Victoria

Renewable energy developer Yanara has obtained a €150 million ($171.4 million) investment from Mirova, an affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers, to support its utility-scale renewable energy portfolio in Australia. The funding will expand over 2GW of renewable energy infrastructure across Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia. A significant portion will go to Yanara's Mortlake Energy Hub in Victoria, which combines 450MW of solar capacity with a 600MW/2,400MWh battery energy storage system across two stages. The facility will supply around 200,000 homes and avoid 880,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. Construction of the first phase is expected to create over 300 jobs. This marks Yanara's first capital raise in Australia. EY acted as financial adviser to Yanara, while Lazard Australia advised Mirova.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 01:52 PM UTC

Renewable energy developer Yanara has obtained a €150 million ($171.4 million) investment from Mirova, an affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers, to support its utility-scale renewable energy portfolio in Australia. The funding will expand over 2GW of renewable energy infrastructure across Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia. A significant portion will go to Yanara's Mortlake Energy Hub in Victoria, which combines 450MW of solar capacity with a 600MW/2,400MWh battery energy storage system across two stages. The facility will supply electricity to around 200,000 homes and avoid 880,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. Construction of the first phase is expected to create over 300 jobs. Yanara is developing over 5.1GW of hybrid renewable projects in Australia, India, and the Philippines. EY acted as financial adviser to Yanara, while Lazard Australia advised Mirova.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 01:52 PM UTC

Alkane Resources Ltd reported record cash flow for FY26, producing 168,337 gold equivalent ounces at an AISC of A$2,925 per ounce. The June quarter saw 42,491 ounces produced and A$174 million in mine operating cash flow, contributing to a post-tax free cash build of A$104 million. The company ended June with A$432 million in cash and A$454 million in combined cash, bullion, and listed investments. The board proposed a maiden fully franked dividend of 2 cents per share, pending audit and approval. Revenue from sales of 47,411 gold equivalent ounces reached A$257 million, with average realized gold and antimony prices of A$5,442/oz and A$24,276/tonne respectively. Operations at Tomingley, Costerfield, and Björkdal mines all contributed strong cash flows, while exploration advanced at the Boda-Kaiser project.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 11:52 PM UTC

A plan by the Victorian government to erect a bronze statue of former Premier Daniel Andrews in Melbourne's Treasury Square has sparked significant criticism from business leaders and politicians. The project, estimated to cost taxpayers over $134,000, is being condemned as a waste of money and tone-deaf, particularly given Andrews' controversial tenure during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Prominent critics include Jim's Mowing founder Jim Penman, who labeled Andrews the state's most disastrous premier, and hospitality CEO Wes Lambert, who cited ongoing industry struggles. Even former Liberal Premier Jeff Kennett, who established the policy of honoring premiers with over 3,000 days in service, expressed dissatisfaction with the expenditure. In defense, current Premier Jacinta Allan described Andrews as fantastic and noted the administration is merely following established precedent. Opposition Leader Jess Wilson criticized the decision as failing the pub test. The construction timeline for the statue remains unconfirmed amidst the growing public and political debate regarding the appropriateness of the memorial.

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The South Australian government's attempt to prematurely lift a ban on hydraulic fracturing (fracking) in the state's South East region appears likely to fail due to strong opposition from the Liberal Party and One Nation. Although the current moratorium is scheduled to expire automatically in 2028, the Labor government sought to end it early to address potential domestic gas supply shortages forecasted by the Australian Energy Market Operator. Premier Peter Malinauskas argues that unlocking gas reserves in the Otway Basin is essential for energy security. However, the proposal faces vehement resistance from local communities, farmers, and political opponents who cite environmental risks, particularly the potential contamination of underground aquifers crucial for agriculture and wine production. While the South Australian Chamber of Mines and Energy supports the move, asserting that risks can be managed through regulation, the legislation requires parliamentary approval which is currently unavailable. Consequently, the ban remains in place until its statutory expiration, delaying any potential unconventional gas extraction activities in the region despite the government's urgency regarding future energy needs.

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Australia's housing market is showing signs of cooling following three consecutive cash rate hikes by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), which raised the target rate to 4.35 percent. Analysis from financial comparison website Canstar reveals that these increases have constrained home buyer budgets, leading to a decline in the average national new loan size during the March 2026 quarter. This downturn was particularly pronounced in New South Wales and Victoria, where property prices are already falling. Data indicates that owner-occupier borrowers drove much of this decline, with new loan values dropping by $2.8 billion from the record highs of late 2025. Investor activity also slowed, with a $1.3 billion decrease in new loan values over the first three months of the year. Despite this recent softening, overall lending remains 18 percent higher than the previous year, driven by a 25 percent surge in investor loans. Experts note that while borrowing appetite remains elevated, affordability challenges persist. Rising repayments are eroding borrowing power faster than falling prices in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne can compensate, signaling a potentially more cautious phase for the property market ahead.

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A growing number of young Australian athletes are bypassing traditional Australian Football League (AFL) careers to pursue scholarships in US college football. Programs like Prokick Australia identify talented kickers from rural areas, offering them opportunities to play gridiron while earning university degrees. This pathway is increasingly viewed as a primary career choice rather than a backup, driven by significant financial incentives. College players can earn up to $200,000 annually through name, image, and likeness deals, surpassing the base wage of first-year AFL draftees. Additionally, the prospect of entering the NFL or Canadian Football League provides a lucrative professional ceiling. Success stories include Jack Bouwmeester, who signed with the San Francisco 49ers after graduating from the University of Texas, and Brett Thorson, who joined the Minnesota Vikings. The trend highlights a shift where athletic talent is leveraged for both educational credentials and high-level professional sports opportunities in North America, with some players aiming to debut in upcoming NFL games scheduled at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

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The Victorian government has granted state environmental approval for the Warracknabeal Energy Park, touted as the largest wind farm in the southern hemisphere. Located in northwest Victoria, the project features 219 turbines capable of generating 1.5 gigawatts of electricity, enough to power approximately 1.2 million homes and meet 12.5% of the state's future energy needs. Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny approved the environment effects statement following a rigorous process that included technical studies and a public inquiry. Despite this milestone, the project faces significant opposition from local communities and advocacy groups. The Horsham Rural City Council highlighted concerns regarding strain on local housing, labor markets, and road infrastructure due to concurrent large-scale projects. Additionally, groups like the Wimmera Mallee Environmental & Agricultural Protection Association argue the industrial scale of the development will permanently alter rural living conditions. This sentiment has fueled political tension, with opposition parties leveraging local discontent. While state approval is secured, further Commonwealth approvals under national environment laws are still required before construction can fully proceed.

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This article explores the intricate process of plant pollination, illustrated by stunning photographs from Australian botanists. It details the anatomical similarities between plant and animal reproductive systems, highlighting how flowers utilize vibrant petals to attract pollinators like bees and wasps. The text explains the function of male anthers, which release pollen containing plant sperm, and female stigmas, which receive it. Various mechanisms for pollen dispersal are described, including windborne round pollen and spiky grains that adhere to insects. Specific strategies to avoid self-pollination are noted, such as timing fertility windows and trapping pollinators. The article further describes the biological process where pollen lands on a receptive stigma, germinates, and grows a tube down the style to fertilize the ovule. Examples include the Guinea flower relying on bee vibration, orchids using sticky pollen packets, and grasses utilizing wind resistance. The piece emphasizes the complexity of plant reproduction, showing how diverse species have evolved unique methods to ensure successful seed creation and genetic diversity.

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A 36-year-old woman, identified as Holly, has filed the first lawsuit against former Melbourne gynaecologist Simon Gordon, alleging medical negligence, fraud, and battery. The plaintiff claims Gordon pressured her into undergoing unnecessary laparoscopies in 2017 and 2022 without standard preoperative scans. During these procedures, Gordon allegedly removed her ovary and fallopian tube, claiming they were severely affected by endometriosis. However, subsequent pathology reports revealed the organs were healthy, with no evidence of significant disease. Holly asserts that Gordon concealed these findings, leading to severe physical and psychological consequences, including reduced fertility, chronic pain, and increased risks of early menopause and osteoporosis. This legal action marks the beginning of expected broader litigation against Gordon, who is currently under investigation by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for performing unwarranted surgeries on multiple patients. Gordon, who closed his clinic in late 2025 and cites personal reasons for his retirement, has previously maintained that he acted ethically. The case highlights serious allegations of systemic malpractice within his former practice.

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Australia is preparing for its most extensive May rainfall in ten years as the first north-west cloudband of 2026 sweeps across the continent. Between Saturday and Tuesday, rain is expected to cover more than half the country, stretching from the Kimberley and Northern Territory through southern Queensland to the south-east states. This weather system offers crucial relief for farmers, particularly in drought-stricken areas like the southern Darling Downs and New England, where rainfall deficits are severe. While the arrival of tropical moisture has already brought rain to Adelaide and South Australia, precise total amounts remain uncertain due to variability in low-pressure trough strength. Meteorological models suggest an average of 15 to 30mm for central and south-east regions, though actual local totals may vary significantly. The Bureau of Meteorology notes high uncertainty in forecasts, employing ensemble modeling to provide conservative estimates. Despite the unpredictability, the rain is welcomed by agricultural communities facing historic dry starts to the year. Additionally, the intrusion of tropical air will cause unseasonably warm conditions in eastern capitals, with rain likely in all major cities throughout the weekend before clearing by Tuesday.

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Marks & Spencer (M&S) is scheduled to provide shareholders with an update on Wednesday, May 20, regarding its recovery from a significant cyber-attack that occurred last year. The incident severely disrupted operations, forcing a six-week suspension of online sales and causing logistics issues that led to empty shelves. The retailer previously estimated that the attack would reduce annual profits by approximately £136 million. For the year ending March 28, M&S is expected to report a pre-tax profit of £654 million, representing a 25% decline from the previous year's £875.5 million. Despite this drop, analysts at Barclays predict a strong rebound in the current financial year, with profits potentially reaching £920 million, surpassing pre-attack levels. However, the company faces ongoing challenges including inflationary pressures, political uncertainty, and a slowdown in the UK clothing market. These factors have recently driven M&S shares to their lowest level in about a year. Investors are looking for confirmation that the retailer has fully moved past the cyber-incident and for a confident outlook on its fashion, home, and beauty divisions.

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Vecima Networks Inc. announces its participation in ANGA COM 2026, where it will highlight leadership in next-generation broadband technologies. The company plans to showcase AI-powered network operations, cloud-native DOCSIS 4.0 access, and scalable fiber solutions centered on its Entra vCMTS platform and All-PON innovations. A key focus is the new Entra EPS1650 All-PON Shelf, which supports a migration path from 10G technologies to 50G-PON while maintaining compatibility with XGS-PON, GPON, and EPON services. This hardware aims to protect operator investments and ensure long-term scalability. Additionally, Vecima will demonstrate its cloud-native Entra vCMTS, designed for reliable, fast deployments on commercial off-the-shelf hardware. The presentation includes Entra Intelligence for enhanced operational visibility and control. Vecima also highlights its market leadership in Fiber Access Remote OLTs, citing Dell’Oro Group data, and notes ongoing deployments by operators such as an Austrian provider and Tier 1 carrier Liberty Global. These innovations aim to help operators automate processes, improve reliability, and accelerate the evolution toward converged cable and fiber networks.

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Vecima Networks Inc. is set to demonstrate its leadership in next-generation broadband technologies at the upcoming ANGA COM 2026 conference. The company will highlight its AI-powered network operations, cloud-native DOCSIS 4.0 access, and scalable fiber solutions designed to help operators automate processes and enhance reliability. Central to this showcase is the Entra vCMTS platform and All-PON innovations, which facilitate the evolution toward converged cable and fiber networks. Vecima will introduce the Entra EPS1650 All-PON Shelf, supporting a migration path from 10G technologies to 50G-PON while maintaining compatibility with existing standards like XGS-PON and GPON. Additionally, the EXS1610 All-PON Shelf offers efficient bandwidth scaling through Combo PON capabilities. The company’s cloud-native Entra vCMTS solution, built on containerized architecture, provides flexible deployment options for DOCSIS 4.0, recently adopted by an Austrian operator. These advancements aim to protect operator investments, reduce churn, and improve subscriber experiences through advanced automation and visibility tools, reinforcing Vecima’s position as a global market leader in Fiber Access Remote OLTs.

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Vecima Networks Inc. is set to highlight its leadership in next-generation Fiber Access at the upcoming Fiber Connect 2026 event. The company will introduce the new Entra EPS1650 All-PON Shelf, a modular solution supporting 50G-PON, XGS-PON, GPON, and EPON services, designed to offer operators a seamless migration path from current 10G technologies. Additionally, Vecima will showcase the SBM450 Remote Optical Line Terminal (OLT) Module deployed within an Entra SF-4X Node, aimed at extending fiber capacity deeper into distributed network architectures. A live demonstration of the Entra vPON Manager, which recently received high ratings in Lightwave Innovation Reviews, will illustrate advanced management and automation capabilities. These innovations are part of Vecima’s strategy to provide scalable, future-ready fiber networks while ensuring investment protection through its Open Network Ecosystem. As the global market leader in Fiber Access Remote OLTs from 2021 to 2025, Vecima aims to help operators balance performance and flexibility. Early customer lab engagements for the new products are expected to begin in late 2026, reinforcing the company's commitment to evolving broadband infrastructure.

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Vecima Networks Inc. is set to highlight its leadership in next-generation Fiber Access at the upcoming Fiber Connect 2026 event. The company will introduce the new Entra EPS1650 All-PON Shelf, a modular solution supporting 50G-PON, XGS-PON, GPON, and EPON services, designed to offer a seamless migration path from current 10G technologies. Additionally, Vecima will showcase the SBM450 Remote Optical Line Terminal (OLT) Module deployed within an Entra SF-4X Node, aimed at extending fiber capacity deeper into distributed network architectures. A live demonstration of the Entra vPON Manager, recently rated highly in Lightwave Innovation Reviews, will illustrate advanced management and automation capabilities. These innovations are part of Vecima’s Entra All-PON portfolio, which emphasizes long-term scalability and investment protection for operators. According to Dell’Oro Group, Vecima has been the global market leader in Fiber Access Remote OLTs from 2021 through 2025. The company aims to help operators balance performance and flexibility while avoiding single-vendor lock-in through its Open Network Ecosystem. Early customer lab engagements for the new products are expected to begin in late 2026.

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This collection of letters to the editor in The Age expresses strong opposition to Angus Taylor’s budget reply proposal, which suggests restricting welfare payments exclusively to Australian citizens. Contributors argue that this policy is heartless and ignores the realities faced by migrants, who often require financial support while learning English, seeking employment, and navigating the lengthy, costly process of obtaining permanent residency and citizenship. One former teacher highlights that denying welfare undermines Australia’s reputation as a welcoming nation and jeopardizes the survival of newly arrived families. Other correspondents criticize the Coalition’s broader agenda, including its support for coal-fired power plants amidst climate change concerns, and contrast this with the Labor government’s failure to adequately fund Victorian state schools. The feedback reflects widespread dissatisfaction with both major political parties, citing issues ranging from migrant rights and environmental policy to educational infrastructure. The letters collectively suggest that the Coalition’s fate may be sealed due to outdated policies, while also holding the current government accountable for domestic shortcomings.

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Port Adelaide Power coach Josh Carr has firmly stated that the club is prepared to match any financial offer made to star free agent Zak Butters, ensuring a trade rather than losing him for minimal compensation. In an exclusive interview, Carr emphasized the open and honest communication maintained with Butters as the Victorian player considers returning home, with the Bulldogs and Geelong identified as potential destinations. Despite the high-profile speculation surrounding Butters' future, Carr confirmed that team performance has remained unaffected during his maiden season as senior coach. The coach also highlighted broader concerns regarding the AFL's draft bidding system, particularly concerning the impact of Tasmania's entry in 2027 on draft picks. Additionally, Carr expressed Port Adelaide's continued interest in recruiting Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera back to South Australia. The Power are currently competitive, having defeated Geelong and nearly beaten Hawthorn, demonstrating stability amidst significant off-field negotiations. Carr reiterated that while players have the right to explore options, the club will strictly enforce its valuation of Butters to protect its long-term interests.

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This analytical article from The Age argues that the Victorian Labor government’s decision to commission a statue of former Premier Daniel Andrews is a calculated political maneuver known as a 'dead cat' strategy. The move aims to distract public attention from severe allegations surrounding the 'Big Build' infrastructure program, specifically involving a company called Women in Construction. This firm, owned by individuals with criminal backgrounds including domestic violence and drug trafficking, allegedly exploited a government initiative designed to promote gender diversity in construction. As Premier Jacinta Allan faced intense parliamentary scrutiny over these scandals, the announcement of the $134,304 statue project emerged to shift the narrative. The author contends that while the statue invites public outrage, it successfully diverts focus from accusations of corruption, cronyism, and financial mismanagement within major state projects. The piece highlights the cynicism of using such tactics to protect the government’s re-election prospects amidst growing controversies involving union figures and questionable contracting practices.

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The Victorian branch of the Australian Education Union has officially endorsed a new agreement with the state government, marking a significant resolution to a prolonged pay dispute. The deal promises salary increases ranging from 28 to 32 percent for public sector teachers over the next four years, with specific amounts varying by role. This endorsement represents a crucial step toward ending the industrial stand-off that recently escalated into historic action, including the first statewide strike by teachers and staff in thirteen years, which occurred in March. The resolution addresses long-standing grievances regarding wages and working conditions within Victoria's public education sector. By accepting this offer, the union aims to restore stability to schools and conclude the contentious negotiations that have impacted the educational landscape. The agreement highlights a compromise between the government and educators, ensuring substantial financial improvements for teachers while bringing an end to disruptive industrial actions. This development is expected to have broad implications for public sector labor relations in the region.

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The Victorian government has confirmed plans to commission a statue of former Premier Daniel Andrews, with a total cost of $134,304. This initiative aligns with a longstanding policy established by the Kennett government, which mandates that premiers serving more than 3,000 days in office be honored with a statue along Treasury Place in Melbourne. Andrews, who resigned in 2023, is recognized as Victoria's longest-serving Labor premier and the fourth-longest-serving premier overall. A government spokesperson highlighted his leadership during challenging periods and his advocacy for working people. The Fitzroy-based firm Meridian Sculpture, known for creating statues of previous premiers such as Henry Bolte and John Cain Jr., has been selected to craft the likeness. Installation details are yet to be announced. Andrews first entered parliament in 2002, held various ministerial roles, and led the Labor Party to victory in three consecutive state elections after becoming leader in 2010. The statue will join existing monuments in Melbourne's CBD, continuing the tradition of commemorating significant political figures in the state's history.

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The Victorian state government has presented a new wage offer to public school teachers in an effort to resolve an ongoing pay dispute and prevent further industrial action. The proposed deal includes salary increases ranging from 28 to 32 percent over a four-year period. This development marks a potential breakthrough in the standoff, with Industrial Relations Minister Jaclyn Symes describing the current negotiations as highly productive. The Australian Education Union’s Victorian Branch Council has been deliberating on the details of this complex proposal at their Abbotsford headquarters since early Friday morning. Union branch president Justin Mullaly is expected to address the media shortly regarding the union's position. While the final outcome remains pending, government officials express optimism that these talks are bringing both parties closer to an agreement. The resolution of this conflict is critical for maintaining stability in the state's public education system, which has faced disruptions due to previous strike actions. The news highlights significant progress in labor relations between the state administration and educational workers, potentially setting a precedent for future public sector wage negotiations in the region.

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The Tasmanian government has announced a $506 million equity injection into TT-Line, the state-owned operator of the Spirit of Tasmania ferries, to address significant financial difficulties stemming from a troubled vessel rollout. Infrastructure Minister Kerry Vincent and Treasurer Eric Abetz revealed the bailout ahead of the upcoming state budget, emphasizing that the funds will cover past capital cost overruns rather than new expenditures. The decision follows a parliamentary inquiry which highlighted that the ferry replacement program exceeded original forecasts by at least $717 million, including a massive overrun on the new Devonport terminal. TT-Line currently faces substantial debt and high interest repayments. The government aims to reduce the company's debt burden and ensure the continuity of this vital tourism and freight link. The two new ferries, Spirit of Tasmania IV and V, are currently stationed in Victoria’s Port Phillip Bay and are scheduled to begin operations in late October. This bailout adds to a previous $75 million equity injection provided in last year’s budget, reflecting the ongoing financial strain on the critical infrastructure project.

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Country Fire Authority (CFA) firefighters in Victoria, Australia, have strongly criticized bureaucratic hurdles that they claim have reduced planned roadside burns by up to 90 percent over the past decade. CFA officials argue that excessive red tape and public pressure, described as political 'arse-covering,' hinder essential fuel management on council-controlled land and roadsides. This criticism follows new findings from Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic), which revealed that areas subjected to persistent planned burns in the Otway Ranges experienced less intense and widespread damage during recent devastating bushfires. While firefighters emphasize that planned burns are vital for reducing fire impact and protecting communities, environmental groups urge a rethink of the strategy. Critics, including the Victorian National Parks Association, argue that broad-scale burning on public land may harm native wildlife and ecosystems, suggesting focused management near assets is more effective. The debate intensifies as authorities prepare for a potentially warm and dry season driven by an emerging El Niño forecast, highlighting the urgent need to balance ecological concerns with fire safety protocols.

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Western Australian Premier Roger Cook has responded to the Albanese government's latest federal budget with a mix of approval and sharp criticism. While welcoming the budget's focus on housing, Cook expressed significant concerns regarding changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), insufficient infrastructure funding for WA, and inadequate aged care support. The state government argues that NDIS reforms will shift financial burdens onto states, potentially exposing them to billions in costs. Additionally, Treasurer Rita Saffioti highlighted that WA received a disproportionately small share of infrastructure spending compared to Victoria, which secured extra funds for its Suburban Rail Loop. Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas echoed these grievances, suggesting political motivations behind the funding distribution. Both state and opposition leaders also criticized the $3.7 billion allocated for aged care as insufficient to address the growing demand from aging baby boomers and hospital blockages. Cook emphasized the need to 'stand up to Canberra' to ensure Western Australia receives its fair share, balancing cooperation with assertive advocacy for state interests amidst rising service demands.

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Canadian Tire Corp. Ltd. reported a one percent decline in consolidated sales for the first quarter, attributing the drop primarily to an extended winter across most of Canada. Comparable sales at retail stores fell by 2.3 percent, with seasonal and gardening categories suffering due to delayed warm weather, although fixing categories experienced growth. CEO Greg Hicks noted that misaligned seasonal shifts relative to reporting dates negatively impacted results, particularly in Ontario and Quebec, while Western Canada outperformed due to better weather conditions. Despite the retail dip, consolidated revenue rose 3.3 percent to $3.57 billion, driven by growth in subsidiary brands SportChek and Mark’s. The company highlighted strong performance in its Triangle Rewards loyalty program, bolstered by new partnerships with Royal Bank of Canada and WestJet. Hicks described Canadian consumers as resilient but increasingly discerning and value-driven amidst economic volatility, noting increased spending on fuel. In response to shifting consumer behavior, the retailer has lowered prices on select products to maintain competitiveness and address budget constraints.

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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has prohibited more than 130 cities, primarily small municipalities, from increasing property taxes due to non-compliance with Senate Bill 1851. This state law, enacted by the GOP-led legislature to curb high property taxes, mandates that cities conduct annual financial audits and release statements based on those audits before raising tax revenues above the previous year's levels. Paxton's office identified approximately 135 cities that failed to meet these audit requirements within the 180-day deadline, arguing that allowing unlawful tax hikes would burden hardworking Texans. Affected cities include Alpine, Balch Springs, Victoria, and Wimberley. Small city officials had previously warned that the strict audit provisions disproportionately impact them due to limited manpower and resources, potentially harming their already tight budgets. While larger cities like Houston and Dallas were initially investigated, they were not included in this specific block list. The investigation remains ongoing as Paxton seeks to enforce accountability and ensure strict adherence to state financial transparency laws.

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New peer-reviewed research published in Marine Environmental Research establishes a direct link between marine seismic surveying for oil and gas exploration and significant decreases in commercial fish catch rates. The study, conducted by Fishwell Consulting, analyzed data from a seismic survey near Lakes Entrance in Victoria, Australia, during early 2020. Results indicated that catch rates for whiting dropped by 99.9% in the three months following the tests, remaining 98% lower even after 290 days. Flathead catches were also dramatically reduced. The findings support hypotheses that intense air gun noise disrupts fish stocks, causing substantial economic impacts on the local $35 million fishing industry. Consequently, the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA) ordered compensation payouts. Industry representatives and politicians are calling for stricter regulations, including baseline monitoring and exclusion zones where seismic testing overlaps with high-value commercial fishing areas. The report highlights the urgent need for better management of interactions between the energy and fishing sectors to protect marine ecosystems and livelihoods.

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Recent research utilizing ancient and modern DNA analysis has determined that Australian dingoes are approximately 88.3% genetically pure, with only 11.7% influence from domestic dogs. By using ancient dingo genomes dating back up to 2,746 years as a true ancestral reference, scientists overcame limitations of previous studies that relied on potentially hybridized modern samples. The study, which analyzed over 300 free-roaming canines, identified eight distinct genetic groups rather than the previously assumed two. Geographic proximity to human settlements significantly impacts genetic purity; dingoes in southeastern Australia, particularly Victoria and New South Wales, show higher levels of dog ancestry due to historical farming intensification and population growth. Conversely, populations in northern and western regions remain largely pure, with some groups showing as little as 2.9% domestic dog ancestry. These findings provide crucial insights for conservation efforts, allowing authorities to distinguish between pure dingoes, hybrids, and stray dogs more accurately. The research highlights how human settlement patterns have shaped dingo gene flows over centuries, offering a clearer picture of their evolutionary history and current status as Australia’s only native land apex predator.

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The Victorian Liberal Party in Australia faced significant embarrassment after mistakenly sending a mass email to members announcing the death of John Ternel, who had just resigned from the party. The error, attributed to a system glitch, prompted an apology but further highlighted internal dysfunction. Ternel stated the incident confirmed his belief that the party is in shambles, citing a loss of direction and poor candidate selection following recent electoral defeats. Consequently, he is considering defecting to One Nation. This event has triggered a broader exodus, with numerous long-term members expressing disillusionment and exploring similar moves to One Nation. Critics within the party describe deep administrative rot, while other branches report mass resignations due to neglect and strategic failures. The incident underscores growing instability within the conservative political landscape in Victoria, as One Nation actively recruits disaffected Liberals ahead of the upcoming state election.

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