Wildlife policy backlash: Victoria is facing fresh scrutiny over alleged secrecy, wildlife culls and cruelty, with critics pointing to high numbers of legally killed native animals and tougher penalties for wildlife rescuers. Shark safety warning: Three spearfishing deaths in under a month have sparked renewed warnings in WA and Queensland, with experts saying spearfishers face higher fatal bite risk because of how they enter the water. Pacific climate and resilience: Australia and New Zealand reaffirmed Pacific-led regionalism, backing the Pacific Islands Forum and pushing climate action and energy security for Pacific nations ahead of the Palau leaders’ meeting. Ocean water solution: A solar-powered desalination project in Tonga is now producing up to 4,300 litres of fresh water per day for remote islands, cutting reliance on costly water deliveries. Energy transition in the region: Australia’s decommissioning push is moving ahead in the Gippsland Basin, while separate overseas solar expansion shows how rooftop PV deals are reducing emissions and electricity costs. Biosecurity raid: Police seized more than 100,000 illegal live cockroaches in a record operation, highlighting ongoing risks from exotic wildlife trafficking. Climate outlook: Coverage flags El Niño strengthening as a near-term driver of hotter, more disruptive weather patterns.