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Know what’s happening across Oceania—before your coffee’s cold.
OCEANIA MARKETS
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ASX 200 and NZX 50 Data Provided By:
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*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.
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REGIONAL NEWS
A prehistoric tribute: The Eromanga Natural History Museum names a newly discovered dinosaur “JoJo” in honor of two dedicated mums. Photo Credit: Steve Young/10 News First Queensland
Outback Queensland Museum Celebrates Mums with New Dinosaur Discovery
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Eromanga, QLD – In a heartwarming tribute following Mother’s Day, the Eromanga Natural History Museum in Outback Queensland has honored two of its own by naming a newly discovered dinosaur after them.
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The museum, celebrated for its groundbreaking paleontological work, has named a recently unearthed sauropod dinosaur “JoJo” in recognition of Joanne Wilkson and Jo Pegler. Both women are not only devoted mothers but also foundational members of the museum community-Wilkson as a founding supporter and educator, and Pegler as Laboratory Manager and a founding staff member.
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Museum co-founder and Director Robyn Mackenzie OAM explained the significance of the gesture:
“Sauropods typically abandoned their young. So while our JoJo may have been a neglectful mother millions of years ago, we’re using her to celebrate two women who are not only fabulous mums, but are also key to the work we do at the museum.”
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The JoJo sauropod was discovered during a dig in 2023, adding to the museum’s impressive collection of dinosaur finds. Sauropods, known for their immense size and long necks, once roamed the ancient landscapes of Outback Queensland over 90 million years ago.
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The Eromanga Natural History Museum has become a center for paleontological research and education, attracting visitors and scientists from across Australia and beyond. Its hands-on fossil digs and commitment to community involvement have made it a standout in regional science.
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Naming the dinosaur “JoJo” not only marks an exciting scientific milestone but also highlights the essential role women play in the museum’s ongoing success and in the field of paleontology. This special tribute underscores the museum’s appreciation for the dedication, expertise, and nurturing spirit that Wilkson and Pegler bring to their work every day.
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As the echoes of Mother’s Day celebrations linger, the story of JoJo serves as a reminder that the legacy of caring, teaching, and discovery can last for generations-and sometimes, even millions of years.
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Did You Know?
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The Eromanga Natural History Museum is home to some of Australia’s largest dinosaur fossils, including “Cooper,” one of the biggest dinosaurs ever discovered in the Southern Hemisphere. To learn more about the museum and its latest discoveries, visit the Eromanga Natural History Museum website
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PhD researcher Charlene Erasito brings a Pacific Islander perspective to global ocean science as an ECOS insider at the One Ocean Science Congress. Photo Credit: The Guardian
Rotuman Marine Biologist Charlene Erasito Named ECOS Insider for One Ocean Science Congress in France
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Charlene Erasito, a PhD researcher from Rotuma, Fiji, has been selected as one of the Environmental Conservation Online System (ECOS) insiders for the upcoming One Ocean Science Congress, to be held in Nice, France, next month. She is the only female Pacific Islander chosen among nine early-career ocean professionals worldwide to report on the event and share key scientific insights with global audiences.
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Currently based in France, Erasito is pursuing her doctoral research at the University of Western Brittany and IFREMER, focusing on the multi-scale characterization of seamount biodiversity within New Caledonia’s Coral Sea Natural Park. Her work explores deep-sea ecosystems, a theme that resonates personally as the expedition will include areas near her home island of Rotuma, where she spent much of her childhood swimming and fishing.
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Erasito expressed excitement about the opportunity to return to the ocean in a new capacity:
“It felt like a duty to return to Rotuma, a place filled with childhood memories and where my late father worked. Exploring deep-sea ecosystems around my home island is something I never imagined having the chance to do.”
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As an ECOS insider, Erasito will attend scientific sessions, engage with leading researchers, and produce daily updates in English through social media and interviews. She is gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge underwater technologies, including advanced cameras and video tools, which allow unprecedented views of deep-sea fish, corals, and other hidden marine life.
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The ECOS insiders program, supported by the Ocean Decade ECOP initiative, the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, and French marine research institutions, pairs these young scientists with journalism students from Sorbonne University’s CELSA School of Journalism. This collaboration aims to translate complex ocean science into accessible, engaging content for diverse audiences worldwide.
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The One Ocean Science Congress, scheduled for June 3–6, 2025, in Nice, will bring together ocean scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders ahead of the United Nations Ocean Conference. The event focuses on advancing global ocean knowledge and sustainable management, making Erasito’s role as a Pacific Islander and deep-sea researcher especially significant in representing island nations’ perspectives.
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Charlene Erasito’s selection highlights the growing presence and leadership of Pacific Islanders in marine science and underscores the importance of inclusive voices in global ocean conservation efforts.
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PRESENTED BY VONU STUDIOS
Oceanian Animated Videos For Kids: Pawpaw Kids TV
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Pawpaw Kids TV is a YouTube channel dedicated to engaging and educational content for children, with a specific focus on the Oceanian region. The channel features the Pawpaw Explorers—Illy the Iguana, Mo the Mongoose, and other animated characters—who embark on adventures that introduce young viewers to local wildlife, ocean currents, and cultural stories.
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Pawpaw Kids TV offers a Pacific blend of entertainment and learning, making it a valuable resource for children to explore the rich cultures and natural wonders of the Oceania region. Simply scan the QR code to visit the Pawpaw Kids TV YouTube channel or click this link:
YouTube Link: Pawpaw Kids TV
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Auckland War Memorial Museum remains closed as asbestos is found in multiple areas, prompting urgent safety reviews and fire evacuation plan updates. Photo credit: 123RF
Auckland War Memorial Museum Closure: Urgent Review Underway After Asbestos Discovery
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Auckland, NZ – The Auckland War Memorial Museum remains closed to the public after asbestos was discovered in a crucial fire exit, prompting urgent safety reviews and raising concerns over lost revenue and public access.
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The museum, a cornerstone of Auckland’s cultural and historical landscape, has been shut since Saturday following the discovery of asbestos-a hazardous material-within one of its main emergency exits. The closure was mandated to protect the health and safety of visitors and staff, as asbestos exposure can pose serious long-term health risks.
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Fire and Emergency Reviews Alternative Exit
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Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) announced it is urgently reviewing the museum’s application for an alternative fire exit. Approval of this plan is essential before the museum can reopen its doors. In a statement, FENZ emphasized that any solution must include a robust evacuation scheme to ensure the safety of everyone in the building.
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While FENZ is expediting the review process, it noted that such applications can take up to 20 days to process. Furthermore, FENZ may not be the only authority involved-Auckland Council’s consent could also be required before the museum reopens.
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Financial and Cultural Impact
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Auckland’s deputy mayor, Desley Simpson, voiced concern over the museum’s mounting losses. “This is a real problem for the museum, they average about 2,600 visitors a day,” Simpson said. She estimates the museum is losing approximately $8,000 per day in admissions, totaling $32,000 over just four days of closure.
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Simpson stressed the urgency of the situation:
“Urgency from FENZ to get an agreement with the museum on their emergency fire exit is really, really important because we do need our Auckland War Memorial Museum open as soon as possible.”
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The closure not only affects the museum’s finances but also deprives Aucklanders and tourists of access to one of the city’s most significant cultural institutions.
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Next Steps
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There is currently no clear timeline for when the museum will reopen. Both FENZ and Auckland Council must agree on a safe and effective evacuation plan before the public can return. Simpson remains hopeful that a solution can be reached within days, but stresses that safety must remain the top priority.
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Youth collecting sea cucumbers in the Solomon Islands. Photo credit: Hampus Eriksson,
Flickr, licensed under
CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
Concerns Rise Over Solomon Islands’ Decision to Lift Sea Cucumber Harvest Ban
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Solomon Islands – Conservationists and environmental experts are raising alarms following the Solomon Islands government’s recent decision to lift a ban on sea cucumber harvesting, a move they warn could threaten the survival of the species and undermine marine biodiversity in the region.
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The ban, originally imposed in 2022, was a response to scientific studies that revealed a significant decline in sea cucumber populations around the islands. Sea cucumbers play a vital ecological role in marine ecosystems by recycling nutrients and maintaining healthy ocean floors. They are also economically important, as they are harvested for export, primarily to Asian markets.
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Government’s Economic Justification
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The Solomon Islands government argues that lifting the ban will provide much-needed economic relief to coastal communities who rely on sea cucumber harvesting for income. The decision aims to boost livelihoods and support local economies, particularly in the wake of global economic challenges.
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Environmentalists Warn of Unsustainable Harvest
However, environmentalists like Lawrence Makili have voiced strong opposition to the decision. Makili emphasizes that global sea cucumber stocks are rapidly depleting and that reopening harvesting too soon risks unsustainable exploitation of the resource.
“The stock in the world is depleting so fast and there shouldn’t be a lifting of the ban. It would really open up to the unsustainable harvest of the resource,” Makili stated.
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The concern is that without strict management and enforcement, lifting the ban could lead to overharvesting, further endangering sea cucumber populations and disrupting marine ecosystems that depend on them.
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Balancing Conservation and Community Needs
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This situation highlights the ongoing challenge faced by Pacific Island nations: balancing environmental conservation with the economic needs of local communities. Sea cucumbers are a valuable source of income, but their overexploitation can lead to long-term ecological damage and economic loss.
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Marine biologists and conservation groups are calling for a cautious approach that includes sustainable harvesting practices, community education, and enhanced monitoring to ensure sea cucumber populations can recover and thrive.
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Regional and Global Implications
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The Solomon Islands’ decision also has broader implications for regional marine conservation efforts. As part of the Pacific Ocean’s rich biodiversity hotspot, the health of its marine species like sea cucumbers is critical to maintaining the ecological balance and supporting fisheries throughout the region.
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Did you know?
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Sea cucumbers are sometimes called the “vacuum cleaners of the sea” because they help clean the ocean floor by breaking down detritus and recycling nutrients.
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Governor Lou Leon Guerrero advocates for economic diversification to reduce Guam’s reliance on the US military buildup, promoting new industries and sustainable growth to secure the island’s future prosperity. Pictured is a US F-16 flies along the island's coastline. Photo credit: US Department of Defense
Guam Governor Advocates for Economic Diversification Amid Growing US Military Presence
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As the US military buildup on Guam continues to expand, Governor Lou Leon Guerrero is actively pushing for economic diversification to reduce the island’s heavy reliance on defense-related activities. In recent talks with the Guam Airport Authority, the government is exploring the allocation of land for a dedicated industrial park aimed at attracting new industries and creating sustainable job opportunities beyond the military sector.
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This initiative aligns with Guam’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) 2020-2025, which outlines a multi-faceted approach to building a resilient economy. The strategy prioritizes infrastructure development, workforce training, and the establishment of viable new industries including logistics, manufacturing, ecotourism, agriculture, and aquaculture. The goal is to broaden Guam’s economic base, improve living standards, and reduce vulnerability to fluctuations in military spending.
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Guam’s strategic location in the western Pacific and its status as a US territory provide unique advantages for business growth, including access to US and Asian markets, tax incentives, and federal support programs such as the Guam Trade Expansion Program (STEP), which assists small businesses in entering international markets. The government is also promoting sustainability initiatives to foster eco-tourism and green industry development, recognizing the importance of preserving Guam’s natural and cultural resources for future generations.
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While tourism remains a key economic driver, the military buildup has created both opportunities and challenges. Increased military presence demands expanded infrastructure and housing, fueling construction and real estate sectors, but also underscores the need for economic diversification to ensure long-term stability. Public and private stakeholders continue to collaborate on implementing the CEDS goals, with ongoing updates to reflect changing economic conditions and community input.
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Governor Leon Guerrero’s push for diversification is seen as a strategic move to balance Guam’s growth, safeguard its environment and culture, and build a more sustainable and inclusive economy amid evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.
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Former Addicts Lead Community Fight Against Drugs in Suva Villages
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In a community-driven initiative in Suva’s “vanua o Suva,” 14 former drug addicts have volunteered as village drug wardens to help prevent drug use and reduce violence against women, girls, and children linked to substance abuse. Working closely with police, these wardens will act as first responders to drug-related incidents, reporting regularly to authorities and village leaders.
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The program includes a three-strike policy where repeat offenders receive two warnings before being asked to leave the village on a third offense. Village chief Ratu Sanaila Mudunavosa emphasized that this initiative reflects the community’s strong commitment to protecting its children and securing a safer future.
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OCEANIAN MAKING WAVES
Zen Waqavonovono, the first Fijian to graduate with a Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy from Berklee College of Music, is paving the way for music therapy in Fiji. Pictured here with his proud parents, Sharyne Fong and Mosese Waqavonovono. Photo Credit: Fiji Times
Zen Waqavonovono: Fiji’s First Graduate in Music Therapy from Berklee College of Music
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At just 29 years old, Zen Waqavonovono has made history as the first Fijian to earn a Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy from the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, USA. His journey from the islands of Fiji to one of the world’s leading music institutions is a testament to his passion, perseverance, and vision for using music to heal.
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Zen’s musical journey began long before his time at Berklee. After returning to Fiji in 2015, he formed the local band 4 Quarters, which quickly gained popularity and deepened his love for music. The experience of creating and performing music with his bandmates inspired Zen to explore how music could be used not just for entertainment but also for emotional and psychological healing.
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Encouraged by friends and family who recognized his talent and dedication, Zen applied to Berklee College of Music in 2019. His acceptance marked a significant milestone-not only for him personally but also for the Fijian music community. At Berklee, Zen pursued a rigorous program in Music Therapy, complementing his major with minors in Psychology and Music & Health, reflecting his holistic approach to wellbeing.
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In 2024, Zen graduated with honors, a proud achievement that highlights his academic excellence and commitment to his craft. During his studies, he completed an internship at the Community Music Center of Boston, gaining hands-on experience in applying music therapy techniques to support diverse populations.
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Looking ahead, Zen is determined to bring the benefits of music therapy back to Fiji. He envisions establishing programs that integrate music therapy into healthcare and community services, offering new avenues for healing and mental health support in his homeland.
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SPORTS
Brisbane Broncos Reject PETA’s Call to Retire Live Mascot Buck and Change Club Name
The Brisbane Broncos reject PETA’s call to retire live mascot Buck and change the club’s name, affirming Buck’s iconic status and ongoing role in game day celebrations. Photo Credit: Zak Simmonds - News Corp Australia
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The Brisbane Broncos have firmly dismissed a recent request from animal rights group PETA to retire their beloved live horse mascot, Buck, and to rebrand the club with a new name. PETA’s vice president Mimi Bekhechi wrote an open letter urging the Broncos to retire Buck, citing concerns over the stress placed on the horse during game days and condemning the club’s “bucking bronco” imagery for glorifying rodeo culture. The letter also suggested renaming the team the “Brisbane Boomerangs” to honor Indigenous heritage and promote equality.
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PETA argued that, unlike a person in a mascot costume who can consent, Buck the horse cannot consent to his role and is subjected to stressful conditions such as loud noises and crowds. They criticized rodeos as cruel and called for the Broncos to move away from such imagery.
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However, Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy responded strongly, affirming that Buck is an iconic and much-loved member of the Broncos family who has been part of the club for many years. Donaghy emphasized there are no plans to retire Buck, and that the club prioritizes the safety and care of both the horse and fans at Suncorp Stadium. He expressed confidence that Buck will continue to be a fixture at home games, including the upcoming match.
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The Broncos’ stance has been supported by many fans who view Buck as an integral part of the game day experience, while PETA’s call has sparked debate about animal welfare and cultural symbolism in sports. Despite the controversy, Buck remains a celebrated figure at Broncos matches, embodying the club’s spirit and tradition.
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SPOTLIGHT
Children across Oceania joined the global “Relay Around the World” challenge on Kids’ Athletics Day 2025, celebrating teamwork, fitness, and the joy of sport. Photo credit: Atheletics Oceania
Hundreds of Children Across Oceania Join “Relay Around the World” for 2025 Kids’ Athletics Day
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In May 2025, hundreds of children from across Oceania enthusiastically took part in the World Athletics Kids’ Athletics Day, embracing this year’s inspiring theme: “Relay Around the World.” This global initiative, launched by World Athletics, aims to encourage physical activity, teamwork, and a lifelong love of sport among young people worldwide.
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Oceania Athletics Association member federations organized relay events throughout the region, from American Samoa and Solomon Islands to Palau, Northern Mariana Islands, Cook Islands, Vanuatu, Kiribati, and French Polynesia. These events not only promoted fitness and healthy lifestyles but also strengthened community bonds and inclusivity, with many programs incorporating Para-athletics to increase participation among children with disabilities.
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The “Relay Around the World” Challenge spanned the entire month of May, culminating in a grand finale at the World Athletics Relays held in Guangzhou, China. Young participants tracked their progress and shared their experiences through the official Kids Athletics 2025 web app, fostering a sense of global connection and friendly competition.
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This vibrant celebration of youth sport highlights Oceania’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes and promoting inclusive, community-driven athletics programs across the Pacific region.
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REGIONAL EVENTS
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WSL Western Australia Margaret River Pro (Surfing)
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The World Surf League’s Margaret River Pro kicks off on Saturday, May 17, running through May 27. This major surfing event attracts top international surfers competing on Western Australia’s renowned waves.
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OFC Women’s Champions League (Football)
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Location: Papeete, Tahiti
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The 2025 OFC Women’s Champions League final will feature a highly anticipated rematch between Auckland United FC (New Zealand) and Hekari Women’s FC (Papua New Guinea). Both teams advanced with commanding 6-1 victories in their semi-final matches, showcasing strong offensive performances and tactical skill. Auckland United’s Zoe Benson leads the tournament scoring race, while Hekari’s Marie Kaipu and Nenny Elipas have been key contributors. The final promises an exciting contest as these two top clubs vie for the regional crown in front of passionate fans in Tahiti.
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TID BITS
New South Wales plans to introduce a tiered fee system for national park campgrounds, with prices rising up to 600%. Photo credit: TikTok/outbackmike
NSW Proposes Major Camping Fee Hike and Booking Overhaul in National Parks
New South Wales plans to introduce higher fees at many national park campgrounds, sparking criticism from regular campers like Mike Atkinson, who says the price hikes will limit public access and hurt outdoor experiences.
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An administrative oversight led to 32 successful Republic of Fiji Military Forces recruits being turned away from training. Photo credit: Fiji Times
RFMF Turns Away 32 Recruits Due to Capacity Constraints
An administrative error by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces caused 32 successful recruits to be turned away due to overcapacity. The RFMF apologized and promised these candidates first priority for the next training course in August 2025 without reapplying.
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Gold Coast City Council will fine and confiscate belongings of homeless individuals who refuse to vacate public spaces. Photo credit: Facebook
Gold Coast Council Introduces Fines and Confiscation for Homeless Non-Compliance
Gold Coast Council will fine and seize belongings of homeless people who refuse to leave public areas, sparking criticism from advocates who say it worsens homelessness amid a housing crisis.
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The Penrith Panthers’ 2025 Indigenous Jersey celebrates the Darug and Burramattagal peoples and will be worn during Indigenous Round. Photo credit: Penrith Panthers - X
Panthers Unveil 2025 Indigenous Jersey
The Penrith Panthers revealed their 2025 Indigenous Jersey, featuring artwork honoring the Darug and Burramattagal peoples, to be worn during Indigenous Round in Rounds 23 and 24.
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QUICK TAKES
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A malicious email was sent to over 900 staff of Slater + Gordon, an Australian law firm, exposing sensitive information like salaries and performance ratings, along with disparaging remarks about senior executives. The firm identified former payroll manager Bridgett Maddox, a convicted fraudster, as the likely culprit.
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The Fiji Navy rescued individuals from the yacht SV Triskele, which was stranded 170 nautical miles northwest of Nadi due to broken rigging, low fuel, and rough seas. After receiving a Mayday relay from Australian authorities, the Navy’s RFNS Timo located the yacht and is now towing it to Viti Levu with the crew safely onboard. The operation was conducted in close coordination with the Australian Joint Rescue Coordination Centre.
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Greenology Samoa and Solar King New Zealand hosted a groundbreaking Solar Systems Awareness Workshop on May 13, 2025, at the Lava Hotel Conference Room in Apia. The event brought together community members, church leaders, and business owners to promote renewable energy adoption and empower Samoan communities with knowledge about solar power benefits and installation.
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