Demon hunters and an unforgettable kiss cam became much needed levity among painful losses of young life.
2025 witnessed a spectrum of significant events that evoked profound emotions, from tragic losses to inspiring victories. Among the most heart-wrenching incidents was the discovery of a deceased newborn in a stormwater drain in Alexander Heights. The lifeless body of a baby boy, just days old, was found by workers on La Salle Road in August, triggering a major homicide investigation. Authorities later charged the mother with concealing the birth of a deceased baby, clarifying that the infant had “not been killed violently.” Her identity remains confidential to protect her mental health, and she appeared in court in October.
In another tragic case, Perth obstetrician Rhys Bellinge faced charges related to the death of 24-year-old Elizabeth Pearce. Bellinge, who was driving under the influence of alcohol at nearly four times the legal limit, crashed his speeding Jaguar into a parked Uber in February. Pearce, a University of Western Australia student, died after being transported to Royal Perth Hospital. Her parents described her as a “bright beautiful girl who brought sunshine” into their lives. The Uber driver, Muhammad Usman, suffered multiple broken bones and spent several days in an induced coma. Bellinge later pleaded guilty to manslaughter and dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm, with sentencing expected early next year.
Significant Trials and Sporting Triumphs
The trial of bikie David James Pye captivated the public as it unveiled the darker realities of organized crime. Pye was accused of orchestrating the murder of Rebels boss Nick Martin at Perth Motorplex in December 2020. What was anticipated as a six-week trial concluded in less than two, exposing a chilling narrative of violence and betrayal. The prosecution argued that Pye had hired a trained sniper to eliminate Martin due to personal animosity. The case hinges on the testimony of the sniper, described as unreliable by Pye’s defense team. Supreme Court Justice Joseph McGrath is currently reviewing evidence after the trial wrapped up on October 28, 2025.
In contrast to these grim events, the sporting world celebrated remarkable achievements. At the Australian Championships in April, Queensland’s Gout Gout made headlines by breaking the elusive 10-second barrier in the under-20 100m sprint. Despite clocking 9.99 seconds twice, both times were disqualified due to illegal wind conditions. Gout expressed his frustration but acknowledged the uncontrollable nature of the elements, highlighting the spirit of resilience in sports.
Racing history was rewritten when Jamie Melham became only the second woman to win the Caulfield and Melbourne Cup double. Partnering with Half Yours, Melham’s victory comes ten years after Michelle Payne achieved the same feat. Her triumph is significant not only for her personal career but also for women in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
Cultural Phenomena and Light-Hearted Moments
In the realm of culture, the animated film K-pop Demon Hunters astonished audiences by becoming a global hit shortly after its release on Netflix in June. The film, featuring a K-pop girl band that secretly battles demons, garnered record viewership. The accompanying soundtrack, featuring artists like EJAE and Audrey Nuna, led to nominations for five Grammy Awards in 2026. The film’s success prompted Netflix to host a special singalong weekend, generating over $29 million in ticket sales.
The rise of Labubu, a toy brand popularized by celebrities including Rihanna and Kim Kardashian, also marked a highlight of 2025. Originating from China, Labubus gained international fame, with fans eagerly lining up to purchase the toys, which feature a surprise element in their packaging. In June, a human-sized Labubu sold for 1.08 million yuan (approximately $235,000) at auction, showcasing the toy’s immense popularity.
Amidst the year’s serious headlines, a light-hearted moment emerged at a Coldplay concert in July. A couple, identified as Andy Byron and Kristin Cabot, unintentionally became the center of attention when the jumbotron focused on them. Their awkward reaction to being on camera became a viral sensation, leading to both resigning from their positions at US tech company Astronomer. The incident, while embarrassing, provided a humorous reprieve in a year marked by both grief and celebration.
In summary, 2025 served as a poignant reminder of life’s duality, encapsulating profound tragedy and joyous triumphs across various facets of society. As communities reflect on these moments, the resilience and spirit of individuals continue to shine through, reminding us of the human capacity for both sorrow and joy.
