🏖️☕Today in Oceania - Wed 20th Aug 25


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


TODAY IN OCEANIA


🦟Today is World Mosquito Day🦟
World Mosquito Day shines a light on the fight against mosquito-borne diseases and the progress science has made in saving lives. It’s a reminder that through awareness and innovation, we can build a healthier, safer future for all.

OCEANIA MARKETS

S&P/ASX 200 8,896.20
-0.70%
S&P/NZX 50 Index Gross 12,928.68
-0.32%
SPX STRI Fiji 9188.62
-0.20%
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

VARTC prepares trials of high-yield varieties to supplement current two-variety commercial production system.

VARTC prepares trials of high-yield varieties to supplement current two-variety commercial production system. Photo Credit: Jack Dykinga, USDA ARS, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Vanuatu Receives Six Australian Peanut Varieties Targeting 4.5-Tonne Yields

The Vanuatu Agriculture Research and Technical Centre is receiving six new peanut species from Australia, which will be distributed to local farmers after trials, with varieties capable of producing up to 4.5 to 5 tonnes per hectare. VARTC CEO Staeglar Tabiaga confirmed the new varieties would provide substantial economic benefits compared to current production levels, as Vanuatu farmers currently rely on only two peanut varieties for commercial cultivation. Current national peanut production stands at approximately 2.6 thousand tonnes annually, indicating significant potential for expansion through higher-yielding cultivars.

The new varieties are self-pollinating with approximately 99% prevention of cross-pollination since pollination occurs in closed flowers, addressing farmer concerns about genetic contamination of existing local varieties. This characteristic eliminates cross-breeding risks that have previously limited adoption of improved varieties in small-scale Pacific agricultural systems. The varieties are being developed through collaboration with the Peanut Company of Australia as part of research examining groundnut development opportunities in Vanuatu from 2023-2026, representing a structured approach to upgrading the country's peanut production capacity.

The yield improvements from 4.5-5 tonnes per hectare could potentially double or triple current production levels, depending on adoption rates among Vanuatu's farming communities. VARTC will conduct field trials before releasing the varieties for commercial distribution, ensuring adaptability to local growing conditions across Vanuatu's diverse island environments.
Organization holds sessions at community centers, providing free resources to pregnant women amid territory's elevated mortality rates.

Organization holds sessions at community centers, providing free resources to pregnant women amid territory's elevated mortality rates. Photo credit: Frank San Nicolas / The Guam Daily Post

Birthworkers of Color Collective Expands Community Outreach to Address Guam's Maternal Health Crisis

The Birthworkers of Color Collective has launched community outreach sessions at Guam's community centers to connect expectant and postpartum mothers with doula care, addressing the territory's maternal and infant mortality rates that exceed national averages. CHamoru infants are five times as likely to die before age 1 compared to the national rate, making Guam one of the highest-risk areas among U.S. territories and states for pregnancy-related complications. The organization's founder Stevie Merino-Mesa, a medical anthropologist, emphasized that most pregnancy-related deaths are preventable and that doula care provides culturally relevant support often missing from traditional medical settings.

The outreach sessions at Mongmong-Toto-Maite, Dededo, and upcoming Mangilao community centers offer free baby clothes, gas cards for pregnant women, and connections to pediatric chiropractors through collaboration with the Bureau of Women's Affairs and Oahu Doula Project. Research shows women who used doulas during pregnancies had 53% lower odds of cesarean delivery and 57% lower odds of postpartum anxiety and depression diagnosis, with particular benefits for communities of color who often lack representation in birth support services. The collective plans additional sessions through September and October as part of efforts to establish doula care as an intervention against Guam's disproportionate maternal health disparities.

Medical evidence supports doula effectiveness in reducing complications, with studies showing reduced infant mortality rates, decreased epidural use, and increased successful breastfeeding initiation among populations utilizing doula services. The community-based approach addresses barriers to accessing maternal health support on Guam, where geographic isolation and limited healthcare infrastructure compound existing health disparities affecting indigenous CHamoru populations and other communities of color on the island.
Te Tai Tokerau collective conducts 10-day program teaching mirimiri massage and rongoā practices to local practitioners.

Te Tai Tokerau collective conducts 10-day program teaching mirimiri massage and rongoā practices to local practitioners. Photo credit: Cook Island News

Cook Islands Hosts New Zealand Māori Healers for Traditional Medicine Exchange

Te Tai Tokerau Rongoa Māori Collective was recently hosted by Korero o te Orau for a 10-day cultural exchange initiative , during which the visitors provided a traditional Māori medical treatment for locals in Rarotonga. The program included teaching mirimiri (traditional Māori massage) techniques, which rebalances, restores function and releases deeply-held tension in the body, through agitation of tissue, muscle, bone, blood and fluids using pressure point techniques. Rongoā Māori (traditional Māori medicine) is formulated in a Māori cultural context, in which the understanding of events leading to ill health and its impacts are addressed through a range of culturally bounded responses, including native flora herbal preparations alongside physical therapies.

The exchange represents growing recognition of indigenous healing practices across the Pacific, with rongoā Māori (traditional Māori medicine) deeply rooted in the cultural knowledge and customs of the Māori, known as Matauranga Tikanga (cultural knowledge and customs), and encompassing both spiritual and physical healing approaches. New Zealand's health system has increasingly integrated these traditional practices, with some services now covered under ACC for injury treatment. The collaboration between Cook Islands and New Zealand practitioners builds connections between related Polynesian healing traditions, with both cultures sharing similar understandings of holistic wellness that combines physical treatment with spiritual and cultural elements.

Solomon Islands Allocates $50M for Pacific Islands Forum as Partners Contribute Additional Support

Five-nation donor coalition provides venue costs, transport, and operational funding for September summit bringing together 18 Pacific leaders

The Solomon Islands Government has committed SBD $50 million (AUD $9.04 million), as the core budget for hosting the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting scheduled for September 8-12 in Honiara. Co-Chair of the National Organising Committee Sir Dr Jimmie Rodgers confirmed the government allocation covers the summit and associated meetings, including the Water Ministers' Meeting supported through the Ministry of Mines Energy and Rural Electrification. Australia has provided the largest external contribution with a $20 million support package that includes approximately 60 security vehicles, cybersecurity support, road upgrades in Honiara, and $3 million for logistics, while China contributed USD $1 million for event support.

The funding structure demonstrates the complex diplomatic coordination required for Pacific regional summits, with venue costs shared between Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, while transport support is jointly covered by Australia and China. New Zealand has contributed to operational costs, creating a five-nation donor coalition supporting different components of the summit infrastructure. This collaborative funding model reflects broader Pacific diplomatic dynamics, particularly as Solomon Islands has positioned itself as a key regional player following its 2019 diplomatic switch from Taiwan to China and subsequent security agreements.

The summit will bring together heads of government from the 18-member Pacific Islands Forum from September 8-12 to address climate change, regional security, and sustainable development issues. The National Organising Committee plans to compile a comprehensive financial report after the summit concludes, detailing total contributions and final budget allocations to ensure transparency in how both government and donor funds were utilized across the multi-day regional gathering.

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    GROW initiative targets degraded Ugum Watershed where sediment runoff threatens water systems and coral reefs.

    Minister Tkatchenko (left) with High Commissioner Marco (right) holding up the display of the Regimental Colours. Photo credit: PNG Haus Bung

    Britain Delivers New Regimental Colours for PNG's 50th Independence Anniversary

    Britain has delivered new regimental colours for Papua New Guinea's First and Second Royal Pacific Islands Regiments ahead of their formal presentation by Prince Edward on September 15 at Murray Barracks, Port Moresby. Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko received the colours from British High Commissioner Anne Macro at the Central Government Office in Waigani, with the ceremony scheduled one day before PNG's 50th Independence celebrations. The new colours include King's Colours replacing the previous Queen's Colours following Charles III's ascension, and bear battle honors from the regiment's World War II service including South-West Pacific 1942-45, Kokoda Trail, Finschhafen, and Sio-Sepik campaigns.

    The Royal Pacific Islands Regiment traces its lineage to World War II when the Pacific Islands Regiment was formed in November 1944 from an amalgamation of the Papuan Infantry Battalion and the 1st and 2nd New Guinea Infantry Battalions, with indigenous soldiers serving alongside Australian officers against Japanese forces. Disbanded after the war, the regiment was re-raised in 1951 as part of the Australian Army and continued to serve until Papua New Guinea gained its independence in 1975, when it became part of the PNGDF. The colours ceremony represents both military tradition and the enduring relationship between PNG and Britain, with the embroidered silk flags serving as ceremonial emblems containing regimental insignia, battle honors, and symbols unique to each unit that remind soldiers of their oath to serve sovereign, country, and comrades.
    Agreement formalizes cooperation with IRD to address multi-hazard risks affecting world's most disaster-prone nation.Federal Small, Rural and Tribal Grant funds first-time implementation across four precincts and Highway Patrol Division.

    Federal Small, Rural and Tribal Grant funds first-time implementation across four precincts and Highway Patrol Division. Photo credit: David Castro / The Guam Daily Post

    Guam Police Deploy 59 Body Cameras with Additional 41 Units on Order

    The Guam Police Department has deployed 59 body-worn cameras across its four precincts and Highway Patrol Division, with plans to order an additional 41 units for a total of 100 cameras funded through the federal Small, Rural and Tribal Grant Program. The cameras became operational on August 8, 2024, after technical testing resolved deployment issues, marking the first time GPD officers will wear recording devices during public interactions. The U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance announced that it will award $6 million to 170 small, rural and tribal law enforcement agencies for body-worn cameras, part of over $17.56 million distributed since 2021 to support camera programs in agencies with 50 or fewer full-time sworn personnel, rural departments, and federally-recognized tribal law enforcement agencies across 46 states.

    Papua New Guinea Faces Critical Shortage of Heart Scan Machines for Children

    Only one portable heart scan machine in PNG heightens risks for timely diagnosis of pediatric heart conditions.

    Papua New Guinea currently has only one portable heart scan machine used to detect heart problems in children, including birth defects and damage from rheumatic heart disease, posing a serious risk to child health. Dr. Cornelia Kilalang, chief paediatrician at the Department of Health, emphasized that this single machine is insufficient for the country's needs, with major hospitals like Angau in Lae requiring additional equipment and trained personnel to improve survival rates. Early heart problem indicators include excessive sweating and fatigue while feeding in infants, poor growth in children, persistent coughs, and symptoms like fever and shortness of breath in older children.

    A pediatric screening program at Angau Children’s Outpatient Clinic, supported by the Operation Open Heart Foundation, helps identify children needing treatment, but efforts are hampered by the shortage of heart scan machines nationwide. This scarcity means that many children face delays in diagnosis and treatment, increasing the risk of complications or death. Meanwhile, Port Moresby General Hospital recently launched an advanced catheterization laboratory machine capable of invasive heart treatments, reducing the need for overseas referrals and providing interventions like angioplasty and stenting, but such facilities remain limited. Rheumatic heart disease remains a significant cause of pediatric heart problems in PNG, underscoring the urgent need for more widespread diagnostic and treatment capacity in the country's healthcare system.

    Fiji One Secures Exclusive Rugby Broadcast Rights Until 2027

    Fiji One to broadcast live coverage of major rugby events, including the Pacific Nations Cup and HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.

    Fiji One has secured exclusive rights to broadcast major rugby events until 2027, continuing its role as the primary free-to-air rugby broadcaster in Fiji. This includes coverage of key tournaments such as the Pacific Nations Cup, which doubles as a qualification pathway for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, and the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series. The Pacific Nations Cup 2025 features six national teams competing from August to September, with Fiji among the top contenders already qualified for the World Cup. Fiji One’s ongoing partnership with World Rugby ensures that fans nationwide will have access to live broadcasts of international rugby fixtures, supporting the sport’s popularity and fostering local engagement with high-level rugby competitions.

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    Government prepares Council of Ministers paper to challenge current 2.5% revenue share from 6,500 annual aircraft transits.

    Government prepares Council of Ministers paper to challenge current 2.5% revenue share from 6,500 annual aircraft transits. Photo Credit: Air Vanuatu

    Vanuatu Seeks Larger Share of Airspace Revenue in Upcoming Fiji Negotiations

    The Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities is drafting a Council of Ministers paper seeking approval to renegotiate Vanuatu's airspace agreement with Fiji, aiming to increase the country's share of revenue from aircraft using its upper airspace. Currently, around 6,000-6,500 aircraft cross Vanuatu's airspace each year, but Vanuatu receives only about 50 million vatu annually (roughly 2.5% of total revenue) while Fiji retains close to 92% under the existing Flight Information Region arrangement managed from Nadi. The revenue distribution across the Nadi FIR shows Vanuatu's 2.5% share compared to Kiribati's 1.47%, Tuvalu's 0.59%, New Caledonia's 1.58%, and Fiji's 92-93%, with payments based on total FIR revenue rather than individual aircraft counts over each country's territory.

    Vanuatu faces significant constraints in managing its own airspace due to lacking the necessary infrastructure and human resources for independent operations. The International Civil Aviation Organization does not support breaking up existing Flight Information Regions into smaller sections, limiting Vanuatu's options for establishing autonomous control. The proposed renegotiation will be led by a government taskforce if approved, focusing on increasing Vanuatu's revenue share and strengthening its management role within the current FIR structure rather than pursuing full independence.

    The initiative follows recent parliamentary discussions about airspace sovereignty, with TORBA MP Christophe Emelee proposing enhanced airspace management in August 2024 to address discrepancies between Vanuatu's Exclusive Economic Zone boundaries and airspace revenue allocation. The Ministry plans to develop a Commercial Upper Airspace Management Policy as part of the renegotiation process, potentially setting precedent for other Pacific nations seeking more equitable revenue sharing from their territorial airspace.
    CIC Ocean Research facility near airport employs 11-12 local staff with one environmental scientist leading research work.

    CIC Ocean Research facility near airport employs 11-12 local staff with one environmental scientist leading research work. Photo Credit: Cook Island News

    Cook Islands Builds Marine Research Capacity Through Local Scientific Training Center

    CIC Ocean Research is developing a marine science facility near Rarotonga International Airport to build local scientific capacity and enable Cook Islanders to research ocean resources within their exclusive economic zone. The facility employs 11-12 local staff, including environmental scientist Chloe Wragg who leads research work and serves as a model for local youth entering marine science careers. CIC focuses on mineral and environmental research relating to polymetallic nodules in the deep abyssal plain of the Cook Islands EEZ, where critical minerals could provide an important resource for the Cook Islands people and the world. The center aims to analyze expedition samples locally rather than sending them overseas, reducing costs and increasing community involvement in understanding the nation's seabed mineral resources.

    The facility addresses practical challenges facing Cook Islands students studying marine science at the University of the South Pacific, who often must travel overseas to complete laboratory components of their studies due to lack of local facilities. The Cook Islands seafloor contains polymetallic nodules five kilometers deep, loaded with expensive minerals like cobalt, copper, manganese and nickel. The center has already hosted school groups including Avarua School Year 7 and 8 students and Met Service teams, with plans to expand educational outreach while serving as a resource for government and non-governmental organizations interested in ocean science. Administration officer Akevai Purua emphasized the facility will focus on research and analysis rather than industrial-scale processing, acknowledging the island lacks geographic capacity for large-scale manufacturing operations.

    Two-lined spittlebug Infestation Expands on Hawaiʻi Island Affecting Ranches and Lawns

    The insect damages pasture grasses critical for cattle, impacting ranch economics and ecosystem health.

    The two-lined spittlebug (TLSB), first detected in Hawaiʻi in 2016, now affects roughly 300,000 acres of land mainly in south Kona, feeding on kikuyu and pangola grasses used for cattle forage. The bug's population surged with wetter conditions in recent years after drought suppressed it between 2021 and 2023. It has caused pasture losses of 20% to 30%, forcing some ranchers to reduce herds by up to 50%, with estimated losses of $300,000 for a 500-head herd. The spread has reached new locations like South Point and Glenwood, likely transported inadvertently by heavy equipment from infested areas.

    Beyond ranchlands, TLSB damages residential lawns and opens ecological niches for invasive weeds harmful to pasture quality and cattle health. Although management strategies like intensive grazing and resistant grasses are employed, no eradication method exists. The Hawaiʻi state government has allocated approximately $600,000 over two fiscal years for research and control, but broader public awareness and biosecurity measures such as equipment cleaning and quarantines are needed to limit further spread. The problem extends beyond agriculture to ecological restoration and statewide environmental health, with experts urging increased attention and community involvement to manage TLSB's impact effectively. Public reporting and monitoring programs are underway to track and combat this growing threat.

    Fiji Muslim League Revokes Halal Certification for McDonald’s Fiji

    Certification withdrawn due to non-compliance with Halal slaughter requirements after inspection.

    The Fiji Muslim League has withdrawn the Halal certification previously granted to McDonald's Fiji following several meetings and a detailed inspection of the mechanical slaughter process used in New Zealand by the Board of Islamic Affairs. The review found that the process does not fully comply with Halal standards, leading to the revocation of the certification. This decision impacts McDonald's Fiji’s status as a Halal-certified food provider in the country.

    SPOTLIGHT

    Four Pacific Children Complete Free Heart Surgeries in Suva, Fiji

    Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children's Hospital provides free pediatric cardiac surgery for Pacific Island children, including three from Samoa.

    Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children's Hospital provides free pediatric cardiac surgery for Pacific Island children, including three from Samoa. Photo credit: Samoa High Commission in Suva, Fiji / Facebook

    Surgical Mission Outcomes

    Four children, including three from Samoa, were discharged on 30 July 2025 after successful heart surgeries at Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital in Suva. These surgeries concluded the hospital’s 21st Gift of Life surgical mission conducted from 19 to 30 July 2025. The Hearts 4 Kids team from New Zealand and Australia, led by Dr. Kirsten Finucane, performed 15 surgeries during this third mission to Fiji, treating patients aged six months to 19 years.

    Collaboration and Support

    The mission was supported by the Pasifika Medical Association Group and local medical staff from Colonial War Memorial (CWM) and Labasa Hospitals. Dr. Finucane highlighted the resilience of the patients’ mothers, noting the challenges they overcame to bring their children for treatment.

    Hospital Impact

    Since its establishment, the hospital — run by the Sai Prema Foundation Fiji — has completed 394 free pediatric cardiac surgeries for children from Fiji, Samoa, Tuvalu, Tonga, Vanuatu, and Kiribati. It remains the only facility in the region offering completely free pediatric cardiac surgeries..

    Samoan Delegation

    H.E Aliioaiga Feturi Elsiaia, High Commissioner of Samoa to Fiji, attended the discharge ceremony and later visited the Island Accommodation with his staff to present gifts and monetary cards to the families of the three Samoan children who underwent surgery: Pesei Tauuso (9 months), Kiana Mata (3 years), and Uaita Tavita (10 years). The group returned to Samoa on 14 August 2025.

    OCEANIANS MAKING WAVES

    First Torres Strait Islander Students to Attend Oxford University Awarded Prestigious Scholarships

    Isobel Loban Yorkston and Bhosten Savage become the first Torres Strait Islander students to attend Oxford University, recognized for leadership and community activism.

    Isobel Loban Yorkston and Bhosten Savage become the first Torres Strait Islander students to attend Oxford University, recognized for leadership and community activism. Photo credit: Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA)

    Two Torres Strait Islander scholars, Isobel Loban Yorkston and Bhosten Savage, will be the first from the region to study full-time at the University of Oxford after receiving the Charlie Perkins Chevening Scholarship through the Aurora Education Foundation. The scholarship, jointly supported by the UK Government’s Chevening program and the Australian Government, is awarded to Indigenous students demonstrating leadership and a strong commitment to their communities.

    Isobel, who grew up on Thursday Island, will begin a Master of Science in International Health and Tropical Medicine. Her focus is on addressing health challenges in resource-limited settings like the Torres Strait, with plans to return and apply her skills to improve community health outcomes. Bhosten, with a background in construction and engineering, will pursue an MBA aiming to lead infrastructure projects that enhance connectivity and opportunity in remote and regional areas, honoring the sacrifices of previous generations.

    This achievement is hailed as a significant moment for Torres Strait Islanders and Indigenous Australians, highlighting the growing presence of Indigenous scholars at world-class universities. It underscores the role of education in empowering Indigenous communities through global qualifications combined with lived experience and cultural knowledge. The scholars are expected to contribute to social and economic development in their communities upon completing their studies.

    SPORTS

    Palau to Host the Micro Cup Canoe Racing Competition in October 2025

    Pacific paddlers prepare for diverse racing events in Palau from October 24 to 26, including sprints, endurance, and team races.

    Pacific paddlers prepare for diverse racing events in Palau from October 24 to 26, including sprints, endurance, and team races. Photo credit: Island Times

    Palau is set to host the Micro Cup canoe racing competition from October 24 to 26, drawing top athletes from across the Pacific and international locations such as Guam, Saipan, the Marshall Islands, Seattle, Singapore, and Hawaii. The event will feature a variety of race formats, including individual sprints over 500 meters, endurance races over 1500 meters, and team-based V6 long-distance contests. Competitors will participate in different categories, including open men and women, mixed teams, masters, and junior divisions. Local athletes in Palau are preparing rigorously to compete on home waters while organizers await final team confirmations from the various entrants.

    QUICK TAKES

    • SINU Formalizes Cultural Partnership: Solomon Islands National University signed an MOU with the Wauraha Panpipers Group to provide traditional panpipe performances at official university events including graduations, conferences, and cultural ceremonies. The agreement, signed by Pro Vice Chancellor Dr. William Parairato and group leader John K. Ta'amora, represents the panpipers' first formal institutional partnership and establishes a framework for preserving Solomon Islands musical traditions through regular performances at the Kukum Campus.

    • Nauru Begins $50M Runway Resurfacing Project: President David Adeang and Australian Assistant Minister Senator Nita Green conducted the groundbreaking ceremony for Nauru's runway resurfacing project, burying a time capsule containing 30 letters from Nauru Secondary School students that will remain sealed until the students reach adulthood. The project, funded through the Australia-Pacific Infrastructure Finance Facility, will deliver a resurfaced runway, upgraded air traffic control equipment, and improved airport fencing by the first quarter of 2026, ensuring the airport meets international standards and extends its operational service life.

    REGIONAL EVENTS

    1. Join the Kiwa Initiative at World Water Week 2025 for a session on Integrated Watershed Management for Climate-Resilient Public Health and Ecosystems!

      Tuesday, 26 August – 9:00 AM (Stockholm) / 7:00 PM (Suva) / 5:00 PM (Melbourne, Port Moresby) / 2:00 PM (Bangkok, Jakarta) – Free online access

      Session highlights:
      • Concrete examples from Pacific Islands on implementing integrated watershed management
      • Decision-support tools to map risks and guide actions
      • Innovative financing mechanisms to sustain nature-based solutions
      • An interactive panel bringing together experts in health, water, environment, and climate
      Register now to join this World Water Week online session (free access): https://worldwaterweek.org/tickets

    2. 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

    3. 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.

    4. 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.

    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 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.

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