Colonel Gaddafi has sent out a new audio message calling on Libyans to destroy the rebels. Fierce gun battles are continuing to rage in parts of the capital Tripoli. Rebel forces are now advancing on Colonel Gaddafi's hometown of Sirte. 

 

One of the Arab world's best-known cartoonists has been severely beaten by security forces in Syria according to activists. Ali Farzat was dragged from his car in Damascus and bashed by masked gunmen. Farzat is a long-time critic of the Syrian government. 

 

The United States is on alert as a powerful hurricane that's battering the Bahamas heads its way. Hurricane Irene has destroyed several houses and caused widespread flooding and blackouts across the Caribbean. Communities along the east coast of America are preparing for the worst. The US Navy has ordered all of its ships away from a port in Virginia. 

 

And Federal Parliament is taking a two-week break and the Government will be hoping for a reprieve from the Craig Thomson credit card saga. The issue has dominated Parliament all week with both sides exchanging barbs. The Government has been under intense pressure with the Opposition demanding the Prime Minister Julia Gillard make a statement to Parliament on the issue.