Daily News Roundup

April 23, 2018

Australian coins to get an updated Queen

The Queen is getting a makeover on Australia’s coins.

The federal government says a new effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by the UK Royal Mint’s engraver Jody Clark, will be rolled out and is expected to be seen on 2019-dated coins.

“This new effigy will replace the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy which has been in use since 1998,” Assistant Treasurer Michael Sukkar said on Sunday.

Burglars target 23 Melbourne churches

Burglars have targeted 23 Melbourne churches and religious buildings, with a 42-year-old man charged and police looking for more information.

Items were taken from properties of various religious denominations in Reservoir, Clifton Hill, Malvern, Ashburton, Caulfield, Melton, Oakleigh, Camberwell, Balwyn, Mentone, Coburg, Doncaster, Glen Iris and Ivanhoe West in March and April this year.

A 42-year-old Kew man has been charged with burglaries in Box Hill, Brunswick, Canterbury and Camberwell, remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court on May 18, but police say other people are also involved and are appealing for more information.

Boy, 11 found dead at train station after disappearing

AN 11-year-old boy who ran away from his carer while at the shops in a Sydney suburb has been found dead police have confirmed.

Police mounted a large search involving the dog unit and Polair for the child after he ran off about 7.15pm last night.

It is understood the boy escaped from a care facility on Oatley Parade and was last seen near the railway station.

He also reportedly suffered a medical condition and was non-verbal.

The boy was found dead at Oatley Train Station about 9.30pm after he was hit by a train.

The boy was placed in care by family who were taking a planned holiday, The Daily Telegraph reported.

His death prompted a raft of tributes including from autism education and awareness charity organisation the Sydney Friendship Circle.

“Today the world lost a beautiful angel,” the group posted.

“As we try to process this tremendous loss, your beautiful life flashes in front of us. We are going to miss your mischievous smile, the joy in your eyes, your curiosity about the smallest creation and your zest for life. We will miss you so much.”

A report is being prepared for the coroner.

Police said the investigation was ongoing and thanked the public for their help in the search for the boy.

Authorities are appealing for anyone with information regarding the incident to contact St George Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.