Regional Tourism & Jobs: A new $17.7m adventure lodge has opened in Collie, WA, backed by the Cook Labor Government to boost regional accommodation and visitor access to trails and waterways. Local Business at Big Venues: Optus Stadium has extended its deal with WA brewer Gage Roads for five more years, including a limited-edition Purple Reign lager for the AFL Finals. Defence & Sovereign Capability: The federal government is investing $129m in a new contract with Babcock Australia to sustain the Navy’s Anzac class frigates, supporting 70+ jobs across WA and NSW. Space Security: Defence is trialling UNSW Canberra’s Viper telescope to improve ground-based space domain awareness. Public Health (Tasmania): Tasmania has tabled a Public Health Amendment (Emergency Powers) Bill 2026 to strengthen how the state responds to future health emergencies. Waste & Recycling: Recycling Plastics Australia has entered voluntary administration, while WA Police will reclassify electric shock cases as prohibited weapons from 30 Nov 2026. Economy & Markets: Australia’s GDP growth slowed to 2.1% and long bond yields jumped amid Middle East strikes, rattling markets and rate-sensitive sectors. Pacific Links: Qantas will add a second weekly Brisbane–Palau flight as Palau extends its air link to at least Nov 2027. Community & Grants: Create NSW has opened applications for up to $120,000 for regional arts touring, and Tasmania’s International Women’s Day small grants are open for 2027.