2 curly questions Chalmers must answer on the Santos sale
Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers may have a decision to make on the proposal for foreign-controlled ownership of Santos. In the absence of a clear national gas strategy, his decision will say much about how the second-term Albanese Government views the role of gas in Australia's domestic and international interests.
Santos is a 70-year-old, listed Australian oil and gas business with a market capitalisation of $25 billion at close of trading on Friday. A consortium led by XRG, the foreign investment arm of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has proposed a $36.4 billion takeover, comprising $8.89 per share and the company's debt. The Santos Board has indicated support for the bid, subject to the usual conditions on such proposals.
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The Advertiser
5 minutes ago
- The Advertiser
Housing, TAFE, arts budget boosts as state growth slows
THE FIGURES NSW state economy - $880 billion Growth in 2025/26 - 1.75 per cent (stable) Revenue - $124.2b (up 5.1 per cent) Expenses - $127.6b (up 3.0) Budget result - $3.4b deficit Gross debt - $178.8 billion Unemployment rate - 4.25 per cent (up from 4.0 per cent) BUDGET ANNOUNCEMENTS HOUSING * An Australian-first $1 billion pre-sale fund to help get 15,000 low- and medium-density homes off the ground * $145 million across four years for the state's Building Commission to hire more prosecutors, investigators and inspectors to weed out dodgy residential builds * $30.4 million crisis intervention package for homelessness services * Extension of build-to-rent tax concessions beyond slated 2039 end date COMMUNITIES * $1.2 billion on child protection, including substantial boost for foster carer allowances * $110 million to maintain public spaces, including the repair of heritage-listed Pyrmont Bridge and maintenance of fire trails * Commonwealth Veteran Card holders will receive free vehicle entry to all NSW National Parks * $25.8 million to support community sport * $6 million for animal rehoming organisations ARTS * Establishment of a $100 million fund to find a suitable location for a second major film studio in Sydney * $280.6 million in rebates for the screen and digital games sector * $40.6 million for 24-hour Commissioner and Sound NSW TRANSPORT: * $452 million to increase bus services, including 50 new "bendy" buses and more regular school bus services in outer Sydney and regional areas * Road upgrades and new signage around Western Sydney Airport and $250 million to finish the widening of Mona Vale Rd, a critical artery in north Sydney. * Major road upgrades in Dapto and Queanbeyan and repairs in flood-affected Hunter and Northern Rivers EDUCATION: * $9 billion across four years for public school infrastructure, largely focused on growing suburban communities * $3.4 billion towards TAFE and upskilling, including $40 million to enable 23,000 construction students to complete their apprenticeships for free HEALTH: * Another $700 million towards construction of the $2 billion Bankstown Hospital and relocation of Bankstown TAFE * A statewide pathology hub to be established at Westmead, with the $492 million investment to include an upgrade to a high-security lab researching dangerous pathogens such as Ebola and measles * $23 million to cut down the overdue surgery list by 3500 * $83 million to bolster maternity care ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS * $202 million for Closing the Gap projects, including $23 million towards community-led suicide prevention programs LAW AND ORDER: * $125.8 million for cybersecurity and hardware upgrades to NSW Police * $227 million across five years to help victims of violent crime access counselling * About $100 million to upgrade the state's busiest courthouse and employ more prosecutors, solicitors and witness assistance officers INNOVATION AND BUSINESS: * $80 million in innovation funding, including $38.5 million to boost technology hub TechCentral * A four-person Investment Delivery Authority to fast-track planning approvals for billion-dollar projects THE FIGURES NSW state economy - $880 billion Growth in 2025/26 - 1.75 per cent (stable) Revenue - $124.2b (up 5.1 per cent) Expenses - $127.6b (up 3.0) Budget result - $3.4b deficit Gross debt - $178.8 billion Unemployment rate - 4.25 per cent (up from 4.0 per cent) BUDGET ANNOUNCEMENTS HOUSING * An Australian-first $1 billion pre-sale fund to help get 15,000 low- and medium-density homes off the ground * $145 million across four years for the state's Building Commission to hire more prosecutors, investigators and inspectors to weed out dodgy residential builds * $30.4 million crisis intervention package for homelessness services * Extension of build-to-rent tax concessions beyond slated 2039 end date COMMUNITIES * $1.2 billion on child protection, including substantial boost for foster carer allowances * $110 million to maintain public spaces, including the repair of heritage-listed Pyrmont Bridge and maintenance of fire trails * Commonwealth Veteran Card holders will receive free vehicle entry to all NSW National Parks * $25.8 million to support community sport * $6 million for animal rehoming organisations ARTS * Establishment of a $100 million fund to find a suitable location for a second major film studio in Sydney * $280.6 million in rebates for the screen and digital games sector * $40.6 million for 24-hour Commissioner and Sound NSW TRANSPORT: * $452 million to increase bus services, including 50 new "bendy" buses and more regular school bus services in outer Sydney and regional areas * Road upgrades and new signage around Western Sydney Airport and $250 million to finish the widening of Mona Vale Rd, a critical artery in north Sydney. * Major road upgrades in Dapto and Queanbeyan and repairs in flood-affected Hunter and Northern Rivers EDUCATION: * $9 billion across four years for public school infrastructure, largely focused on growing suburban communities * $3.4 billion towards TAFE and upskilling, including $40 million to enable 23,000 construction students to complete their apprenticeships for free HEALTH: * Another $700 million towards construction of the $2 billion Bankstown Hospital and relocation of Bankstown TAFE * A statewide pathology hub to be established at Westmead, with the $492 million investment to include an upgrade to a high-security lab researching dangerous pathogens such as Ebola and measles * $23 million to cut down the overdue surgery list by 3500 * $83 million to bolster maternity care ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS * $202 million for Closing the Gap projects, including $23 million towards community-led suicide prevention programs LAW AND ORDER: * $125.8 million for cybersecurity and hardware upgrades to NSW Police * $227 million across five years to help victims of violent crime access counselling * About $100 million to upgrade the state's busiest courthouse and employ more prosecutors, solicitors and witness assistance officers INNOVATION AND BUSINESS: * $80 million in innovation funding, including $38.5 million to boost technology hub TechCentral * A four-person Investment Delivery Authority to fast-track planning approvals for billion-dollar projects THE FIGURES NSW state economy - $880 billion Growth in 2025/26 - 1.75 per cent (stable) Revenue - $124.2b (up 5.1 per cent) Expenses - $127.6b (up 3.0) Budget result - $3.4b deficit Gross debt - $178.8 billion Unemployment rate - 4.25 per cent (up from 4.0 per cent) BUDGET ANNOUNCEMENTS HOUSING * An Australian-first $1 billion pre-sale fund to help get 15,000 low- and medium-density homes off the ground * $145 million across four years for the state's Building Commission to hire more prosecutors, investigators and inspectors to weed out dodgy residential builds * $30.4 million crisis intervention package for homelessness services * Extension of build-to-rent tax concessions beyond slated 2039 end date COMMUNITIES * $1.2 billion on child protection, including substantial boost for foster carer allowances * $110 million to maintain public spaces, including the repair of heritage-listed Pyrmont Bridge and maintenance of fire trails * Commonwealth Veteran Card holders will receive free vehicle entry to all NSW National Parks * $25.8 million to support community sport * $6 million for animal rehoming organisations ARTS * Establishment of a $100 million fund to find a suitable location for a second major film studio in Sydney * $280.6 million in rebates for the screen and digital games sector * $40.6 million for 24-hour Commissioner and Sound NSW TRANSPORT: * $452 million to increase bus services, including 50 new "bendy" buses and more regular school bus services in outer Sydney and regional areas * Road upgrades and new signage around Western Sydney Airport and $250 million to finish the widening of Mona Vale Rd, a critical artery in north Sydney. * Major road upgrades in Dapto and Queanbeyan and repairs in flood-affected Hunter and Northern Rivers EDUCATION: * $9 billion across four years for public school infrastructure, largely focused on growing suburban communities * $3.4 billion towards TAFE and upskilling, including $40 million to enable 23,000 construction students to complete their apprenticeships for free HEALTH: * Another $700 million towards construction of the $2 billion Bankstown Hospital and relocation of Bankstown TAFE * A statewide pathology hub to be established at Westmead, with the $492 million investment to include an upgrade to a high-security lab researching dangerous pathogens such as Ebola and measles * $23 million to cut down the overdue surgery list by 3500 * $83 million to bolster maternity care ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS * $202 million for Closing the Gap projects, including $23 million towards community-led suicide prevention programs LAW AND ORDER: * $125.8 million for cybersecurity and hardware upgrades to NSW Police * $227 million across five years to help victims of violent crime access counselling * About $100 million to upgrade the state's busiest courthouse and employ more prosecutors, solicitors and witness assistance officers INNOVATION AND BUSINESS: * $80 million in innovation funding, including $38.5 million to boost technology hub TechCentral * A four-person Investment Delivery Authority to fast-track planning approvals for billion-dollar projects THE FIGURES NSW state economy - $880 billion Growth in 2025/26 - 1.75 per cent (stable) Revenue - $124.2b (up 5.1 per cent) Expenses - $127.6b (up 3.0) Budget result - $3.4b deficit Gross debt - $178.8 billion Unemployment rate - 4.25 per cent (up from 4.0 per cent) BUDGET ANNOUNCEMENTS HOUSING * An Australian-first $1 billion pre-sale fund to help get 15,000 low- and medium-density homes off the ground * $145 million across four years for the state's Building Commission to hire more prosecutors, investigators and inspectors to weed out dodgy residential builds * $30.4 million crisis intervention package for homelessness services * Extension of build-to-rent tax concessions beyond slated 2039 end date COMMUNITIES * $1.2 billion on child protection, including substantial boost for foster carer allowances * $110 million to maintain public spaces, including the repair of heritage-listed Pyrmont Bridge and maintenance of fire trails * Commonwealth Veteran Card holders will receive free vehicle entry to all NSW National Parks * $25.8 million to support community sport * $6 million for animal rehoming organisations ARTS * Establishment of a $100 million fund to find a suitable location for a second major film studio in Sydney * $280.6 million in rebates for the screen and digital games sector * $40.6 million for 24-hour Commissioner and Sound NSW TRANSPORT: * $452 million to increase bus services, including 50 new "bendy" buses and more regular school bus services in outer Sydney and regional areas * Road upgrades and new signage around Western Sydney Airport and $250 million to finish the widening of Mona Vale Rd, a critical artery in north Sydney. * Major road upgrades in Dapto and Queanbeyan and repairs in flood-affected Hunter and Northern Rivers EDUCATION: * $9 billion across four years for public school infrastructure, largely focused on growing suburban communities * $3.4 billion towards TAFE and upskilling, including $40 million to enable 23,000 construction students to complete their apprenticeships for free HEALTH: * Another $700 million towards construction of the $2 billion Bankstown Hospital and relocation of Bankstown TAFE * A statewide pathology hub to be established at Westmead, with the $492 million investment to include an upgrade to a high-security lab researching dangerous pathogens such as Ebola and measles * $23 million to cut down the overdue surgery list by 3500 * $83 million to bolster maternity care ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS * $202 million for Closing the Gap projects, including $23 million towards community-led suicide prevention programs LAW AND ORDER: * $125.8 million for cybersecurity and hardware upgrades to NSW Police * $227 million across five years to help victims of violent crime access counselling * About $100 million to upgrade the state's busiest courthouse and employ more prosecutors, solicitors and witness assistance officers INNOVATION AND BUSINESS: * $80 million in innovation funding, including $38.5 million to boost technology hub TechCentral * A four-person Investment Delivery Authority to fast-track planning approvals for billion-dollar projects
The Advertiser
5 minutes ago
- The Advertiser
'First of its kind': Whiteley opens $25m plant at Tomago
Whiteley has opened a 'first-of-its-kind' Human Therapeutics Plant in Tomago. The $25 million purpose-built plant will manufacture alcohol-based hand rubs and over-the-counter medicines for use in hospitals and healthcare facilities across Australia and New Zealand. Once fully operational, it is expected to create 30 new jobs across research, manufacturing, compliance and operations. "This facility is a long-term investment in Australian science, Australian jobs and Australian manufacturing," Whiteley executive chairman Dr Greg Whiteley said. "This sector has long been dominated by multinational corporations. This plant levels the playing field and puts the Hunter Region at the centre of therapeutic manufacturing in Australia." A 92-year-old family business, Whiteley has operated from Tomago since 1995 and continues to expand its footprint both nationally and internationally. In 2024, Whiteley was named NSW Business of the Year and Hunter Business of the Year, and won the Excellence in International Business Award at both the Business NSW and Business Hunter Awards. Whiteley now exports to more than 35 international markets and recently achieved Medical Device Single Audit Program (MDSAP) certification, enabling it to export medical devices from Tomago to the US and Canada. The new facility is designed to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and is, Dr Whiteley says, the only therapeutic plant in NSW to meet modern fire safety and engineering compliance benchmarks. It will also serve as a hub for collaborative research with leading Australian universities, focused on tackling antimicrobial resistance and chronic biofilm-mediated infections. "This is more than a factory. It's a platform for scientific innovation and global competitiveness," Dr Whiteley said. "We're proud to be turning Australian research into real-world therapeutic products that are made in the Hunter to serve the healthcare system long into the future." Winarch Group has launched a new division dedicated to creating original live content, cultural platforms and community-driven experiences across Australia. It's called Winarch Experience, and it brings together the group's owned and operated platforms, including design market The Finders Keepers and Newcastle's Olive Tree Market. It will also create new original live content, with several projects in development and set to launch in 2026. Winarch Experience joins the group's existing divisions: Winarch Music, which oversees the company's investment, ownership and management of live entertainment venues such as the proposed 10,000-capacity Cedar Mill venue at Morisset; and Winarch Live, which encompasses the group's venue, event, safety and management services. Former Winarch Live head Ewen Craig has moved to Winarch Experience. "This is a unique opportunity to develop innovative live content that advances Winarch's vision through signature events, creative excellence and lasting cultural impact," he said. "Our aim is to create experiences that genuinely connect with people. Winarch Experience is about working with communities, creatives and partners to bring ideas to life in a way that feels fresh, inclusive, and unique." Two local First Nations creatives - Elisha O'Leary of Morisset and Shanaya Buddingh of Floraville - are among nine finalists in the running for the 2025 Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship. Each finalist receives a $1000 prize and mentorship from industry leaders. The winner, announced on July 10 at Murrook Culture Centre during NAIDOC Week, will be awarded a $10,000 scholarship. Now in its third year, presented by Facon Magazine and supported by Greater Bank, the scholarship aims to uplift and empower Indigenous creatives from across NSW, offering access to industry mentors, professional resources, and a platform to share their stories with the world. Wiradjuri woman Shanaya Buddingh will be mentored by accomplished First Nations dancer and choreographer Kassidy Waters. Darkinjung-born Elisha O'Leary, who is of Wiradjuri ancestry, will be mentored by artist and cultural educator Cassie Leatham. Facon editor-in-chief Lara Lupish said the program "reminds us of the importance of cultural representation and the strength of Indigenous storytelling". For details, visit or The next generation of entrepreneurs, problem-solvers and creative thinkers are invited to pitch their ideas to the 2025 Young Business Mind Awards. Students from Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens and the Upper and Lower Hunter regions are welcome to submit a short video pitch showcasing their innovation, start-up, community project or sustainable solution. Teachers are also encouraged to enter their own classroom innovations. The awards have, since 2017, celebrated innovation among primary and secondary students, inspiring young people to think like entrepreneurs and develop the confidence to present their business, product or community solution to real-world judges. In 2024, the awards attracted more than 150 students and teachers from 13 local schools. "Every year, we're blown away by the ideas, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit shown by local students. It is more than a competition - it's a launchpad for real-world opportunities, with mentorship and support continuing long after the awards night," Career Links chief executive officer John Purcell said. Career Links events manager Amber Glasper is available to visit local schools for a 20-minute Q&A (email events@ This year, the awards are supported by a new gold partner, Hunter Valley Operations, bringing a strong focus on STEM and innovation. Secondary school winners will also be invited to participate in the 2026 Hunter Innovation Festival. Entries close on October 26. All winners will receive cash prizes and access to mentorships with local industry professionals. Full entry details, resources and inspiration can be found online at Whiteley has opened a 'first-of-its-kind' Human Therapeutics Plant in Tomago. The $25 million purpose-built plant will manufacture alcohol-based hand rubs and over-the-counter medicines for use in hospitals and healthcare facilities across Australia and New Zealand. Once fully operational, it is expected to create 30 new jobs across research, manufacturing, compliance and operations. "This facility is a long-term investment in Australian science, Australian jobs and Australian manufacturing," Whiteley executive chairman Dr Greg Whiteley said. "This sector has long been dominated by multinational corporations. This plant levels the playing field and puts the Hunter Region at the centre of therapeutic manufacturing in Australia." A 92-year-old family business, Whiteley has operated from Tomago since 1995 and continues to expand its footprint both nationally and internationally. In 2024, Whiteley was named NSW Business of the Year and Hunter Business of the Year, and won the Excellence in International Business Award at both the Business NSW and Business Hunter Awards. Whiteley now exports to more than 35 international markets and recently achieved Medical Device Single Audit Program (MDSAP) certification, enabling it to export medical devices from Tomago to the US and Canada. The new facility is designed to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and is, Dr Whiteley says, the only therapeutic plant in NSW to meet modern fire safety and engineering compliance benchmarks. It will also serve as a hub for collaborative research with leading Australian universities, focused on tackling antimicrobial resistance and chronic biofilm-mediated infections. "This is more than a factory. It's a platform for scientific innovation and global competitiveness," Dr Whiteley said. "We're proud to be turning Australian research into real-world therapeutic products that are made in the Hunter to serve the healthcare system long into the future." Winarch Group has launched a new division dedicated to creating original live content, cultural platforms and community-driven experiences across Australia. It's called Winarch Experience, and it brings together the group's owned and operated platforms, including design market The Finders Keepers and Newcastle's Olive Tree Market. It will also create new original live content, with several projects in development and set to launch in 2026. Winarch Experience joins the group's existing divisions: Winarch Music, which oversees the company's investment, ownership and management of live entertainment venues such as the proposed 10,000-capacity Cedar Mill venue at Morisset; and Winarch Live, which encompasses the group's venue, event, safety and management services. Former Winarch Live head Ewen Craig has moved to Winarch Experience. "This is a unique opportunity to develop innovative live content that advances Winarch's vision through signature events, creative excellence and lasting cultural impact," he said. "Our aim is to create experiences that genuinely connect with people. Winarch Experience is about working with communities, creatives and partners to bring ideas to life in a way that feels fresh, inclusive, and unique." Two local First Nations creatives - Elisha O'Leary of Morisset and Shanaya Buddingh of Floraville - are among nine finalists in the running for the 2025 Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship. Each finalist receives a $1000 prize and mentorship from industry leaders. The winner, announced on July 10 at Murrook Culture Centre during NAIDOC Week, will be awarded a $10,000 scholarship. Now in its third year, presented by Facon Magazine and supported by Greater Bank, the scholarship aims to uplift and empower Indigenous creatives from across NSW, offering access to industry mentors, professional resources, and a platform to share their stories with the world. Wiradjuri woman Shanaya Buddingh will be mentored by accomplished First Nations dancer and choreographer Kassidy Waters. Darkinjung-born Elisha O'Leary, who is of Wiradjuri ancestry, will be mentored by artist and cultural educator Cassie Leatham. Facon editor-in-chief Lara Lupish said the program "reminds us of the importance of cultural representation and the strength of Indigenous storytelling". For details, visit or The next generation of entrepreneurs, problem-solvers and creative thinkers are invited to pitch their ideas to the 2025 Young Business Mind Awards. Students from Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens and the Upper and Lower Hunter regions are welcome to submit a short video pitch showcasing their innovation, start-up, community project or sustainable solution. Teachers are also encouraged to enter their own classroom innovations. The awards have, since 2017, celebrated innovation among primary and secondary students, inspiring young people to think like entrepreneurs and develop the confidence to present their business, product or community solution to real-world judges. In 2024, the awards attracted more than 150 students and teachers from 13 local schools. "Every year, we're blown away by the ideas, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit shown by local students. It is more than a competition - it's a launchpad for real-world opportunities, with mentorship and support continuing long after the awards night," Career Links chief executive officer John Purcell said. Career Links events manager Amber Glasper is available to visit local schools for a 20-minute Q&A (email events@ This year, the awards are supported by a new gold partner, Hunter Valley Operations, bringing a strong focus on STEM and innovation. Secondary school winners will also be invited to participate in the 2026 Hunter Innovation Festival. Entries close on October 26. All winners will receive cash prizes and access to mentorships with local industry professionals. Full entry details, resources and inspiration can be found online at Whiteley has opened a 'first-of-its-kind' Human Therapeutics Plant in Tomago. The $25 million purpose-built plant will manufacture alcohol-based hand rubs and over-the-counter medicines for use in hospitals and healthcare facilities across Australia and New Zealand. Once fully operational, it is expected to create 30 new jobs across research, manufacturing, compliance and operations. "This facility is a long-term investment in Australian science, Australian jobs and Australian manufacturing," Whiteley executive chairman Dr Greg Whiteley said. "This sector has long been dominated by multinational corporations. This plant levels the playing field and puts the Hunter Region at the centre of therapeutic manufacturing in Australia." A 92-year-old family business, Whiteley has operated from Tomago since 1995 and continues to expand its footprint both nationally and internationally. In 2024, Whiteley was named NSW Business of the Year and Hunter Business of the Year, and won the Excellence in International Business Award at both the Business NSW and Business Hunter Awards. Whiteley now exports to more than 35 international markets and recently achieved Medical Device Single Audit Program (MDSAP) certification, enabling it to export medical devices from Tomago to the US and Canada. The new facility is designed to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and is, Dr Whiteley says, the only therapeutic plant in NSW to meet modern fire safety and engineering compliance benchmarks. It will also serve as a hub for collaborative research with leading Australian universities, focused on tackling antimicrobial resistance and chronic biofilm-mediated infections. "This is more than a factory. It's a platform for scientific innovation and global competitiveness," Dr Whiteley said. "We're proud to be turning Australian research into real-world therapeutic products that are made in the Hunter to serve the healthcare system long into the future." Winarch Group has launched a new division dedicated to creating original live content, cultural platforms and community-driven experiences across Australia. It's called Winarch Experience, and it brings together the group's owned and operated platforms, including design market The Finders Keepers and Newcastle's Olive Tree Market. It will also create new original live content, with several projects in development and set to launch in 2026. Winarch Experience joins the group's existing divisions: Winarch Music, which oversees the company's investment, ownership and management of live entertainment venues such as the proposed 10,000-capacity Cedar Mill venue at Morisset; and Winarch Live, which encompasses the group's venue, event, safety and management services. Former Winarch Live head Ewen Craig has moved to Winarch Experience. "This is a unique opportunity to develop innovative live content that advances Winarch's vision through signature events, creative excellence and lasting cultural impact," he said. "Our aim is to create experiences that genuinely connect with people. Winarch Experience is about working with communities, creatives and partners to bring ideas to life in a way that feels fresh, inclusive, and unique." Two local First Nations creatives - Elisha O'Leary of Morisset and Shanaya Buddingh of Floraville - are among nine finalists in the running for the 2025 Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship. Each finalist receives a $1000 prize and mentorship from industry leaders. The winner, announced on July 10 at Murrook Culture Centre during NAIDOC Week, will be awarded a $10,000 scholarship. Now in its third year, presented by Facon Magazine and supported by Greater Bank, the scholarship aims to uplift and empower Indigenous creatives from across NSW, offering access to industry mentors, professional resources, and a platform to share their stories with the world. Wiradjuri woman Shanaya Buddingh will be mentored by accomplished First Nations dancer and choreographer Kassidy Waters. Darkinjung-born Elisha O'Leary, who is of Wiradjuri ancestry, will be mentored by artist and cultural educator Cassie Leatham. Facon editor-in-chief Lara Lupish said the program "reminds us of the importance of cultural representation and the strength of Indigenous storytelling". For details, visit or The next generation of entrepreneurs, problem-solvers and creative thinkers are invited to pitch their ideas to the 2025 Young Business Mind Awards. Students from Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens and the Upper and Lower Hunter regions are welcome to submit a short video pitch showcasing their innovation, start-up, community project or sustainable solution. Teachers are also encouraged to enter their own classroom innovations. The awards have, since 2017, celebrated innovation among primary and secondary students, inspiring young people to think like entrepreneurs and develop the confidence to present their business, product or community solution to real-world judges. In 2024, the awards attracted more than 150 students and teachers from 13 local schools. "Every year, we're blown away by the ideas, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit shown by local students. It is more than a competition - it's a launchpad for real-world opportunities, with mentorship and support continuing long after the awards night," Career Links chief executive officer John Purcell said. Career Links events manager Amber Glasper is available to visit local schools for a 20-minute Q&A (email events@ This year, the awards are supported by a new gold partner, Hunter Valley Operations, bringing a strong focus on STEM and innovation. Secondary school winners will also be invited to participate in the 2026 Hunter Innovation Festival. Entries close on October 26. All winners will receive cash prizes and access to mentorships with local industry professionals. Full entry details, resources and inspiration can be found online at Whiteley has opened a 'first-of-its-kind' Human Therapeutics Plant in Tomago. The $25 million purpose-built plant will manufacture alcohol-based hand rubs and over-the-counter medicines for use in hospitals and healthcare facilities across Australia and New Zealand. Once fully operational, it is expected to create 30 new jobs across research, manufacturing, compliance and operations. "This facility is a long-term investment in Australian science, Australian jobs and Australian manufacturing," Whiteley executive chairman Dr Greg Whiteley said. "This sector has long been dominated by multinational corporations. This plant levels the playing field and puts the Hunter Region at the centre of therapeutic manufacturing in Australia." A 92-year-old family business, Whiteley has operated from Tomago since 1995 and continues to expand its footprint both nationally and internationally. In 2024, Whiteley was named NSW Business of the Year and Hunter Business of the Year, and won the Excellence in International Business Award at both the Business NSW and Business Hunter Awards. Whiteley now exports to more than 35 international markets and recently achieved Medical Device Single Audit Program (MDSAP) certification, enabling it to export medical devices from Tomago to the US and Canada. The new facility is designed to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and is, Dr Whiteley says, the only therapeutic plant in NSW to meet modern fire safety and engineering compliance benchmarks. It will also serve as a hub for collaborative research with leading Australian universities, focused on tackling antimicrobial resistance and chronic biofilm-mediated infections. "This is more than a factory. It's a platform for scientific innovation and global competitiveness," Dr Whiteley said. "We're proud to be turning Australian research into real-world therapeutic products that are made in the Hunter to serve the healthcare system long into the future." Winarch Group has launched a new division dedicated to creating original live content, cultural platforms and community-driven experiences across Australia. It's called Winarch Experience, and it brings together the group's owned and operated platforms, including design market The Finders Keepers and Newcastle's Olive Tree Market. It will also create new original live content, with several projects in development and set to launch in 2026. Winarch Experience joins the group's existing divisions: Winarch Music, which oversees the company's investment, ownership and management of live entertainment venues such as the proposed 10,000-capacity Cedar Mill venue at Morisset; and Winarch Live, which encompasses the group's venue, event, safety and management services. Former Winarch Live head Ewen Craig has moved to Winarch Experience. "This is a unique opportunity to develop innovative live content that advances Winarch's vision through signature events, creative excellence and lasting cultural impact," he said. "Our aim is to create experiences that genuinely connect with people. Winarch Experience is about working with communities, creatives and partners to bring ideas to life in a way that feels fresh, inclusive, and unique." Two local First Nations creatives - Elisha O'Leary of Morisset and Shanaya Buddingh of Floraville - are among nine finalists in the running for the 2025 Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship. Each finalist receives a $1000 prize and mentorship from industry leaders. The winner, announced on July 10 at Murrook Culture Centre during NAIDOC Week, will be awarded a $10,000 scholarship. Now in its third year, presented by Facon Magazine and supported by Greater Bank, the scholarship aims to uplift and empower Indigenous creatives from across NSW, offering access to industry mentors, professional resources, and a platform to share their stories with the world. Wiradjuri woman Shanaya Buddingh will be mentored by accomplished First Nations dancer and choreographer Kassidy Waters. Darkinjung-born Elisha O'Leary, who is of Wiradjuri ancestry, will be mentored by artist and cultural educator Cassie Leatham. Facon editor-in-chief Lara Lupish said the program "reminds us of the importance of cultural representation and the strength of Indigenous storytelling". For details, visit or The next generation of entrepreneurs, problem-solvers and creative thinkers are invited to pitch their ideas to the 2025 Young Business Mind Awards. Students from Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens and the Upper and Lower Hunter regions are welcome to submit a short video pitch showcasing their innovation, start-up, community project or sustainable solution. Teachers are also encouraged to enter their own classroom innovations. The awards have, since 2017, celebrated innovation among primary and secondary students, inspiring young people to think like entrepreneurs and develop the confidence to present their business, product or community solution to real-world judges. In 2024, the awards attracted more than 150 students and teachers from 13 local schools. "Every year, we're blown away by the ideas, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit shown by local students. It is more than a competition - it's a launchpad for real-world opportunities, with mentorship and support continuing long after the awards night," Career Links chief executive officer John Purcell said. Career Links events manager Amber Glasper is available to visit local schools for a 20-minute Q&A (email events@ This year, the awards are supported by a new gold partner, Hunter Valley Operations, bringing a strong focus on STEM and innovation. Secondary school winners will also be invited to participate in the 2026 Hunter Innovation Festival. Entries close on October 26. All winners will receive cash prizes and access to mentorships with local industry professionals. Full entry details, resources and inspiration can be found online at
The Advertiser
6 minutes ago
- The Advertiser
Assange marks first anniversary of release from prison
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is marking the first anniversary of his release from prison in the UK. His wife Stella said he is working on a project to slow the "rush" towards war. In the early hours of June 24 last year, Assange was transported under custody in a high-security convoy from Belmarsh maximum security prison to Stansted Airport. He had been imprisoned in Belmarsh for more than five years and was detained in the UK for 14 years. He flew on an Australian government jet under formal custody to US federal court in the tiny US overseas territory of Saipan in the Pacific Ocean, refuelling in Bangkok. On June 26, a plea hearing in Saipan formally secured his release, conditional on him immediately leaving the territory. Later that day he landed in Canberra where he was reunited with his family. On the anniversary, Stella Assange said: "We were in Europe for the opening of The Six Billion Dollar Man at Cannes, Pope Francis' funeral, and to try to understand where things are heading - politically and technologically. "Julian has been working on something for several months now, and I hope it can help slow the rush toward war. "Three hundred and sixty-five days have passed, but we are light years away from Belmarsh prison. "To all the supporters who helped make this possible, there are no words to express how grateful we are to have Julian free." WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is marking the first anniversary of his release from prison in the UK. His wife Stella said he is working on a project to slow the "rush" towards war. In the early hours of June 24 last year, Assange was transported under custody in a high-security convoy from Belmarsh maximum security prison to Stansted Airport. He had been imprisoned in Belmarsh for more than five years and was detained in the UK for 14 years. He flew on an Australian government jet under formal custody to US federal court in the tiny US overseas territory of Saipan in the Pacific Ocean, refuelling in Bangkok. On June 26, a plea hearing in Saipan formally secured his release, conditional on him immediately leaving the territory. Later that day he landed in Canberra where he was reunited with his family. On the anniversary, Stella Assange said: "We were in Europe for the opening of The Six Billion Dollar Man at Cannes, Pope Francis' funeral, and to try to understand where things are heading - politically and technologically. "Julian has been working on something for several months now, and I hope it can help slow the rush toward war. "Three hundred and sixty-five days have passed, but we are light years away from Belmarsh prison. "To all the supporters who helped make this possible, there are no words to express how grateful we are to have Julian free." WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is marking the first anniversary of his release from prison in the UK. His wife Stella said he is working on a project to slow the "rush" towards war. In the early hours of June 24 last year, Assange was transported under custody in a high-security convoy from Belmarsh maximum security prison to Stansted Airport. He had been imprisoned in Belmarsh for more than five years and was detained in the UK for 14 years. He flew on an Australian government jet under formal custody to US federal court in the tiny US overseas territory of Saipan in the Pacific Ocean, refuelling in Bangkok. On June 26, a plea hearing in Saipan formally secured his release, conditional on him immediately leaving the territory. Later that day he landed in Canberra where he was reunited with his family. On the anniversary, Stella Assange said: "We were in Europe for the opening of The Six Billion Dollar Man at Cannes, Pope Francis' funeral, and to try to understand where things are heading - politically and technologically. "Julian has been working on something for several months now, and I hope it can help slow the rush toward war. "Three hundred and sixty-five days have passed, but we are light years away from Belmarsh prison. "To all the supporters who helped make this possible, there are no words to express how grateful we are to have Julian free." WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is marking the first anniversary of his release from prison in the UK. His wife Stella said he is working on a project to slow the "rush" towards war. In the early hours of June 24 last year, Assange was transported under custody in a high-security convoy from Belmarsh maximum security prison to Stansted Airport. He had been imprisoned in Belmarsh for more than five years and was detained in the UK for 14 years. He flew on an Australian government jet under formal custody to US federal court in the tiny US overseas territory of Saipan in the Pacific Ocean, refuelling in Bangkok. On June 26, a plea hearing in Saipan formally secured his release, conditional on him immediately leaving the territory. Later that day he landed in Canberra where he was reunited with his family. On the anniversary, Stella Assange said: "We were in Europe for the opening of The Six Billion Dollar Man at Cannes, Pope Francis' funeral, and to try to understand where things are heading - politically and technologically. "Julian has been working on something for several months now, and I hope it can help slow the rush toward war. "Three hundred and sixty-five days have passed, but we are light years away from Belmarsh prison. "To all the supporters who helped make this possible, there are no words to express how grateful we are to have Julian free."
