♟️ Wednesday 4 March 2026 Wed, 4 Mar 2026

The NSW Department of Planning and Environment has approved a six-year extension for the Dartbrook underground coal mine, pushing its operational horizon to 2033 despite ongoing financial administration challenges.

Pure Foods Tasmania reports a significant operational turnaround in 1H FY26, driven by strategic cost reductions, expanded distribution deals with major retailers, and the acquisition of premium ice cream brand Elato.

OD6 Metals has secured an exclusive option to acquire the Quinn Fluorspar Project in Nevada, boasting ultra high-grade deposits critical to US supply chains. The move complements its rare earth and copper assets, backed by a $3.4 million capital raise.

AKORA Resources has secured a 25-year mining permit for its high-grade Bekisopa iron ore project in Madagascar, marking a pivotal step from exploration to development and unlocking new financing and partnership opportunities.

Horizon Oil has launched an off-market takeover offer for Cue Energy Resources, proposing a mix of cash and shares. Cue’s Independent Board Committee is now carefully evaluating the proposal before advising shareholders.

Brightstar Resources has completed a US$120 million senior secured bond issue, complementing a recent A$193 million equity raise, to fully fund its Goldfields Project and advance the Sandstone Project towards final investment decision.

Island Pharmaceuticals has entered a pivotal research agreement with USAMRIID and the Geneva Foundation to accelerate FDA approval of Galidesivir for Marburg Virus Disease, leveraging top-tier US biodefense expertise.

Cobalt Blue Holdings has confirmed its cobalt sulphate meets stringent battery precursor specifications, advancing its Kwinana Cobalt Refinery toward a Final Investment Decision. The company also expands its graphite recovery program, positioning itself at the forefront of Australia’s battery materials ecosystem.

Straker Ltd announces a pivotal leadership shift with the appointment of David Sowerby and Indiver Nagpal as Co-CEOs, marking a new era focused on commercial expansion and AI innovation. Founder Grant Straker transitions to a strategic board role to steer the company’s AI future.

Endeavour Group reported a solid first half for fiscal 2026 with underlying EBIT of $563 million, supported by retail price leadership and strong hotel sales growth. The group raised capital expenditure guidance, reflecting accelerated hotel renewals and strategic investments.