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TODAY IN AUSTRIA

Today in Austria: A roundup of the latest news on Tuesday

Austria to face Turkey in Euro knockout stage, four-year-old boy critically injured in window fall, and more news from Austria on Tuesday.

Today in Austria: A roundup of the latest news on Tuesday
A brown bear in captivity investigates an Easter egg. Illustration photo: DENIS LOVROVIC / AFP

Austria glory at Euro 2024 ‘not impossible’, says Rangnick

Austria coach Ralf Rangnick said it is not unthinkable that his side could stun the continent to win Euro 2024, but he is wary of the threat posed by Turkey in Tuesday’s last 16 tie.

Under former Manchester United boss Rangnick, Austria’s fortunes have been transformed over the past two years.

They won a group containing France and the Netherlands to reach the knockout stages in Germany and now have their sights set on a first-ever Euros quarter-final.

Should they progress, Austria also have a kind draw through to the final.

A rematch with the Netherlands, who they beat 3-2 in the group stages, or Romania would await in the quarter-finals before facing England or Switzerland in the last four.

However, Rangnick said the stunning form of Spain, who thrashed Georgia 4-1 on Sunday to continue their perfect record at the tournament, showed the standards Austria have to reach.

Where around Vienna can you go mountain biking?

From challenging trails in the hills to relaxed routes around the Danube, here we list the best trail spots around Vienna.

Four-year-old boy critically injured in window fall

A four-year-old boy is in critical condition after falling from a second-story window in Weyer, Upper Austria. 

The accident occurred while he was playing with his older brother in their bedroom. The child reportedly climbed onto the window sill and leaned against a fly screen, which was not securely fastened. He fell nine meters onto the asphalt below.

The boy’s mother, who was briefly in the bathroom, immediately sought help from relatives upon discovering the incident. Emergency services were called, and the child was airlifted to Kepler University Hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Cooler temperatures and unsettled weather expected in Austria this week

According to Geosphere Austria, a cold front moving in from the west will bring cooler temperatures and unsettled weather to Austria this week. People can expect highs around 25C or slightly above, accompanied by rain showers and possible thunderstorms, particularly in the south and southeast.

Tuesday will see continued unsettled weather, with cloudy skies and occasional rain showers, especially in the north. However, the south will remain predominantly dry with sunny spells.

Wednesday will bring more rain showers, primarily in the west and south, with occasional sunny breaks. Temperatures will range from 16C to 26C.

Thursday and Friday will continue to have cloudy skies and occasional rain showers, mainly in the mountainous regions. However, there will also be periods of sunshine. Temperatures will range from 19C to 27C.

Bear sighted in Tyrol, plundering beehives

After reportedly raiding several beehives in the area, a bear was caught on camera in Pfunds, Tyrol. 

The local municipality has informed residents and temporarily closed a nearby footpath as a precaution. The affected beekeepers have been advised to protect their hives with an electric fence, and the province is offering free fencing materials to those in need.

While this is the second sighting in Pfunds since May, authorities assure there is no increased risk of encountering bears in the region. Bears previously sighted in Tyrol have generally exhibited shy behaviour. However, residents are encouraged to report any sightings promptly.

If you have any questions about life in Austria, ideas for articles, or news tips for The Local, you can contact us at news@thelocal.at or leave a comment below.

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TODAY IN AUSTRIA

Today in Austria: A roundup of the latest news on Friday

'Youth gang' charged with over 240 offences, easing of balcony power plant regulations, new dog ownership rules and more news from Austria on Friday.

Today in Austria: A roundup of the latest news on Friday

Vienna police charge youth gangs with over 240 offences

A group of young criminals, aged between 12 and 15, has been charged with over 240 offences in Vienna, including approximately 100 car burglaries in just three days. The gang, consisting of around 30-40 individuals of various nationalities, has been active since April, primarily targeting vehicles in Leopoldstadt, Landstraße, Brigittenau, Floridsdorf, and Donaustadt districts.

The police were able to track down and arrest two of the suspects, both of criminal age, after a victim located their stolen car and informed the authorities. The total damage caused by the gang is yet to be determined, but a similar case involving another youth gang in April resulted in an estimated 300,000 euros worth of damage.

The police have been investigating the group under “Operation Triangle” since April and are continuing to apprehend the remaining suspects and prevent further criminal activity.

What happens if you commit a driving offence outside Austria?

With many travellers opting to drive to their holiday destinations, it’s important to know the traffic rules in place and if you can receive a fine in Austria for an offence you committed abroad.

Debate over free menstrual products in Upper Austria state parliament

The Upper Austria state parliament recently debated a motion to provide free menstrual products in public buildings and at events, ORF reported. The motion, proposed by the SPÖ (Social Democratic Party of Austria), aimed to address the financial burden of menstrual products and promote gender equality.

The SPÖ argued that free access to menstrual products is a necessary step towards equal rights and a sign of dignity, as women are disproportionately affected by poverty. The Greens also supported the motion, highlighting the need to ensure all women and girls can afford proper hygiene.

However, the FPÖ (Freedom Party of Austria) and MFG (Menschen-Freiheit-Grundrechte) parties opposed the motion, claiming that Upper Austria has more pressing issues to address. They argued that the discussion was out of touch with reality and ignored more important concerns.

Dagmar Häulser (MFG) mocked the proposal: “In the next few weeks, I will perhaps consider a motion against razor poverty with a few members of parliament. After all, our male colleagues suffer from a three-day beard about ten times a month”.

Austria eases regulations for balcony and terrace power plants

Starting September 1st, installing balcony and terrace power plants in Austria will become easier. 

A new regulation, set to be passed by the National Council, will streamline the approval process for these mini solar systems. Previously, the consent of all apartment owners was required, but now, if no objections are raised within two months of notification, approval will be automatically granted.

Climate Minister Leonore Gewessler welcomes the change, viewing it as an “additional boost” for the energy transition. This move is expected to encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources and contribute to Austria’s climate goals.

Upper Austria tightens dog ownership law after fatal attack

Following a fatal dog attack in Naarn, Upper Austria has passed a stricter dog ownership law. 

The new law requires owners of large dogs to pass an “everyday suitability test” and mandates higher training requirements for six specific breeds. A new dog register will also be introduced to track dog owners, training, and incidents.

The law also empowers municipalities to take action against aggressive dogs before serious incidents occur, declaring them “conspicuous” if they exhibit threatening behaviour. This move aims to enhance public safety and prevent future tragedies.

If you have any questions about life in Austria, ideas for articles, or news tips for The Local, you can contact us at news@thelocal.at or leave a comment below.

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