Editors Picks
05 July 2026
THE HUNTER VALLEY COMES TO PARRAMATTA
THERE'S no need to journey to the Hunter Valley to experience authentic wine tasting. This winter, Gartelmann Wines is back for an exclusive five-course dining experience, paired with a selection of their most-loved wines. Parkroyal Parramatta's Hotel Manager, Hans Joachim said: "Parramatta has become one of Sydney's most exciting food destinations and we're seeing a growing appetite for unique and immersive dining events that bring guests together. After last year's wine dinner sold out, we are thrilled to bring it back by popular demand. Continuing our partnership with Gartelmann Wines allows us to showcase some of the Hunter Valley's best wines here in Western Sydney, creating an experience that's about more than great food and wine, but about connecting guests and locals with the stories behind every pour while continuing to elevate Parramatta's culinary scene.”
30 June 2026
WHY RED MEAT PROCESSORS MATTER
RESEARCH by AMPC and CQUniversity has highlighted the wider social value red meat processors deliver to regional communities through jobs, training, school partnerships and career pathways. The study found these contributions are often undermeasured, despite growing consumer interest in industry transparency and positive impact. Examples include Australian Country Choice’s viewing platforms, which allow visitors to observe operations firsthand, and NH Foods Australia’s paid Schoolies Skills Starter program at Oakey, which has helped 172 students gain workplace skills and launch careers since 2006.
30 June 2026
PHARMACISTS STAND READY TO HELP
THE Pharmacy Guild of Australia says community pharmacies can play a vital role in improving men's health by providing accessible, early intervention and ongoing care. Australians visit pharmacies every three weeks on average, creating opportunities to identify health issues before they worsen. With three in five men living with a chronic condition, the Guild says pharmacists can help manage physical and mental health concerns. New Movember training will equip pharmacists with the skills to better support men through trusted, community-based care.
30 June 2026
COMBAT READINESS MUST BE THE PRIORITY
FAMILY First National Director Lyle Shelton has called on the Australian Defence Force to assess personnel according to biological sex rather than affirmed gender. Responding to reports that transgender and non-binary recruits are assessed based on gender identity for fitness testing, Mr Shelton argued the military should prioritise combat readiness, merit and national security over gender ideology. He also claimed current policies could affect interoperability with the United States under the AUKUS defence partnership.
30 June 2026
NEW FINDINGS ABOUT AIRFARE PRICES
RESEARCH from Adelaide University has found that rising jet fuel prices do not automatically lead to higher airfares. Published in Research in Transportation Economics, the study shows airfare changes depend on the type of fuel price shock, airline pricing strategies, passenger demand and market competition. While fuel supply disruptions often have little immediate impact on domestic fares, economic growth and oil market uncertainty can affect different ticket classes in different ways. The findings could help shape airline pricing, fuel policy and sustainable aviation planning.
30 June 2026
DOCTORS CALL FOR FUNDING REFORMS
THE Australian Medical Association is calling for urgent reforms and increased funding to improve healthcare for Australians living in residential aged care. The AMA says funding shortfalls, regulatory barriers and poor digital integration are preventing GPs from providing regular care, leading to avoidable hospital admissions and poorer health outcomes. AMA President Danielle McMullen said a GP-led collaborative model, better funding, stronger digital systems and improved workforce support are needed to ensure aged care residents receive timely, coordinated healthcar
30 June 2026
GRANTS OPEN FOR COMMUNITY GROUPS
AUSTRALIA Post is inviting eligible not-for-profit organisations across New South Wales to apply for Community Grants of up to $10,000 to support locally led projects that strengthen social connection and improve mental health and wellbeing. An additional $250,000 has been set aside for disaster-impacted communities. Since 2019, more than 530 grants have been awarded nationwide. Applications close at 11.59pm (AEST) on Monday, 6 July 2026, with successful applicants announced in September. Guidelines and applications are available via Australia Post Community Grants Program.