Week in photos: Conjoined twins, football tragedy, Hinch death

This week's photo selection from The Age captures moments of joy, tragedy, and resilience across Australia. From the playful reunion of conjoined twins to a somber tribute for a fallen footballer, the images tell stories of human connection and loss. A highlight includes the first public appearance of 11-year-old twins Apio and Acen, who were conjoined at birth, now separated and teasing with their pastor. Meanwhile, the football community mourned Nathan Fitzgerald, who died from head injuries sustained in a game. The week also marked the death of veteran broadcaster Derryn Hinch, whose career spanned decades.

Conjoined Twins Share a Playful Moment

Pastor Fred Alimet was photographed playfully teasing 11-year-old twins Apio and Acen, who were conjoined at birth. Their younger sister, Cana, looked on. The image captures a glimpse of normalcy for the twins, who have undergone separation surgery. The photo, taken by Chris Hopkins, shows the family's joy.

Football Community in Mourning

Epping footballers gathered for a moment of silence in memory of Nathan Fitzgerald, who died from head injuries sustained during a game. The tribute was captured by photographer Penny Stephens. Fitzgerald's death has renewed discussions about player safety in contact sports.

Justice and Advocacy

A woman holding pictures of Isla Bell stood outside the Supreme Court as her loved ones and supporters gathered. The image by Jason South highlights ongoing legal proceedings. Separately, sisters Ruby and Charlie Nemet trusted their lawyer Samuel Monkivitch with their inheritance, but he allegedly defrauded them of $300,000. Photographer Ruby Alexander documented their story. In another legal case, pianist Jayson Gillham lost his unfair dismissal case against the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra; he is touring in July.

Arts and Entertainment Highlights

The Australian premiere of 'A Beautiful Noise - The Neil Diamond Musical' had a media preview rehearsal, with Will Swenson starring as Neil Diamond. Photo by Justin McManus. Director Stuart Maunder and actors Ethan Jones and Reg Livermore are involved in the musical 'Ned Kelly', captured by the same photographer. Author and journalist Kate Legge was pictured at Boire in North Melbourne.

Social Challenges and Personal Stories

Leanne Murphy lives with severe physical consequences of birth trauma, which she says shattered all parts of her life. Ruby Alexander photographed her. The rental crisis is hitting young families: Romi and Harley have been trying to rent in the Dandenong Ranges but are now considering buying their first home, with their children Phoenix and River. Jason South captured their story. In Uganda, 17-year-old David Emwodu sits with hands bound by rope, living undiagnosed with an intellectual disability. Chris Hopkins photographed him.

Remembering Derryn Hinch

Broadcaster Derryn Hinch died on July 10, 2026. He was photographed at his home in 2024 by Justin McManus. Hinch was known for his outspoken style and advocacy.

Athletic Searches and Other Notes

Participants aged 13 to 23 underwent high-performance tests at the Australian Institute of Sport's Future Green and Gold Talent Search in Melbourne, photographed by Luis Enrique Ascui. Commonwealth Games para-swimmer Vicky Belando Nicholson was also pictured by Dan Peled.

These photos encapsulate a week of contrasts—from lighthearted moments of childhood to profound loss and systemic challenges. They remind us of the breadth of human experience captured through the lens.