West Wimmera Shire Council has endorsed schematic designs for upgrades to the Goroke Swimming Centre, paving the way for future investment. Proposed works include a new changeroom and amenities building with family and group change options, first aid facilities and an accessible toilet with baby change and shower facilities. Other plans cover a pool entry ramp, wet deck, new pool plant and equipment, pathways, landscaping and shade structures. Council chief executive David Bezuidenhout said the endorsement is a key step towards securing funding.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli and ministers have marked the start of upgrade works on the Bruce Highway at Gairloch, near Ingham. The projects are funded under an 80-20 deal with the Federal Government. Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg said the works aim to improve flood immunity and safety, and to reduce closure times. Officials said 150 projects are either completed, underway or in planning along the highway, which is part of a $9 billion program.
Close to 7,000 signatures have been collected for a renewed petition seeking safety improvements at the Pacific Highway intersections with Bucketts Way and Medowie Road. Organiser Leah Veksins says the petition will stay open until it reaches 10,000 names. She is open to an overpass, traffic lights or stop controls, and wants a redesign of both junctions. Veksins said two friends were seriously injured in a crash at the Bucketts Way intersection. Paper copies are also circulating in several surrounding communities.
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Penrith City Council has revitalised the Amaroo Street Reserve in Kingswood and the Greenway Drive Reserve in South Penrith. The new playspaces include slides, climbing equipment, swings, sensory play, shade, seating, water fountains and accessible pathways. Designs were shaped by community feedback. Ladbury Avenue Reserve in Penrith was renewed earlier this year. The projects were funded through the NSW Government's Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program. Council will upgrade six more playspaces over the next year.
Two new agility areas have opened at the Jack Edwards Reserve dog off-leash area. The upgrades include timber logs and rocks, a digging pit, weave poles, new seating and a drinking fountain. Some sections have been freshly planted with grass and are fenced off while the roots establish. Some fenced areas are expected to stay closed until March 2027. The project is supported by the Victorian Government through the New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program.
The Erindale Leisure Centre in the ACT will receive $1.1 million for upgrades and to become an allied health hub. The funding will modernise the gym, improve accessibility, and accommodate health professionals. Future planning includes upgrades to change rooms and structural infrastructure. The investment is part of a commitment to the Tuggeranong community, with additional funding for minor upgrades already allocated.
The City of Fremantle is upgrading the South Beach Dog Beach, with funding from the Australian Government. Planned works include upgraded water, sewer and electrical services, new toilets and change rooms, outdoor showers, accessible paths and a universal beach access ramp. Landscaping, bins, bike racks, drinking fountains, picnic tables and seating are also included. The public can share feedback on reference designs through a survey on My Say Freo. A community drop-in session will be held at the beach on Saturday 31 October 2026, from 9 to 11am.
Sports grounds on either side of Ballarat Road in Braybrook could receive $2.5 million in upgrades if the state government is re-elected on 28 November. Laverton MP Sarah Connolly announced the commitment. The bulk, $2 million, would go towards a major redevelopment of Pennell Reserve, home to the Braybrook Sporting Club and St Andrews Cricket Club. A further $500,000 would refurbish the pavilion at Kinder Smith Reserve, home of the Sunshine Kangaroos. Star Weekly contacted the Liberal Party asking whether it would match the commitments, but received no reply.
Mornington Peninsula Shire libraries have undergone upgrades, including new furniture, a dedicated library pod at Mornington, and a mural by local artist Daniel Van De Wiel at Hastings. The enhancements aim to create more comfortable and flexible spaces for reading, studying, or community gatherings. Children's areas have been improved to foster a love of reading, while the library pod offers a quiet space for meetings or focused work. These upgrades complement the shire's Community Art Spaces program, showcasing local artists.
Uralla, NSW, has enhanced its water infrastructure through a state-funded initiative targeting leak detection and network efficiency. The project, completed by Uralla Shire Council, introduced advanced monitoring systems and upgraded measurement tools to minimise water loss and bolster supply reliability. Mayor Robert Bell highlighted the long-term advantages, including improved decision-making for future investments and proactive management of water resources. The upgrades encompass new technology at the treatment plant and better mapping of underground pipes, with ongoing assessments to identify and address potential issues. This initiative aims to strengthen the town's water security and ensure responsible resource management for residents.
The 2027 Mini Countryman Untamed Edition will launch in Australia early next year with petrol and electric powertrains. It will miss out on several mechanical upgrades offered in other markets, including a suspension lift, all-terrain tyres, and a roof tent. Australian models will retain lower towing capacities compared to some international versions. The Untamed Edition features exclusive design elements and recalibrated stability systems, with optional towing and roof load capacities.
A comprehensive guide highlights premium home upgrades that enhance health without compromising aesthetics. From air purifiers to water filters, each item combines high-performance wellness functions with sleek design. The guide covers kitchen upgrades like reverse osmosis water purifiers and stainless steel cookware, bedroom enhancements including organic mattresses and temperature-regulating pads, and living room improvements such as air purifiers and ergonomic seating. It also addresses home office ergonomics and bathroom water filtration, offering solutions that prioritise both health and style. These upgrades are part of a growing trend towards non-toxic, health-focused living spaces.
