“Wizards” to the rescue: La Trobe’s smoke sensors shield vineyards from bushfire smoke

In a move that could save Australia’s wine industry millions, La Trobe University has unveiled an innovative smoke sensor dubbed the “Wizard.” The device is specifically designed to protect vineyards from the devastating effects of bushfire smoke. Deployed across the Grampians, these Wine Industry Smoke Detectors (WISDs) are already making waves. Historically, vineyard owners have…

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Hysata and Saudi power company sign agreement on commercial-scale electrolyser demos

Electrolyser maker Hysata has announced an agreement with ACWA Power for commercial-scale demonstrations in Saudi Arabia, which the Wollongong-headquartered company says represent a first step towards large-scale systems being deployed in ACWA’s projects. In a statement on Monday (Australian time), Hysata said the agreement will make use of ACWA’s “significant expertise in large capital projects”,…

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Craft beer helps sustain brewing revenue growth as Australians drink less

The segment of manufacturing concerning beer is worth $8.7 billion and grew 0.9 per cent annually between 2020 and 2025, according to newly-published market research. IBISWorld’s recently-updated Beer Manufacturing in Australia – Market Research Report (2015-2030) describes the level of competition as high and increasing. The total number of beer makers has increased at nearly…

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Breakthrough Victoria appoints new CEO

State government-backed venture fund Breakthrough Victoria has announced Rod Bristow (pictured) as its new Chief Executive Officer, replacing inaugural CEO Grant Dooley. In a statement on Monday, BV said Bristow came with over 30 years’ experience in the “stockbroking, asset management, wealth  management, agribusiness and not-for-profit sectors”, and was most recently CEO of Sydney and…

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Premier Malinauskas urges GFG’s Gupta to address financial obligations amid concerns for Whyalla steelworks

Premier Peter Malinauskas has issued a stern warning to GFG Alliance’s Sanjeev Gupta, urging transparency and immediate action on overdue financial commitments as concerns mount over the future of the Whyalla Steelworks in South Australia. Amid reports of significant arrears in royalties and payments to contractors, the Premier emphasised the need for Gupta to prioritise…

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‘America First’ trade policy is pushing economic self-sufficiency – but history shows this is harder than it seems

By Garritt C. Van Dyk, University of Waikato The day he took office for his second term, United States President Donald J. Trump unveiled his “America First” trade policy, including tariffs on imported goods from Mexico, Canada (both of which have since been paused) and China. President Trump’s reasoning for the tariffs included revitalising the…

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Mulford Plastics expands Melbourne facility to boost production and market reach

Mulford Plastics, renowned for its Laserlite Building Products, is set to expand its manufacturing capabilities in Dandenong, Melbourne. This strategic move aims to enhance production capacity and strengthen its market presence across Victoria and beyond. Perry Pericleous, Managing Director at Mulford Plastics, highlighted Melbourne’s strategic importance, noting its robust customer base and excellent connectivity as…

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