 70,000 new homes. This shift comes amid rising controversy over the project's escalating costs, with the first stage projected at $34 billion and overall estimates exceeding $125 billion. Critics accuse the government of misleading the public and mismanaging funds, while Premier Jacinta Allan defends the rebranding as a strategic move to address housing needs. The Australian

3. Flu Cases Surge to Record Highs Across Australia

Australia is experiencing a significant surge in influenza cases, with over 75,000 infections reported in 2025 so far—48,000 occurring in the first quarter alone. This sharp increase surpasses totals from previous years and raises concerns about a severe flu season. Health officials urge the public to get vaccinated, especially high-risk groups, as vaccination rates decline despite the availability of free vaccines. Experts warn that the flu can be life-threatening and stress the importance of early testing and vaccination to control the spread. dailytelegraph

4. Liberal Party Faces Internal Turmoil Over YouTuber's Interviews

Devinder Singh, a Western Australian Liberal Party member and YouTuber, faces potential expulsion for conducting interviews with non-Liberal political candidates during the recent federal election. Party officials criticize Singh for providing a platform to rival candidates and for content that includes explicit and implied criticisms of the Liberal Party. Singh's actions have intensified internal tensions within the WA Liberal Party, which is already dealing with disciplinary reviews of several members. The Australian

5. Man Charged in 2023 Marrickville Barber Shop Shooting

A 23-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder in connection to the July 2023 shooting of brothers William and Eric Siale inside a Marrickville barber shop. The attack, believed to be linked to organized crime, left both brothers hospitalized with serious injuries. The investigation has led to the arrest of 14 individuals, including alleged members of the Comanchero bikie gang and a real estate director facing drug-related charges. The case highlights the ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks in Sydney. dailytelegraph+1dailytelegraph+1

This concludes our recap of Today's Top News Stories