🍍☕Today in Oceania - Mon Aug 25

Published 5 days ago • 16 min read

Know what’s happening across Oceania—before your coffee’s cold.

TODAY IN OCEANIA


👠Today is Single Working Women’s Day 👠
Today is a powerful celebration of women who rise, hustle, and thrive on their own terms. Today, we honor your strength, independence, and the unstoppable light you bring to the world—keep shining.

OCEANIA MARKETS

S&P/ASX 200 8,662.00
-0.92%
S&P/NZX 50 Index Gross 12,729.40
-0.74%
SPX STRI Fiji 9246.83
0.00％
ASX 200 and NZX 50 Data Provided By: Morning Brew
*Market index data sourced from official exchange publications and financial data aggregators. ASX and NZX data reflect end-of-day figures from the Australian and New Zealand stock exchanges respectively. SPX (South Pacific Stock Exchange) figures reflect the most recent published data. Note: NZX and SPX figures include dividends (total return), while the ASX figure reflects share price movement only.

REGIONAL NEWS

A large stick insect, camouflaged to look like a twig, rests on green foliage at night. An inset photo shows a person holding the insect to reveal its impressive size, with long legs and body spanning the length of both hands.

Scientists discover a supersized species in Queensland's rainforests that tips the scales at nearly twice the weight of most birds' eggs. Photo Credit: Belinda Hogg

Australia's New Record-Breaking Giant: The Heaviest Stick Insect Down Under

Australian researchers have made a remarkable discovery in the high-altitude rainforests of North Queensland's Atherton Tablelands – a colossal new species of stick insect that may claim the title of the country's heaviest insect. The newly identified species, Acrophylla alta, measures an impressive 40 centimeters (15.75 inches) in length and weighs 44 grams – roughly equivalent to a golf ball. This discovery emerged from research conducted in the Wet Tropics region, where the insect was found thriving in the area's cool, wet conditions.

According to James Cook University's Angus Emmott, who helped identify the species, the creature's extraordinary size could be an evolutionary adaptation to its unique habitat. The cool, moisture-rich environment of the high-altitude tablelands appears to have fostered the development of this supersized insect over millions of years. What makes this discovery particularly significant is not just the insect's length – many stick insects can grow quite long – but its substantial weight, which sets it apart from other Australian insects and potentially makes it a record-holder on the continent.
A woman wearing a flower crown leans over a laptop connected to a microscope in a laboratory setting. She is demonstrating or analyzing something on the screen, while several people, also adorned with floral garlands, observe attentively.

Te Ivi Moana facility enhances scientific independence and creates opportunities for local researchers in Pacific marine conservation. Photo credit: Cook Island News/Melina Etches

Cook Islands Opens Marine Research Laboratory

The Cook Islands has officially opened Te Ivi Moana – The Backbone of the Ocean, a state-of-the-art biology laboratory that represents a major milestone in the nation's marine research capabilities. The Ministry of Marine Resources facility, which was two and a half years in the making, was custom-built and fully fitted in New Zealand before being shipped to Rarotonga as a complete unit and installed locally. Secretary Pamela Maru emphasized that the lab "marks a major step forward in building and strengthening local scientific knowledge and research" and will enhance the country's capacity to independently assess Cook Islands marine resources without relying on external agencies.

Designed as a general-purpose dry laboratory, Te Ivi Moana is equipped for fish and mollusc age and growth studies, genetic sample processing, and plankton and seaweed analysis, with room for future expansion as research needs evolve. The facility was funded by the Australian Government through the Cook Islands Regional Initiatives Targeted Non-Competitive Grants, with additional support from the Pacific Community (SPC), which provided technical assistance and will offer a three-month training placement for MMR staff to learn specialized techniques. The project was led by Dr Steve Brouwer, MMR's science adviser, whose guidance ensured the facility was perfectly tailored to meet the Cook Islands' specific scientific requirements.

Guam Senate Advances Fast-Track Rental Licensing to Combat Housing Crisis

Emergency measure would allow homeowners to quickly obtain temporary business licenses as island grapples with doubled housing prices and severe rental shortage

Guam senators have moved forward with legislation that could provide immediate relief to the island's housing crisis by allowing homeowners to fast-track temporary business licenses for rental properties. Bill 125-38, sponsored by Sen. Shawn Gumataotao, advanced to the voting file Wednesday and would enable homeowners to bypass the traditional lengthy licensing process to quickly put rental units on the market. The measure comes as Guam faces an unprecedented housing crunch, with home prices doubling over the past decade from $213,000 to $420,000, driven largely by demand from military personnel and federal contractors.

Guam senators have moved forward with legislation that could provide immediate relief to the island's severe housing crisis by allowing homeowners to fast-track temporary business licenses for rental properties. Bill 125-38, sponsored by Sen. Shawn Gumataotao, advanced to the voting file Wednesday and would enable homeowners to bypass the traditional lengthy licensing process to quickly put rental units on the market. The measure comes as Guam faces an unprecedented housing crunch, with home prices doubling over the past decade from $213,000 to $420,000, driven largely by demand from military personnel and federal contractors.

However, the bill has drawn some controversy over provisions that would waive certain government clearances typically required for business licenses. Sen. Therese Terlaje raised concerns about potentially bypassing fire department clearances and other safety requirements, warning against trying to "sneak that in by waiving all other clearances." Despite these objections, the bill moved forward and now awaits a final vote, representing what could be a significant step toward addressing Guam's housing emergency through regulatory streamlining.

PRESENTED BY VONU STUDIOS

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    A white rocket stands upright on a launch pad, surrounded by support structures and releasing large clouds of white vapor or smoke. The rocket has a blue logo on its side. The scene is set outdoors at the base of a green, bushy hill under a clear sky. The ground around the pad is dry with sparse grass and shrubs.

    Gilmour Space's Eris becomes first Australian-made orbital rocket to launch from home soil in over 50 years, achieving 14 seconds of flight in maiden test. Photo credit: Gilmour Space Technologies

    Australia Makes Space History Despite Short-Lived Rocket Flight

    Australia reached a historic milestone on July 30 when Gilmour Space Technologies successfully launched the Eris rocket from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland, marking the first time an Australian-made orbital launch vehicle has lifted off from Australian soil. Despite achieving only 14 seconds of flight time, the maiden test represented "a major step forward for Australia's sovereign space capability," with the company celebrating several key achievements including smooth operations through terminal count, successful ignition of all four first-stage hybrid rocket engines, and 23 seconds of engine burn time. The launch made Australia only the sixth nation to regularly pursue orbital launches, with the flight representing the country's first orbital launch attempt since 1971.

    The Eris rocket, designed and manufactured entirely by Gilmour Space, uses proprietary hybrid rocket technology and launched from Australia's first licensed commercial orbital launch facility. The Bowen Orbital Spaceport operates with blessings from the Juru traditional owners to "bridge Country to Sky" and was co-funded by the Commonwealth and Queensland governments under the Modern Manufacturing Strategy. While the vehicle cleared the launch tower but drifted to the side before coming back down to Earth, Gilmour Space emphasized that extensive flight data was collected and the team remains "safe and energised for Test Flight 2."

    The successful liftoff completed "a major milestone toward offering low-cost, responsive launch services for small satellites globally," positioning Australia to compete in the growing commercial space launch market. Despite the brief flight duration, the achievement demonstrates Australia's growing capabilities in sovereign space technology, with the company now focusing on analyzing the collected data to prepare for the next test flight in their journey toward reliable orbital launches.
    An aerial view of a coastal naval base under development, with cleared land, construction equipment, and several buildings scattered throughout the site. A long pier extends from the shore into bright turquoise water, where two naval ships are docked. The background features lush greenery and trees, with the open sea and a distant island visible under a clear sky.

    Lombrum Naval Base refurbishment positions Papua New Guinea as key ally in US-Australia efforts to counter China's regional influence. Photo credit: Australia Government Defence

    Australia Funds Strategic PNG Naval Base as Pacific Competition Intensifies

    Australian funding totaling around USD $20 million is transforming Papua New Guinea's Lombrum Naval Base on Manus Island into a strategic asset in the intensifying Pacific competition between Western allies and China. Due to open in August, the refurbished facility will feature an improved jetty, regional maritime training centre, and facilities for small craft, significantly enhancing the Papua New Guinea Defence Force's capability to protect its borders and maritime resources through mentoring, tailored training, and infrastructure development. The base renovation is part of Australia's broader Pacific Step-up initiative, with the second stage of upgrades costing A$175 million to support PNG's new Guardian-class patrol boats received from Australia.

    The Lombrum base has gained particular strategic importance following the 2023 Defense Cooperation Agreement between Papua New Guinea and the United States, which grants American forces unimpeded access to six PNG facilities, including three airports, two ports, and the naval base for training, transit, and pre-positioning equipment. The US has committed $864 million in investment as part of this defense cooperation agreement, while Australia maintains similar access arrangements to PNG defence facilities. Observers note that these developments represent a coordinated Western response to China's growing influence in the Pacific, with the deal signaling "greater presence for the US and a further setback for China in the region, where Beijing has failed to make major inroads beyond trade".

    Lombrum Naval Base provides access to a deep-water port in a region where China has been actively seeking to expand its military footprint. The base, originally built by U.S. forces during World War II, gives Australian forces access to the strategically vital facility while "slamming the door on Chinese ambitions to gain a foothold" in the area.

    James Cook University Launches Free Nursing Textbook in Australian First

    Comprehensive foundational guide saves students over $250 each while providing global open access to nursing education resources

    In an Australian first, James Cook University has released "Foundations of Nursing Skills: A Comprehensive Guide for the Australian Context," a free fully comprehensive foundational etextbook that will save nursing students hundreds of dollars while advancing open educational access globally. The 20-chapter book replaces two first-year nursing student-paid prescribed textbooks with savings of more than $250 each for 1400 nursing students, making it the first comprehensive nursing skills open educational resource etextbook in Australasia.

    Authored by seven JCU College of Healthcare Sciences faculty members including Leisa Sanderson, Tracey Gooding, and Penelope Coogan, the book includes case studies, reflection questions, and learning activities to facilitate critical thinking and application of knowledge, and incorporates culturally sensitive approaches to nursing care. As an open access work, students, educators and professionals can access this work anywhere in the world, representing a significant step forward in making quality nursing education more affordable and accessible through JCU's expanding Open eBooks initiative.

    PRESENTED BY VONU STUDIOS

    Children's Book: Vonu and the Druas Play Hide and Seek

    Vonu and the Druas Play Hide and Seek
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    A panoramic view of a coastal inlet surrounded by lush green hills under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. The calm, shallow water curves gently into the land, with a small village and road visible in the distance along the shoreline.

    Elevated bacteria levels prompt health warnings as water quality testing reveals contamination above safety standards across multiple island locations. Photo Credit: Pacific Daily News

    Guam EPA Issues Swimming Advisory for 10 Polluted Beaches

    The Guam Environmental Protection Agency has issued a beach advisory warning residents and visitors to avoid swimming at 10 beaches across the island due to elevated levels of harmful bacteria. The affected beaches include Hagat Bangi Beach North of Agat Marina, South of Chaligan Creek, Asan Adelup Beach Park, Asan Bay Beach, Hagatna West, Hagatna Bay – Park West, Hagatna Bay – West Storm Drain, and several areas in Piti. Water quality testing revealed enterococci bacteria levels exceeding the safety thresholds of 104 enterococci per 100 milliliters for instantaneous readings and 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters for geometric mean standards that determine whether beaches are safe for recreational activities.

    Swimming, fishing, or playing in the contaminated waters may result in minor illnesses such as sore throat or diarrhea, or more serious conditions including meningitis, encephalitis, or severe gastroenteritis. Health officials particularly warn that children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems face heightened risks from exposure to the polluted water. The enterococci bacteria, which naturally occurs in human and animal intestinal tracts, serves as an indicator of fecal pollution in marine environments and is the standard measure used by environmental agencies to assess coastal water safety.

    Research has shown that fecal indicator bacteria like enterococci are naturally found in high concentrations in Guam's surface and subsurface environments, complicating efforts to maintain consistent water quality standards. The Guam EPA continues to monitor affected beaches and will lift advisories once bacterial levels return to acceptable standards, typically measured through follow-up water sampling that confirms sustained improvement in water quality conditions.

    Palau Considers Paid Parental Leave as Funding Challenges Persist

    Six-week benefit proposal faces hurdles over private sector implementation costs

    Palau's House of Delegates is currently deliberating a groundbreaking proposal that would provide six weeks of paid maternity and paternity leave for both government and private sector employees. The bill, commonly referred to as the Fraternity Leave Bill, would grant paid leave to new mothers and fathers in both government and private sectors, with lawmakers emphasizing the importance of allowing parents to bond with their newborns during the critical first weeks of life. Delegate Rebecca Ngirchemaet from Ngchesar has championed the measure, stating that "It's about bonding a family together — giving both parents the time they need to be present for their newborn's critical first weeks."

    The proposal has garnered significant public support as a modernization of Palau's labor policies, but faces substantial obstacles regarding funding mechanisms. While the government has indicated its readiness to cover paid leave for its own employees, finding a sustainable solution for private employers remains the primary sticking point. Small business owners say they lack the financial resources to cover extended paid leave without support, creating concerns about the economic burden on the private sector. Lawmakers are actively exploring various funding mechanisms that would distribute costs fairly without placing undue pressure on smaller employers.

    FBI Establishes Dedicated Office in New Zealand After Director's Secret Visit

    Kash Patel announces Wellington base expansion to combat transnational crime, cyberthreats, and foreign intelligence operations across Pacific region

    FBI Director Kash Patel has officially announced the establishment of a dedicated law enforcement attaché office in Wellington, marking a significant expansion of U.S.-New Zealand security cooperation. The announcement followed Patel's surprise visit to New Zealand last week, which only became public after media spotted his plane at Wellington Airport and observed him entering the Beehive basement. The FBI has had a strong relationship and collaborated closely with "our counterparts in New Zealand for years," Patel said, adding that "expanding the Wellington office demonstrates the strength and evolution of our partnership as we continue to work together to address our shared security objectives in the region." The new office upgrades the existing FBI presence, which was originally established in 2017 as a suboffice of the Australian-based operation.

    The Wellington office will focus on investigating and disrupting a wide range of threats including terrorism, cybercrime and fraud, organised crime and money laundering, child exploitation and foreign intelligence threats, with responsibility extending beyond New Zealand to Antarctica, Samoa, Niue, Cook Islands and Tonga. New Zealand officials have welcomed the enhanced partnership, with Police Minister Mark Mitchell noting that the visit "reiterated New Zealand's commitment to targeting transnational criminals" and Minister Judith Collins saying an increased FBI presence would enhance the "safety and security of New Zealanders." The timing is particularly significant as Patel is the most senior member of the US administration to visit New Zealand since President Donald Trump returned to office.

    ENTERTAINMENT

    Gold Coast Seeks Oompa Loompas for Major Wonka Streaming Series

    A casting call flyer from benparkisoncasting is shown, inviting South East Queensland residents to audition for roles as Oompa Loompas in a Wonka-inspired series for a major global streaming service.

    Southeast Queensland residents invited to audition for global production filming on Gold Coast through late 2025.

    Ben Parkinson Casting is currently seeking South East Queensland residents to play Oompa Loompas in a major global streaming series inspired by the world of Wonka, with filming scheduled to take place on the Gold Coast between October 20 and November 16, 2025. This is described as "a diverse and inclusive casting call for talent residing in South East Queensland" for "a major global streamer", with no experience needed, just energy and movement skills. The casting director Ben Parkinson has over 20 years of experience in the industry, having worked on major motion pictures, television series, and commercials across New York, LA, and Australia-wide projects.

    While specific details about the streaming platform or series format haven't been disclosed, the extended filming period and the involvement of a major global streamer suggests this could be a substantial production that will showcase Queensland's Gold Coast as a filming location while providing local talent with the chance to step into the iconic roles of Roald Dahl's beloved Oompa Loompas.

    OCEANIANS MAKING WAVES

    Captain Etika Tuisue Takes Flight as Fiji Airways' New Chief Pilot

    A smiling bald man with glasses, wearing a white pilot's shirt with epaulets, a dark tie, and a watch, sits in the cockpit of an airplane. He is looking directly at the viewer. The cockpit is visible around him, with various screens and controls.

    Experienced aviator brings two decades of expertise to lead national carrier's flight operations. Photo credit: Fiji Airways

    Captain Etika Tuisue has been appointed as Chief Pilot and Flight Operations Officer at Fiji Airways, effective immediately. The seasoned aviator brings over 20 years of aviation experience to this critical leadership role, having previously served with distinction in various capacities including Manager Flight Operations Training, Fleet Manager, and Deputy Chief Pilot within the airline. Fiji Airways Managing Director and CEO Andre Viljoen praised Captain Tuisue's "deep understanding of our operations, his leadership on the flight deck, and his passion for mentoring future aviators", highlighting him as the ideal candidate for this position.

    In his new role, Captain Tuisue will oversee comprehensive pilot operations and assume responsibility for managing flight safety, crew performance, and operational procedures across Fiji Airways' expanding international network. As part of the Executive Leadership Team, he will play a crucial role in advising on fleet expansion initiatives, pilot development programs, and ongoing operational efficiency improvements. The appointment represents Fiji Airways' commitment to recognizing and elevating exceptional Fijian talent to senior leadership positions within the national carrier. Captain Tuisue expressed his honor in taking on the role, stating he looks forward to "working with our incredible team of pilots and operational staff to ensure we deliver safe, reliable, and world class service to our guests."

    FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

    1. NZ Film Industry Development Funding

      The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) is offering Industry Development Funding to support New Zealand screen sector organisations, companies, or collectives in delivering programmes that develop craft and practice within the film industry.

      Key Details:

      • Purpose: To foster skill development, project initiatives, and talent within the New Zealand film sector.
      • Eligibility: Open to New Zealand-based screen organisations, companies, or collectives registered in New Zealand.

      Funding Strands:

      • Strand 1 (up to $350,000): The first round opened on Monday, July 14, 2025, and closes on Monday, August 11, 2025 at 1 PM. A pre-application meeting is required at least one week before the deadline.

      • Strand 2 (up to $30,000): Applications opened on Monday, July 14, 2025 and remain open until June 30, 2026, or until funds are exhausted.

      How to Apply: Applications are submitted via the NZFC's online application portal. For full details on application criteria and guidelines, please visit the official NZFC website: Industry Development Funding.

    REGIONAL EVENTS

    1. NZ Boat Fish & Dive Expo 2025

      August 30-31, 2025 (Saturday 9am - Sunday 4pm)

      Where: Mystery Creek Event Centre, 125 Mystery Creek Road, Hamilton, New Zealand
      Cost: Free entry (Public event)

      The popular NZ Boat Fish & Dive Expo returns for 2025 with organizers promising it will be "much much bigger and better" than previous years. With an overwhelming number of exhibitors already signed up to support the event, attendees can expect an awesome weekend showcasing the latest in boating, fishing, and diving gear and services. The expo promises lots of new features and exciting announcements leading up to the event. Perfect for marine enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in New Zealand's boating and fishing culture.

      More information on Facebook

    2. Redcliffe KiteFest 2025

      Celebrate community and the joy of flight at this iconic free festival in Moreton Bay!

      Redcliffe KiteFest returns to its roots this year with a vibrant celebration for all ages. Families and kite enthusiasts are invited to Pelican Park, Clontarf, to experience two full days of sky-high fun, delicious food trucks, and creative activities. Marvel at a spectacular display of giant kites, join in the public fly zone, and let the kids unleash their imagination at hands-on kite-making workshops. With plenty of open space for picnics and sky-watching, it’s a perfect way to welcome spring and the spirit of togetherness.

      Event Details:
      Details Information
      Dates Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 September 2025
      Time 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
      Location Pelican Park, Hornibrook Esplanade, Clontarf, Redcliffe, QLD 4019
      Cost Free
      Region Moreton Bay City
      Contact (07) 3897 4999

      No booking required—just bring your kite and your sense of wonder! For more information, visit the official Redcliffe KiteFest page.

    3. U.S. Consular Services Visit Tahiti: Passport Renewals, Birth Registrations, and Notary Services

      American citizens in French Polynesia can access key consular services in person this August.

      From August 11 to 13, 2025, the U.S. Consulate will hold a visit at the Yellow Fin Restaurant, Marina Taina, Punaauia, Tahiti, offering vital consular services including passport renewals, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad for children of U.S. citizens, and notary services for documents intended for use in the United States. Appointments are required and can be requested by emailing TahitiACS@state.gov by Friday, August 1, with limited walk-in availability depending on open slots. Travelers and residents are encouraged to plan ahead as regular passport processing may take 4 to 6 weeks, and birth registrations 5 to 7 weeks.

      For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the American Citizen Services directly via the provided email or phone number 49 99 19 99. Don’t miss this opportunity to complete essential documentation conveniently on the island.

    QUICK TAKES

    • Recruitment is underway for Guam athletes to represent the island at the 2025 World Indigenous Traditional Games, a prestigious international competition that brings together over 2,000 indigenous athletes from approximately 30 countries in a celebration that combines traditional aboriginal games with contemporary sports, music, dance, ceremonies, and art. For Guam's CHamoru athletes, participation represents a unique opportunity to showcase their talents on an international stage while connecting with indigenous communities worldwide during the event's three days of cultural mingling followed by ten days of competition. Governed by the Inter Tribal Council, a Brazilian indigenous peoples NGO that has staged Brazil's national Indigenous Games since 1996, the Games allow aboriginal athletes from around the world to assert cultural pride and talent while representing their rich cultural heritage on a platform that celebrates indigenous excellence across multiple disciplines.

    • President Donald Trump has announced a significant reduction in US import tariffs on Fijian goods, slashing the rate from 32% to 15% as part of a broader revision of trade policies targeting multiple countries worldwide. The tariff cut, effective from August 8, 2025, comes after sustained engagement by Fijian authorities with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) and represents a major trade victory for Fiji, which had previously faced one of the highest tariff rates among Pacific nations at 32%. The reduction applies to all goods of Fijian origin except those specifically excluded under existing US trade provisions, and forms part of Trump's revised framework aimed at establishing what he described as "mutually agreed" trade arrangements to address trade imbalances, with the move expected to boost Fiji's export competitiveness in the crucial US market.
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