Good morning Valued Subscriber,
It was a freak accident that ended the rugby dreams of Canberra player Nikki Ayers in 2016. But as she lay in hospital, after 10 operations and with a leg full of bolts and pins, she refused to call time on her sporting career, Chris Dutton reports. On Sunday night she achieved an extraordinary comeback from that nightmare, claiming gold in the Paralympic PR3 Mixed Double Sculls with partner Jed Altschwager. The Albanese government's war on spending - and it seems contractors - continues. Connor Pearce brings us the latest salvo in that battle with news that Defence is to cut spending on contractors and labour hire by a massive half-a-billion dollars. The future of the ACT's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander elected body appears uncertain, with Jasper Lindell reporting that a First-Nations led review will consider how a contemporary elected body should best serve the interests of those it seeks to represent. Finally, in news that will warm the heart of every carnivore, 2020 Australian of the Year Dr James Muecke brings us some analysis of red meat consumption that finds under the right conditions, it can be a healthy part of our diet. Don't miss our special report today. The wild winds that have been causing havoc in southern Australia are set to ease somewhat on Tuesday, although it'll be a cold start of 1 degree, topping out at a sunny 17 degrees. Enjoy your Tuesday. Scott Hannaford, deputy editor | 