The year 2024 was marked by seismic events worldwide, reshaping politics, sports, and human rights stories.
This year kicked off with a shocking revelation, Princess of Wales Kate Middleton announced her cancer diagnosis, undergoing abdominal surgery and stepping back from royal duties to recover.
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Her absence sparked widespread speculation and controversy over the family photo.
Domestically, tragedy struck on April 13 when Joel Cauchi, a 40-year-old from Toowoomba, fatally stabbed six people and injured others at Westfield Bondi Junction.
Police inspector Amy Scott shot and killed Cauchi at the scene.
Internationally, Iran launched its first direct attack on Israel in decades, firing over 330 drones and missiles, marking a major escalation in Middle Eastern tensions.
Israel’s military actions in Gaza dominated headlines, with over 45,000 Palestinians and 1,700 Israelis reported dead since late 2023.
Seven aid workers, including an Australian, were killed in an April airstrike.
In sports, Australia celebrated its best-ever Olympic performance in Paris, claiming 18 gold medals.
On the political stage, Donald Trump made history as the first convicted criminal to be re-elected US President, defeating his late-entry Democratic opponent Kamala Harris.
In Australia, WA Senator Fatima Payman left the Labor Party. Payman launched her own political party in October.
Globally, Syria’s civil war ended with Damascus falling to rebel forces, forcing President Bashar al-Assad to flee after 13 years in power.
As the year closes, these events stand out as defining moments, leaving lasting impacts on politics, sports, and global society.
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