Brisbane International Airport is set to enhance its culinary offerings with the introduction of over a dozen new food outlets. This expansion, part of the airport’s ambitious $5 billion Future BNE transformation, aims to provide travelers with a diverse range of dining options. Among the new additions are popular fast-food chains such as McDonald’s, Hungry Jack’s, and KFC, as well as unique offerings like the Mediterranean-inspired bar Manna, Sushi Jiro, Liv Eat kiosks, and the coffee brand Bellissimo.
McDonald’s is expected to be one of the first to open in late December, with additional outlets launching throughout 2026. Scott Norris, the executive general manager commercial at Brisbane Airport, emphasized the significance of this upgrade, stating, “This upgrade is about celebrating the best of Brisbane and giving our customers more of what they love, great food, great coffee, and a great start to their journey.”
Gold Coast Drug Bust Yields Almost 100 Charges
In a significant law enforcement operation, detectives have charged 15 individuals with 93 drug and weapons offences following a series of search warrants executed on the Gold Coast. The operation, conducted in the lead-up to the Schoolies celebrations, uncovered substantial quantities of methylamphetamine, cocaine, cannabis, MDMA tablets, prescription drugs, weapons, and over $70,000 in cash.
Detective Acting Superintendent Bowman highlighted the operation’s impact, stating, “The drugs seized were destined for the streets in the lead-up to Schoolies celebrations, with no regard for the impact they could have. These substances destroy lives and fund further criminal activity, which is why we will continue to pursue those responsible.”
Queensland Government to Overhaul Major Project Procurement Policy
The Crisafulli government is poised to permanently end its predecessor’s controversial major project procurement policy. Housing and Public Works Minister Sam O’Connor is expected to announce the policy’s termination during a keynote speech at a Business Chamber Queensland lunch. The policy, known as the Best Practice Industry Conditions (BPICs), faced criticism from industry bodies and the LNP for allegedly driving down productivity and favoring unions.
O’Connor explained the rationale behind the decision: “BPICs pushed up prices, slowed projects, and locked local contractors out. They were a CFMEU tax on Queenslanders — and we’re permanently removing them. Together with our new procurement policy, this is a major step in saving taxpayers billions and getting crucial housing and infrastructure delivered faster.”
The Wiggles Admit to Consumer Law Breach
The popular children’s entertainment group, The Wiggles, has admitted to likely breaching consumer law by selling light-up headbands without mandatory warning labels regarding the batteries they contained. Between June 2022 and March 2024, The Wiggles sold 3,164 yellow and black Emma Bow headbands featuring button batteries, which pose a significant safety risk to children if ingested.
Following an investigation by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), The Wiggles Holdings provided a court-enforceable undertaking acknowledging the breach. The group has committed to implementing a compliance program and raising awareness of the safety issue through its podcast, Wiggle Talk – A Podcast For Parents.
Local Incident: Stolen Dog and Ute in Wynnum
A family dog named Arnie remains missing four days after being stolen along with the ute it was inside. The incident occurred while Arnie’s owner, Nathan McKeown, was visiting a friend near Davidson Street in Wynnum. Despite leaving the window open and providing water, the vehicle and Arnie were taken.
Police continue to investigate and urge anyone with information or relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward. “Investigations remain ongoing,” police stated on Tuesday morning.
National News: Commemorating Gough Whitlam’s Dismissal
Today marks the 50th anniversary of former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam’s dismissal, a pivotal moment in Australian history. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced plans to erect a statue in front of Old Parliament House to commemorate Whitlam’s iconic speech on November 11 and the achievements of his government. Albanese described the dismissal as “the sternest test of Australian democracy.”
In a related development, former Prime Minister John Howard has expressed support for the actions of then-governor general Sir John Kerr, who dismissed the Whitlam Labor government and appointed Malcolm Fraser as prime minister. This historical reflection underscores the lasting impact of the events of 1975 on Australian politics.
