Monday's top stories

14 Jan 2013

A Victorian firefighter has died while fighting the fires in Tasmania and a car has ploughed into spectators at The Mud Run in Gippsland. Meanwhile, Charlie the Pug has become the face of hope.

Firefighter dies in Tasmania

A man in his 60s from Gippsland, Victoria has died battling fires in Tasmania. After failing to turn up to a routine check-in, the man was discovered near Taranna on the Tasman Peninsula. Read the bushfire update on news.com.au.

Car ploughs into mud race

A car has ploughed into the crowd at The Mud Run in Wonthaggi, Victoria after the vehicle lost control. Four children and one man have been injured and taken to hospital. Read the full story on The Age.

Beijing residents warned of pollution

Beijing is facing a massive pollution crisis as levels are found to be 30 to 45 times recommended safety levels. Residents are being told to stay indoors, especially the elderly, children and those with respiratory or cardiovascular problems. Read more at ABC News.

Coastal living under threat

Rising sea levels could put billions of dollars worth of property at risk. Climate scientists are urging Australian authorities and residents to prepare, with more than three-quarters of Australians living near the ocean. Find out more at ABC News.

Charlie the Pug – the face of hope

A five-year-old Pug has survived its home being reduced to ashes  in Dunalley’s bushfires while its family was away on holiday. Read Charlie’s story and watch the video on news.com.au.