Micronesian Games 2030: Kiribati has been picked to host the 2030 Micronesian Games, after the Micronesian Games Council accepted its bid over Chuuk, the Northern Mariana Islands and Palau; the council says Kiribati’s plan scored best across venues, transport, accommodation, finances and long-term goals, with the Northern Mariana Islands withdrawing after Super Typhoon Sinlaku. Pacific honours: Australia’s Order of Australia went to diplomat Ewen McDonald and Monash Health sonographer Peter Coombs, both praised for strengthening Pacific ties through education, health and major regional partnerships. Nauru statement amid whistleblower claims: Nauru issued a rare “friendly” and “welcoming” message after an anonymous whistleblower alleged “serious threats of physical violence” toward non-citizens removed to Nauru, with independent MP Andrew Wilkie reading the claims at Senate estimates. Women in sport: Fiji powerlifter Neha Ali is breaking records and challenging stereotypes, turning a gym habit into a purpose-driven rise in a sport still seen as male-dominated.