Animal cruelty claims prompt RSPCA raid

The RSPCA conducted a raid at Mernda Saleyards in Melbourne following complaints of animal cruelty. Incidents included transporting live sheep in a car and chickens with their legs tied. Senior inspector Allie Jalbert emphasized the need for humane treatment and education on animal cruelty laws. The saleyard operator, Andrew Wilson, supported the RSPCA's efforts but noted cultural practices among buyers. The market's poultry section was also under scrutiny.

From the Archives, 2005: A chemical emergency caused chaos at Melbourne Airport

A chemical leak at Melbourne Airport's South Terminal, operated by Virgin Blue and Regional Express, resulted in over 50 people treated for nausea and vomiting, with 47 hospitalized. The terminal was closed for eight hours, affecting tens of thousands of passengers and causing flight cancellations and delays across Australia. The source of the leak remained unclear, and Virgin Blue did not offer to pay for accommodations for stranded passengers, though they would compensate those who boarded other carriers' flights. The Metropolitan Fire Brigade and Airservices Australia responded to the emergency, and Qantas assisted by taking on stranded passengers and adding an extra flight.

Day of sickness and disruption as mystery chemical leak causes chaos at the airport

A chemical leak at Melbourne Airport's South Terminal caused significant disruption, leading to the evacuation of 700 people and the treatment of 57 individuals for symptoms like nausea and shortness of breath. The incident, which began early in the morning, resulted in the cancellation of 52 flights and delays for 36 others, affecting thousands of passengers nationwide. Virgin Blue faced criticism for poor communication and not accommodating stranded passengers, while Qantas was praised for assisting those affected. The source of the leak remained unidentified, but emergency services managed the situation according to established protocols.