Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

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Australian Antarctic Program resupplies station, returns to Heard Island on V2

Source: Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission

SAEF scientists examine vegetation, invertebrates and marine biodiversity
Eleven of the scientists on board are from Securing Antarctica’s Environmental Future (SAEF).
The SAEF team will survey the island’s vegetation, including cushion and cabbage plants, tussock grasses and mosses. They will also assess the island’s cold-adapted invertebrates, including weevils, springtails, spiders, and mites, and the octopus, urchins, sea stars and other species that live across the seafloor.
Researchers may uncover species that are new to science. 
“Heard Island and McDonald Islands (HIMI) are some of the most remote and untouched places on Earth, lying thousands of kilometres from any major human population,” SAEF’s lead scientist on the HIMI expedition, Laura Phillips, who’s based at Monash University, said.
“These islands offer a unique opportunity to study an almost pristine wilderness shaped by climate and environmental factors largely in the absence of direct human pressures.”
The ship has two helicopters on board, three inflatable research boats, a larger science boat known as the science tender, 15 drones, remote underwater vehicles (ROVs) and hundreds of tonnes of cargo for Casey.
While at Heard Island, scientists will work across 24-hour shifts, with terrestrial science conducted during the day and marine science at night (in December, Heard Island has up to 18 hours of daylight).
“While we’re spending a lot of time looking at seals, penguins and birds, it’ll be the humans we really need to watch!” Mr Knoff said.
“It’s a big program of work so we’ll carefully manage the fatigue of the group and ensure there is enough rest to make sure everyone remains focussed and safe.
“It can be hard to sleep on the ship in rough seas and those staying ashore will be living in tents in one of the most inhospitable places on earth so making sure they come back to the ship every few days for a warm meal and shower will also be key.”
The main camps will be at the eastern and western end of Heard Island, housing up to a dozen people at a time.
Smaller camps will be set up at various beaches so science groups can do more focussed wildlife surveys. Some walking parties will carry packs and take samples along the way.
“This is probably the most complex voyage the Nuyina has undertaken in terms of projects and equipment, so it’ll be important to manage the expectations of everyone on board and get our priorities right,” Mr Knoff said.

RSV Nuyina spent ten days at Heard Island in October and is now returning for a longer campaign. Photo: Simon Payne

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UPDATE 2: Arrest – Absconded prisoner – Alice Springs

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 28-year-old male after he absconded from police custody in Alice Springs in September.

Around 12:15pm on Saturday 20 September, the offender escaped custody after he was arrested in relation to alleged domestic violence offences against his partner.

The offender has been actively avoiding police and is believed to have been camping in multiple locations across the southern region. He allegedly assaulted his partner multiple times during this period.

Yesterday, the 28-year-old was located in Braitling, where he refused to follow directions and attempted to flee from police, resulting in a taser being deployed.

He was arrested and has since been charged with:

  • 7 x Aggravated Assault
  • 1 x Choking/strangulation
  • 3 x Breach DVO
  • 1 x Make Threats to Kill
  • 1 x Trespass After Directions to leave
  • 1 x Escape from Lawful Custody
  • 1 x Assault a Member of the Police Force

He was remanded to appear in Alice Springs Local Court today.

If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

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Community feedback shapes next steps for 91A Wakefield Gardens

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory




Community feedback shapes next steps for 91A Wakefield Gardens – Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate

















As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

Released 02/12/2025

The ACT Government has published the 91A Wakefield Gardens Listening Report, summarising community feedback on the future use of a community site in Ainslie.

More than 380 people provided feedback on the future use of 91A Wakefield Gardens during the six-week consultation period, through an online survey, six pop-up sessions and meetings with key stakeholders.

There were also more than 1,600 visits to the Government’s YourSay page and 2,300 residents received letters, supported by social media engagement and in-person activities.

Key community feedback included:

  • Preserving the history and heritage character of the site and gardens
  • Creating an inclusive and affordable community space and/or multi-use facility
  • Improving green space and sustainability, and
  • Ensuring accessibility for all ages and abilities.

Other suggestions related to having better play facilities in the area, and a desire for recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and First Nations leadership in planning for the future use of the site.

The Government is now reviewing all feedback to identify feasible options for the site’s future use, balancing community priorities with heritage requirements and site constraints, and is committed to returning the site to community use.

It is important to recognise that the site presents both challenges and opportunities, including heritage-listed gardens, mature trees and a limited footprint, which will shape what can realistically be achieved.

The current structure was vacant for some time before being damaged by a fire earlier this year. Demolition of the existing damaged structure will occur in 2026 to make the area safe while planning for the future use of the site continues.

Minister for the Public Service Rachel Stephen-Smith said it was heartening to see the level of community engagement in this consultation.

“We heard strong support for maintaining the Wakefield Gardens site as a community space with improved green space and accessible, family-friendly facilities, alongside recognition of the site’s cultural significance.”

“This feedback will help shape how the site can once again make a meaningful contribution to community life and provides strong backing for returning the site to appropriate use.”

“The Government will continue working with the community to explore options that balance heritage, sustainability and accessibility.”

The full Wakefield Listening Report is available at YourSay Conversations.

– Statement ends –

Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases

«ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

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A big boost for domestic solar manufacturing

Source: Ministers for the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science

News | 02 December 2025

Solar energy

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has today announced up to $151 million in conditional funding under the Australian Government’s $1 billion Solar Sunshot Program (Solar Sunshot) for the establishment of a 500 MW per annum solar module manufacturing facility in the Hunter Valley, NSW.  

The funding will support the development of the Hunter Valley Solar Foundry project, an initiative of the Sunman Group (Sunman) founded by solar pioneer and UNSW alumnus Dr Zhengrong Shi. The project will develop a new, advanced manufacturing facility while drawing on Sunman’s pioneering technology and track-record as a lightweight solar innovator. 

ARENA CEO Darren Miller said the project is a clear demonstration of Solar Sunshot’s mission to advance solar manufacturing in Australia, reduce reliance on imports and expand Australia’s role in global clean energy supply chains. 

“Deployment of solar photovoltaics at scale is central to meeting our long-term emissions goals. Building our manufacturing capabilities will help ensure that our supply chains are resilient and Australian innovations are supported as we accelerate the rollout of solar PV,” Mr Miller said. 

“Solar Sunshot is about building on Australia’s world-leading solar research to expand manufacturing capacity, strengthen supply-chain resilience and grow local jobs and skills. The Hunter Valley Solar Foundry project reflects these goals, bringing together advanced technology, local workforce development and long-term economic benefits for regional communities.” 

The proposed facility aims to produce a range of solar PV modules for use in domestic and international markets, including Sunman’s proprietary enhanced Architecture Ready Composite (eArc) modules, which replace traditional glass with durable polymers, making them up to 70% lighter, easier to transport and faster to install. Beyond manufacturing eArc modules, the facility aims to produce glass modules, develop a solar innovation hub to support the commercialisation of new solar technologies and operate as a solar manufacturing foundry with the ability to provide production capacity to original equipment manufacturers, further strengthening Australia’s domestic solar supply chain. 

This project also marks a homecoming for Dr Shi who began his pioneering solar research in Australia before global ambitions took him abroad to scale-up solar manufacturing. With Solar Sunshot backing, this new facility will bring world-leading solar expertise back to Australian shores, reaffirming Australia’s strength in solar innovation and positioning Australian-made technology to contribute to the global energy transition.   

Construction of the facility is expected to create up to 200 jobs, with another 100 ongoing roles once operational. To support long-term workforce development, the project will also partner with an accredited training partner to deliver an advanced manufacturing training program, ensuring local workers can build capability in next-generation solar production. 

The project further incorporates a First Nations recruitment strategy and a scholarship program to support students pursuing studies in renewable-energy fields, ensuring the benefits of Solar Sunshot extend across the community. 

Dr Shi, Founder of the Hunter Valley Solar Foundry, says: “I am proud to establish the Hunter Valley Solar Foundry and bring commercial-scale renewable manufacturing to Australia. Once established, the Hunter Valley Solar Foundry will be the largest manufacturer of solar photovoltaic modules in Australia, and the only one in NSW, delivering world-leading products to residential, commercial and utility customers around the country. 

“As a proud Australian and a solar expert trained at the University of NSW, it has been my long-held ambition to establish solar module manufacturing in Australia, and it is my hope that over time the Foundry supports the foundation of a vertically-integrated solar supply chain in Australia. This is an important milestone in Australia’s energy transition.” 

About Solar Sunshot    

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is delivering the $1 billion Solar Sunshot Program to support innovation in Australia’s solar PV manufacturing industry. Solar Sunshot was announced by the Australian Government in March 2024 and aims to uncover and support innovation to drive scale and diversity in a critical industry.  

Australia benefits from strong renewable energy potential, high-quality, abundant raw materials and a long track record of excellence in research and development. Solar Sunshot aims to harness these advantages so that Australia can strengthen and diversify its supply chains and create economic opportunities.      

Round 1A offers $500 million of capital and production-linked funding for solar PV manufacturing innovation, with a focus on modules, inputs to modules and deployment systems (closed).   

Round 1B offers $50 million of funding to support solar PV manufacturing studies, including feasibility and engineering studies (remains open).    

Round 2 offers $150 million of funding to support manufacturing of inputs to solar PV modules and deployment innovation (now open). 

Learn more at https://arena.gov.au/funding/solar-sunshot/     

Note: The provision of funding is subject to conditions including the execution of an ARENA funding agreement. 

ARENA media contact:

media@arena.gov.au

Download this media release (PDF 174KB)

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BOOBOROWIE ROAD, BOOBOROWIE (Grass Fire)

Source: South Australia County Fire Service

BOOBOROWIE

Issued on
01 Dec 2025 21:25

Booborowie Hay Shed Fire

Just after 7:00pm this evening, the CFS responded to a shed fire containing hay bales alight in Booborowie, approximately 35 km north of Clare.

Six CFS trucks with approximately twenty-five firefighters have responded to a large hay shed fully involved in fire. Crews are working to contain the fire within the shed and limit any further spread from the structure. Firefighters will remain on site to monitor the fire overnight, with heavy machinery scheduled to break apart the bales tomorrow morning. SA Police have supported crews on site.

The shed and hay contents are a loss, totaling approximately $230,000 in damages.

This is a timely reminder that the baling and storing of hay requires careful management to prevent spontaneous ignition caused by moisture within bailed hay. Simple measures to prevent this spontaneous ignition include ensuring that hay is fully cured (dried) before bailing, protecting hay from rain or runoff, maintaining airflow to the haystack to allow heat and moisture to escape, as well as using a calibrated moisture meter to periodically test thee ‘dryness’ of the hay bales.
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Message ID 0008740

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Make a card and brighten a senior’s Christmas

Source: Government of Western Australia

The City of Wanneroo is inviting community members to help brighten a senior’s Christmas by writing a card.

Now in its third year, the initiative has become a well-loved tradition with more than 800 cards delivered last Christmas.

Mayor Linda Aitken said the program continues to make a real difference for older residents who may feel isolated at this time of year.

“It’s wonderful to see the program growing each year,” she said.

“These cards are a simple gesture of kindness that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our local seniors during the festive season.”

“You can make your cards at home, with your school or in a community group and drop them off at the museum before Christmas.”

Cards can be made or delivered to the Wanneroo Regional Museum until 4pm on Wednesday 17 December, ensuring they reach seniors in time for the festivities.

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Equity Fund applications open for 2026

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory




Equity Fund applications open for 2026 – Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate

















As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

Released 01/12/2025

From today, eligible ACT families can apply to access a one-off payment to help cover 2026 education expenses through the ACT Government’s Future of Education Equity Fund. The Equity Fund supports students from preschool through year 12 in all ACT schools.

The Equity Fund supports families with low incomes in accessing education essentials such as book packs, uniforms, excursions, sports equipment and activities, tuition and music lessons, so that students have the resources needed to engage fully in their education and wellbeing.

Minister for Education and Early Childhood, Yvette Berry, said the Equity Fund is about supporting Canberra students to have equal opportunities to participate fully in their schooling.

“The Future of Education Equity Fund helps families to manage back-to-school costs so that their children can start the year with the items they need,” Minister Berry said.

“Opening applications from 1 December 2025 supports families to address cost-of-living pressures before the 2026 school year begins.

“We are committed to supporting every child in Canberra to fully engage with their education, no matter their background. This Fund eases financial pressures on families, so students don’t miss out on school experiences such as excursions, sports activities, and music lessons.”

In 2025, the Fund has provided more than $3.7 million to more than 6,200 students and in 2024 provided more than $3.4 million to more than 5,800 students.

Families can apply for all eligible students in the one application, regardless of whether they attend different schools. Payments from the 2026 Equity Fund will be made from December 2025 for eligible completed applications.

Payments for the 2026 school year are:

  • $400 for preschool students
  • $500 for primary school students
  • $750 for high school and college students.

Applications for the 2026 Equity Fund will remain open until the end of November 2026.

For more information about the Equity Fund, or to apply online, visit the Get help with the cost of schooling page.

– Statement ends –

Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases

«ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

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400-2025: December 2025 / January 2026 Holiday Shut Down Operating Hours

Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

01 December 2025

Who does this notice affect?

All internal and external stakeholders who may require Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry regulatory services during the December 2025 -January 2026 Christmas holiday period.

What has changed?

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Canberra Office will cease operations from close of business on Wednesday 24 December 2025 and will re-open at the commencement of business on Friday 2 January…

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Horsham lights up for 150th

Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

Horsham Fire Brigade captain Marc Ampt leads the torchlight procession down Firebrace Street

Horsham’s CBD lit up on Saturday night (29 November) as CFA members from across Western Victoria marched in a special torchlight procession marking the brigade’s 150th-anniversary.

Participating brigades were joined by CFA appliances old and new for the evening parade, following an afternoon of Western Districts Fire Brigades Association (WDFBA) Championships competition at Horsham’s Park Drive track. 

Horsham Fire Brigade Captain Marc Ampt said seeing the town’s main street lined with onlookers was a proud moment. 

“The atmosphere was incredible, it’s something our members will remember for a long time,” Marc said. 

“Torchlight is a proud CFA tradition, and having it line the streets here in Horsham for our 150th was very special. 

“It was a great way to end what was a brilliant day of competition.” 

Among those marching was Ex-Captain John Davies, a stalwart of CFA’s urban and state competition scene, having attended every State Championship event since 1971. 

He first joined the CFA competition scene after a mate convinced him to “come down for a run” and instantly fell in love with the sport. 

John first trained and competed at Wendouree and Portland before settling in Horsham, where, as he puts it, “I expected to stay three years and somehow never left.” 

“The camaraderie was enormous,” John said. 

“Travelling to events together, piling into cars, learning from the older members and helping bring younger ones through that’s what kept me involved all these years.” 

There’ve been many highlights across John’s career, but one competition stands above the rest. 

“In 1983 I claimed first place in the one-man hydrant, one-man Marshall and one-man ladder events at the Western Zone Demonstration, as it was called back then.  

“Those days were great fun,” he said. 

While he has hung up his running gear, John remains an avid follower of the competition scene. 

“I still follow every event. There’s nothing else like it. To anyone that’s never seen it in action, I highly recommend giving it a go.” 

Saturday’s event saw the Osborne Park A team claim Senior honours, while the side from Hamilton took out the junior competition.  

The WDFBA season continues with upcoming rounds in Colac, Stawell, Osborne Park, Warrnambool and Hamilton in early 2026. 

Following that, attention will turn to the 2026 CFA/VFBV State Firefighter Championships, returning to Stawell for the first time since 2006. 

John said there’s a real buzz about seeing the Championships back in the west. 

“It’ll be a huge couple of days for brigades, families and the whole region. Hopefully we see some teams from this part of the world that haven’t competed for a while.” 

Submitted by CFA Media
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Man charged with aggravated assault against police

Source: Tasmania Police

Man charged with aggravated assault against police

Monday, 1 December 2025 – 12:22 pm.

A 44-year-old man from southern Tasmania has been charged with six counts of aggravated assault against police following an incident in Clarendon Vale on Saturday.
The man has been remanded in custody as investigations continue.
The charges stem from an incident in Mockridge Road, Clarendon Vale, on Saturday in which uniformed police and specialist resources responded to reports of a man armed with a firearm at a residential unit.
Police resources were on scene about 11.45am and Mockridge Road was closed as a safety precaution for about two hours while the incident was managed.
The man was safely taken into custody about 1.15pm on Saturday.
There were no injuries.
The man will appear in court at a later date.
Anyone with information which can assist police with the investigation can contact 131 444. Quote OR Number: 791 329.