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Dr Charlie Teo's surprising next move after Aussie surgery restrictions

<p>One year after being slapped with restrictions that effectively stopped him from operating in Australia, Dr Charlie Teo is restarting his career overseas. </p> <p>The neurosurgeon was investigated by Australia’s Health Care Complaints Commission, who last year placed restrictions on the surgeon after they discovered he had been operating on tumours that had been deemed "inoperable". </p> <p>Now, one of China’s most respected neurosurgeons has thanked Australia for imposing such restrictions because it has allowed her country to benefit from the controversial surgeon’s ability to remove high-risk brain tumours.</p> <p>Dr Teo has been operating regularly in China including on high profile VIPs, and at least eight other countries around the world, according to reports from the <em>Sunday Telegraph</em>. </p> <p>An investigation has found Dr Teo has operated on 150 patients, with many of them being from Australia, in China, Spain, Germany, India, Switzerland, Brazil, Peru, South Africa, and Nepal since the restrictions effectively stopped him from operating in Australia.</p> <p>In an interview from Beijing, Professor Ling Feng, Deputy Director of the China International Neuroscience Institute, said she is “not worried” about the restrictions imposed on Dr Teo a year ago for unsatisfactory conduct.</p> <p>“I took a careful look into what happened over there. I don’t think it should be imputed to Charlie’s neglect of care and passion for the patients,” Professor Ling told the <em>Sunday Telegraph</em>.</p> <p>“It is just a different view of the indications for surgery. Similar cases occur across the world. Instead, I ‘thank’ Australia for the restrictions on Charlie, which gave me the opportunity to work with him.”</p> <p>In the past year, patients have travelled from Australia, Romania, Britain, Saudi Arabia, France, Indonesia, and Singapore to have Dr Teo operate.</p> <p>Of those surgeries Dr Teo’s logbook documents one death, one “poor” outcome, three “fair outcomes”, 20 “good outcomes” and 145 cases have been documented as “excellent”.</p> <p>Dr Teo says his results are better than ever and he feels terrible for patients in his own country that he can’t help, but hopes that he may one day be able to return to Australian operating rooms to help patients. </p> <p>“All it would take is one sensible and brave person in one hospital somewhere in Australia to change the status quo,” Dr Teo said.</p> <p>“Just one person to sit back and go ‘okay he might be an a**hole, he might be into money, he might be a bit of a cowboy, he might be all the things the media have said he might be, but the fact is that patients, Australian patients, some need him and he does operations that other people don’t do and most of those outcomes are good so what about we just drop the politics and allow him to operate in Australia?"</p> <p>“That’s all it would take … some common sense for the greater good, not for his sake but for the sake of patients.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Caring

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"Surely this is a prank": Council slammed for ridiculous parking restriction

<p>Melbourne City Council has been slammed online for offering free parking, but only for a measly 15 minutes. </p> <p>The new initiative, which was shared in a video to the City of Melbourne Instagram account, details how parking fees will be waived for drivers needing to run a quick errand in the CBD, as long as they return to their vehicle within 15 minutes.</p> <p>Drivers can park in a “green signed” parking space such as a ‘2P Meter’, and start a 15-minute session on the Easy-Park app to claim the offer.</p> <p>The council said they introduced the initiative for those who want to “run an errand, support a local business and take in city vibes”.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0lApxrt35h/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0lApxrt35h/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by City Of Melbourne (@cityofmelbourne)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The initiative, however, has been rinsed online, with many people pointing out that 15 minutes is not enough time to do anything, especially in the CBD.</p> <p>“Surely this is a prank?” one person questioned.</p> <p>“As if you can take in the vibes in 15min. And based where the carpark spots are, you’d barely make it to the shop or restaurant and back in 15,” said another.</p> <p>“15 mins? Such overwhelming generosity,” another commented. </p> <p>“How can you support any business in 15 minutes time? By sprinting to a shop and run back to the car only to find a ticket on the dashboard?,” wrote another person. </p> <p>Despite the negative feedback, City of Melbourne said more than 90,000 people had taken up the free parking offer since it was first introduced in the central city in July. </p> <p>"Drivers are embracing the flexibility of our new free 15-minute parking system, which is opening up the city by giving more drivers access to free parking outside more businesses and services,” Lord Mayor Sally Capp said in a statement in November. </p> <p>“Early data shows our parking improvements are working exactly as intended – keeping spaces turning over outside city businesses, while making it easier to find a park.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Travel Trouble

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"Self-indulgent narcissism": Tina Arena slammed for breaking lockdown restrictions

<p>Tina Arena has come under fire for bragging about breaking Covid lockdown restrictions to resist what she called a "totalitarian" regime. </p> <p>The 55-year-old singer spoke candidly with <a href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>The Weekend Australian</em></a>, reflecting on the 2021 Delta lockdowns and why she chose to deliberately break the restriction that prevented people from travelling within 5km of their homes. </p> <p>"Why can't you drive more than five kilometres? Guess what – watch me. So I did. I drove past my five kilometres. Am I a criminal now? You want to pull me up? Pull me up. You want to fine me? Fine me. I'm not the one with the issue here," she told the publication.</p> <p>"The issue is, there is no logic. You have no right to do that. You are fining me. This is totalitarian. We don't work like that."</p> <p>Tina went on to claim that she was the only person who was frustrated by the harsh lockdown measures enough to speak up. </p> <p>"I didn't hear anybody complaining ­during lockdown other than me: 'Why are we locked up? Where's your science? What? Why?; The fear was so much for me; it was choking me, I was like, I can't cope with all of you being so fear-driven like this, and compliant," she said.</p> <p>Tina's comments sparked outrage online, with many people weighing in on her "selfish" choice to break the rules.</p> <p>"Tina Arena is just the Pete Evans of Music," wrote one person, referring to the disgraced television chef who was criticised for his anti-vax views. </p> <p>"Tina Arena - just another ignorant, selfish, fearful individual who was unwilling to comply with lockdown orders at the height of a deadly pandemic before vaccines were available. Yes 'deadly'! I have zero sympathy for those who blatantly ignored the restrictions," said another. </p> <p>Another disgruntled reader said, "Tina Arena's self indulgent narcissism is astounding, does she think she was the only person feeling fearful, locked up and battling mental health issues during the pandemic?"</p> <p>Another person called out her actions, writing, "Very selfish of Tina Arena. Hundreds of healthcare workers were f***ing exhausted, people with disabilities and severe health conditions were (and still are) living in fear of getting sick and she decided the rules wouldn't apply to her. Very disappointing."</p> <p>Social media users were quick to point out her "selfish" comments, with one person putting things into perspective by saying, "Most of us weren't wallowing in self pity, we were just doing what we needed to do to keep our families safe."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Legal

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Man living in a tent after partner “gave up” on Covid restrictions

<p dir="ltr">A hyper-vigilant man has resorted to living in a “pressurised” tent in a garage to avoid contracting Covid, after his girlfriend relaxed about restrictions. </p> <p dir="ltr">The Aussie man named Jason, who is a self-proclaimed “Covid education activist” caused a stir online after he posted a photo of his unusual sleeping arrangements. </p> <p dir="ltr">The now-viral post shared by Jason featured a picture of the peculiar tent he claims to be sleeping in, with an air purifier sticking out of the door, igniting a firestorm of reactions on Twitter, ranging from agreeance, to humour, to concern.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite the media storm, Jason defended his decision to maintain strict pandemic precautions, despite never having contracted Covid-19. </p> <p dir="ltr">“This is my bed in the garage because my partner has dropped precautions. I take precautions 100 per cent of the time. Don’t tell me that this hasn’t upended every f**king second of my life,” Jason declared in his original post, which included the image of his extraordinary sleeping arrangement.</p> <p dir="ltr">Taking his precautions to the next level, Jason also revealed that he has experimented with sleeping in a face mask, but he admitted that he found it uncomfortable and could not sleep properly with it. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I’ve tried to sleep in a mask, and I can’t. I know people sleep in CPAP masks all the time, so it’s possible, but I can’t do it,” he shared on Twitter.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite the flurry of reactions to Jason’s living arrangement, he did receive some support for his precautionary measures, while some even suggested Jason leave his partner, to which he admitted the thought “had occurred to me”. </p> <p dir="ltr">Another Twitter user commended the tent and air filter idea, considering it a cost-effective and potentially effective solution to avoid contracting Covid. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I like the tent+filter idea. It’s cheap and should be effective,” another agreed.</p> <p dir="ltr">A few people shared that they empathised with Jason, and are also maintaining strict pandemic precautions. </p> <p dir="ltr">One person wrote, “Initially didn’t think much of the pic, but this is infuriating. I spend all my salary in-flo mask, enovid (antiviral nasal spray), no social life, so yes, I take precautions 100 per cent of the time.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’m sorry you have to live like this. I no longer see my family since they stopped masking,” another added.</p> <p dir="ltr">However, not everyone empathised with Jason’s living arrangements, saying he was being unrealistic about the future of Covid. </p> <p dir="ltr">“I work in senior living, and in the two years we’ve been open, we’ve lost zero to Covid. Even the (85-year-olds) getting it now are mild cases. Why? They’re boosted, so they don’t panic or sleep in a garage,” one commenter explained. </p> <p dir="ltr">“The vaccine is meant to enable you to live normally without worrying. Covid is endemic, so you will be in the tent for the rest of your life, lol.” posted another.</p> <p dir="ltr">In response to the viral post, one Twitter user humorously remarked, “We’re a few years away from a really good documentary on how this virus broke people’s brains.”</p> <p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 18pt;"><em>Image credits: Getty Images / Twitter</em><span id="docs-internal-guid-929ebb36-7fff-a45a-7dfd-5c273933cc32"></span></p>

Real Estate

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10 noises your dog makes – and what they mean

<h2>10 noises your dog makes – and what they mean</h2> <p>Pet parents, fess up: how often have you wished that your dog could talk? Chances are, pretty often. But the thing is, your dog is talking to you every day, all day long – you just have to figure out what he’s saying. It’s not as simple as decoding a bark or howl, the two sounds we most commonly associate with our furry friends. Dogs actually make a plethora of telling sounds, and each has its own distinct meaning. Here’s what you need to know to better understand your canine companion.</p> <h2>Barking</h2> <p>You might have noticed that a dog’s bark varies greatly. That’s because barking is a dog’s way of communicating a variety of messages and emotions, including excitement, happiness, fear or even an alert to danger. “With such varying meanings behind a dog’s bark, it’s no surprise that the pitch and forcefulness of the noise – just like with a human’s voice – can imply the reason behind their vocalisation,” says veterinarian Danielle Bernal. “For instance, a fear-driven or panicked bark is often higher in repetition and intensity. This is compared to a monotonous bark that may communicate boredom.”</p> <h2>Incessant barking</h2> <p>There’s a difference between brief barking and non-stop barking. “When the barking does not stop, it is often caused by anxiety in your furry friend,” says veterinarian Evelyn Kass-Williamson. “Dogs may bark like this because they’re experiencing separation anxiety, or because they’re getting mixed messages from different family members and aren’t sure what to do. Be sure you are consistent when around these dogs, and above all, try to relax so they can, too.”</p> <h2>Whining</h2> <p>Like barking, whining can also have a number of different meanings. Though we often associate whining with a negative emotion, that’s not always the case with dogs. In fact, it can simply be a dog’s way of getting human attention, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). What is your pup trying to say? Possibly that he wants to play, eat or go outside. Whining may also be a sign of stress, fear or pain. It’s important to take all factors into consideration when deciphering your dog’s whining.</p> <h2>Howling</h2> <p>Howling is that classic head-back, guttural call that’s most often associated with wolves. “Howling links back to our dogs’ ancestor, the grey wolf,” explains Dr Bernal. “As pack animals, wolves traditionally used this communication method to call to their pack to signal distress or motivate them to regroup for a hunt.” In terms of your domesticated dog, she says, that howl is often triggered by common noises like a siren, the sound of a child’s toy, or the command of an owner.</p> <h2>Sighing</h2> <p>We often tie feelings of boredom or frustration to sighing, but that’s not the case for canines. According to the AKC, sighing is generally indicative of contentment, especially if it’s combined with half-closed, sleepy eyes. If your dog is wide-eyed and fully alert, however, it could be his way of catching your attention and asking for a little TLC or playtime.</p> <h2>Growling</h2> <p>Like barking and howling, growling can have a number of different meanings, ranging from being scared to feeling playful. “A hostile growl is often a warning sign to a person, another dog, or object that has frightened the dog. It signals that a serious attack may follow if the growl is not adhered to,” says Dr Bernal. “On the other hand, a playful growl is often easy to identify. The key body language of a hostile growl is missing: visible teeth, flattened ears, and raised hairs.”</p> <h2>Soft noises while asleep</h2> <p>When a pup makes soft grumbles, yaps or whimpers while snoozing, it’s not cause for alarm. “This mix of noises simply means that a dog is in a deep stage of sleep, similar to our REM sleep,” says Dr Bernal. “You may notice it’s also accompanied by a faster breathing rate and twitching of the muscles, limbs or eyelids.”</p> <h2>Sneezing</h2> <p>Don’t be fooled: sneezing isn’t always caused by nasal irritation, allergies or a canine cold. “Many dogs will sneeze with excitement or to get your attention,” says Dr Kass-Williamson. “However, if there is ever thick nasal discharge that is white, yellow or green, it means it’s time to call your vet.”</p> <h2>Snorting</h2> <p>“Like the sneeze, this can be an attention-getter for the very squishy-faced breeds,” explains Dr Kass-Williamson. “However, when the snorting continues for a few seconds or longer, it can sound like your dog is choking. This is called a reverse sneeze and is often a sign of allergy or sinus congestion.” It’s best to schedule a visit with your vet if the issue is ongoing. Knowing what conditions your pet may be predisposed is important.</p> <h2>Low-pitched moaning</h2> <p>Though we often associate moaning with sadness or other negative emotions, it’s actually the opposite for dogs. It’s generally a sign that your dog is feeling at peace, according to the AKC. This sound is most commonly made by puppies – especially when they’re nestled up to their human companions.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/pets/10-noises-your-dog-makes-and-what-they-mean" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>. </em></p>

Family & Pets

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"Stay away!": City forced into bizarre anti-travel campaign

<p>Amsterdam has taken desperate measures in the fight to keep the city safe from “messy” tourists determined to cause chaos and call it a night out. </p> <p>The Dutch capital’s new online campaign sets out to primarily tackle the problem of young British men, warning them against their plans to “let loose” while they’re visiting. </p> <p>Hopeful British tourists - between the ages of 18 and 35 - who google things like “stag party Amsterdam”, “pub crawl Amsterdam”, and “cheap hotel Amsterdam” will be made to view short videos that stress the consequences that come with “[causing] nuisance and excessive alcohol and drug use”, according to a statement from the city’s local authorities. </p> <p>One of said videos shows an intoxicated young man being arrested after insulting police officers, with text reading: “Coming to Amsterdam for a messy night + getting trashed = €140 fine + criminal record = fewer prospects.” </p> <p>From there comes the firm and to-the-point statement: “So coming to Amsterdam for a messy night? Stay away.”</p> <p>In another of the campaign’s videos, an unconscious individual can be seen in an ambulance as it rushes to hospital, this time with text that reads: “Coming to Amsterdam to take drugs + lose control = hospital trip + permanent health damage = worried family.” </p> <p>It concludes with the same message as the other. </p> <p>Amsterdam welcomes approximately 20 million tourists each year, and is well known for its red light district. It’s this same hotspot that has played a major role in establishing the city as the place to party in Europe. </p> <p>However, local residents have voiced their displeasure for years, fed up with the chaos that drunken tourists bring their way, and prevent them from enjoying their own city as they want to. </p> <p>“Visitors will remain welcome, but not if they misbehave and cause nuisance. In that case we as a city will say: rather not, stay away,” Amsterdam’s deputy mayor Sofyan Mbarki said.</p> <p>“Amsterdam is already taking lots of measures against excessive tourism and nuisance, and we are taking more measures than other large cities in Europe. But we have to do even more [in] the coming years if we want to give tourism a sustainable place in our city.”</p> <p>From there, he went on to note that in order to keep their city a liveable place, they had to turn their attention to “restriction instead of irresponsible growth.” </p> <p>This isn’t the only - or even first - step city officials have taken towards achieving their goal, having just passed new regulations that make it illegal for anyone to smoke cannabis while in the red light district. </p> <p>The video campaign may yet expand to include visitors from beyond the UK, authorities have suggested. They also plan to launch another campaign called “How to Amsterdam”, which aims to reign in tourists already visiting. This campaign will utilise social media and street signs, with warnings about everything from drunkenness to noise, drugs, and urinating in public. </p> <p>Providers who offer bachelor party experiences have reportedly been contacted by the council as well, in the hope that they can reduce - and prevent - trouble in the city’s centre, while they also await the results of research into a potential tourist tax. </p> <p><em>Images: YouTube</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Tips to filter out the noise in your life

<p>The modern world can make you feel like you are in a constant state of busyness. Here’s how to filter out the noise and take back some time for yourself.</p> <p><strong>1. Begin your day with some quiet</strong></p> <p>They way you start your morning can determine your whole day. When you wake up, take a few minutes to centre yourself in silence. This could be meditation or even just some quiet reflection in bed. You will be amazed at how it can change your outlook.</p> <p><strong>2. Declutter your digital</strong></p> <p>Technology is a wonderful thing, but it also means we are constantly tied to our smartphones, email accounts or the latest news updates. It can be hard to switch off when you are constantly connected. You don’t have to switch off completely, but set yourself limits – only check social media once a day, don’t check emails on the weekend or leave your phone at home if it’s not essential.</p> <p><strong>3. Limit TV time</strong></p> <p>It’s amazing how quickly an hour (or two or three) can go by when you are sat mindlessly in front of the TV. Don’t automatically turn it on as soon as you walk in the house. Set a time for TV (say after 7pm) and then use your new free time to read a book, do some gardening or take a walk. You’ll be amazed at how much free time you suddenly have.</p> <p><strong>4. Get out into nature</strong></p> <p>Never underestimate the power of connecting with the physical world. Head out for a walk through the park or along the beach. Leave your phone and iPod at home so you can listen to the sounds around you. You can clear your mind in a sort of moving meditation, plus the physical exercise will give you an extra boost.</p> <p><strong>5. Find meaningful activities</strong></p> <p>In our busy life we rarely take time for the activities we love, like drawing, reading, singing or yoga. These activities can bring meaning to our lives, and encourage us to slow down and find stillness. It is worth setting aside some time each day or week to do something you really love.</p> <p><strong>6. Practice inner stillness</strong></p> <p>Too often we are our own worst enemy. So, even if we can quiet the external noise, we persist with the internal noise. We constantly run over to do lists, fret over mistakes we’ve made, berate ourselves for not loosing weight. When you feel yourself falling into these patterns, stop. Relax, reset and feel grateful for what you have. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Mind

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Warning against latest egg-stremely restrictive diet trend

<p>A viral “egg diet” is the latest weight loss trend taking over TikTok as people continue to find ways to drop a few kilos.</p> <p>The #eggdiet has attracted over 68.5 million views, with a lot of people sharing their weight-loss success. Nutritionists warn the egg-stremely restrictive diet is simply unsustainable and just another eggs-ample of why most diets fail.</p> <p>According to TikTok users, the egg diet consists of eating only eggs for every meal, alongside low-carb snacks such as fruit, veggies, and some additional protein.</p> <p>While this diet is capable of boosting your metabolism and burning fat in the short term, it can then slow the metabolism and make it more difficult to lose weight in the future.</p> <p>One TikTok user trying the diet admitted she had broken it, writing, ”I think the last nine days of eating the bare minimum has caught up with me today. The whole day I just felt nauseous.”</p> <p>A diet focused on one food eggs-cludes many healthy food groups that are otherwise beneficial for your body. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies, an unhealthy amount of weight loss, mood changes, muscle weakness, and hair loss.</p> <p>A nutrition eggs-pert from Fitness Volt says most people fail to stick with their diet long enough for it to work sustainably. They make fast progress, but egg-ventually, they fall off the wagon and return to their previous diet plan.</p> <p>"That's why so many of us lose weight only to regain it shortly afterwards, and it seems long-term, sustainable weight loss is rare nowadays," Saini said.</p> <p>"Fortunately, healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or unpleasant, and weight management doesn't have to take over your life.</p> <p>"You don't even have to give up your favourite foods. However, you will need to quit looking for short-term fixes and adopt healthier long-term habits.”</p> <p>It is clear the #eggdiet is not sustainable and the lack of nutrition is likely to leave your brain scrambled.</p> <p>The idea is a bit of a crack-up, but don’t <em>whisk</em> it.</p> <p><em>Image credit: TikTok</em></p>

Body

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5 sounds you hear on the plane explained

<p>Nervous fliers know just how freaky a sudden noise on the plane can be, but we’ve broken down the most common ones you’ll hear and what they mean so you can travel with ease.</p> <ol> <li><strong>The puff of air at the gate</strong> – it’s usually one of the first unsettling sounds you’ll hear on the plane, but it’s one of the most important – it signals that the ventilation on the plane has been switched on. It’s also why lights can tend to flicker, as the plane is moving from an off-board power source to an onboard system.</li> <li><strong>The “bark” during taxi</strong> – before take-off and landing, it’s normal for the plane to make a sort of “barking” noise. This is just the hydraulics kicking in, ensuring steering, braking and air pressure are all at optimum levels for a safe departure or arrival.</li> <li><strong>The wings “whirring”</strong> – upon take-off and even during flight, you may hear a “whir” coming from the wings. This sound indicates the wingspan is expanding and retracting to help assist take-off and speed maintenance.</li> <li><strong>The “bang” from the belly of the plane</strong> – this noise can be pretty scary as you make your descent into your destination, but it’s completely safe. All it means is the landing gear is being released so you can arrive safely.</li> <li><strong>The brakes “screeching”</strong> – don’t be alarmed by this sound, it’s just the plane’s natural response to landing at the speed of 160 to 240 kph while carrying hundreds of tonnes of cargo and passengers.</li> </ol> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Travel Tips

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"Let him do this job": Mother of Charlie Teo's "miracle girl" blasts surgery restrictions

<p>The mother of Dr Charlie Teo's "miracle girl" has spoken out against the restrictions placed on the surgeon and how they will impact the lives of many families with sick kids. </p> <p>In 2019, Milli became one of Dr Teo's most well-known patients after he successfully removed 98 per cent of a brain tumour that had been dubbed inoperable and incurable by other surgeons. </p> <p>Although Milli tragically died in January 2021, her mother Monica said she feels “devastated” and “disappointed” over the restrictions placed on Dr Teo, saying it will greatly impact patients and their families who no longer have access to potentially lifesaving surgery.</p> <p>Since August 2021, Dr Teo has been barred from operating in Australia under rules imposed by the Medical Council of NSW. </p> <p>In order to operate, Dr Teo must have written approval from a second independent neurosurgeon with more than 20 years of specialist experience. </p> <p>These conditions will remain in place until September 30, when they will be subject to review.</p> <p>“Why? Just why? I wish they’d leave him alone and let him do this job. He helps people – that’s all he does,” Monica told <a href="https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/mum-of-dr-charlie-teos-miracle-girl-amelia-milli-lucas-says-operating-restrictions-have-robbed-australians/news-story/9fb19e4d6ab9b644e30ff03817d813b1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a>. </p> <p>“I know the neurosurgeons in Australia think he’s a cowboy and think he takes things just that little bit extra … but that should be left to the patient to choose.”</p> <p>Dr Teo has has had daily requests from desperate patients to operate, as Monica said it should be up the patients to have final say over their treatment, and it’s an opportunity she’s grateful that her daughter had. </p> <p>“A neurosurgeon could go: ‘No, I’m not going to do it because in three months time it’s going to be back in and you’re going to be dead anyway’ but if someone wants to do it and live that three months, why aren’t they given that choice? Charlie gives you that choice,” she added.</p> <p>“He doesn’t mince his words and he doesn’t give anyone false hope, he just gives them real hope.”</p> <p>She also said the rules which have limited Dr Teo’s operating ability also “robbed” the “medical industry” and future research as well.</p> <p>Since the neurosurgeon has been barred from operating in Australia, Dr Teo has continued teaching, lecturing and performing pro bono surgery internationally.</p> <p>“I feel sorry for the people in Australia who want to be a neurosurgeon and aren’t able to learn from the best in the world.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

Caring

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Major changes to Covid-19 rules

<p>Covid-19 restrictions are set to ease across the country as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced major changes to the current rules. </p> <p>Following national cabinet on Wednesday afternoon, Albanese announced that the mandatory seven-day isolation period will be scrapped from September 9th.</p> <p>The isolation period for Covid-positive people with no symptoms will be reduced from seven days to five days, allowing them to return to work sooner with precautions.</p> <p>However, Albanese said the seven-day period will remain for workers in high-risk settings including aged care and disability care as per advice from the chief health officer.</p> <p>“If you have symptoms we want people to stay home. We want people to act responsibly,” Albanese said.</p> <p>“This was a proportionate response at this point in the pandemic.”</p> <p>The PM also announced that mandatory mask-wearing on domestic flights will also be scrapped.</p> <p>Masks will also no longer be legally required on domestic flights from next Friday, bringing flights in line with requirements in domestic terminals where mandatory face coverings were ditched in mid-June - along with the relaxation of mandates in most settings across the country.</p> <p>“We’ll continue to assess these issues and what restrictions are appropriate at any point in time,” Albanese said.</p> <p>Amid the new changes, the PM also said the eligibility for the $750 emergency leave support would be updated to reflect the change to five days, meaning the payment will be cut to $540.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Caring

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"Whitewashed white noise": Grace Tame unloads on parliament

<p>Grace Tame has launched a scathing attack on the Albanese government in a series of posts to her Instagram story. </p> <p>The former Australian of the Year, and vocal supporter of the new Labor government, slammed the parliament for not letting an Auslan interpreter on the floor of the House of Representatives and preventing a disabled MP from chairing the NDIS committee.</p> <p>Ms Tame then described politicians as "old" and "ableist" in the social media slating. </p> <p>"Must be such a slog for these poor old, elected, ableist toffs to breathe in there, for all the privilege stifling the parliament," she wrote.</p> <p>"What a crock of w***."</p> <p>The online rant came after the Government and Opposition had denied independent senator David Pocock's request to have an Auslan interpreter stand next to him during his maiden speech.</p> <p>The major parties turned down his request to have a "stranger" on the floor of parliament because of "precedent" it may set. </p> <p>Instead they allowed TV screens in the senate to display a live Auslan translation.</p> <p>The two major parties also ganged up to deny the Greens' request for disabled senator Jordon Steele-John to chair the Joint Standing Committee on the National Disability Insurance Scheme.</p> <p>Ms Tame sarcastically wrote, "The general public apologises for making any attempt to try and increase engagement."</p> <p>"We'll happily go back to ignoring your echo chamber of whitewashed white noise, if that's what you'd prefer."</p> <p>Grace Tame has long been a supporter of Albanese and his government, as her distain of Scott Morrison culminated her infamous stone-faced photo with the former PM. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram / Twitter</em></p>

Legal

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The real reason liquids over 100ml can’t be brought onto international flights

<p dir="ltr">One thing most people keep in mind when setting off on an international holiday is to condense any liquids in their carry-on to 100ml or less, or run the risk of it being thrown out by security.</p> <p dir="ltr">This goes for bottles of water, makeup, skincare, and other liquid toiletries, as well as big bottles of hand sanitiser or the coffee you bought on the way to the airport. </p> <p dir="ltr">While we accept this is a part of boarding an international flight, a lot of people don’t know the reasoning behind the strict rules. </p> <p dir="ltr">So, why can’t we take liquids over 100ml in our carry-on on an overseas flight?</p> <p dir="ltr">A Department of Home Affairs and Australian Border Force spokesperson told <a href="https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-advice/why-liquids-over-100ml-need-to-be-tossed-for-international-flights/news-story/385fc9198465d82812f04d000c4f339c">news.com.au</a> restrictions on the volume of liquids, aerosols and gels were introduced in many countries around the world, including Australia, following the disruption of a terrorist plot in the UK back in 2006.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 2006 transatlantic aircraft plot targeted various aircrafts with specific liquid explosives.</p> <p dir="ltr">“[And as such] screening measures restrictions on what can be carried on board an aircraft have been enforced to ensure the safety and security of travellers,” the spokesperson said.</p> <p dir="ltr">Even if you have a 100ml or more bottle of liquid that is only half filled, it will still be thrown away by security.</p> <p dir="ltr">The only exceptions to this rule are some baby products and medications, but these must be presented to security officials along with a doctor's letter. </p> <p dir="ltr">While these rules are non-negotiable for international flights, domestic flights around Australia don’t have the same level of restriction. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p>

International Travel

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Should I still go on holiday if I have COVID?

<p>Your flights are booked, your bags are packed, and in your mind you’re already sunning yourself by the beach with a cocktail.</p> <p>With summer in full swing in the northern hemisphere, and most <a href="https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus?gclid=CjwKCAjw_ISWBhBkEiwAdqxb9u_dVdg0T_EbAlN8bWRd2HBUnc0oogiIZwtoZBjIZgzx2W30V6WgZBoCHE8QAvD_BwE">COVID-related restrictions</a> behind us, travel is back on the agenda for many people. But at the same time, <a href="https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/healthandsocialcare/conditionsanddiseases/articles/coronaviruscovid19/latestinsights">COVID cases</a> in the UK are rising.</p> <p>So what if you’re unlucky enough to catch COVID just before your long-awaited getaway? Given most countries have stopped requiring negative tests to enter, can you just go anyway?</p> <p>“Obviously not – you don’t want to go and infect another country”, my 13-year-old responded when I asked him this question. But is the answer as obvious as my teenage son seems to think?</p> <p>The first thing to note is that other countries may still have COVID restrictions in place, so entry might be restricted altogether, or you may be prevented from travelling with COVID due to <a href="https://theconversation.com/are-covid-19-vaccine-passports-fair-163838">testing, vaccination or quarantine rules</a>. You can check the requirements in different countries using <a href="https://apply.joinsherpa.com/map?affiliateId=sherpa&amp;language=en-US">this map</a>.</p> <p>But assuming you’ve checked the rules for the country you’re visiting, and you’re legally allowed to travel even with COVID, what should you do? This is clearly an ethical question, and what seems like an obvious answer to one person might not be so obvious to others.</p> <p>First, let’s look at the facts. The combination of vaccination and effective treatments for severe COVID has changed the situation compared with 2020 or 2021. The ratio of deaths to infections <a href="https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/healthandsocialcare/conditionsanddiseases/articles/coronaviruscovid19latestinsights/deaths">continues to become more favourable</a>, and while the potential for a new, more harmful variant is an ongoing concern, the risks from COVID are becoming increasingly similar to risks faced from many other infectious diseases.</p> <p>Given this, and the fact that it’s becoming harder to find a COVID test (or certainly a free one), it may be more pertinent to consider the question in relation to infectious diseases more generally. </p> <h2>Weighing up the risks</h2> <p>If you’re planning to travel while knowingly ill, there would seem to be risks both to you and others. For instance, people generally don’t like the idea of being sick far from home, and buy travel insurance in the hope it will ensure they’re cared for should they become unwell (or get worse) while abroad. But while taking out insurance shows one level of concern for health risks, these concerns are by definition quite self-centred.</p> <p>Considering risks to other people, travelling with an infectious disease clearly carries the potential of passing the disease on to others. With all diseases, certain sections of the population will be more vulnerable. So where a virus like COVID might result in only mild cold-like symptoms for you, it could be fatal for someone else.</p> <p>But working out who may be vulnerable so that you can then avoid them if you’re sick is very difficult. There are also plenty of people who care for vulnerable people, and could easily pass an infection on. Being careful and wearing a mask <a href="https://theconversation.com/does-your-face-mask-protect-you-or-other-people-142612">will help to a certain extent</a>, but the obvious solution for protecting vulnerable people and their carers is to avoid mixing in large groups altogether.</p> <p>A second health risk is the possibility of being the cause of a new, geographically distinct outbreak. This is especially worth considering in countries with less developed healthcare systems or poorer availability of vaccines. A mild variant of a disease like COVID in the UK (which has a high vaccination rate) may well be significantly more lethal in a country where a lower proportion of the population is vaccinated.</p> <p>A final thing to consider is that no one has a “right” to go on holiday. Broadly speaking, “rights” are socially or legally determined, and while certainly many of us are very tired of COVID and the restrictions we’ve had to endure over the past couple of years, it’s difficult to argue that this frustration means we have a “right” to travel. Just because something is legal does not mean it is a right.</p> <h2>Changing attitudes</h2> <p>It’s interesting to note that the experience of the last couple of years – the first true pandemic in most people’s lifetime – has changed general attitudes towards infection and health risks, so that behaviour that was socially acceptable before COVID is now no longer considered appropriate.</p> <p>In particular, the pandemic has increased the <a href="https://theconversation.com/coronavirus-wearing-a-cloth-face-mask-is-less-about-science-and-more-about-solidarity-138461">public’s awareness</a> of infection control. While previously many people would have perhaps drawn a moral distinction between passing on clearly severe infectious diseases like tuberculosis or Ebola, they were often more relaxed about spreading milder diseases like influenza or the common cold. The experience of COVID has changed this as more people have <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-76763-2">come to realise</a> infections that are mild in most people can be highly risky for some.</p> <p>So should you go on holiday if you have COVID? I would argue that the answer to this question is similar to considering what you should do more generally if you have COVID at home, or indeed any other infection: stay away from others and <a href="https://theconversation.com/caught-covid-heres-what-you-should-and-shouldnt-do-when-self-isolation-isnt-mandatory-179441">treat the illness with respect</a>.</p> <p>Maybe you can achieve this if your holiday involves driving on your own, or with a small number of people you’ve previously had close contact with. Perhaps you (or your group) may also be able to stay away from others until you have recovered. But if your intention is to fly, stay in a hotel, or visit tourist hot spots, I refer you to the comment from my 13-year-old son: “Obviously not – you don’t want to go and infect another country”.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/should-i-still-go-on-holiday-if-i-have-covid-186185" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. </em></p>

Travel Tips

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Time to remove vaccine mandates? Not so fast – it could have unintended consequences

<p>Several Australian states have used mandates to drive up COVID vaccination rates. Governments justified the mandates on the basis of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=479962466825937&set=pb.100044365632393.-2207520000..&type=3">preventing the spread of disease</a> and <a href="https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/93754">protecting the vulnerable</a>.</p> <p>Now many states are rolling back these mandates, with Queensland <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-04-05/qld-coronavirus-covid19-vaccination-mandate-eased-april-14/100958850">removing the requirement to show you’re vaccinated</a> before entering cafes, pubs, galleries and other public spaces from tomorrow.</p> <p>It would be nice to think that when mandates have served their purpose, they can be removed. In practice, removing mandates may affect public attitudes about the importance of vaccination and the likelihood of getting boosters.</p> <p><strong>Remind me, what were the mandates?</strong></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/vaccine-passports-are-coming-to-australia-how-will-they-work-and-what-will-you-need-them-for-167531">Public space mandates</a> involve governments mandating that venues (such as restaurants, libraries and sporting venues) check individuals’ vaccination status and <a href="https://theconversation.com/is-it-time-to-rethink-vaccine-mandates-for-dining-fitness-and-events-we-asked-5-experts-176356">exclude the unvaccinated</a>. This is facilitated by <a href="https://theconversation.com/could-a-france-style-vaccine-mandate-for-public-spaces-work-in-australia-legally-yes-but-its-complicated-165814">vaccine passports and certificates</a>.</p> <p><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0264410X21015309?via%3Dihub">Government employment mandates</a> involve governments requiring workers in specific industries to be vaccinated. Businesses and organisations may also implement their own policies requiring the vaccination of their staff, their clients, or both.</p> <p>Most states and territories embraced public space mandates and all have required vaccination of aged and health-care workers.</p> <p>But many are on their way out. NSW eased its requirements last year. South Australia has recently revoked mandates for police, teachers and transport workers. Queensland’s new policy is noted above.</p> <p>Victoria, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory are sitting with their existing requirements for now.</p> <p><strong>What could happen next?</strong></p> <p>It’s unclear what impact removing vaccine mandates will have in Australia. However, we can learn from other public health measures and COVID vaccine mandates implemented overseas.</p> <p>Seat-belt laws converted a government requirement into a widespread social norm. Car manufacturers reinforced the norm with vehicles that beep at us when we don’t comply.</p> <p>But just because something has become habitual doesn’t mean we can lose the law. If governments removed the seat-belt law now and expected us to comply because we are informed, educated, and socialised, some people would still conclude that seat belts are no longer important. Removal of a requirement can send a bad message.</p> <p>The Italian government learned this when the region of Veneto suspended childhood vaccine mandates for four childhood vaccines in 2007. Officials thought the region’s wealthy and educated population would continue to vaccinate their children if the regional government provided strong education and messaging.</p> <p>They were <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s11077-021-09427-1">wrong</a>. Their strategy worked until there was a national vaccine scare in 2012. Vaccination rates in Veneto plummeted faster than anywhere else in the country.</p> <p>Eventually, the national government <a href="https://research-repository.uwa.edu.au/en/publications/recent-vaccine-mandates-in-the-united-states-europe-and-australia">mandated more vaccines</a> for the whole country.</p> <p>Other countries have already experimented with introducing, removing, and sometimes re-introducing mandates. Some, such as <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/article/PIIS2213-2600(22)00063-7/fulltext">Austria</a> and the <a href="https://www.instituteforgovernment.org.uk/explainers/vaccine-mandates">United Kingdom</a>, have flip-flopped, providing little opportunity to study the impact of their mandates’ introduction or removal.</p> <p>Israel, which vaccinated its population promptly with Pfizer to the envy of the world, used a “public space” mandate (with an opt-out of a negative COVID test). The mandate has been <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8582817/">switched on and off</a> depending on the disease situation at the time.</p> <p>Unfortunately, Israelis’ uptake of subsequent doses has <a href="https://datadashboard.health.gov.il/COVID-19/general">dropped over time</a>, but its government still <a href="https://www.news.com.au/world/coronavirus/global/israel-rolls-back-green-pass-as-prime-minister-declares-the-covid-wave-is-breaking/news-story/b6f9ce495359166126b16c477af062b3">ended the mandate</a> in February.</p> <p>Mandates are also not without <a href="https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2021/215/11/policy-considerations-mandatory-covid-19-vaccination-collaboration-social">risks and costs</a>. They can provoke reactance, making those who are reluctant to vaccinate more determined not to do so. They may also prompt activism against vaccines and mandates.</p> <p><strong>High vaccination rates help contain COVID</strong></p> <p>One of the biggest challenges is nobody knows what the next phase of COVID will look like. Neither infection nor the current vaccines provide long-lasting immunity. We don’t know whether the next strain will continue the trajectory towards less serious symptoms started by Omicron (and helped by high vaccination rates).</p> <p>Whether we continue to be able to stay on top of COVID and whether the disease continues to remain less severe in most people infected will depend on maintaining high vaccination coverage rates.</p> <p>Governments across the nation and the world have struggled to get third doses into populations at the same level and with the same enthusiasm people showed towards the first two.</p> <p>Uptake in paediatric populations is also lagging in Australia – and there are no mandates.</p> <p>Now adults are being asked to prepare for and accept our fourth doses.</p> <p><strong>Leading the way</strong></p> <p>Western Australia has one of the highest rates of uptake in the country, with 76.7% of people aged over 16 <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=533610064794510&set=a.263657845123068">triple dosed</a>. This compares with the <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2022/04/covid-19-vaccine-rollout-update-8-april-2022.pdf">national average</a> of 52.3%.</p> <p>It’s no coincidence the state’s employment mandates, which cover 75% of the workforce, require workers have their third dose within a month of becoming eligible.</p> <p>The WA mandate did not contain three doses to begin with, but it was very easy for the government to build it in.</p> <p>Faced with rolling back the mandate or keeping it operational for the fourth dose, the government will have to grapple with whether the population continues to support these measures – and there are definitely people who reluctantly accepted two doses and are not prepared to keep having more.</p> <p>WA’s public space mandate only covers two doses for now.</p> <p>WA’s COVID vaccination experience has shown that mandates, including for third doses, drive high levels of uptake, and are <a href="https://www.ijhpm.com/article_4210.html">easy for governments to implement</a>.</p> <p>However, much of the rest of Australia is moving in an opposite direction to WA in removing its mandates.</p> <p>As we live through the continued natural experiment of living with COVID – and not allowing it to defeat us – we now move into a new phase of making sense of what to do with the policy instruments governments used.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/180781/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/katie-attwell-94905" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Katie Attwell</a>, Associate professor, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-western-australia-1067" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The University of Western Australia</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/time-to-remove-vaccine-mandates-not-so-fast-it-could-have-unintended-consequences-180781" target="_blank" rel="noopener">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Review: Block out the world with these Bose headphones

<p dir="ltr">Whether you’re trying to concentrate on work or enjoy some peace and quiet on a noisy train, a pair of noise-cancelling headphones can be a lifesaver.</p> <p dir="ltr">With a host of options to choose from nowadays, it really comes down to your budget and how customisable a sound you’re looking for.</p> <p dir="ltr">Coming in at about $499 RRP, the Bose QC45 are a little on the pricier side - beating Apple's $899 Max Pods and several Sennheiser models, while being beaten by the ranges from Sony and Beats.</p> <p dir="ltr">But price isn’t everything, and it’s noise-cancelling technology, sound quality, and comfort factor all make it feel like an investment that will last you a good long while.</p> <p dir="ltr">After spending a week trialling the headphones, both while working at home and commuting on peak-hour trains, here are my thoughts on how they stack up.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Easy to use, with or without the companion app</strong></p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-a6ad9a57-7fff-20bf-36f0-54fec8697658"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">The QC45 headphones come in a sleek, lightweight travel case with a charging cable and 3.5mm audio jack, as well as a companion Bose app which is free to download.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/03/bose-inside.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The headphones pack away compactly into a hardy travel case. Image: Author</em></p> <p dir="ltr">The app makes pairing your devices a simple task (though I found connecting to my laptop worked just as well without it), all while giving you the option to name your headphones and adjust the bass, treble and other audio settings to your liking. </p> <p dir="ltr">If using an app or fiddling with audio settings doesn’t appeal, connecting via Bluetooth or the audio jack is just as simple and the sound is great with its default settings (which I’ll touch on further).</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-9ce87481-7fff-3b9e-2081-d32ea9c113ae"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">The headphones also come with controls on the ear cups which are quite handy. The singular button on the left cup allows you to toggle between Active and Quiet mode, while you can adjust the volume, and pause, play and skip music using three standard buttons on the right cup.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/03/headphones1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The headphones are comfy and sound great - what more could you ask for? Image: Matt O’Rourke</em></p> <p dir="ltr">With the ability to connect to multiple devices, swapping between them is incredibly easy - and the app can help with that too. It also helps that every time you switch them on, the headphones tell you which devices they are currently connected to and how much battery life is left.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Battery life is good, but more power-saving options could be better</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Speaking of the battery, Bose estimates it will last for 24 hours and that seems to ring true. After using them almost non-stop during my work hours - approximately 7-8 hours a day - as well as on my hour-long commute and relaxing for a few hours after work, I found it needed a recharge every couple of days, and that charging it overnight was sufficient.</p> <p dir="ltr">However, having the option to turn off the Active and Quiet modes to extend the battery life just that little bit more would be a nice addition.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though just a nitpick, the charging cord is a tad short, making it hard to continue using the headphones while they’re charging.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>How does it sound?</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Though some sound aficionados might not be too impressed, I loved it.</p> <p dir="ltr">Even without adjusting the sound, I found it was crisp and quite balanced.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-823b05f2-7fff-55df-e398-a33b8c978f5a"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">When I put the headphones through several headphone tests it performed well and I experienced zero buzzing or rattling during the driver quality (bass shaker) test.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/03/bose-app.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The companion app allows you to control the volume, mode, and EQ levels with ease. Image: Author</em></p> <p dir="ltr">The crisp sound is maintained when using the wired connection too, with the only difference being the absence of the hum of the noise-cancelling.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>The noise-cancelling settings</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The Quiet mode is supreme. While working from home, my partner and I sit across from each other, and I often turn to my headphones to not get distracted by the show he has running in the background.</p> <p dir="ltr">My standard headphones mostly muffle the dialogue, with moderately loud music taking up the rest of the slack in helping me focus.</p> <p dir="ltr">In comes the Bose headphones to completely change the game. Even without music, the quiet mode makes dialogue - currently from Tony Robertson’s <em>Time Team</em> - sound faint and far away and even muffles my usually clacky keyboard.</p> <p dir="ltr">But, when the complete noise cancelling is too much, the Active mode provides a nice alternative. </p> <p dir="ltr">It still blocks out noise to a certain degree but you can still hear some environmental noises, such as typing, while making it easier for someone to get your attention.</p> <p dir="ltr">However, if you’re prone to tension headaches from noise-cancelling headphones like I am, the Bose may initially do the same.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-738ed7a5-7fff-73a8-4097-800a6f4989f9"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Reassuringly, using them for extended periods of time (at least 15 minutes) saw this become less of an issue as my brain adjusted.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/03/bose-headphones.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Supplied</em></p> <p dir="ltr">In summary, here are some pros and cons to consider if you’re thinking of buying the headphones for yourself or someone else.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Pros:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Incredibly comfortable and cushiony ear cups</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Can choose between Quiet and Active mode</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Crisp clear audio</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Bluetooth and wired connection to choose from</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Can switch between devices with ease</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Relatively quick charging time and decent battery life</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Cons</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The noise-cancelling may cause headaches if you’re prone to them</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Its price ($499 RRP)</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Being able to turn off the Active and Quiet modes to conserve battery would be a nice option</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Charging cable is a bit short</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr">The Bose QC45 headphones are available from retail outlets and from the Bose <a href="https://www.bose.com.au/en_au/products/headphones/noise_cancelling_headphones/quietcomfort-headphones-45.html?mc=20_PS_45_BO_00_GO_&gclid=Cj0KCQiAhMOMBhDhARIsAPVml-EE1a4vChe4Njc4xIW7_Ij7s6o6a-4lAoyp3d4nzB0zZPaXnYCQyaUaAo4BEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds#v=qc45_black" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><em>Images: Supplied / Matt O'Rourke</em></p>

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Tenant “living in hell” with nightmare landlord’s restrictions

<p dir="ltr">A woman claims she was “living in hell” under the regime of a strict landlord just days into her tenancy. </p> <p dir="ltr">The woman, named Mel, says her landlady imposed several unreasonable restrictions two days after she moved in, which involved restricting her access to parts of the house to short windows. </p> <p dir="ltr">Mel paid $1,090 (£595) a month to live in the two-storey South London home, and said that everything started out great in her new home when she moved in.</p> <p dir="ltr">Speaking with <a href="https://www.mylondon.news/news/south-london-news/south-london-woman-living-hell-23205354">MyLondon</a>, Mel said her landlady Sheena Shepherd presented her with a set of rules for the home within the first week of her tenancy, stipulating that she would only have access to the kitchen between 9am to 11am and 12pm to 2pm as Shepherd would be running PT sessions from home. </p> <p dir="ltr">If she needed to use the kitchen outside of these hours, she needed to cross reference Shepherd's demanding schedule.</p> <p dir="ltr">The lounge room was also off limits, with access only allowed to reach the kitchen. </p> <p dir="ltr">Mel also wouldn't be able to use the front door to the property between 9am and 5:30pm and was only permitted to work from home in her bedroom.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mel also told MyLondon that she was to "only come down the stairs once a day" in order to avoid disturbing Shepherd while she worked in the lounge, and was banned from having deliveries sent to the house as the doorbell was deemed "too distracting".</p> <p dir="ltr">Elsewhere in the house, Mel claims wardrobes were full of her landlady's "personal stuff," leaving her to keep her own belongings in the loft or shed.</p> <p dir="ltr">The relationship between the two quickly deteriorated, as Shepherd told Mel over WhatsApp, "You pay for a ROOM. If you want full access to the half, pay half the bills too. When you can pay £1,000 you can have equal say! Have some respect and not be so bloody entitled."</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite only having a three-month rental contract, Shepherd continuously tried to get Mel to leave early, but to no avail. </p> <p dir="ltr">The conflict eventually culminated in Shepherd having a party in the residence, where one of her guests verbally abused Mel in the kitchen with the police being called as a result. </p> <p dir="ltr">Tired of the abuse and restrictions at the hands of her landlady, Mel left the home and moved into a hotel, which she asked Shepherd to cover the costs of. </p> <p dir="ltr">The pair are now involved in legal proceedings over what happened during Mel’s tenancy. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images / MyLondon</em></p>

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5 reasons to keep wearing your face mask

<p>Mask mandates in most indoor settings <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-02-25/covid-mask-rules-australian-states-territories/100854564" target="_blank" rel="noopener">have been dropped</a> in New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT, with Queensland to follow later this week.</p> <p>Without a mandate, <a href="https://www.ijidonline.com/article/S1201-9712(21)00274-5/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mask use tends to drop</a>, so we can expect only a minority of people to be masked in public indoor spaces.</p> <p>With thousands of cases a day and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/datablog/ng-interactive/2022/feb/21/covid-19-vaccine-rollout-australia-vaccination-rate-progress-how-many-people-vaccinated-percent-tracker-australian-states-number-total-daily-live-data-stats-updates-news-schedule-tracking-chart-percentage-new-cases-today" target="_blank" rel="noopener">just over half</a> (57%) of Australians having received a third COVID vaccine dose and children still under-vaccinated, we may see a surge in infections.</p> <p>While masks are a small inconvenience, they remain vital in preventing SARS-CoV-2, because the virus <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-pressure-is-on-for-australia-to-accept-the-coronavirus-really-can-spread-in-the-air-we-breathe-160641" target="_blank" rel="noopener">spreads</a> through the air we breathe.</p> <p>Some people will continue to wear masks to stay safe and achieve a more normal life through the pandemic. Here are five reasons to keep wearing yours.</p> <p><strong>1. Masks reduce your chance of getting COVID</strong></p> <p>Many studies <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7106e1.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">have shown</a> masks protect against COVID. While N95 respirators offer the greatest protection, even cloth masks are beneficial. N95s respirators <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7106e1.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lower the odds</a> of testing positive to COVID by 83%, compared with 66% for surgical masks and 56% for cloth masks.</p> <p>The protection when everyone wears a mask is much greater, because it <a href="https://theconversation.com/which-mask-works-best-we-filmed-people-coughing-and-sneezing-to-find-out-143173" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reduces the likelihood</a> of well people inhaling the virus and prevents infected people from exhaling the virus into the air. If everyone wears a mask, the viral load in the air is much lower.</p> <p>When we lose the protection of universal masking, it’s a good idea to wear a <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2022/02/25/1083046757/coronavirus-faq-im-a-one-way-masker-what-strategy-will-give-me-optimal-protectio" target="_blank" rel="noopener">high protection</a> N95 or P2 respirator.</p> <p><strong>2. You might not know you have COVID</strong></p> <p>Transmission of the virus without symptoms is a major driver of spread, and we cannot know who around us is infected.</p> <p>Infected people may be asymptomatic or may not know they’re infected. This is <a href="https://www.news-medical.net/news/20220103/Very-high-rates-of-asymptomatic-infection-with-Omicron-compared-to-prior-SARS-CoV-2-variants.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">especially so</a> for Omicron.</p> <p>Overall, about one in four infections are <a href="https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/11/12/e049752.long" target="_blank" rel="noopener">asymnptomatic</a>. But even people with symptomatic infection are contagious before the symptoms start.</p> <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/449353/original/file-20220301-23-73zihg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/449353/original/file-20220301-23-73zihg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/449353/original/file-20220301-23-73zihg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/449353/original/file-20220301-23-73zihg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/449353/original/file-20220301-23-73zihg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/449353/original/file-20220301-23-73zihg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/449353/original/file-20220301-23-73zihg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="Business woman wears a mask." /><figcaption><span class="caption">You might not know you’re infectious.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/virus-mask-asian-woman-travel-wearing-1629206074" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shutterstock</a></span></figcaption></figure> <p><strong>3. Wearing a mask protects others, including those at risk of severe COVID</strong></p> <p>Wearing a mask protects others, including those at greatest risk of severe COVID: people with disability, chronic illnesses and <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2022/02/covid-pandemic-immunocompromised-risk-vaccines/622094/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">suppressed immune systems</a>.</p> <p>COVID disproportionately affects <a href="https://www.sbs.com.au/language/english/covid-19-update-being-a-migrant-increases-risk-of-dying-from-covid-19-in-australia" target="_blank" rel="noopener">migrants</a> and people from lower socioeconomic groups who are more likely to work in customer-service roles. If you wear a mask, you’re protecting workers, commuters and others you interact with.</p> <p>Rates of vaccination also <a href="https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/coronavirus/aboriginal-communities-covid-vaccination" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lag</a> among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, leaving them more vulnerable to COVID in the absence of masks.</p> <p>Masks also protect children who are vulnerable to COVID, with only <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/datablog/ng-interactive/2022/feb/21/covid-19-vaccine-rollout-australia-vaccination-rate-progress-how-many-people-vaccinated-percent-tracker-australian-states-number-total-daily-live-data-stats-updates-news-schedule-tracking-chart-percentage-new-cases-today" target="_blank" rel="noopener">half of five to 11 year olds</a> partially vaccinated and under-fives not yet eligible for vaccination.</p> <p>Children who wear masks can also protect their peers. In the United States, the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/70/wr/mm7039e1.htm#T1_down" target="_blank" rel="noopener">risk of outbreaks</a> was nearly four times higher in schools without mask mandates compared to those with mandates.</p> <p>Omicron is not the flu or a cold, and has accounted for <a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/health/omicron-wave-accounts-for-more-u-s-deaths-than-delta-surge/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">17% more deaths than Delta</a> in the United States. While Omicron generally causes less severe disease than Delta, it has claimed more lives because of vastly higher case numbers.</p> <p>There is also growing evidence SARS-COV-2 <a href="https://assets.researchsquare.com/files/rs-1139035/v1_covered.pdf?c=1640020576" target="_blank" rel="noopener">persists in the body after infection</a>, which may result in long-term heart, lung and brain damage.</p> <p><strong>4. Masks protect your colleagues</strong></p> <p>Many workplaces are insisting on people returning to face-to-face work, some without providing safe indoor air – and now without mask mandates.</p> <p>The risk of COVID transmission is <a href="https://theconversation.com/time-to-upgrade-from-cloth-and-surgical-masks-to-respirators-your-questions-answered-174877" target="_blank" rel="noopener">greatest when indoors for prolonged periods without adequate airflow</a>. So sitting in an office for eight hours without a mask is a risk, especially if safe indoor air has not been addressed.</p> <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/449130/original/file-20220301-13-1tuox9w.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/449130/original/file-20220301-13-1tuox9w.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=255&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/449130/original/file-20220301-13-1tuox9w.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=255&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/449130/original/file-20220301-13-1tuox9w.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=255&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/449130/original/file-20220301-13-1tuox9w.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=321&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/449130/original/file-20220301-13-1tuox9w.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=321&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/449130/original/file-20220301-13-1tuox9w.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=321&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="Man in a mask sits at his work desk, next to his female colleagues." /><figcaption><span class="caption">Wearing a mask reduces your risk of contracting COVID from co-workers.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/panoramic-group-business-worker-team-wear-1792685398" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shutterstock</a></span></figcaption></figure> <p>At the same time as dropping many workplace mask mandates, NSW has <a href="https://www.begadistrictnews.com.au/story/7629871/nsw-virus-compo-burden-of-proof-opposed/?cs=12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">moved to remove automatic workers’ compensation</a> for people who catch COVID at work.</p> <p>This is a double disadvantage for workers returning to workplaces with fewer protections and facing greater obstacles to workers’ compensation should they get infected.</p> <p><strong>5. Others might follow your lead</strong></p> <p>Being one of the few people wearing a mask when others aren’t, such as in a supermarket, is a daunting prospect for those of us who wish to continue masking. There are <a href="https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/covid-19-convoy-protest-mask-wearing-17-year-old-egged-by-aggressive-convoy-protesters/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reports</a> of masked people being abused and bullied.</p> <p>However a NSW <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/more-comfortable-with-masks-voters-want-some-covid-restrictions-to-stay-20220225-p59zs4.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">survey showed</a> the majority of people in that state wanted mask mandates to remain. The more we normalise masks and the more we see them, the better protected the community will be.</p> <p>As much as we wish it so, the pandemic is not over and new variants will <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com.au/who-warns-of-covid-19-continuation-and-more-dangerous-variants-2022-2?r=US&amp;IR=T" target="_blank" rel="noopener">likely emerge</a>.</p> <p>A layered, multi-pronged strategy which includes vaccines, masks, ventilation, testing and tracing is the best way to protect health, the economy and a resumption of normal activities. <img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/177824/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/c-raina-macintyre-101935" target="_blank" rel="noopener">C Raina MacIntyre</a>, Professor of Global Biosecurity, NHMRC Principal Research Fellow, Head, Biosecurity Program, Kirby Institute, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/unsw-sydney-1414" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UNSW Sydney</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/covid-mask-mandates-might-be-largely-gone-but-here-are-5-reasons-to-keep-wearing-yours-177824" target="_blank" rel="noopener">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

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Wedding venue sued for millions over "destroying" couple's big day

<p>When Russell and Marjorie Newman spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on their daughter's wedding, they hoped the big day would be perfect. </p><p>However, the fairytale wedding has ended in legal action being taken over the luxurious venue, who the Newman's claim "destroyed" their daughter's day. </p><p>Marjorie and Russell's daughter Jessica married Matt Alovis at the Brooklyn Pier 1 Hotel in September 2021, in a night that left Jessica "hysterically crying". </p><p>The Newman's filed a lawsuit in the Brooklyn Supreme Court last week, after the venue failed to disclose a new "severe" noise restriction. </p><p>The lawsuit states that the newlywed's first dance was ruined when the DJ refused to turn the music up, keeping it so low during the celebration that guests could hardly hear it. </p><p>In order to continue dancing, the newlyweds and their 200 wedding guests were allegedly forced to squeeze into a 'dingy' room off-site meant for 60 people. </p><p>"It was very, very devastating," Marjorie, who is also suing their wedding planner, Real Housewives of Miami star Guerdy Abraira, told the <a href="https://nypost.com/2022/02/06/nyc-couples-dream-wedding-destroyed-by-hotels-noise-restriction-5m-suit-claims/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener">New York Post</a>.</p><p>"This was supposed to be her night to shine and it was all taken away from her."</p><p>Brooklyn Pier 1 Hotel reportedly implemented the noise restriction rule just three weeks before Jessica and Matt's wedding due to residential condos in the building, but the Newman's claim the hotel "never made them aware" of the rule. </p><p>"They never brought us in to say, 'This is what it is going to sound like or not sound like,' they never gave us the opportunity to move the venue," Russell explained. </p><p>The Newmans, who spent $150,000 on flowers alone for the wedding, are demanding $5 million from the hotel and wedding planner for the "destroyed" event caused by a "breach of contract" and the "deceptive concealment of sound restrictions" which resulted in "humiliation, indignity, distress of mind, mental suffering, inconvenience, and physical discomfort," according to the lawsuit.     </p><p>"There were countless hours spent over at least a one year planning period for what should have been a once in a lifetime special event which was single handily destroyed by the egregious actions of the defendants," the lawsuit says. </p><p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

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Jacinda Ardern announces plan to reopen New Zealand

<p>After months of being closed to locals stranded overseas, New Zealand is planning to reopen its borders. </p><p>Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern annouced the plan for New Zealand citizens to return home in a speech on Thursday, and detailed a new scheme to reconnect the country to the rest of the world. </p><p>New Zealanders who have been stranded in Australia will be able to return home form February 27th, while citizens suck in other parts of the world will have to wait until March 13th.</p><p>The country still boasts strict border policies, with residents located across the world have been forced to enter a lottery system to gain a place in New Zealand's hotel quarantine system. </p><p>However, Ms Ardern said the stringent policies would now change. </p><p>"The tools we used yesterday to help battle this health crisis, they won't stay the same," she said. </p><p>She said there was "no question" the managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ) system "has been one of the hardest parts of the pandemic".</p><p>From the end of the month, returning New Zealanders will be allowed to isolate at home instead of facing an overcrowded hotel quarantine system. </p><p>While this new rule only applies to New Zealand citizens, it is expected Australian tourists and travellers from visa-waiver countries will be allowed in under similar conditions "no later than" July. </p><p>Visa holders, including international students and migrant workers, will be allowed in and to isolate at home from mid-April. </p><p>Non-visa holders can expect to enter New Zealand in October. </p><p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

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