The Age photos of the week from May 4, 2024, featured a range of compelling images captured by the publication’s staff photographers and regular contributors. The collection showcased diverse moments and events, including a Sunbury couple’s house burning down due to a lithium pool cleaner battery combusting, the need for more funding for the OPP’s court dog program, and a National Rally Against Violence calling for an end to violence against women. Premier of Victoria Jacinta Allan made history by appearing before the Yoorrook Justice Commission, becoming the first Australian leader to do so.
Other photos highlighted various issues in the community, such as the State Liquor Unit chasing illegal alcohol bootleggers, public housing vacancies sparking anger in Braybrook, and a homeless woman using drugs in Hosier Lane. A disappointed individual named Michael expressed his frustration over the Allan government’s decision not to provide another safe injecting room in the city. Additionally, the owners of Umberto Espresso Bar opened a more refined dining experience named Prova for a select few, located at the back of their Italian grocer.
Protests regarding the Palestine conflict were also documented, with images of people gathered at the Palestine encampment at Melbourne University, as well as a pro-Palestinian protestor inside his tent on the university lawn. The Palestine camp was also encircled by Jewish groups, showcasing the tensions surrounding the issue. Author Alexis Wright, winner of the Stella prize, was photographed, along with Premier Jacinta Allan attending a National Rally Against Violence and women’s safety in Melbourne.
Photographs also captured personal moments, such as Debra Sykes with her curbside charging station in St. Kilda, and Patricia Ilhan among the scaffolding of her new home in Brighton. Allison Sigmund and her granddaughter were pictured at Melbourne Airport after all flights operated by budget carrier Bonza were canceled. Conservation and land officer Cody McCormack was shown at a treatment plant where an American golden plover had found itself off-course. Additionally, friends and family were seen leaving Hannah McGuire’s funeral in Ballarat, and Djiri Djiri dancers performed before a Yoorrook hearing.
An inquiry into road safety called for an immediate review of Victoria’s speed limits, with renewed calls for speeds to be reduced on arterial roads. This news was welcomed by locals in Coburg, including Cate Hall, who have been advocating for a speed reduction on Murray Road due to a series of crashes and dangerous incidents. The University of Melbourne student encampment in protest against the war in Gaza was also featured in the photos, highlighting the ongoing activism and awareness surrounding global conflicts and social justice issues.
