Photos of the Week: Deer, Diabetes, and Melbourne's Corner Hotel

This week’s photo gallery spans Australia, from the Victorian bush to the city of Melbourne, capturing stories of environmental conflict, medical technology’s double-edged sword, and cultural landmarks. Among the subjects: a landowner worried about unlicensed deer hunters, an Olympic badminton star, a community frustrated by derelict buildings, and a beloved music venue fighting to survive.

Deer Hunting Without Consent

Richard Leppitt, who owns property in the Strezlecki area, has raised concerns over illegal deer hunting on his land. He discovered camera traps placed without his knowledge or permission, highlighting the tension between landholders and those seeking to control feral deer populations. Leppitt acknowledges the need for deer management but insists on lawful methods and consent.

Medical Devices: Hope and Risk

Two stories this week illustrate the impact of medical technology. Tye Cummins, who lives with diabetes, praises advances in care but warns of the consequences when devices malfunction. Meanwhile, Vicki Kelly suffered below-the-waist paralysis from a Medtronic implantable pain pump that damaged her spine. Her case underscores the potential risks of relying on such implants.

Community Battles and Cultural Icons

In Richmond, resident Carol Pelhamthorman is fed up with a graffiti-covered group of buildings owned by the co-CEOs of beauty chain Mecca. The derelict site has become an eyesore and a source of frustration. In Yarraville, plans to remove a level crossing have divided locals; Robert Price and Louise Beach fear it will transform their suburb for the worse. Meanwhile, in Kensington, a City of Melbourne report reveals a shortfall of 3,000 trees under the West Gate Tunnel project, and truck traffic has increased, angering residents like Tony Ceddia and Kate Kennedy.

Sports, Arts, and Local Heroes

On a lighter note, Australian long jumper Brooke Buschkuehl has been selected for her third Commonwealth Games. Olympic badminton player Gronya Somerville also features in the week’s images. In the arts, the founders of the Australian Book of Records posed with the Pitchface choir. And at The Corner Hotel, general manager Rod Smith reflects on the venue’s survival as one of Melbourne’s last medium-sized music venues—a testament to the city’s live music scene.

Looking Ahead

These photos offer a snapshot of Australia today: a mix of environmental debates, technological benefits and risks, community activism, and cultural endurance. As stories of illegal hunting and infrastructure shortfalls continue to develop, and as athletes prepare for international competition, these images remind us of the breadth of experiences shaping the nation.