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Know what’s happening across Oceania—before your coffee’s cold.
Their Majesties King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipauʻu of Tonga will travel to Fiji in July to attend the installation of the Sau Ni Vanua Ko Lau and Tui Lau chiefs, marking a historic moment of cultural and diplomatic significance between the two nations. Photo Credit: Kaniva Tonga Facebook
Tongan Royal Visit to Fiji Set for July: A Celebration of Pacific Unity
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Their Majesties King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipauʻu of Tonga are scheduled to undertake a state visit to Fiji from July 8 to 12, 2025. The central event of their visit will be the installation ceremony of the Sau Ni Vanua Ko Lau and Tui Lau chiefs, taking place on July 10 in Tubou Village, Lakeba, Lau. This invitation, extended by Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara, head of the Mataqali Vuanirewa of Tubou Village, underscores the profound historical and cultural connections between the Lau Islands and Tonga.
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The Fijian government has established an inter-agency task force to coordinate the logistics of this significant royal visit, reflecting the importance of the occasion. The presence of the Tongan monarchs at the chiefly installation ceremony highlights the enduring ties between the two nations, rooted in shared heritage and mutual respect.
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This visit is anticipated to strengthen diplomatic relations and foster deeper collaboration between Fiji and Tonga. Beyond the ceremonial aspects, it presents an opportunity for both nations to engage in discussions on regional cooperation, cultural exchange, and shared development goals. The royal visit serves as a testament to the unity and solidarity that bind Pacific Island nations together.
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Professor Chennupati Jagadish. Photo credit: Australia India Institute
Australia Launches Global Talent Program to Attract Displaced US Researchers
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Australia has launched a global talent attraction program aimed at recruiting top U.S. researchers affected by significant funding cuts under the Trump administration. The initiative, announced by the Australian Academy of Science, seeks to capitalize on the growing disenchantment among American academics due to proposed reductions in federal research funding, such as caps on indirect funding from the NIH and threats to prestigious institutions like Harvard. President Prof Chennupati Jagadish emphasized the urgency of making Australia a top destination for the displaced scientific talent, warning that other countries, including several in Europe, are already vying for these individuals.
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Australia's strategy includes offering competitive relocation packages and a discipline-neutral approach to attract excellence aligned with national research priorities. The program seeks to engage funders and government support to facilitate fast-track visas and create opportunities for both returning Australians and U.S.-based talent. Danielle Cave from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute described this as a “once-in-a-century brain gain opportunity,” suggesting that Australia should swiftly act to draw top minds from sectors like mathematics, engineering, and environmental science as U.S. academia contracts. Meanwhile, Australian universities have already felt the repercussions of Trump administration policies, with some programs suspended and institutions being scrutinized over alignment with U.S. government interests.
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PRESENTED BY VONU STUDIOS
Children's Book: Vonu and the Druas Play Hide and Seek
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Join Vonu the turtle and the stingray twins, the Druas Vai and Fai, in an exciting game of hide and seek! A heartwarming story filled with fun and adventure, perfect for young readers. Get your copy today!
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JS Izumo (DDH-183), destroyer JS Samidare (DD-106) and an Oyashio-class submarine. JMSDF Photo
Japan Deploys Warships for 2025 Indo-Pacific Mission
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The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is set to commence its annual Indo-Pacific Deployment on April 21, 2025, involving five ships organized into four surface units. This deployment aims to enhance maritime security cooperation and promote regional stability through joint exercises and port visits across the Indo-Pacific region.
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The participating vessels include the helicopter destroyer JS Izumo (DDH-183), which serves as the flagship, along with the destroyers JS Takanami (DD-110) and JS Suzutsuki (DD-117). Additionally, the training vessel JS Kashima (TV-3508) and the training support ship JS Setoyuki (TV-3518) will join the deployment, focusing on training and goodwill missions.
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This deployment underscores Japan's commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, strengthening ties with partner nations through maritime collaboration and capacity-building initiatives. The JMSDF's activities are expected to include joint drills, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief exercises, reflecting Japan's proactive approach to regional security and cooperation.
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Tongan 100 paʻanga
Tonga's $60 Million COVID Relief Fund Disappears, Raising Accountability Concerns
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A significant controversy has emerged in Tonga concerning the disappearance of a $60 million COVID-19 relief fund. The Auditor General reported a complete lack of financial records, receipts, or documentation detailing how the funds were utilized. Prime Minister Dr. ‘Aisake Eke and Speaker Lord Fakafanua acknowledged the oversight, attributing it to the chaos of the pandemic. However, Deputy Prime Minister Taniela Fusimālohi pointed to the previous administration under former Prime Minister Hu‘akavameiliku, stating that existing systems were not enforced to ensure proper record-keeping. Despite these revelations, no formal investigation has been initiated, raising concerns about transparency and accountability within the government.
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In April 2020, the Tongan government introduced a TOP$60 million (US$24.97 million) Economic and Social Stimulus Package aimed at mitigating the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Auditor General's recent report has revealed a complete absence of financial records, receipts, or documentation detailing how these funds were utilized.
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Despite these revelations and ensuing debates, no formal investigation has been initiated, raising concerns about transparency and accountability within the government.
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SPORTS
Blues Secure Inaugural Women's Super Rugby Champions Title
Blues Secure Inaugural Women's Super Rugby Champions Title. Photo credit: The Blue's Facebook
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The Blues emerged victorious in the inaugural Super Rugby Women's Champions Final on April 17, 2025, defeating the NSW Waratahs 36–5 at North Harbour Stadium in Auckland. This landmark match marked the first-ever trans-Tasman final between the champions of New Zealand's Super Rugby Aupiki and Australia's Super W competitions.
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The Blues' dominant performance secured them the inaugural championship title, adding to their earlier success in the Super Rugby Aupiki Grand Final. The Waratahs, who had previously claimed the Super W title with a 43–21 win over the Queensland Reds, couldn’t replicate their earlier triumph in this high-stakes final. This victory highlights the growing prominence and competitiveness of women’s rugby in the Pacific region.
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SPOTLIGHT
The UNI Bulls Rugby Club form a line as they cross knee-deep river in the Namosi Highlands — bound for their camp at Namosi Eco Retreat. Photo credit: Namosi Eco Retreat Facebook
For The Love of Rugby - UNI Bulls Take On Namosi Highlanders in Fiji's Highlands
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The UNI Bulls Rugby Club from Adelaide, Australia, is currently in Fiji for a four-day rugby camp. During their stay, the young players will engage in training sessions and participate in trial matches against the Namosi Highlanders Rugby League Club.
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The Namosi Highlanders are recognized for their commitment to grassroots rugby development in Fiji. They have notably promoted inclusivity by encouraging participation from women and girls, exemplified by a 58-year-old woman joining their team for the Mataso 7s tournament.
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This collaboration between the UNI Bulls and the Namosi Highlanders offers a valuable opportunity for cultural exchange and skill development, fostering international camaraderie within the rugby community.
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TID BITS
Ali Cheema, ‘Grandma’ Alumita Dawai, Terri Bolatolu, Sevi Dawai and Mohammed Cheema celebrate the opening of Bubu’s Feast and Kava Bar. Photo credit: Region Riverina
Fijian Grandma Brings a Taste of the Islands to Griffith with Riverina’s First Kava Bar
Alumita Dawai, affectionately known as “Grandma,” has opened Bubu’s Feast and Kava Bar in East Griffith, marking the Riverina region’s first Islander shop and kava bar. Dawai, who arrived in Griffith 35 years ago as a fruit picker, has long been a cherished member of the local Islander community. Her new venture, launched with her grandson Ali Cheema, offers a vibrant space featuring Polynesian groceries, hot meals, and traditional kava. The establishment is adorned with colorful murals, reflecting the rich cultural heritage it represents.
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Tuvalu's Prime Minister Feleti Teo, second from right, helped cut the cake at the official unveiling ceremony.. Photo credit: Tuvalu Government Facebook
Tuvalu Launches First ATMs, Ushering in a New Era of Electronic Banking
Tuvalu has introduced its first-ever ATMs, marking a significant step toward financial modernization for the Pacific Island nation. The National Bank of Tuvalu unveiled five ATMs and 30 point-of-sale terminals on Funafuti, aiming to alleviate long queues and improve access to banking services. Previously reliant on cash-based transactions, the new system currently operates with prepaid cards, with plans to introduce Tuvalu-issued debit cards and eventually Visa options.
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The Falepili Union signed by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Tuvalu Prime Minister Kausea Natano on 10 November 2023. Photo credit: Facebook
Australia Opens New Permanent Migration Pathway for Tuvaluans Under Falepili Union
A new visa allowing Tuvaluan citizens to migrate permanently to Australia has been incorporated into the existing Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) category, as part of the Australia–Tuvalu Falepili Union treaty signed in November 2023. Unlike the standard PEV, this visa is open to all Tuvaluans, with up to 280 people eligible each year. The initiative supports Australia’s broader commitment to providing structured migration pathways for Pacific nations facing climate-related challenges.
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A Northpower lineworker removes a fallen tree from power lines along Hatea Drive in Whangārei, as strong winds from ex-Tropical Cyclone Tam sweep through the region. Photo credit: Mike Dinsdale
Cyclone Tam Disrupts Power in the North
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Tam has brought severe weather to New Zealand's North Island, particularly affecting Northland and the Coromandel Peninsula. Strong winds and heavy rain have caused widespread power outages, with approximately 13,000 homes and businesses still without electricity as of Thursday afternoon. The storm has also disrupted telecommunications, impacting emergency services and isolating some communities. Flooding has led to road closures, including parts of State Highway 25, cutting off towns like Tairua and Whitianga.
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