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Know what’s happening across Oceania—before your coffee’s cold.
Air New Zealand’s New Uniforms Celebrate Culture, Craft & Sustainability. Photo Credit: New Zealand Herald YouTube video
Air New Zealand’s New Uniforms Celebrate Culture, Craft & Sustainability
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Air New Zealand has unveiled its first new uniform in 14 years, designed by New Zealand-born fashion designer Emilia Wickstead in collaboration with Māori tattoo artist Te Rangitu Netana. The uniforms incorporate traditional Māori patterns and symbols, such as the kōwhai and purapura whetū, reflecting New Zealand's rich cultural heritage. Materials used include recycled polyester, organic cotton, and merino wool, emphasizing sustainability. The collection features garments like dresses, shirts, trench coats, and the 'ie faitaga,' a traditional Pacific Island men's garment. A trial of the new uniforms will begin in May 2025, with a full rollout expected in 2026.
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Nauru’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Lionel Aingimea
Photo credit: 總統府 CC-BY-2.0
Nauru Strengthens International Ties with Diplomatic Shift from Thailand to China
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In a significant move reflecting its evolving foreign policy, Nauru has officially closed its consul-general office in Thailand while simultaneously inaugurating a new embassy in Beijing, China.
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The closure of the Thai post follows an internal inquiry into an alleged passport forgery operation involving a former Nauruan diplomat. The investigation, which drew considerable attention, concluded with no evidence implicating the diplomat in question. With the matter now closed, the Nauruan government is looking to reset its diplomatic presence in the region by establishing a full-fledged embassy in Thailand in the near future.
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Meanwhile, in Beijing, Nauru marked a new chapter in its international relations with the official opening of its embassy. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Nauru’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Lionel Aingimea, and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu. This development follows Nauru’s re-establishment of diplomatic ties with the People’s Republic of China in January 2024, after previously recognizing Taiwan.
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These dual diplomatic maneuvers signal a strategic realignment of Nauru’s foreign policy, as the island nation seeks to broaden its international partnerships and enhance its global presence.
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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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PNG Prime Minister Marape Survives No-Confidence Vote. Photo Credit: TVWAN Online YouTube video
Prime Minister James Marape Retains Leadership Amid No-Confidence Vote
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On April 15, 2025, Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape successfully retained his position following a vote of no confidence in Parliament. The motion, introduced by Abau MP Sir Puka Temu and seconded by Wabag MP Dr. Tom Lino, was defeated with 89 MPs voting in support of Marape and 16 in favor of the motion.
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The parliamentary session was marked by heightened tensions, with opposition members raising multiple points of order, urging Speaker Job Pomat to allow a comprehensive debate on the motion. Despite these objections, the Speaker proceeded with the vote, emphasizing adherence to parliamentary standing orders.
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In his address following the vote, Prime Minister Marape expressed gratitude to the MPs who supported him and reaffirmed his commitment to serving all citizens of Papua New Guinea. He emphasized his administration's focus on inclusive development and accountability.
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This outcome ensures the continuation of Marape's leadership and provides an opportunity for his government to advance its legislative agenda.
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Nabouono Village Embraces Cattle Farming. Photo Credit: FBC News
Nabouono Village Embraces Cattle Farming to Protect Endangered Sea Turtles
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In a significant conservation effort, Nabouono village in Udu, Macuata, Fiji, has transitioned from harvesting sea turtles to cattle farming as a sustainable alternative. This initiative aims to protect endangered sea turtle populations while providing a reliable source of protein for the community. |
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Background and Motivation: Historically, sea turtles were a staple during community events in Nabouono. However, a 2023 Turtle Trade and Use Survey identified Udu as a "red zone" for turtle harvesting, highlighting the need for alternative food sources. In response, the Veilomani Women’s Club, led by Paulini Raumana, partnered with WWF-UK to introduce cattle farming as a sustainable solution.
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Implementation and Support: The project commenced by acquiring nine cows—one male and eight females—and providing animal husbandry training to the community. The Ministry of Agriculture assessed the grazing areas, confirming their suitability due to quality grass and access to water sources. Additionally, the village has adopted beekeeping, further diversifying income sources and reducing reliance on marine resources.
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Community Impact and Future Plans: The shift to cattle farming has been well-received, with villagers expressing gratitude for the support and the positive impact on food security. The initiative not only aids in turtle conservation but also strengthens community resilience by providing alternative livelihoods. Looking ahead, Nabouono village plans to expand these sustainable practices, ensuring the protection of marine life for future generations.
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CULTURE & HERITAGE
Repatriation of Australian Indigenous Ancestors from the UK
Keron Murray (left) and Smithy Wilson (right), Wuthathi Community Representatives. Photo credit: Trustees of the Natural History Museum, London
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On April 10, 2025, the Natural History Museum in London held a formal ceremony to return the remains of 36 First Nations ancestors to Australia. This repatriation was conducted in collaboration with Australia's Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, the Queensland Museum, and Traditional Custodians from Queensland communities.
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Six of the ancestors have been identified and are being returned to their respective communities: one to the Woppaburra, one to the Warrgamay, two to the Wuthathi, and two to the Yadhighana. The remaining 30 ancestors, all believed to have originated from Queensland, will be held under the Australian Government's stewardship until their traditional custodians can be identified.
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Warrgamay elder Thomas Holden, who reclaimed the remains of his ancestor King Billy, emphasized the spiritual and cultural disconnection caused by grave desecration and the importance of restoring dignity through traditional burials. He stated, "For generations, our people have carried the pain of knowing that our ancestors were taken from us, their remains held in institutions and collections far from home."
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Woppaburra representative Wayne Blair highlighted the significance of repatriation in promoting healing, reconciliation, and cultural continuity. He remarked, "You are not returning science specimens, you are returning ancestors to their families, ... ."
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This event marks the fourth return of ancestors from the Natural History Museum to Australia. Over the past three decades, more than 1,775 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander remains have been repatriated globally, including over 1,300 from the United Kingdom. The returned ancestors will be flown to Queensland, where a special ceremony will be held at the Queensland Museum to honor them. This repatriation effort underscores the importance of acknowledging past injustices and taking steps toward reconciliation and healing for First Nations communities across Australia.
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SPORTS
Australia's Georgia Amoore Makes WNBA History
Australia's Georgia Amoore Makes WNBA History. Photo credit: The Wrightway Sports Network
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Australian basketball standout Georgia Amoore made history by being selected sixth overall by the Washington Mystics in the 2025 WNBA Draft, marking the highest pick for an Australian since Liz Cambage in 2011.
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Amoore, a 168 cm (5'6") point guard from Ballarat, Victoria, showcased exceptional skills during her college career. In her final season at the University of Kentucky, she averaged 19.6 points and 6.9 assists per game, leading the Wildcats to a 23–8 record and their first NCAA Tournament win since 2021 . Notably, she scored 43 points in a game against Oklahoma and became one of only three Division I players—alongside Caitlin Clark and Sabrina Ionescu—to surpass 2,300 points and 800 assists in their careers.
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In addition to her on-court achievements, Amoore made a stylish impression at the draft, wearing a custom outfit designed by NBA star Russell Westbrook through his fashion brand, Honor The Gift. The ensemble featured a black leather cropped blazer with white floral embroidery, a matching mini skirt, and a shirt reading "Honor Women," symbolizing her commitment to empowering women in sports. Amoore's selection by the Mystics, who also secured top picks Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen, underscores her potential to make a significant impact in the WNBA.
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SPOTLIGHT
Palau Prepares to Host Historic 2025 Pacific Mini Games. Photo credit: Pacific Mini Games 2025 Facebook
Palau Prepares to Host Historic 2025 Pacific Mini Games
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Palau is gearing up to host the 12th Pacific Mini Games from June 29 to July 9, 2025, in Koror. This edition is anticipated to be the largest ever, with participation from 24 Pacific nations and territories, including Australia and New Zealand. Over 1,400 athletes, accompanied by more than 300 coaches and officials, are expected to compete across 14 sports disciplines. The sports lineup includes athletics, archery, aquathlon, baseball, basketball (3x3), judo, outrigger canoeing, softball, swimming, table tennis, tennis, triathlon, volleyball (indoor and beach), weightlifting, and wrestling.
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Preparations are in full swing, with key venues nearing completion:
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National Track & Field Stadium: Set to host the opening and closing ceremonies; the track is already in use for athlete training.
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Palau Nippon Stadium (Asahi Stadium): Designated for baseball events, with minor works ongoing.
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Meyuns Softball Field: Near completion, pending final paving of the access road.
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Melekeok Baseball Field: Being converted for archery competitions.
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Palau High School's Spider Gym: Under construction to host basketball events, expected to be ready in time.
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Notably, the 3x3 basketball tournament will serve as a qualifying event for an international youth basketball competition, with the champions earning a spot in the global tournament. Additionally, the weightlifting competitions will act as qualifiers for the Commonwealth Games and the Oceania World Championship.
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This marks Palau's second time hosting the Pacific Mini Games, the first being in 2005. The event is seen as a significant milestone, showcasing Palau's commitment to regional unity and sports development.
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TID BITS
PNG Rugby League Players Meet King Charles III. Photo Credit: The Sun UK
PNG Rugby League Players Meet King Charles III
Papua New Guinea rugby league players Jeremiah Simbiken, Liam Horne, Judah Rimbu, and Sylvester Namo, who play for the Castleford Tigers in the UK, had the opportunity to meet King Charles III during a charity event. The event celebrated the commissioning of a new humanitarian aid plane for Mission Aviation Fellowship, which supports communities in PNG. The players expressed pride in representing their heritage on such a significant occasion.
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The historic signing of the Treaty of Rarotonga took place in Majuro on 3 March 2025. Photo credit: Pacific Islands Forum
Marshall Islands Signs the Rarotonga Treaty
On March 3, 2025, the Marshall Islands formally became a signatory to the Treaty of Rarotonga, a historic agreement established in 1985 to prohibit the manufacturing, possession, stationing, and testing of nuclear explosive devices in the South Pacific. Minister for Natural Resources and Commerce, Anthony Muller, expressed the nation's honor in joining the original 13 Pacific nations in this commitment to regional peace and security.
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Expansion of Circle Sentencing in New South Wales. Photo Credit: Lismore City News
Expansion of Circle Sentencing in New South Wales
The Circle Sentencing program, a culturally significant judicial initiative, has expanded to Moruya and Narooma Local Courts in New South Wales. This approach allows eligible Indigenous defendants to be sentenced in a circle comprising local Aboriginal elders and community members, fostering a more inclusive and understanding legal process. The program aims to reduce incarceration rates and has shown promising results in decreasing recidivism among Aboriginal people.
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Weightlifter Jenly Wini Secures Gold at Oceania Cup. Photo credit: Solomon Star
Solomon Island Weightlifter Jenly Wini Secures Gold at Oceania Cup
Renowned weightlifter Jenly Wini clinched a gold medal in the 58kg category at the Oceania Cup International Weightlifting Tournament held in Melbourne, Australia. Her achievement adds to her impressive record and brings pride to the Solomon Islands.
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