Retired NRL star Brett Finch is feeling “stressed and distraught” after being charged earlier this week over allegations he commented on child abuse ­material in an online chatroom.

Five primary school classmates were killed and a three others were fighting for life last night after falling from a windswept jumping castle on what was meant to be a fun day to celebrate the end of school on Thursday.

In a ringing indication the state’s rule makers are set to hold their nerve against ­Omicron, Sydneysiders are being encouraged to look forward to a jam-packed January crammed with dozens of sporting, musical and arts events. 

And in sport, Eels prop Junior Paulo says his desperation to “create our bit of history” by ending Parramatta’s 35-year premiership drought helped convince him to sign a new four-year contract extension.

For updates and breaking news throughout the day, take out a subscription at dailytelegraph.com.au