Earthquake Alert: A 5.8 magnitude quake struck Papua New Guinea’s north coast at 8:59pm AEST, with no immediate damage reports. Hotel & Sports Tourism: The Sanctuary Hotel in Port Moresby has signed on as John “The Ring Monster” Ume’s first official PNG commercial partner, with stays also planned at Rapopo Plantation Resort for training. Cricket Development: PNG Garamuts head coach Kila Pala is heading to Kuala Lumpur for an ICC Level 3 coaching course. Marine Tourism Boost: PNGTPA has partnered to bring a ferry back into service in Port Moresby Harbour, aiming to restart sightseeing and help develop new marine tourism products. Travel Disruption: Air Niugini runway rehab is forcing temporary aircraft limits at Mt Hagen, Hoskins and Kiunga, with Dash 8 operations in place while upgrades run through September/December. Visa Policy Watch: PM Marape says PNG will review visa reciprocity after the US made a refundable K88,000 bond permanent for PNG travellers. Road Trip Tourism: Improved Connect PNG road access is opening Milne Bay to more travellers, with a recent 509km Port Moresby–Alotau expedition highlighting the region’s tourism potential. Health & Safety: Communities along the Motu-Koitabu coastline are calling for action on rising rubbish and plastic pollution affecting public health and marine life. Wildlife Conservation: A bird long thought extinct—the black-naped pheasant-pigeon—was rediscovered on Fergusson Island after researchers tracked sightings from local hunters. STEM Scholarships: PNG’s STEM overseas scholarship programme has expanded to 360+ students studying in the US, China, India, Fiji and Malaysia.