Archives: Media Releases

COMPREHENSIVE ELECTION COVERAGE ACROSS THE 9NETWORK | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4

As Americans head to the polls in one of the most consequential midterm elections in recent history, 9News will deliver comprehensive coverage across Channel 9, 9Now and Nine’s digital platforms, bringing Australian audiences live reporting, expert commentary and the latest results from across the United States.

With control of Congress hanging in the balance, the elections represent a critical test of President Donald Trump’s second term in the White House. The outcome could reshape the balance of power in Washington, with significant implications for Australia and the global economy.

Leading 9News’ coverage from Washington DC will be Washington Correspondent Lauren Tomasi, reporting live throughout Wednesday, November 4, as the results unfold.

Tomasi will be joined by former Clinton White House staffer, Laura Schwartz, who will provide exclusive insider commentary and analysis on the political landscape and what the results could mean for the Trump administration.

Across the United States, US Correspondent Reid Butler will report live from Texas, capturing developments in key races and reaction from voters, while US Correspondent Lily Greer will unpack how the midterms work, what’s at stake and why the results matter.

Back in Australia, Political Editor Charles Croucher will examine the political implications and what the outcome could mean for Australia’s relationship with the United States, while Finance Editor Chris Kohler will analyse the potential impact on global financial markets and the Australian economy.

Drawing on Nine’s extensive US bureau and specialist reporting teams, 9News will bring Australian audiences closer to the candidates, battlegrounds and issues shaping this pivotal election.

Lauren Tomasi, Washington Correspondent, said: “These midterms are shaping up to be a defining moment for Donald Trump’s second presidency. With control of Congress at stake, the results could significantly impact his ability to deliver on his agenda over the next two years.

Here in Washington, we’re seeing firsthand just how high the stakes are. The outcome will have implications well beyond America, including for Australia. We’ll be bringing audiences the latest results, reaction and analysis from the ground as the story unfolds.”

HOW TO FOLLOW THE MIDTERMS ACROSS THE 9NETWORK

TODAY

Nine’s election-day coverage begins with a special early start at 5.00am AEDT on Today, setting the scene as Americans cast their votes. Today Extra will continue the coverage with updates from the United States as polls begin to close.

9NEWS

9News‘ national and metropolitan bulletins will provide election coverage throughout the day, including live crosses to the United States during 9News Morning.

A dedicated election update will air at midday, followed by further reporting and analysis in the 4pm bulletin and extensive coverage at 6pm.

NINE’S DIGITAL PLATFORMS

Beyond the bulletins, audiences can explore additional reporting, explainers and analysis across Nine’s digital platforms.

In a quick-fire explainer, Washington Correspondent Lauren Tomasi breaks down why the US midterms matter, what’s at stake and how the results could shape the final two years of Donald Trump’s presidency. Watch here

In the Trump’s America docu-series, Reid Butler travels into America’s heartland to explore the issues driving voters, capturing perspectives from communities across the country in the lead-up to election day. Watch here

Audiences can follow rolling coverage and breaking news updates across 9Now, nine.com.au, the 9News Australia YouTube channel, and 9News social platforms. The dedicated live blog at nine.com.au and the nine.com.au app will also feature interactive, in-depth state-by-state results alongside livestreams of the linear specials.

As America votes on the future direction of Congress, the 9News team will deliver the results, reaction and expert analysis that matter to Australian audiences.

9NEWS PRESENTS: AMERICA DECIDES 2026 – THE MIDTERMS
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW

Friday 30 October, 2026

STREAM ON 9NOW, WATCH ON 9GO!

The next generation of Australian Olympians will take on the world when the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games are available live and free on 9Now and 9Go! from Sunday, November 1.

2,700 youth athletes from 207 participating national Olympic committees will have their shot at glory in 25 sports across 14 days of competition, in what is the first Games held by the Olympic movement in Africa.

Australia will be represented by a team of 41 aged 17 and under, where the green and gold will hunt glory in 16 different sports. Team Australia is made up of 29 females and 12 males, led by Team Flag Bearers, Thomas Turner (beach volleyball) and Camilla “Millie” Griffin (coastal rower).

Rugby 7s owns the largest contingent of the team with Darci Turinui (NSW), daughter of Wallaby great Morgan Turinui, part of the 12-player women’s squad and Peyton Fakaosilea also follows in the footsteps of her sister, Alysia who played at Tokyo 2020. 

World No.1 ranked cadet foil fencer Rianne Leung is one of three athletes who attends an Australian Olympic Pathway School, alongside rugby players Ellazae Elers and Keira Callaghan, both from Hunter Sports High School.

They follow in the footsteps of Jess Fox, Emma McKeon, Kyle Chalmers and Kaylee McKeown, who all competed at the Youth Olympic Games.

With LA28 less than two years away and Brisbane 2032 on the horizon, these young Australians are seizing their first chance on the world stage.

Broadcast Information
The Opening Ceremony on November 1, and the Closing Ceremony on November 14 will be available to stream on 9Now and linear channel 9Go! Daily Highlights will be available at 2.30pm, so you can stay up to date with all the special moments from Dakar 2026.

Free streaming platform 9Now will also showcase selected events live on a dedicated Youth Olympic Channel, live from Friday October 30. Check 9Now for the most up-to-date listings.

VIEWING GUIDE 9GO!

VIEWING GUIDE 9NOW LIVE CHANNEL

DAKAR 2026 SUMMER YOUTH OLYMPIC GAMES
LIVE AND FREE TO STREAM ON 9NOW AND WATCH ON 9GO!
OPENING CEREMONY, SUNDAY NOVEMBER 1

Friday 30 October, 2026

Total cumulative wealth contracts to $43.42 billion, down from $45 billion in 2025, driven by global volatility, inflation, and a major tech valuation correction.
Canva co-founders Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht retain the #1 ranking for the sixth straight year, despite a $6 billion hit to their combined personal fortune.
The AI infrastructure race mints new mega-fortunes, with Nscale founders Josh Payne (#7) and Nathan Townsend (#8) making explosive debuts.
18 dynamic newcomers inject fresh energy across property, medtech, and fitness, while Australian Test captain Pat Cummins makes his debut at #96.

The Financial Review Young Rich List for 2026 has revealed a turbulent year of wealth creation, with the collective fortune of Australia’s 100 richest people aged 40 and under dropping to $43.42 billion – down $1.6 billion from 2025 – amid high inflation, shifting bond markets, geopolitical conflict, and intense volatility across tech valuations.

Leading the list for the sixth consecutive year are Canva co-founders Melanie Perkins, aged 39 and Cliff Obrecht, 40. However, the design juggernaut suffered a steep $10 billion valuation drop from its 2025 peak of $60 billion after issues surrounding its AI product rollout and heavy reliance on costly third-party AI models, wiping $6 billion from the founders’ combined valuation.

Despite Canva’s headwinds, the race to build physical artificial intelligence infrastructure has powered sensational wealth gains. Novocastrian tech entrepreneur Josh Payne makes his top10 debut at #7 after his London-based AI infrastructure and cloud computing giant, Nscale, filed to list on the New York Stock Exchange with a potential $US35 billion valuation and landmark contracts with Microsoft and Anthropic. Payne’s Arkon Energy and Nscale co-founder Nathan Townsend also debuts inside the elite tier at #8.

Tim Rosenfield, co-founder of data centre provider Firmus Technologies, takes out the #3 spot on the list following successive capital rounds. His valuation was calculated before Firmus pulled its initial public offering on October 9 and would likely be lower if recalculated today. Cousin and co-founder Oliver Curtis, 41, has aged off the list.

Rounding out the top tier are Ed Craven (Stake.com and Kick) and Adrian Portelli (LMCT+), alongside White Fox fashion founders Daniel and Georgia Contos, who climbed 12 spots to #5 on the back of rapid international expansion into the US, UK, and Canada, paired with a $150 million Vaucluse property portfolio.

Traditional paths to wealth creation, particularly bricks and mortar, remain as resilient as ever, with at least nine listers amassing fortunes in real estate. Among the 18 debutants are former

McDonald’s worker turned portfolio investor Eddie Dilleen (#58), who controls a $150 million property portfolio, Graya luxury development co-founder Rob Gray (#65), and over-50s luxury resort founder Adrian Puljich of GemLife (#11).

Medtech and health also claimed significant ground. Thomas Kelly, founder of AI clinical transcription startup Heidi, debuted at #45 ($169 million), while Tim Doyle (#55) and Charlie Gearside (#66) profited from the $1.6 billion sale of Eucalyptus to US health titan Hims & Hers. In fitness and wellness, CSB and Move With Us founder Rachel Dillon debuted at #74, joining her husband, Sweat co-founder Tobi Pearce (#57).

Australian sport continues to breed multi-millionaires, with more basketballers (seven) making the list than AI data centre founders. Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins debuted at #96, buoyed by commercial earnings and early tech investments including preventative health startup Everlab, while retired NBA star Aron Baynes re-entered at #100.

The Australian Financial Review’s Rich List Editor, Hannah Tattersall, highlighted the sheer volatility and sector churn defining this year’s top 100: “Between the AI boom, market corrections and persistent inflation, global markets have been spinning and the numbers on this year’s list reflect that turbulence. While the headline wealth dropped by $1.6 billion, largely driven by Canva’s $6 billion personal valuation reset, the hunger to build businesses hasn’t slowed down.
What makes this year so compelling is the contrast. You have hyperscalers like Nscale securing $US40 billion commitments from global tech giants on one hand, and traditional self-starters like Eddie Dilleen turning a $20,000 McDonald’s savings stash into 200 properties on the other. But staying on the list remains the real test, as the collapse of companies run by former Young Rich Listers, like Stax and Geedup, proves just how unforgiving the current economic cycle can be.”

The Australian Financial Review Magazine Editor, Matthew Drummond, said the 2026 edition reflects an extraordinary divergence between old-school entrepreneurship and high-stakes tech bets: “From the global scramble for gigawatt-scale AI data centres to luxury property developments and athleisure crop tops, the 2026 Young Rich List captures Australian ambition operating in a far more complex economic climate.
It is a year defined by sharp recalibrations. While capital has flooded into next-generation AI infrastructure, the margin for error has narrowed dramatically. The list is a clear reminder that building enduring wealth requires far more than just riding a global trend – it demands ruthless commercial execution.”

The complete 2026 Financial Review Young Rich List, featuring full profiles, deep-dive features, and sector rankings, is available today, Friday, October 30, online at AFR.com and in a special glossy edition of The Australian Financial Review Magazine.

The Financial Review Young Rich List 2026 Highlights
TOP 10 (worth a collective $27.168 billion, using exact wealth figures)

1. Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht, aged 39 & 40, $12.50 billion – Canva
2. Ed Craven, 31, $5.20 billion – Stake.com
3. Tim Rosenfield, 40, $1.71 billion – Firmus Technologies
4. Adrian Portelli, 37, $1.41 billion – LMCT+
5. Georgia and Daniel Contos, 35 & 36, $1.38 billion combined – White Fox Boutique
6. James Ferguson and Robbie Ferguson, 34 & 29, $1.33 billion combined – Immutable
7. Josh Payne, 32, $1.23 billion – Nscale
8. Nathan Townsend, 38, $1.23 billion – Arkon Energy
9. Nick Molnar, 36, $1.17 billion – Block, Afterpay
10. David Riches, 40, $808 million – GenusPlus

Friday 30 October, 2026

PREMIERES TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, AT 8.30PM
ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW

After proving that homes can be delivered in weeks rather than months, award-winning designer Jamie Durie is back to showcase revolutionary new ways of building to help solve Australia’s housing crisis.

An inspiring new season of Jamie Durie’s Future House, premieres Tuesday, November 3, at 8.30pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.

This season is all about resilience, aspiration and determination. From daring structural relocations to stunning new design solutions, Future House tracks the emotional journeys of everyday Aussies as they fight for a place to call home against the backdrop of natural disasters, red tape and a rapidly changing climate.

In Lismore, artists Eden and Holly race against red tape and a perilous road haul to relocate a $40,000 flood-damaged heritage home to higher ground. Near Brisbane, after traditional builders reject their steep block, Sean and Jess risk their savings on an ambitious shipping container build without loan approval.

Meanwhile, storm survivors Gary and Lynne turn to a resilient modular home to rebuild after losing everything and single mother Yindi partners with the non-profit organisation Global Sisters to break systemic barriers and secure lasting stability for her family.

Jamie also faces intense pressure himself. Balancing life on his rural property, he races to put the finishing touches on a world-first 3D-printed concrete home for his family, whilst undertaking a new project close to his heart with an ambitious self sustainable “Infinity Garden.”

Driven by a mission to tackle the housing crisis, Jamie Durie’s Future House Season 2 showcases revolutionary new building methods alongside everyday Aussies. Blending ground-breaking ingenuity with practical design, the series delivers real solutions and an achievable blueprint for the homes of tomorrow.

Jamie Durie’s Future House Season 2 premieres Tuesday, November 3, at 8.30pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.

Friday 30 October, 2026

SILKS, SPLENDOUR AND HIGH-SPEED STYLE:
NINE LEADS THE PACK TRACKSIDE IN 2026

Nine has unveiled its 2026 Melbourne Cup Carnival Birdcage marquee, Front Runner by Nine, celebrating the energy, elegance and rich tradition of Australia’s greatest racing carnival at Flemington, ahead of four huge days of live and free coverage on Channel 9 and 9Now.

9Network’s’s stellar hosting lineup of Eddie McGuire, James Bracey, Francesca Cumani and Billy Slater were joined by 2025 Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Jamie Melham to showcase the Birdcage marquee.

Designed in collaboration with Ed&Ed, Front Runner by Nine draws inspiration from the colours, geometry and heritage of traditional jockey racing silks dating back to the 18th century. These motifs are brought to life through fluid architecture and a diamond pattern flowing from the main entrance of the marquee to the upstairs lounge, mirroring the speed and rhythm of the track, and reflecting Nine’s legacy of Australian storytelling.

Acclaimed Australian artist Nicole Slater has showcased two magnificent equine pieces: Coco, an acrylic and mixed media tribute to a horse ridden by international polo star Nacho Figueras, and Charlie, the commanding, large-scale portrait of a chestnut thoroughbred from trainer Peter Moody’s Victorian farm.

Bruce Keebaugh and The Big Group have developed a theatrical menu highlighted by silks-inspired grazing platters, mini potato cakes with truffle mayonnaise, dark chocolate raspberry and pistachio fudge, and signature Le Dame Cosmo cocktail garnished in racing patterns. 

Nine will host network stars, commercial partners and VIP guests for the four-day carnival from its premier slate of news, current affairs, sport and entertainment programming, including The Block, Love Island, MAFS, The Golden Bachelor, NRL/NRLW, NBL/NBLW, Today, The Floor, 9News, Australian Open and Footy Classified (AFL) among others within the 9Network.

It all begins with Howden Victoria Derby Day on Saturday, October 31, building towards the 166th running of the Lexus Melbourne Cup on Tuesday, November 3, and continuing through VRC Crown Oaks Day on Thursday, November 5, to TAB Champions Stakes Day on Saturday, November 7, live and free on Channel 9 and 9Now.

Thursday 29 October, 2026

THIS SUNDAY AT 1.00PM ON CHANNEL 9 AND 9NOW

An electrifying afternoon of entertainment awaits when Queensland’s rising stars light up the stage in Creative Generation: State Schools On Stage 2026, this Sunday at 1.00pm exclusively on Channel 9 and 9Now.

To bring this year’s uplifting theme, Dream Big – A Brighter Future, to life with infectious spirit, more than 2,000 state school students from every corner of Queensland will take over the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre for a knockout celebration of music, dance and drama.

Host Ashlee Lollback will guide viewers through an afternoon of show-stopping entertainment that spotlights the dedication and talent of the state’s young stars.

As Queensland’s premier arts education program, Creative Generation: State Schools On Stage gives students, educators and school communities a rare opportunity to participate in a nationally renowned, professional production.

For many young performers, stepping onto this grand stage is both a debut and a big first step towards a career in the world of entertainment.

From roof-raising vocal numbers and explosive choreography to dramatic theatrical moments, the 2026 broadcast celebrates the sheer joy of performing, uniting communities across Queensland in optimism, inspiration and pride.

Catch all the passion, heart and star power of Creative Generation: State Schools On Stage 2026, this Sunday at 1.00pm exclusively on Channel 9 and 9Now.

Creative Generation: State Schools On Stage 2026 will encore on Saturday, November 7 at 2.30pm on 9GO! And 9Now.

Thursday 29 October, 2026

The Sydney Morning Herald has celebrated the pinnacle of dining across New South Wales and the ACT with the 42nd annual Good Food Guide Awards, co-hosted last night at Carriageworks in Sydney alongside major co-presenting partners Oceania Cruises and T2 Tea.

The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Awards saw Stanmore institution Sixpenny awarded T2 Tea Restaurant of the Year, while head chefs and co-owners of South End, Hussein Sarhan and Alex Tong, took home the Oceania Cruises Chefs of the Year honour. Long-standing fine dining icon Peter Gilmore was celebrated with the prestigious Legend Award following his historic 23-year three-hat tenure at Quay.

Gathering a 500-strong crowd of leading restaurateurs, chefs, sommeliers, and hospitality innovators, the event highlighted Nine’s proven ability to connect premium commercial partners with highly engaged, affluent, and lifestyle-driven audiences across integrated publishing assets, digital subscription products, and live luxury brand experiences.

As co-presenting partners across both state mastheads, Oceania Cruises and T2 Tea delivered integrated brand footprints that spanned multi-platform digital takeovers, high-visibility event activations, curated on-site food and drink partnerships, and bespoke native content in both the print magazine inserts and the dedicated Good Food app.

Commercial Director – Publishing Sales at Nine, Ashleigh Thomas, said the momentum of the Good Food Guide Awards brand reinforces its position as the premier platform for prestige brand partnerships in Australia: “For more than four decades, the Good Food Guide has set the benchmark for Australian dining culture, remaining a trusted authority for millions of highly engaged subscribers and a powerful environment for our commercial partners. Live tentpole events, premium digital integrations through the Good Food app, and mass-reach print editions have become a formidable growth engine for Nine Publishing. Whether it’s connecting luxury travel partners like Oceania Cruises with high-spend cultural tastemakers, or integrating household premium names like T2 Tea directly into the daily habits of Australian food lovers, Good Food delivers an unmatched commercial canvas that drives sustained, full-funnel brand impact.”

Co-presenting partner Oceania Cruises highlighted the natural connection between destination travel, premium cuisine, and the country’s top dining talent.

Lisa Pile, Managing Director, Luxury Group Asia Pacific at Oceania Cruises said: “As the world’s leading destination and culinary-focused luxury cruise line, and home to The Finest Cuisine at Sea®, we are honoured to continue our longstanding partnership with the Good Food Guide Awards. On board our ships, we celebrate the finest quality produce through thoughtfully crafted menus and culinary experiences that showcase flavour and craftsmanship. Together with Good Food, we are proud to recognise the talent, innovation and dedication of the chefs and hospitality professionals who continue to shape Australia’s world-class dining landscape.”

Returning as co-presenting partner for a second consecutive year, T2 Tea activated across both state galas and supported key categories including Restaurant of the Year and Cafe of the Year.

Christelle Young, Managing Director at T2 Tea: said: “Making the everyday extraordinary is what we care about most at T2, and it’s why we have deep admiration for what Australia’s best cafes and restaurants do, day in, day out. We’re proud to be back as co-presenting partner of the Good Food Guide and Awards, and excited to raise a cup to celebrate the chefs, baristas and restaurateurs who are committed to elevating the everyday and adding a little extraordinary to all that they do.”

The Sydney ceremony follows The Age Good Food Guide Awards held at Melbourne’s Timber Yard earlier this month, uniting Australia’s twin dining capitals under Nine’s iconic Good Food Guides.

All reviews from The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age Good Food Guides – encompassing more than 500 independently reviewed venues in each state – are now available to subscribers via the Good Food app with both state mastheads inserting a free, gloss 56-page Good Food Guide magazine featuring the newly launched 100 Essential Restaurants list, connecting brand partners directly with Australian diners from the screen to the table.

THE 2027 GOOD FOOD GUIDE AWARD WINNERS

The 42nd Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Winners (NSW & ACT):

• Restaurant of the Year: Sixpenny (Stanmore)
• Oceania Cruises Chefs of the Year: Hussein Sarhan & Alex Tong (South End)
• Legend Award: Peter Gilmore
• Three-Hat Winners: Sixpenny and Saint Peter
• New Restaurant of the Year (presented by Aurum Poultry Co): Three Blue Ducks Burradoo
• Regional Restaurant of the Year: Muse Restaurant (Hunter Valley)
• T2 Tea Cafe of the Year: Taguan (Darlington)
• Bar of the Year: Vespertine
• Pub of the Year: The Carlisle Castle Hotel (Newtown)
• Drinks List of the Year: Saint Peter
• Sommelier of the Year: Zoe Brunton
• Service Excellence Award: Monique Guest (Saint Peter)
• Young Chef of the Year: Peter Fiander (Osteria Luna)
• The Bill Granger Trailblazer Award (presented by SevenRooms): Ahana Dutt (Kolkata Social)
• Food for Good Award: Lettuce Eat by Omnia Inclusive
• Critics’ Pick of the Year: AK’S Diner (Canberra)
• Cultural Change Champion: Venus Vinifera

The 46th Age Good Food Guide Winners (Victoria):

• T2 Tea Restaurant of the Year: Yiaga (East Melbourne)
• Oceania Cruises Chef of the Year: Hugh Allen (Yiaga & Vue de Monde)
• Legend Award: Joseph Abboud (Rumi)
• Three-Hat Winners: Amaru, Brae, Minamishima, Vue de Monde, and Yiaga
• New Restaurant of the Year (presented by Aurum Poultry Co): Roma (Melbourne CBD)
• Regional Restaurant of the Year: Barragunda (Cape Schanck)
• T2 Tea Cafe of the Year: Cham (West Melbourne)
• Bar of the Year: Three Horses
• Pub of the Year: Alpine Hotel Warburton
• Oceania Cruises Service Excellence Award: Ainslie Lubbock (Pt. Leo Estate)
• Young Chef of the Year: Kimberly Tang (Ca Com)
• Katie McCormack Young Service Talent Award: Kye Connors (Carnation Canteen)
• Sommelier of the Year: Charles Duan (Gaea)
• Drinks List of the Year: Cote Basque
• Trailblazer Award: Samuel Fraraccio (The Brick Chef)
• Critics’ Pick Award: Sagye
• Food for Good Award: Combat MSA
• Cultural Change Champion: Safe Staff, Safe Venues

Tuesday 27 October, 2026

THE BLOCK AUCTIONS: SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, AT 7.00PM ON CHANNEL 9 & 9NOW

The most competitive season of The Block will come to a head when five luxury homes go under the hammer this Sunday, November 1 at 7.00pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.

After 12 gruelling weeks of hard labour, critical design choices and major budget issues, the five renovation teams are faced with a different kind of challenge The Block has never presented before.

Under new Victorian law, all reserve prices are to be revealed seven days before auction day, meaning for the first time in Block history buyers and viewers already know the reserve price for all homes is set at $3.45 million.

Uptown in Houses 1, 2 and 3, Adam and Jolene (QLD), Chantel and Wyatt (QLD) and Lisa & Rosco (WA) offer stunning clear views of Port Phillip Bay right to the city skyline, while Downtown in House 4 and 5, Courtney and Sev (QLD) and Rick and Tayla (VIC) have bigger land sizes. What will the buyers be looking for?

As the season comes to an end, Rick and Tayla come into auction day with a big advantage after winning the all-important Week 12 prize of $50,000 off their reserve price, plus the homes were put to the test of impressing thousands of potential buyers at the Domain ‘Open For Inspections’ for the first time in three years.

Host Scott Cam said: “The Domain ‘Open For Inspections’ was a massive milestone. It was a chance for serious buyers to walk through and see the quality of what’s been built, while giving fans the unique experience of stepping right onto a living TV set.

Seeing thousands of people turn out gave our contestants a huge boost and let them see firsthand how much interest there is after so much hard work.

As we close on auction day the nerves are setting in, not just for the contestants but for me too. You watch these teams work their guts out to build five extraordinary homes, and we just want every couple to walk away with a life-changing result.”

Every home is ready to move in and the stage is set for a high-stakes auction day.

Domain National Managing Editor Alice Stolz, who breaks down the property market, says: “Make no mistake, The Block contestants are facing headwinds from every angle. Over the past three months, while the teams have been building, house prices have been falling, recording their steepest quarterly decline on record. On top of that, interest rates are at a 15-year high.

But these contestants have arguably built some of the most beautiful homes in The Block’s history. If anything can cut through this market it may well be high-quality, turnkey homes on Mt Eliza’s golden mile. The appeal of these houses runs deep, attracting both owner-occupiers and investors, with the potential for substantial depreciation benefits and negative gearing.”

Executive Producer Julian Cress shares the praise for this year’s contestants. He said: “It’s a testament to the hard work and energy of our contestants that we are getting such incredible feedback on the homes this year. So many people are saying that these are the best houses that have ever been created across 22 seasons of the show.

So now we cross our fingers and hope that buyers recognise what an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity it would be to acquire a home of this calibre and live happily ever after in such a beautiful coastal neighbourhood.

There’s no doubt every team deserves to walk away with a fantastic result, but we’re clearly in a volatile market as a test case for the government’s new auction laws on top of rising interest rates, so getting 100% clearance rate is going to be a very high bar to jump over and we’re all feeling the tension as much as ever.”

Since premiering on Channel 9 in 2003, The Block, Australia’s richest reality program, has awarded a total of $40,377,138.06 in prizemoney.

THE BLOCK LISTINGS:

HOUSE 1 – ADAM & JOLENE
Address: 2 Mackillop Place, Mount Eliza VIC 3930
Listing: 4 Bed, 3 Bath
Full listing here.

HOUSE 2 – CHANTEL & WYATT
Address: 3 Mackillop Place, Mount Eliza VIC 3930
Listing: 4 Bed, 3 Bath
Full listing here.

HOUSE 3 – LISA & ROSCO
Address: 4 Mackillop Place, Mount Eliza VIC 3930
Listing: 4 Bed, 3 Bath
Full listing here.

HOUSE 4 – COURTNEY & SEV
Address: 9 Mackillop Place, Mount Eliza VIC 3930
Listing: 4 Bed, 3 Bath
Full listing here.

HOUSE 5 – RICK & TAYLA
Address: 10 Mackillop Place, Mount Eliza VIC 3930
Listing: 4 Bed, 3 Bath
Full listing here.

Tuesday 27 October, 2026

FROM SATURDAY OCTOBER 31 AT 11.30AM AEDT

Australia’s greatest spring racing showcase returns for 2026 with full, live and free coverage of all four days of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, starting Saturday, October 31, at 11.30am AEDT on Channel 9 and 9Now.

The world-class broadcast begins with Howden Victoria Derby Day on Saturday, October 31, followed by Lexus Melbourne Cup Day on Tuesday, November 3. The excitement continues through VRC Crown Oaks Day on Thursday, November 5, before culminating in a blockbuster finish with TAB Champions Stakes Day on Saturday, November 7.

To capture every moment of the top-tier racing, high fashion and marquee entertainment throughout the four-day festival, Nine has reunited an elite broadcast lineup.

Steering the coverage from Nine’s central studio, host Eddie McGuire will guide viewers through the non-stop action and atmosphere at Flemington. Down in the mounting yard, host James Bracey is joined by global racing authority Francesca Cumani, with her renowned expertise, sharp form analysis and insights into the domestic contenders and the international challengers descending on the rich carnival.

Building on his standout role in previous coverage, NRL legend and former trackwork rider Billy Slater returns to catch the winning jockeys out on the track for their raw, immediate post-race reactions. Punters will stay ahead of the game with the form breakdown and mounting yard selections from David Gately and Ally Mosley, while Tony Jones covers the horse stalls and mounting enclosure, interviewing star guests to share the stories behind every victory.

Off the track, the energy, style and star-studded guest list of Flemington’s famed Birdcage will come to life through Jelena Dokic, Scherri-Lee Biggs and Felix von Hofe, bringing viewers exclusive access to the ultimate raceday social spectacle.

And Australia’s number one race caller, Matthew Hill, will be in the commentary box to call the 166th running of the race that stops the nation, the Lexus Melbourne Cup, capturing all the drama of the world’s richest handicap.

High fashion takes centre stage with the Fashions on the Field competition, as Nine’s roving broadcast taps into the show-stopping style and elegance across the Fashion Garden and the Birdcage. Meanwhile, 9Now, will be packed with exclusive content including race previews, documentaries, post-race interviews and deep dives into the glorious heritage of the Cup carnival.

In addition, Nine entertainment reporter Renee Bargh will be on the ground in Melbourne on Cup Day to bring viewers all the top entertainment from behind the scenes. She will be joined by Today sports reporter Michael Atkinson covering all the action, while Taylor Haynes and Iza Staskowski deliver live weather updates on Derby and Cup day from Flemington.

Nine’s Director of Sport, Brent Williams, said: “As we enter the third year of our partnership with the Victoria Racing Club, we couldn’t be prouder of the momentum we have built together.

“The Melbourne Cup Carnival remains an iconic pillar of the Australian sports calendar, anchored by the legendary race itself. Across four massive days of world-class racing, glamour and entertainment, our team is set to deliver every breathtaking moment, both on and off the track, to audiences nationwide across Nine’s platforms.”

Catch all the racing action live and free, starting with Howden Victoria Derby Day on Saturday, October 31, on Channel 9 and 9Now.

Monday 26 October, 2026

Brisbane Times is launching its Premium Digital subscription with a new kind of café currency: your morning coffee.

With a cup in Australia’s top coffee cities now averaging more than $5, Brisbane Times is setting its own exchange rate for four days only: a month of local news for less than the price of a single coffee.

From Thursday 22 until Sunday 25 October, between 6 am and 10 am, anyone can visit one of over 15 participating cafés across Brisbane, scan a QR code and subscribe to Brisbane Times Premium Digital. For just $3 a month for the first three months*, subscribers get unlimited access to local news, Good Food reviews and restaurant recommendations, a host of puzzles, and a coffee included.

It’s a currency built for a city that takes its coffee seriously. Brisbane ranked fifth among 40 Australian locations in a 2026 Travelbag analysis of the country’s top coffee hotspots, with the Gold Coast second and Bundaberg tenth, giving Queensland three spots in the national top 10.

Good Food experts handpicked the participating cafés, including Bellissimo in Fortitude Valley, Morning After in West End, John Mills Himself in Brisbane CBD, Cafe O-Mai in Annerley and Darvella in Bulimba.

Kymberley Joseph, Brisbane Times Senior Brand & Content Manager, said: “We’re tapping into the city’s vibrant coffee culture to give Brisbane a fun and accessible way to experience our new Premium Digital subscription. By offering a month’s access for less than the price of a long black, we’re inviting a new wave of readers to add our trusted local news, Good Food reviews, and daily puzzles to their morning routine.”

Rosanna Ryan, Brisbane Times Editor, said: “I grew up in Brisbane, and what I love about this city is how fast it’s growing. Brisbane Times helps you make sense of it, with journalism that looks at the big picture, brings a solutions-focused perspective and covers our city independently. From Good Food pointing you to the next great restaurant to try, to games and puzzles like the BT Quiz that are built for Brisbane locals, everything we do is made for this city.”

Matt Shea, Brisbane Times Food and Culture Editor and Good Food writer, said: “My job as a Good Food writer is to help Brisbane find the most memorable places to eat and drink, so you need to take picking these cafes seriously. Brisbane has a brilliant coffee scene, so think of this weekend as a starting point. If I had to pick one, it would be Bellissimo, partly because the Valley cafe is a few doors down from my house, but also because their breakfast roll is low-key one of the best in town. Wherever you end up, try to order something to eat while you’re there. Independent cafés run on thin margins, and a busy weekend makes a real difference.”

Since launching in 2007, the digital-only masthead has become one of Queensland’s most-read and trusted news sites. The full list of participating cafés and terms is available at https://your.brisbanetimes.com.au/cafe-currency.

OFFER DETAILS
When: Thursday 22 to Sunday 25 October 2026, 6am–10am AEST
Where: 17 participating cafés across Brisbane, handpicked by Brisbane’s Good Food team.
Offer: Sign up in-store for a Premium Digital Subscription for $3 per month for the first three months and show proof of your subscription to café staff to receive a coffee.
Terms: *Offer available only via dedicated QR codes displayed in the participating cafes outlined above, exclusively between 6am – 10am AEST between October 22 to October 25, 2026, and is strictly limited to the first 1,000 redemptions across all cafes. The $3 per month introductory rate represents a discount of 92% off the regular Premium Digital subscription price for the first three months. At the end of the promotional period, the subscription will automatically renew at the regular rate of $9.20 per week for Premium Digital, billed monthly, unless changed or cancelled via My Account or by calling customer service on 13 66 66. Offer includes one standard sized barista-made beverage, with alternative varieties and milks (e.g. Iced, Oat milk) available at the discretion of participating cafes. This offer is subject to change. For full subscription terms and conditions visit brisbanetimes.com.au/conditions

PARTICIPATING CAFÉS ACROSS 17 LOCATIONS
Bellissimo – 30 Wandoo St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
Bellissimo – 12 Cavendish Rd, Coorparoo QLD 4151
Bellissimo – 35 Oxford St, Bulimba QLD 4171
Cafe O-Mai – 15 Cracknell Rd, Annerley QLD 4103
Darvella – Shop 1/37 Oxford St, Bulimba QLD 4171
Farmhouse – 9 Somerset Rd, Kedron QLD 4031
Florence – 54 Martha St, Camp Hill QLD 4152
Goodside – 63 Melbourne St, South Brisbane QLD 4101
John Mills Himself – 40 Charlotte St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
Kimino – 71 Wardell St, Ashgrove QLD 4060
Morning After – Shop 6/57 Vulture St, West End QLD 4101
Riser – 85 Miskin St, Toowong QLD 4066
Salt Coffee Roasters – 50 Commercial Rd, Newstead QLD 4006
Sister – 2/273 Hawthorne Rd, Hawthorne QLD 4171
Sprout – Shop 4/60 Skyring Terrace, Newstead QLD 4006
Yolk CBD – 307 Queen St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
Yolk Newstead – 76 Skyring Terrace, Newstead QLD 4006

Thursday 22 October, 2026