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Anton Billis, an 81-year-old gold mining tycoon, has amassed a fortune in Western Australias gold mines, with no plans to sell his vast gold stockpiles at the Perth Mint. Despite his success, Billis only sells gold to meet financial obligations, believing gold will continue to appreciate. This years surge in gold prices, reaching over $6,000 an ounce, has significantly boosted the value of his and other miners stockpiles. The trend of retaining gold rather than selling it immediately reflects a growing sentiment among miners that gold is a valuable currency and strategic asset.

Australias economy grew by 2.1% in the year to September, slightly higher than expected, despite a slower-than-anticipated quarterly growth of 0.4%. This growth rate aligns with the Reserve Banks forecasts, indicating a potential growth rate of around 2% for the next two years, acting as the economys speed limit. Inflation has been rising, reaching 3.5% in the second half of the year, partly due to increased demand for goods and services. While the Reserve Bank may keep interest rates steady, the economys growth is supported by government spending on infrastructure and business investment in machinery and equipment. However, household spending on essentials has increased, with discretionary spending falling, and the savings ratio has risen, suggesting consumer caution. If productivity improves, it could raise the economys speed limit, enabling sustainable growth.

Tasmanian firefighters face multiple blazes, with Dolphin Sands residents urged to stay away as homes are lost. Evacuation center open at Swansea Town Hall. Ground crews and aerial resources working together, with improved weather conditions expected. Extreme fire danger warnings issued for South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales.

Socceroos star Aziz Behich is eager for a rematch with Argentina in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, believing it would be great if Australia could face the reigning champions again. The draw for the next World Cup is set for December 6th, with a one-in-twelve chance of the two teams ending up in the same group. Behich, who had late chances to equalize against Argentina in the last World Cup, is not worried about facing tough opponents and sees the expanded tournament as an exciting new challenge. Hes determined to make it to his third World Cup and compete for a starting spot.

Novus, a major build-to-rent operator, expands in Sydney with a $290 million, 27-story complex, Novus on Albert, featuring 198 units. Meanwhile, Sydneys hotel sector recovers, with IHGs voco hotel in Gosford and increased investment activity. Accor and YTL Hotel plan new openings, indicating a thriving real estate market.

Red-tipped bananas, a common sight in Australia, recently went viral on social media, sparking curiosity worldwide. These bananas, grown using the Ecoganic farming method, have a red wax tip that indicates their sustainable production. Pioneered by Dianne and Frank Sciaccia, this method focuses on working with natural ecosystems to promote soil health and minimize chemical use. The viral moment has brought significant attention to their practices, with eight certified Ecoganic growers nationally. The Sciaccias are also expanding internationally, collaborating with a Japanese supermarket that found their bananas superior in taste and texture.

Caravan parks across the country are overwhelmed with people seeking long-term accommodation due to the housing crisis, leading to a shift in their role as a critical safety net. The South West region has seen a significant increase in homelessness, with parks like Waterloo Village Caravan Park near Bunbury having no vacancies for months. Park managers face new challenges, including anti-social behavior and safety issues, as the emergency valve of caravan park space becomes exhausted, forcing more people to sleep rough or in their cars.

Police investigate reported shooting in Sydneys Gregory Hills car park, no injuries reported. Area cordoned off, emergency vehicles on site. Detectives interview individuals, traffic restricted. Shoppers navigate open sections of car park. Situation fluid, updates to follow.