News from November 25, 2025

112 articles found

Woman ‘groped’ stranger in hotel steam room
Technology

Woman ‘groped’ stranger in hotel steam room

The 38-year-old has been charged after she allegedly touched the genitalia of a Swedish man nearly 20 years her junior in the Turkish spa of their Magaluf holiday hotel. She was arrested and hauled before a court, where she was warned she faces 18 months in prison if convicted. The investigating magistrate released her on bail and said she was free to travel back home pending an ongoing criminal probe. Footage shows the glamorous woman with long brown hair being frogmarched across a car park by two Civil Guardsmen. She wore a long, flowing golden dress and a pair of handcuffs. The Irish woman, who lives in County Cork, was then 37 and the Swedish man just 18. A three-page indictment from prosecutors says she climbed into the Turkish steam bath and sat beside the teen “with a lustful spirit, taking advantage of the fact that no-one else was there”. She is said to have first struck up a conversation with him in the hotel sauna, and asked how long he had been in Magaluf. She then left the sauna and took a dip in the neighbouring swimming pool before following him into the Turkish steam bath, according to a police report. The indictment alleges that, against his will, she then “put her hands on his genitalia and fondled them until he said: ‘No, no, no’ and left.” He alerted hotel staff who called the police. Reports at the time said the Irish woman, who was born in Brazil, was with her husband when cops arrived and took her away. On top of the prison term, prosecutors want her banned from working with minors for two years after release and ordered to pay court costs if convicted. They also want her to pay her male accuser £440 (AU$890) in compensation. Two police officers will be called to testify along with the alleged offender and victim. There is still the possibility of a pre-trial hearing to see whether a plea bargain deal can be met. Public prosecutors have now charged her and called for her to receive a one-and-a-half year jail term if she is convicted at trial. Well-placed sources confirmed in June she had confessed to touching the Swedish holidaymaker’s genitalia when she went to court the day after her arrest, but insisted it was a misunderstanding and said she thought he was interested in her after small talk. There is no mention of this in the prosecution indictment. Her lawyer Joan Arbos, well-known in Palma, said earlier this year he was going to ask for the case to be “discontinued” on the basis he “didn’t consider a crime had taken place.” He could not be reached for comment this morning. A spokesman for the Civil Guard said shortly after the arrest: “The alleged sexual aggressor, aged 37, who was in a sauna with a Swedish man … was accused of touching the victim’s private parts without consent. “When officers arrived the victim was visibly upset. “After carrying out inquiries, they proceeded to arrest the suspected offender, who was handed over to the courts.” No date for the trial has yet been set. Prison sentences of two years or less are normally suspended in Spain for first-time offenders. This article originally appeared on The Sun and has been republished with permission

Taurus Horoscope Today, November 25, 2025
Business

Taurus Horoscope Today, November 25, 2025

Taurus Daily Horoscope Today, 25 November 2025: Ganesha says today may bring some health problems for you, so you will have to be conscious of your health. Also, pay attention to yoga exercises daily; otherwise, you may get a chronic illness in the future. Employed people may have to suddenly change to a new job, due to which will make you happy, but today you will be a little disappointed after leaving your old colleagues. There will be no limit to the happiness of small businessmen today as they will get sudden profits, but their expenses will also increase today, due to which they will remain worried. Today, you will have to maintain coordination in your family life; otherwise, there may be tension in some relationships. Positive – Your communication skills, intellectual abilities, and social activity will be at their peak today. Short trips will prove beneficial. Relationships with siblings will strengthen, and their support will help you move forward. Those involved in media, writing, and teaching are likely to achieve significant success. Negative – Excessive thoughts may cause mental instability, which can delay decision-making. Avoid unnecessary arguments on social media. Avoid arguing over trivial matters, as this can strain relationships. Maintain clarity in financial transactions. Anger can damage relationships. Business – Adopting new technology or ideas in business can lead to significant profits. Partnership businesses will remain profitable. Employed individuals may receive new training or learning opportunities. Maintain a good rapport with colleagues. Compromises will be beneficial. Finance – Today will be a better day for you from a financial point of view. You will get positive results in financial matters based on your efficiency and hard work. Today, you can get many new opportunities that can increase your income. Today can also prove to be beneficial in terms of investment. You can get the fruits of your previous efforts today, and this will improve your financial condition. If you are planning a big financial decision, then today is a favorable day for it. However, it is necessary to pay attention to uncontrolled expenses. Spend by keeping your budget in mind and avoiding spending money on unnecessary items. Overall, today indicates stability and progress in your financial matters. With your hard work and understanding, you can achieve your financial goals. Today, you can make a big decision regarding your career. Today is a favorable day to participate in competitions. Love – Maintain harmony in marital relationships and respect each other’s feelings. Maintain family peace. Health – Control temperaments like anger and haste. Problems like blood pressure may increase. Focus on meditation. Mental peace is essential. Lucky Colour– Brown Lucky Number– 16 (The author Chirag Daruwalla is the son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla).

Numerology Horoscope Today, November 25, 2025: See What's In Store For You
Politics

Numerology Horoscope Today, November 25, 2025: See What's In Store For You

Those born under the number 1 sign may experience unexpected events today, and new opportunities may emerge, while some plans may fail. Success at work is likely, and praise from colleagues and superiors will boost their confidence. Those born under the number 2 sign will experience emotional moments in love and marriage, and opportunities for business growth or job promotions will emerge. Those born under the number 3 sign should be wary of laziness, as delays and obstacles may impact daily tasks and efficiency. Those born under the number 4 sign will receive abundant support from friends and family, leading to advancement at work. Their knowledge will be appreciated at work, although some obstacles may arise in education.Those born under the number 5 sign are likely to experience success in politics, recognition, a high position, and social acclaim for their hard work. Those born under the number 6 sign may struggle with indecisiveness, but will receive good news in political or workplace matters, leading to success and respect. Those born under the number 7 sign should maintain trust with loved ones, avoid secret activities, and exercise caution in investments; family discord may occur. Number 8s are advised to avoid major financial decisions, as sudden cash problems can cause mental stress and anxiety. Number 9s will benefit from financial caution; they should avoid taking loans, and monetary gains are likely. They will spend quality time with family and witness auspicious events at home. Number 1 (People born on 1, 10, 19 and 28 of any month)Ganesha says things that you have thought of will seem to be going away from you and those that you have not even thought of will be seen coming in front of you today. People working in jobs will work with wisdom and confidence in the workplace today. They will get success in whatever work they do. There will be praise at the workplace. Colleagues and seniors will be happy with your work. This positive environment will further increase your confidence. Number 2 (People born on 2, 11, 20 or 29 of any month)Ganesha says matters related to love affairs will make you feel emotional. A sense of sweetness will flourish in married life. You can take new steps to grow your business. Employed people can get promotion opportunities. You can be emotional. Today is a good day to take your business forward. The path of progress will open in the job. Number 3 (People born on 3, 12, 21, 30 of any month)Ganesha says laziness will increase. Work done can be spoiled. There will be trouble in daily tasks. Due to laziness, there may be delays and obstacles in work. This can affect your everyday life. Be careful and try to avoid laziness. Number 4 (People born on 4, 13, 22 or 31 of any month)Ganesha says you will get full support from friends and family. This can lead to growth in your field of work. But there can be a hindrance in education. You will get full support from friends and family. People at your workplace will appreciate your knowledge. Everything will be normal at home. Your knowledgeable talks will be appreciated a lot at your workplace. Number 5 (People born on 5, 14, 23 of any month)Ganesha says there are signs of great success for people associated with the field of politics. They will get appreciation from family and society for their work. This appreciation will fill their mind with happiness. Their hard work will pay off and they will get high position and prestige. Number 6 (People born on 6, 15 or 24 of any month)Ganesha says mental decentralization can distract the mind. A situation of indecisiveness can arise. Avoid this or else even the work done can get spoiled. There is very good news for those who are in politics. Their hard work will pay off and they will get great success. They will also get a big position and respect at the workplace. Number 7 (People born on 7, 16, and 25 of any month)Ganesha says maintain the trust and faith of your loved ones. Do not do any work secretly today, otherwise the trust of family and friends may break. Invest wisely today. There may be some discord with the family. Do not argue with your family members. Invest wisely. Today is a below normal day from the family point of view. Number 8 (People born on 8, 17 and 26 of any month)Ganesha says avoid any major financial decision today. If possible, postpone such a decision or take it after consulting someone special. Your money may suddenly stop today. This may make you mentally upset. This problem can become a cause of worry for you. Number 9 (People born on 9, 18 and 27 of any month)Ganesha says take decisions wisely in financial matters. If possible, do not take loan from anyone today nor give loan to anyone. Today is a very auspicious day for you. There are chances of monetary gain. You will spend good time with family. There may also be an auspicious event at home.

Karoline Leavitt Defends Mark Kelly Probe After ‘Egregious and Completely Irresponsible’ Social Media Post | Video
World

Karoline Leavitt Defends Mark Kelly Probe After ‘Egregious and Completely Irresponsible’ Social Media Post | Video

Karoline Leavitt sounded off on Sen. Mark Kelly and five other Democratic leaders after their message to military members, calling their social video “egregious and completely irresponsible” and defending the Pentagon’s probe into the Arizona senator. The White House press secretary appeared on Fox News Monday, where she commented on the Pentagon’s investigation against Kelly and laid into the Democrats for telling members of the military that they could refuse illegal orders. “We believe it’s deeply unfortunate that these Democrat senators made this egregious and completely irresponsible statement,” Leavitt said. “Let’s be very clear. These Democrat senators knew exactly what they were doing. It’s not a coincidence all of them have military or national security experience in their background. They were leaning into that experience to try and give a wink and a nod to the 1.3 million active-duty service members who serve in our United States armed forces, and essentially encourage them to defy the orders of their commander in chief — which is illegal, by the way.” As Leavitt continued, she defended that Trump and members of his administration have never given an illegal order. “This administration respects and abides by the law, and these officials know it,” she shared. “They are trying to sow chaos and distrust, which is a very dangerous thing to do within the military’s ranks. The sanctity of our military respects and relies on law and order and the chain of command, and that’s what this administration is trying to say. And that’s why the Department of War opened up this investigation against Senator Mark Kelly today.” Later on, Leavitt accused the Democratic party of being “overtaken by Trump Derangement Syndrome,” slamming Kelly and company’s video statement as “deranged.” Leavitt’s criticism comes almost a week after Democrats — including Sens. Kelly and Elissa Slotkin — released a video directed to military service members, noting that “threats to our Constitution aren’t just coming from aboard, but from right here right at home.” “Our laws are clear. You can refuse illegal orders,” the video message noted. “No one has to carry out orders that violate the law or our Constitution.” However, the video did not highlight any specific examples of illegal orders. Trump, in response to the social media post, blasted the Democratic leaders as “traitors,” claiming the message was “really bad and dangerous to our country.” He further wrote on Truth Social, “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH.” Though, he slightly backtracked his sentiments during an appearance on “The Brian Kilmeade Show” Friday. “I’m not threatening death, but I think they’re in serious trouble. In the old days, it was death,” he clarified. “That was seditious behavior, that was a big deal. You know, nothing’s a big deal, today’s a different world.” On Monday, the Pentagon confirmed it was reviewing “serious allegations of misconduct” against Sen. Kelly. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth later confirmed that only Kelly out of the “Seditious Six” was being probed by the DOD because the other five did not fall under the department’s jurisdiction. “One is CIA and four are former military but not ‘retired,’ so they are no longer subject to UCMJ,” Hegseth wrote on X Monday referring to the Uniform Code of Military Justice. “However, Mark Kelly (retired Navy Commander) is still subject to UCMJ—and he knows that.” He added: “The Department is reviewing his statements and actions, which were addressed directly to all troops while explicitly using his rank and service affiliation—lending the appearance of authority to his words. Kelly’s conduct brings discredit upon the armed forces and will be addressed appropriately.” You can watch Leavitt’s statement in the video above.

Sean Payton identifies 'low-hanging fruit' that Broncos must clean up after bye
Sports

Sean Payton identifies 'low-hanging fruit' that Broncos must clean up after bye

The Denver Broncos come off their Week 12 bye rested and ready to prove they are truly among the top teams in the NFL. However, for the Broncos to keep that momentum moving forward, head coach Sean Payton said there is one area that his team has to clean up immediately. "The penalties stand out," Payton told The Denver Post and other outlets after Monday's practice. "If you said what’s the low-hanging fruit that you have to clean up to improve your chances of getting the best possible seed?" Broncos still have room to improve despite 9-2 record Through the first 12 weeks of the 2025 NFL slate, the Broncos are 9-2 and trailing only the New England Patriots, who enter their Monday night game at the New York Giants with a 10-2 record, at the top of the AFC standings. While the Broncos aren't at the top of the AFC standings, they are in another category that Payton isn't happy about — penalty yards. According to NFLPenalties.com, Denver paces the NFL in penalties against (93), penalty yards (883) and total number of flags (113), which includes declined and offsetting calls. "It’s something that we as a collective have to get better at," Payton said. It's also something that has to be improved from an individual standpoint as well. Defensive pass interference has been called against cornerback Riley Moss nine times already this season. In all, those calls (the most in the NFL and seven of which have been accepted) have cost the Broncos 158 yards. "With Riley, sometimes it’s technique and sometimes it’s the traffic opposite of a real good corner," Payton said. "Now, Pat (Surtain II) hasn’t been healthy, but there’s things that I’m sure (Moss) will want to clean up and then there’s a few calls where we look at it and it’s tough to try to correct or clean up something if you don’t agree with it. Overall, the penalty thing is not just one player, though." Denver gets its chance to turn around its penalty problem on Sunday night when it visits the Washington Commanders. It's the first of two consecutive road games for the Broncos, with a trip to Las Vegas to face the Raiders following that. The Broncos are a 6.5-point favorite per BetMGM.com at Washington and will likely be favored heavily against the 2-9 Raiders as well. Both the Commanders and Raiders are in the bottom 11 of the league in passing yards per game, giving Denver's defense (which has allowed an NFL-low nine passing touchdowns per game) a chance to clamp down while trying to avoid penalties that could give those struggling offenses life. If Denver can clean up its penalties over the next six regular-season games, it could add to what has already become a powerful force under Payton.

Where to Watch the ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ Reunion Special
Entertainment

Where to Watch the ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ Reunion Special

The cast of the hit comedy “Everybody Loves Raymond” is headed back to TV screens for a reunion special titled “Everybody Loves Raymond: 30th Anniversary Reunion.” It’s been nearly three decades since CBS first invited audiences into the Barone family living room, and in the 90-minute special, the cast will discuss the experiences they had on the show over the course of its nine seasons, as well as feature never-before-seen outtakes. In addition, the special will include a tribute to Doris Roberts and Peter Boyle, who starred as Marie and Frank Barone. Here’s everything you need to know about how to watch below. When is the “Everybody Loves Raymond” reunion special? The “Everybody Loves Raymond: 30th Anniversary Reunion” will premiere on CBS on Monday, Nov. 24, from 5 p.m. PST to 6:30 p.m. PST. Is the “Everybody Loves Raymond” reunion special streaming? Yes, the “Everybody Loves Raymond: 30th Anniversary Reunion” will also be available to stream on Paramount+. Premium plan subscribers will be able to stream the “Everybody Loves Raymond” reunion live and on-demand, while Essential (ad-supported plan) subscribers will only be able to stream the special on-demand the day after it airs. Who will be featured in the “Everybody Loves Raymond” reunion special? The reunion special will be hosted by Ray Romano and series creator Phil Rosenthal (aka, Phil of Netflix’s long-running tavel series “Somebody Feed Phil”) and will feature conversations with cast members Brad Garrett, Patricia Heaton, Monica Horan, Madylin Sweeten and Sullivan Sweeten. What is the “Everybody Loves Raymond” reunion special about? Here’s CBS’ description of the special: “The 90-minute special, hosted by Emmy Award-winning actor Ray Romano and series creator Phil Rosenthal, looks back on the timeless show ‘Everybody Loves Raymond,’ which premiered on Sept. 13, 1996, and aired for nine seasons on CBS. Twenty years since the show’s finale episode, audiences are invited back to the recreated Barone living room for an unforgettable evening with America’s favorite family.” Watch the “Everybody Loves Raymond” reunion special sneak peek

Update after 6yo killed on way to school
Technology

Update after 6yo killed on way to school

Caleb Wesley was on his way to school when he was hit by a car on Bannockburn-Shelford Road at Teesdale – about 34km west of Geelong – just after 8am on March 27. The six-year-old died at the scene. Police allege the driver left after the collision. The vehicle allegedly involved was later found at a Teesdale property. The alleged driver, an 84-year-old Teesdale woman, spoke with police at the time and was released pending further inquiries. The woman has now been charged with fail to stop, fail to render assistance, and fail to report a collision, Victoria Police said on Tuesday morning. She was granted bail to appear at Geelong Magistrates’ Court on Friday. The fatal collision sent shockwaves through the community earlier this year. Covenant College principal Joshua McEwen said their school was “devastated” by the loss of their student Caleb, and remembered him as “always one of the first to show kindness to others”. He said their school and Caleb’s family were grieving the “tragic loss of their little boy”. “He loved learning, loved reading books, and was fascinated by the world around him,” the tribute read. “Thank you to all who are praying for Caleb’s family and our school. “Our prayers are also for the many others who have been impacted, including those who witnessed this tragedy, those who assisted at the scene, as well as the driver and her family.”

Konstas falls cheaply in repeat dismissal
AIPC partners with Coles & Co on first major brand campaign
Technology

AIPC partners with Coles & Co on first major brand campaign

New Zealand creative agency Coles & Co has launched Let You Out – a campaign for the The Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors (AIPC) promoting counselling careers and support for those in need. Let You Out shows that counselling is transformative for everyone – both for those receiving support and for those helping others – allowing people to rediscover themselves through purpose, connection and care. The campaign is rolling out across metro and regional New South Wales (NSW) via digital, podcast and out of home placements. Something that makes you smile Renee Williams, creative director at Coles & Co, says: “We wanted to take counselling and make it feel bright and human – something that makes you smile. Let You Out isn’t heavy or clinical, it’s about those little feel good moments we could all do with more of. You’ve got people finding their feet and naturally caring in a career made for them. It’s the same emotional lift, just seen from two sides. It was a real pleasure bringing that to life for an organisation that genuinely cares about both the people it supports and the professionals it trains.” Outstanding collaboration One in five Australians face a mental health condition each year, and with stigma easing, demand for counselling is rising. The sector is projected to grow 15.1% by 2028, especially for support with stress, anxiety, identity and relationship issues. Wade Johnson, group head of marketing and communications at UP Education, which owns AIPC says: “Australia is experiencing an unprecedented demand for qualified counsellors and AIPC sits at the heart of that response. Every day, we see the transformative power of counselling, not just for those seeking support but for those choosing to make helping others their life’s work. Let You Out captures that beautifully. It’s hopeful, human and perfectly reflects AIPC’s purpose to empower people to create meaningful change. “This campaign is the result of an outstanding collaboration between the UP Education marketing team, AIPC leadership and Coles & Co. Together, they’ve built a creative platform that connects deeply with our purpose, brings genuine warmth to the category, and elevates AIPC’s voice at a time when mental health has never mattered more.” Media strategy and planning were led by New Zealand-based agency D3, targeting both career-minded and care-seeking audiences across NSW. CreditsCreative agency: Coles & CoCreative director: Renee WilliamsFounder & executive creative director: Jon ColesClient service director: Carla TamahoriSenior copywriter: Mike RamseySenior designer: Dan SulitAccount manager: Lauren MarrionClient: Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors (AIPC)Client lead: Wade Johnson, Head of Marketing – UP EducationSenior marketing and campaign manager: Sophie CareyMarketing manager: Jemma SmithCEO: Sandra PolettoMedia planning: D3Business director: Denise TanProduction: Eyes and Ears

Trump ‘Only Has Himself to Blame’ for Dismissed James Comey, Letitia James Cases, Nicolle Wallace Says | Video
Politics

Trump ‘Only Has Himself to Blame’ for Dismissed James Comey, Letitia James Cases, Nicolle Wallace Says | Video

Nicolle Wallace believes Donald Trump only has himself to blame for James Comey and Letitia James’ dismissed indictments. On Monday’s episode of “Deadline: White House,” Wallace said that a federal judge’s decision to dismiss the pair’s indictments that Trump pressured to happen is the latest sign the “wheels have come off” the president’s bandwagon. “The wheels have come off Donald Trump’s retribution campaign, at least temporarily,” Wallace said. “And this time, Donald Trump has only himself to blame.” She added: “In other words, Donald Trump’s own insistence to rush to prosecute Comey and Tish James turned out to be his prosecutor’s undoing.” Both the former FBI director and New York Attorney General celebrated the dismissal of their cases on Monday. Comey posted a video to his Instagram excited about the news, but said he believed he would be pursued by Trump in the future. “A message has to be sent that the president of the United States cannot use the Department of Justice to target his political enemies,” Comey said. “I don’t care what your politics are, you have to see that as fundamentally un-American and a threat to the rule of law that keeps all of us free.” He added: “I know that Donald Trump will probably come after me again, and my attitude is going to be the same. I’m innocent, I am not afraid, and I believe in an independent federal judiciary. A gift from out founders that protects us from a would-be tyrant.” Comey was indicted on one count for giving a false statement and on one count of obstruction of justice. Both charges were related to his September 2020 testimony to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Comey was the first senior government official, who investigated Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign over possible ties to Russia, to face federal charges. James also commented on the dismissal of her indictment saying, “I am heartened by today’s victory.” She also added that she remains “fearless in the face of these baseless charges,” potentially signaling she also expects the Trump administration to target her once again. Watch the full “Deadline: White House” segment with Wallace in the video below

Marbella’s La Fonda Heritage Hotel launches festivities with the world’s biggest “cookie Christmas tree”
Entertainment

Marbella’s La Fonda Heritage Hotel launches festivities with the world’s biggest “cookie Christmas tree”

On Friday, November 21, the historic heart of Marbella officially welcomed in the festive season as La Fonda Heritage Hotel unveiled what it claims to be the world’s largest Christmas tree made entirely of cookies. The spectacular two-metre-tall edible installation, featuring nearly 1,000 handcrafted biscuits suspended in the hotel’s elegant and historic atrium, was illuminated in a glamorous ceremony attended by more than 80 guests, including local dignitaries, business leaders, and loyal patrons. Created by internationally renowned British artist Debbie Wingham, dubbed the “Countess of Confectionery” and founder of luxury cookie brand Crumbz Cookies, the tree is both a visual masterpiece and a sensory experience. Classic gingerbread men, stars, linzer cookies, and mini Christmas trees hang alongside Wingham’s unique creations such as the Sprinkle Piñata, Mint Chocolate Fondant, and OG Cookie Cake. The moment guests step into the atrium, they are greeted by the irresistible aromas of cinnamon, ginger, and clove. “This installation blends tradition, luxury, and fantasy,” Wingham said. “I wanted to transform the hotel’s atrium into an immersive experience that surprises everyone who walks through the door.” The lighting ceremony culminated with the tree sparkling to life under thousands of tiny lights, followed by a toast with organic La Vie en Rose cava. La Fonda’s general manager, Carmine Sacco, described the tree as “more than an artistic piece – it represents collaboration, passion for craftsmanship, and the magic we want to share with Marbella every Christmas.” Euro Weekly News’ Nicole King was also on hand to take part in the celebrations, along with Good Morning Spain’s Kate Hill. The event also was a show of the hotel’s growing international prestige. A proud member of Relais & Châteaux, La Fonda recently received the coveted Michelin Key for exceptional hospitality and was named by American Express among the Trending Destinations 2026 for its contribution to Marbella’s gastronomic and cultural scene. Throughout December, the hotel will host family cookie-decorating workshops and gingerbread house sessions led by Debbie Wingham and Crumz. Good Morning Spain’s Kate Hillbz Cookies, along with a packed festive calendar that includes a Mediterranean take on Thanksgiving (November 27), Christmas Eve dinner (€155), Christmas Day à la carte lunch with live music, a lavish New Year’s Eve gala (€385), and a relaxed New Year’s Day brunch. On December 13, in partnership with Marbella Town Hall and the Swedish School, La Fonda will celebrate the traditional Scandinavian Santa Lucía festival with a children’s lantern procession, glögg, and Nordic-inspired dishes. Located in a beautifully restored building in Marbella’s charming old town, the intimate 20-room La Fonda Heritage Hotel continues to position itself as the culinary and cultural epicentre of the Costa del Sol’s festive season – proving once again that Christmas in Marbella can be both deliciously sweet and unforgettable.

Govt secret $200k spend on EV ‘bath’
Technology

Govt secret $200k spend on EV ‘bath’

The NSW Government is preparing to roll out a custom-built trailer designed to help fight EV fires and keep Sydney roads moving following an electric vehicle incident. But before putting it into play, the government will have to douse flames involving fire authorities, unions, health experts and recovery operators. Exactly how the container would be used, and who would operate it, remains a point of contention. MORE: Tesla crash triggers thermal runaway Representatives of NSW Fire and Rescue and the Fire Brigade Employees Union were not aware of the device when initially contacted by this publication. It is not clear exactly how it would be operated. Similar in size to a shipping container, the device would be towed to crash scenes involving electric vehicles. It features a hydraulic ramp that lowers to accommodate damaged cars, and a powerful winch to haul them into place. Connections for water hoses could enable firefighters or other emergency crews to fill the bucket with water to help prevent electric vehicle fires from exploding out of control. A Transport for NSW spokesperson said that although electric vehicles “present a low fire risk … the growing popularity of EVs has prompted an exploration of opportunities to enhance EV safety across the network”. MORE: Pics reveal EV inferno horror “As part of an all-of-government focus on safety, Transport for NSW has investigated options to safely and efficiently remove and transport damaged EVs involved in a crash from the network for secure storage,” they said. “Transport for NSW, in consultation with Fire and Rescue NSW, has designed and owns a specialised vehicle trailer with the capability to load and submerge electric vehicles when required. “Submersion is a critical safety measure to reduce the risk of thermal runaway and battery fires following severe damage, for example, after a crash. MORE: Do Aus buses have a ‘kill switch’? “Similar concepts are used overseas but would be too large to efficiently navigate Sydney’s road network. By building the trailer in NSW, Transport has been able to significantly lower costs around this trial and improve collaboration with other agencies on the concept. “Further testing of the unit and consultation with key stakeholders will now be carried out ahead of any future deployment.” A Fire and Rescue NSW spokesperson said that Transport for NSW developed the trailer “as a potential fire protection measure” and is working with other government agencies including fire authorities to establish how it should be used. “The initiative is in its early stages of development with consultation due to commence with key stakeholders such as unions, health and safety representatives and other emergency services.” Similar devices have already been employed overseas. Rather than extinguishing a conventional fire, the trailer be used to cool batteries at risk of igniting into “thermal runaway” fires that pose extreme hazards. Electric vehicle fires have been linked to deadly disasters at sea, including the Morning Midas, Fremantle Highway and Felicity Ace fires that destroyed three ships and around 10,000 vehicles. MORE: EV fire sparks warning for Aussie drivers The Federal Government’s National Electric Vehicle Strategy says “EVs are less likely to catch fire than [internal combustion engine] vehicles, this does not mean we can ignore the potential for EV battery electric shocks or fire related incidents”. National training rolled out by the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC) states that “just like conventional vehicles, EVs may become involved in a fire”. “Their characteristics will be similar to other vehicles unless, or until, the [lithium ion battery] becomes involved. MORE: EVs banned over ship fires “Thermal runaway is a phenomenon where a [lithium ion battery] cell enters a state of uncontrolled self-heating. It often begins when the heat generated inside the cell exceeds the heat that can be released to its surroundings. “This self-sustaining reaction rapidly increases internal temperature and pressure, causing the battery cells to vent hot, toxic and flammable vapours. If these vapours ignite, they can cause flash fires, jet-like flames or explosions.” MORE: Flooding exposes ‘extreme risk’ of electric cars AFAC doctrine states that “if a thermal runaway event has occurred, it may be a long duration incident and may require significant resources to control”. “Previous incidents indicate that between 4,000 and 30,000 litres of water may be required for extinguishment and cooling, depending on the extent and quantity of damaged cells.” It also encourages firefighters to monitor the temperature of a damaged EV battery for at least an hour before moving it, regardless of the effect on traffic. The new EV fire container could help get traffic moving quicker following a smash, by helping control battery temperatures as a vehicle is transported away from the scene. First responders have been warned that the thermal incident hazard “can exist for over four weeks post extinguishment”, and that damaged EVs must be stored carefully. Police, ambulance and rescue services have been instructed to alert fire brigades when electric vehicles are involved in a collision. Firefighters use thermal cameras to look for “hot spots” in vehicle batteries that show a thermal runaway fire may occur, watch for high-pressure gas release and listen for popping sounds that indicate a vehicle’s battery is cooking. Federally funded nationwide electric vehicle training for firefighters was published in 2025, offering instructions for how to cool a battery using fire hoses. But there are no guidelines surrounding the new bucket system. Built by Berry Howe Industries in Unanderra, the $186,230 trailer is currently stored in a Transport for NSW holding facility in Western Sydney. Testing and training for the new device is set to start soon.