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"Two of our finest men lost to the sport we love": Tragedy strikes at BSB

A devastating multi-bike crash during the opening lap of the British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park has claimed the lives of two riders and left several others injured, casting a dark shadow over the start of the 2025 racing season. The incident, described as a "catastrophic" chain-reaction crash involving 11 motorcycles, occurred at the exit of the first turn during Monday’s season-opening feature race. The race, which was being broadcast live on television and served as a support event for the top-tier Superbike Championship, was immediately red-flagged and later abandoned. British rider Owen Jenner, 21, and Shane Richardson, a 29-year-old father of two from New Zealand, were both tragically killed in the collision. Organisers confirmed Jenner succumbed to a catastrophic head injury despite emergency treatment at the track and further resuscitation at the circuit medical centre. Richardson was initially stabilised at the scene but passed away en route to Royal Stoke University Hospital from severe chest trauma. The crash also left veteran racer Tom Tunstall, 47, hospitalised with serious back and abdominal injuries. He remains under medical care. Several other riders suffered injuries in the incident, with Carl Harris, Max Morgan, Cameron Hall, Freddie Barnes, and Morgan McLaren-Wood sustaining minor harm. Lewis Jones, Corey Tinker and George Edwards escaped without injury. In an official statement, the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board (MCRCB) and MotorSport Vision Racing (MSVR) confirmed that an investigation into the full circumstances of the accident is underway in collaboration with the Coroner and Cheshire Constabulary. Richardson, who proudly raced with the New Zealand flag on his No. 28 Suzuki and finished ninth in last year’s championship, had just placed 11th in Sunday’s opening race. His passing marks another tragic blow to New Zealand motorsport, following the death of fellow Kiwi Damon Rees two years ago. Australian reigning Supersport champion Ben Currie, who narrowly avoided the crash, expressed his heartbreak: “Hard to put into words what happened today. Gutted for everyone involved. Two of our finest men lost to the sport we love. Thoughts are with all that are involved. RIP boys.” Fellow rider Freddie Barnes, writing from hospital, echoed the grief of the paddock: “My condolences go out to Owen and Shane’s family and friends. I’m absolutely devastated… ride on in paradise boys.” The emotional toll of the incident was evident as tributes poured in across the motorsport community. Racer TJ Toms wrote: “Two lads I feel absolutely privileged to call mates… My heart, love and thoughts go out to OJ’s family and to Hanna and Shane’s little family. Thank you for all our memories boys.” Joe Sheldon-Shaw added: “Had some great races with both these lads, and a lot of laughs off the track with OJ. Heartbreaking day today… The paddock won’t be the same without them.” Despite the tragedy, the Supersport Championship is set to resume in two weeks at Donington Park. As the racing world mourns, it does so with heavy hearts, united in grief and remembrance of two riders lost far too soon. Images: Facebook

Caring

Missing mum of two found after 60 years

In a stunning breakthrough to one of America's longest-running cold cases, a woman who disappeared more than 60 years ago has been found alive and well – living in another state and expressing “no regrets” for leaving her past behind. Audrey Backeberg was just 20 years old when she vanished on July 7, 1962, from her home in Reedsburg, Wisconsin, where she lived with her husband, Ronald Backeberg, and their two young children. Her sudden disappearance launched a decades-long search that ultimately went cold – until now. In a press release issued Thursday, the Sauk County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Ms Backeberg had been located alive following a renewed investigation into her case earlier this year. “Through diligent investigative work, which included a thorough re-evaluation of all case files and evidence, combined with reinterviewing witnesses and uncovering new insights, the Sheriff’s Office is now able to report that Audrey Backeberg is alive and well,” the department announced. The cold case was reassigned in March to Detective Isaac Hanson, who led the breakthrough investigation. His review included interviews with old witnesses, analysis of historical evidence, and a key lead involving a relative’s Ancestry.com profile. “That was pretty key,” Hanson told WISN, describing how the online genealogy database helped him trace public records that eventually led to a current address. Once the address was identified, Hanson contacted the local sheriff’s department in the area. “Ten minutes later, she called me,” he said. In a 45-minute phone conversation with Detective Hanson, Ms Backeberg confirmed her identity and shared that she left her family to escape what she described as an abusive and dangerous home environment. “She sounded happy. Confident in her decision. No regrets,” Hanson said. Just days before her disappearance in 1962, Ms Backeberg had filed a criminal complaint alleging that her husband had beaten her severely and threatened her life. Despite this, the couple remained in the home together, with their children. On the day she vanished, Audrey reportedly left to collect a paycheck from her job at a woollen mill – but never returned. Rumours and conflicting accounts emerged over the years, including claims from a 14-year-old babysitter who said she saw Ms Backeberg hitchhike to Madison and take a bus to Indiana. Later, the same individual, when re-interviewed as an adult, claimed Audrey may have ingested pills before departing and might have connected with local construction workers. For decades, her family believed Audrey would never willingly abandon her children. Her husband reportedly spent years chasing leads, but no trace of her was ever found – until now. While authorities have not disclosed the state where Ms Backeberg currently resides, Detective Hanson said she had been living safely and independently all these years. “She just moved on from things and led her life,” he said. Authorities have closed the case with the confirmation that Audrey Backeberg left of her own volition and was not in danger at any point during the six decades she was missing. Images: Wisconsin Police

Family & Pets

Grandmother arrested after two boys found dead

A regional New South Wales community is in mourning after the bodies of two young boys, aged six and seven, were discovered in a home in Coonabarabran on Monday afternoon. Police were called to the property at around 2:00pm following reports of welfare concerns. Upon arrival, officers from the Orana Mid-Western Police District found the children deceased inside the home. A 66-year-old woman, who is known to the children, was arrested at the scene and taken to hospital for assessment. She remains there under police guard. Authorities have confirmed they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident and say there is no ongoing threat to the public. A crime scene has been established at the residence, and an investigation is underway. Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad are assisting local police as part of Strike Force Darnum, which has been formed to probe the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Earlier police reports indicated the children were aged eight and 10, but they later confirmed the correct ages as six and seven. The deaths have sent shockwaves through the Coonabarabran community and beyond. NSW Premier Chris Minns expressed his condolences, describing the situation as "heartbreaking". “What has occurred is terrible and, as a state, we share in the community of Coonabarabran’s grief at the loss of two young boys who had their entire futures ahead of them,” Minns said in a statement. “I cannot begin to imagine the heartbreak their loved ones are currently feeling, including their family, friends, and teachers. I thank the local officers who attended the scene for their professionalism and bravery in the face of such a horrible event.” The investigation continues, with police urging the public to allow space for the family and the community to grieve. Images: 9News

Legal

Is there a best way to peel a boiled egg? A food scientist explains

<h1 class="theconversation-article-title"> </h1> <div class="theconversation-article-body"> We’ve all been there – trying to peel a boiled egg, but mangling it beyond all recognition as the hard shell stubbornly sticks to the egg white. Worse, the egg ends up covered in chewy bits of adhesive membrane in the end. The internet is littered with various “hacks” that claim to prevent this problem. But there are several reasons why eggs can be hard to peel. Luckily, that means there are also science-based strategies we can use to avoid the problem. <h2>Egg ‘peelability’ factors</h2> <a href="https://www.sites.ext.vt.edu/virtualfarm/poultry/poultry_eggparts.html">Eggs consist</a> of a hard, porous shell, an inner and outer membrane, the egg white (albumen), and a membrane-encased yolk at the centre. There is also an air cell between the inner and outer membrane next to the shell. <figure class="align-right zoomable"><figcaption></figcaption></figure> A lot of research was done in the late 1960s and 1970s on factors that affect the peelability of eggs after they’ve been boiled. One of these factors is the pH of the egg white. An <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0032579119530589">early study</a> from the 1960s indicated that the pH of the egg white needs to be in the range of 8.7–8.9, quite alkaline, in order for the egg to be easier to peel. Storage temperature has a role to play, too. A <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0032579119430861">study from 1963</a> showed that storing eggs at about 22 degrees Celsius (or 72 degrees Fahrenheit) gives a better peelability result than storage at lower temperatures of 13°C, or even fridge temperatures at 3–5°C. Of course, there is a risk of spoilage if eggs are stored at higher ambient temperatures. In the studies, an increase in storage time before boiling – using less fresh eggs – also increased the ease of peelability. <h2>Step one: avoid fresh eggs</h2> The fact that fresh eggs are harder to peel is relatively well known. Based on the factors above, there are a couple of reasons for this. For one, in a fresh egg the air cell is still quite small. As the egg ages, it (very) slowly loses moisture through the porous shell, increasing the size of the air cell while the rest of the egg contents shrink. A bigger air cell makes it easier to start the peeling action. Additionally, egg whites, although they already start out relatively alkaline, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0032579119325489">increase in pH</a> as the eggs age, also making them easier to peel. <h2>Step two: water temperature</h2> Some keen egg boiling pundits believe that <a href="https://www.taste.com.au/taste-test-kitchen/articles/you-boil-water-first-before-adding-eggs/jrp12gok">starting off with boiling water</a> and lowering it to a simmer before gently placing the eggs into it provides a better result. However, you want to do this with room temperature eggs to avoid them cracking due to a sudden temperature change. The reasoning behind this approach is that exposure to higher temperatures from the start of cooking also makes it easier for the membrane to come away from the shell and egg white. Furthermore, the quick hot start makes it easier for the egg white proteins to denature (change structure as they cook) and bond to each other, rather than to the membrane. After boiling eggs for the desired amount of time (typically 3–5 minutes for runny yolks, 6–7 minutes for jammy yolks, and 12–15 minutes for hard boiled), you can quench them in ice water. This should help the egg white to slightly shrink away from the shell, improving peelability. <h2>Step three (optional): adding things to the water</h2> Some other suggestions to improve peelability include adding salt to the boiling water, but this has mixed results. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0032579119325489">In one study</a>, this approach did actually improve peelability, but this effect was lost after eggs had been stored for longer periods. Acids and alkali have also <a href="https://patents.google.com/patent/US5053238A/en">been shown to aid eggshell peelability</a> or removal. The patent that describes this used rather harsh substances with the goal to dissolve away the shell. But based on this idea, you could try adding baking soda or vinegar to the water. With vinegar, the theory is that it attacks the calcium carbonate in the eggshell to then aid its removal. As for baking soda, because it’s alkaline, it could help detach the membrane from the shell. <h2>Bonus: alternative cooking methods</h2> There are other methods for hard-cooking eggs, such as <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1745-4549.1977.tb00317.x">pressure steaming</a>, air-frying and even microwaving. In steaming eggs, some proponents theorise that water vapour permeates the eggshell, loosening the membrane from the egg white, and thereby making the egg much easier to peel. While studies have recently been done on the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772275924000200#tbl0001">air-frying of other foods</a>, there is still scope to further understand how this style of cooking might affect eggshells and peelability. Lastly, once you have successfully separated the eggshells, don’t just throw them in the bin. There are lots of different uses for them, including compost, slug and snail deterrent in your garden, using them as little biodegradable pots for seedlings, or even something as advanced as <a href="https://www.unisq.edu.au/news/2024/10/egg-research">scaffolds for cancer research</a>.<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/235895/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/paulomi-polly-burey-404695">Paulomi (Polly) Burey</a>, Professor in Food Science, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-southern-queensland-1069">University of Southern Queensland</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/is-there-a-best-way-to-peel-a-boiled-egg-a-food-scientist-explains-235895">original article</a>. Image: Shutterstock </div>

Food & Wine

Aussie bank says good news on the way for homeowners

Bendigo Bank is forecasting four interest rate cuts from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), including one later this month, following the release of key inflation figures that show underlying inflation has returned to the central bank’s target range for the first time in over three years. According to Bendigo Bank’s chief economist David Robertson, the RBA is expected to pivot from its primary focus on inflation to broader economic concerns such as employment and growth. “The RBA has been dealing with global inflation shock for three years, but its concerns are quickly moving from price stability and inflation to protecting growth and jobs,” Robertson said. The RBA's preferred measure of underlying inflation, the trimmed mean, fell from 3.3% to 2.9%, marking a return to the target range of 2–3% for the first time since December 2021. Headline inflation held steady at 2.4%. Robertson said the new inflation data sets the stage for a rate cut on May 20, with the only remaining uncertainty being the size of the cut. “The next cut is almost certain for May 20, but of what magnitude?” he said, suggesting a 35 basis point reduction was more likely than a larger move. “A larger 50 basis point cut in May is most unlikely unless markets become dislocated like in the GFC.” Bendigo Bank is forecasting a total of four rate cuts, including the expected May move, bringing the cash rate down to approximately 3.1% by the end of the year. Market analysts are even more aggressive, pricing in five cuts that could take the rate to around 2.8%. Despite the improved inflation outlook, global economic headwinds remain a significant concern. Robertson pointed to ongoing market volatility driven by US President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs and uncertainty surrounding global trade flows. “Equity markets have been clawing back some of their losses but there are still difficult times ahead,” he said. “Tariffs are generally bad for everyone but especially problematic for the country imposing them.” The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised global growth projections in light of the economic tensions, cutting its forecast for US GDP growth from 2.7% to 1.8% and China’s from 4.6% to 4%. Australia, too, has felt the impact, with the IMF reducing its 2025 growth estimate from 2.1% to 1.6%. Bendigo Bank has adjusted its own forecast accordingly, downgrading Australia’s expected growth to 2%. With inflation easing and global pressures mounting, the RBA appears poised to shift gears from restraint to support. “The environment is changing quickly,” said Robertson. “It’s time for the RBA to support the broader economy again.” Image: Bendigo Bank

Money & Banking

A simple, science-backed way to sharpen thinking and improve memory – and it's not what you think

<div class="theconversation-article-body">Many of us turn to Sudoku, Wordle or brain-training apps to sharpen our minds. But research is increasingly showing one of the best ways to boost memory, focus and brain health is exercise. Our <a href="https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/early/2025/03/06/bjsports-2024-108589">new research</a> reviewed data from more than 250,000 participants across 2,700 studies. We found exercise helps boost brain function – whether it’s walking, cycling, yoga, dancing, or even playing active video games such as Pokémon GO. Moving your body improves how we think, make decisions, remember things and stay focused – no matter your age. <h2>What the science says</h2> Our review adds to a growing body of research that shows regular physical activity <a href="https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/early/2025/03/06/bjsports-2024-108589">improves</a> three key areas of brain function: <ul> <li> cognition, which is your overall ability to think clearly, learn and make decisions </li> <li> memory, especially short-term memory and the ability to remember personal experiences </li> <li> executive function, which includes focus, planning, problem-solving and managing emotions. </li> </ul> We conducted an umbrella review, which means we looked at the results of more than 130 high-quality research reviews that had already combined findings from many exercise studies. These studies usually involved people starting a new, structured exercise program, not just tracking the exercise they were already doing. To assess the effects on cognition, memory and executive function, the original studies used a range of brain function tests. These included things like remembering word lists, solving puzzles, or quickly switching between tasks – simple activities designed to reliably measure how well the brain is working. The improvements were small to moderate. On average, exercise led to a noticeable boost in cognition, with slightly smaller but still meaningful gains in memory and executive function. The benefits showed up across all age groups, though children and teens saw major gains in memory. People with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) showed greater improvements in executive function after physical activity than other population groups. The brain started responding fairly quickly – many people experienced improvements after just 12 weeks of starting regular exercise. Generally, the greatest benefits were seen in those doing at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week, aiming for a total of about 150 minutes per week. <h2>What’s happening in the brain?</h2> Activities such as walking or cycling can <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/abs/10.1073/pnas.1015950108">increase the size of the hippocampus</a>, the part of the brain responsible for memory and learning. In <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1015950108">one study</a>, older adults who did aerobic exercise for a year grew their hippocampus by 2%, effectively reversing one to two years of age-related brain shrinkage. More intense workouts, such as running or high-intensity interval training, can further <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1155/2017/8305287">boost neuroplasticity</a> – the brain’s ability to adapt and rewire itself. This helps you learn more quickly, think more clearly and stay mentally sharp with age. <h2>Another reason to get moving</h2> The world’s population is ageing. By 2030, <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ageing-and-health">one in six of people will be aged over 60</a>. With that comes a rising risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline. At the same time, many adults aren’t moving enough. One in three adults <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/physical-activity">aren’t meeting the recommended levels</a> of physical activity. Adults <a href="https://www.who.int/initiatives/behealthy/physical-activity">should aim for</a> at least 150 of moderate exercise – such as brisk walking – each week, or at least 75 minutes of more vigorous activity, like running. It’s also important to incorporate muscle-strengthening exercises, such as lifting weights, into workouts at least twice a week. <h2>Everyday movement counts</h2> You don’t need to run marathons or lift heavy weights to benefit. Our study showed lower-intensity activities such as yoga, tai chi and “exergames” (active video games) can be just as effective – sometimes even more so. These activities engage both the brain and body. Tai chi, for instance, requires focus, coordination and memorising sequences. Exergames often include real-time decision-making and rapid response to cues. This trains attention and memory. Importantly, these forms of movement are inclusive. They can be done at home, outdoors, or with friends, making them a great option for people of all fitness levels or those with limited mobility. Although you may already be doing a lot through daily life – like walking instead of driving or carrying shopping bags home – it’s still important to find time for structured exercise, such as lifting weights at the gym or doing a regular yoga class, to get the full benefits for your brain and body. <h2>Real-life applications</h2> If you’re a grandparent, consider playing Wii Sports virtual tennis or bowling with your grandchild. If you’re a teenager with signs of ADHD, try a dance class, and see if it impacts your concentration in class. If you’re a busy parent, you might be more clear-headed if you can squeeze a 20-minute yoga video session between meetings. In each of these cases, you’re not just being active, you’re giving your brain a valuable tune-up. And unlike most brain-training apps or supplements, exercise delivers far reaching benefits, including improved <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1389945721002914?casa_token=pXaOJcQJ7d0AAAAA:0i4BjaxqJ21AQ2bGXI4DfQ6twKNybrg7c2f0_Xs7t-hWyDOH0SuKGTfruy-JlC_rMokUM3iWdlSQ">sleep</a> and <a href="https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/57/18/1203">mental health</a>. Workplaces and schools are starting to take note. <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/smi.2654">Short movement breaks</a> are being introduced during the workday to improve employee focus. Schools that incorporate <a href="https://ijbnpa.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12966-017-0569-9">physical activity</a> into the classroom are seeing improvements in students’ attention and academic performance. Exercise is one of the most powerful and accessible tools we have for supporting brain health. Best of all, it’s free, widely available and it’s never too late to start.<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/253751/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ben-singh-1297213">Ben Singh</a>, Research Fellow, Allied Health & Human Performance, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ashleigh-e-smith-201327">Ashleigh E. Smith</a>, Associate Professor, Healthy Ageing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/heres-a-simple-science-backed-way-to-sharpen-your-thinking-and-improve-your-memory-253751">original article</a>. Image: Shutterstock </div>

Mind

Major breakthrough over mother of three missing for two months

Authorities have located a ute believed to belong to Tayla Spies, a Queensland mother of three who vanished more than two months ago. Spies, 29, was last seen on CCTV footage at a service station in Condamine on Sunday, February 2. She had spent the weekend with her partner in Dalby but failed to return home to Roma. Since her disappearance, she has not contacted any family or friends, heightening concerns for her safety. Police confirmed on Frida morning that they discovered Spies’ white Toyota Hilux in Noorindoo, approximately 40km north-east of Surat. Officers were alerted to the vehicle’s presence on a property along Yuleba-Sarat Road at about 3pm. A search of the vehicle revealed some of Spies’ belongings inside, though authorities have not disclosed specific details about the items found. Before its recovery, the ute was last seen on CCTV traveling down Surat’s main street at 11:10am on the day she went missing. This sighting remains a crucial piece of evidence in the ongoing investigation. Authorities have since resumed extensive searches in the area in hopes of finding further clues about her whereabouts. Spies is described as Caucasian, approximately 170cm tall, with a slim build, brown shoulder-length hair, and blue eyes. She has the word "KARMA" tattooed across her chest. Her family and friends continue to plead for any information that might help locate her. Police and local search teams have been scouring the surrounding area, using drones, tracking dogs, and ground search crews to cover as much terrain as possible. Despite these efforts, there have been no confirmed sightings of Spies since she was last seen on CCTV in Condamine. Authorities urge anyone with information regarding her disappearance to come forward. Whether it be a small detail or a major lead, investigators are keen to speak with anyone who may have seen Spies or her vehicle. Those with information are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers or their nearest police station immediately. Images: Queensland Police

Legal

Despite some key milestones since 2000, Australia still has a long way to go on gender equality

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> Australia has a gender problem. Despite social, economic and political reform aimed at improving opportunities for women, gender gaps are increasing and Australia is falling behind other countries. The World Economic Forum currently places Australia 24th among 146 countries, down from 15th in 2006. At the current rate of change, the forum suggests it will take <a href="https://www.weforum.org/publications/global-gender-gap-report-2024/">more than 130 years</a> to achieve gender equality globally. Australia has taken important steps forward in some areas, while progress in other areas remains painfully slow. So how far have we come since 2000, and how much further do we have to go? <h2>The good stuff</h2> There are now more women in <a href="https://www.aigroup.com.au/resourcecentre/research-economics/factsheets/factsheet-gender-and-the-australian-labour-market/#:%7E:text=Female%20labour%20market%20participation%20was,gender%20participation%20gap%20of%208%25.">the labour market</a>, in <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/measuring-what-matters/measuring-what-matters-themes-and-indicators/cohesive/representation-parliament">parliament</a>, and leading <a href="https://www.forbes.com.au/lists/people/women-of-the-asx/">large companies</a> than at any other time. Over the past 25 years, there have been major social and political milestones that indicate progress. These include the appointment of Australia’s first female governor-general in 2008 and prime minister in 2010, the introduction of universal paid parental leave in 2011, a high-profile inquiry into workplace sexual harassment in 2020, and new legislation requiring the public reporting of gender pay gaps in 2023. <h2>Timeline of equality milestones</h2> <ul id="timelineList"> <li> <h2>2000</h2> Child Care Benefit introduced, subsidising cost of children for eligible families </li> <li> <h2>2008</h2> First female Governor-General (Dame Quentin Bryce) </li> <li> <h2>2010</h2> First female Prime Minister elected (Julia Gillard) First Aboriginal woman from Australia elected to UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (Megan Davis) Australia’s first national paid parental leave scheme </li> <li> <h2>2012</h2> Julia Gillard misogyny speech Workplace Gender Equality Act becomes law, Workplace Gender Equality Agency established </li> <li> <h2>2013</h2> Dad or Partner Pay Leave commenced </li> <li> <h2>2016</h2> First Indigenous woman elected to House of Representatives (Linda Burney) </li> <li> <h2>2017</h2> Launch of Women’s Australian Football League #metoo movement spreads globally to draw attention to sexual harassment and assault </li> <li> <h2>2020</h2> Respect@Work National Inquiry into sexual harassment in the Australian workplace chaired by Kate Jenkins released. </li> <li> <h2>2021</h2> Grace Tame named Australian of the Year for her advocacy in sexual violence/harassment campaigns Independent review into Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces launched </li> <li> <h2>2022</h2> National plan to end violence against women is finalised </li> <li> <h2>2023</h2> Closing the Gender Pay Gap Bill passes parliament </li> <li> <h2>2024</h2> Superannuation on government-funded paid parental leave from July 1, 2025 Parental leave to be increased to 26 weeks from July 2026. </li> </ul> There are, however, other areas where progress is agonisingly slow. <h2>Violence and financial insecurity</h2> Women are <a href="https://www.wgea.gov.au/newsroom/wgea-bcec-gender-equity-insights-2024-report">more likely</a> to be in casual and part-time employment than men. This is part of the reason women retire with <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-02-21/carer-credits-proposal-aims-to-reduce-superannuation-gap/10826246">about half</a> the superannuation savings of men. This is also linked to financial insecurity later in life. Older women are among the <a href="https://humanrights.gov.au/our-work/age-discrimination/projects/risk-homelessness-older-women">fastest-growing groups</a> of people experiencing homelessness. The situation for First Nations women is even more severe. The <a href="https://www.niaa.gov.au/news-and-media/closing-gap-report-released">most recent</a> Closing the Gap report indicates First Nations women and children are 33 times more likely to be hospitalised due to violence compared with non-Indigenous women. They are also <a href="https://theconversation.com/indigenous-women-are-dying-violent-preventable-deaths-endless-inquiries-wont-help-unless-we-act-244815">seven times more likely</a> to die from family violence. Improving outcomes for Indigenous women and children requires tackling the long-term effects of colonisation, removal from Country, the Stolen Generations, incarceration and intergenerational trauma. This means challenging not only gender inequality but also racism, discrimination and violence. At work, <a href="https://www.wgea.gov.au/publications/employer-gender-pay-gaps-report">the latest data</a> from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency suggests the gender pay gap is narrowing, with 56% of organisations reporting improvements. On average, though, the pay gap is still substantial at 21.8% with women earning only 78 cents for every $1 earned by men. This totals an average yearly shortfall of $28,425. There are also some notable organisations where the gender pay gap has widened. <h2>The burden of unpaid work</h2> Another measure of inequality that has proved stubbornly slow to change is women’s unequal responsibilities for unpaid domestic and care work. Without real change in gender divisions of time spent on unpaid housework and care, our capacity to move towards equality in pay gaps and employment is very limited. Australian women undertake almost 70% of unpaid household labour. The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/people-and-communities/how-australians-use-their-time/latest-release">time use data</a> show that of those who participate in domestic labour, women spend an average of 4.13 hours per day on unpaid domestic and care work, compared with men’s 2.14 hours. This gap equates to more than a third of a full-time job. If we add up all work (domestic, care and paid), mothers have the longest working week by about 10 hours. This has changed very little over time. These charts, based on analyses of data from the Households, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) study, show what drives this gap. Women respond to increased demand for care and domestic work by doing more, while men do not. Parenthood significantly increases the time women spend on unpaid care and housework, while also reducing their time in employment. <hr /> <iframe id="115GU" class="tc-infographic-datawrapper" style="border: 0;" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/115GU/" width="100%" height="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe> <hr /> Men increase their time in unpaid care after a birth, but the jump is minor compared with women, and there is no change to men’s employment hours. Not surprisingly given these patterns, parenthood is associated with substantial declines in women’s <a href="https://aifs.gov.au/research/research-reports/employment-patterns-and-trends-families-children">employment hours</a>, earnings, <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-328X/14/4/275">career progression</a>, and <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jomf.12531">mental health and wellbeing</a>. <h2>The way forward</h2> Current policy priorities primarily incentivise women to remain in employment, while continuing to undertake a disproportionate share of unpaid family work, through moving to part-time employment or making use of other forms of workplace flexibility. This approach focuses on “fixing” women rather than on the <a href="https://www.annualreviews.org/content/journals/10.1146/annurev-psych-032620-030938">structural roots of the problem</a>. There is limited financial or cultural encouragement for men to step out of employment for care work, or reduce their hours, despite the introduction of a two-week Dad and Partner Pay scheme <a href="https://www.wgea.gov.au/parental-leave">in 2013</a> and more recent changes to expand support and access. Fathers who wish to be more actively involved in care and family life face significant financial barriers, with current schemes only covering a basic wage. If one member of the family has to take time out or reduce their hours, it usually makes financial sense for this to be a woman, given the gender earning gap. The benefits of enabling men to share care work will not only be improvements for women, but will also improve family relationships and outcomes for children. <a href="https://theconversation.com/roses-are-red-violets-are-blue-ill-stay-forever-if-you-scrub-out-the-loo-72793">Research shows</a> relationship conflict declines when men do more at home. Time spent with fathers has been found to be especially beneficial for children’s <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2018-48232-001">cognitive development</a>. Fixing the gender problem is not just about helping women. It’s good for everyone. Gender inequality costs the Australian economy <a href="https://womensagenda.com.au/business/the-us225-billion-a-year-australia-could-benefit-from-with-a-focus-on-women/">$225 billion annually</a>, or 12% of gross domestic product. Globally, the World Bank <a href="https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/fd676a12-7ee4-5c6a-ab2b-83365ed25bf1/content">estimates</a> gender inequality costs US$160.2 trillion. We can’t afford to slip further behind or to take more than a century to fix the problem. <hr /> This piece is part of a series on how Australia has changed since the year 2000. You can read other pieces in the series <a href="https://theconversation.com/au/topics/first-quarter-of-the-century-series-172070">here</a>.<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/250250/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/janeen-baxter-611570">Janeen Baxter</a>, Director, ARC Life Course Centre and ARC Kathleen Fitzpatrick Laureate Fellow, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/despite-some-key-milestones-since-2000-australia-still-has-a-long-way-to-go-on-gender-equality-250250">original article</a>. Image: </div>

Legal

Grandparents arrested two years after toddler's disappearance

In a dramatic development nearly two years after the disappearance of two-year-old Émile Soleil, French prosecutors have arrested the child's grandparents on suspicion of murder. Émile vanished in July 2023 from the garden of his grandparents' home in Le Haut-Vernet, a small hamlet in the French Alps. His remains were discovered nine months later by a hiker near the village. According to a statement from the Aix-en-Provence public prosecutor, Émile's grandfather, Philippe Vedovini, and his wife, whose name was not disclosed, were taken into custody in La Bouilladisse. They face charges of "voluntary homicide" and "concealing a corpse". Two of their adult children have also been detained as part of the investigation. The disappearance of Émile captivated the nation, as extensive searches and rescue operations yielded no trace of the toddler. His parents, who were not present at the time, had publicly expressed hope for a miracle even months after he went missing. The case drew significant media attention, particularly focusing on Émile's grandfather. Reports from CNN affiliate BFMTV revealed that Vedovini had been questioned by police in the 1990s over allegations of violence and sexual assault at a private school, though investigators had previously not established a direct link between him and Émile's death. Earlier this month, forensic teams returned to Le Vernet, conducting thorough searches in multiple locations. The prosecutor confirmed that investigative operations remain active, with further developments anticipated as authorities continue their probe into the tragic case. As the investigation unfolds, the arrests mark a major breakthrough in one of France's most unsettling child disappearance cases, shedding new light on what may have led to Émile's untimely death. Images: Gendarmerie Nationale

Caring

"It's not our way": Young Indigenous woman speaks out against Acknowledgment of Country

A young Indigenous woman has sparked controversy by criticising the Acknowledgement of Country, claiming the practice is 'made up' and not representative of Indigenous Australian culture. Kiescha Haines Jamieson was asked on social media whether the formal observation is an 'actual traditional practice' or a 'modern white saviour thing'. 'It is a made up protocol by Reconciliation Australia,' she claimed. 'It's not culture. It's not our way.' The Acknowledgement of Country is a relatively recent practice, emerging in the 1990s during what the Keating Government called 'the Reconciliation Decade'. It was formalised as part of efforts to improve Indigenous-state relations, with former Labor senator and Yawuru man Pat Dodson playing a key role in its establishment. 'The work of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation encouraged strangers to recognise country, then, as people got stronger, the welcome developed,' Dodson explained. The practice is distinct from a Welcome to Country, which is a ceremony performed by a traditional owner to formally welcome visitors to their land. Acknowledgement of Country, by contrast, is often delivered by non-Indigenous people or organisations to recognise traditional owners. Ms Jamieson argued that the practice has now been 'institutionalised to make people think that it is our culture'. Her comments resonated with some social media users, who agreed that the protocol was 'made up'. 'Finally someone with the guts to tell the truth,' one user wrote. However, others pushed back, arguing that acknowledging country has deep cultural significance for some Indigenous groups. 'It's a traditional thing for our mob, but not as grand as it's shown on TV,' one commenter noted. 'It's not really a welcome, it's more like a way to notify the spirits and ancestors that mob are travelling.' Another person added: 'You don't speak for all mobs and you don't speak for mine.' Yawarllaayi/Gomeroi elder Barbara Flick Nicol has previously stated that welcoming and acknowledging visitors has existed for thousands of years in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. 'It's always been something that we did as a people, understanding and observing the fact that when you are in somebody else's country, that you acknowledge them,' she told NITV in 2020. Ms Flick Nicol said that formal acknowledgments began appearing in New South Wales after the landmark Mabo decision in 1992, with councils raising Aboriginal flags and formally recognising traditional owners at meetings and conferences. Former federal politician and Wiradjuri woman Linda Burney, who was involved in the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation, defended the practice, saying it evolved organically. 'It wasn't strategised or planned. Once it got out to civic life it was something that people saw as an important way to tell the truth of the Australian story,' she said. Images: Instagram

Legal

An artificial heart may save your life. But it can also change you in surprising ways

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> This week, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/12/australian-man-survives-100-days-with-artificial-heart-in-world-first-success">doctors announced</a> that an Australian man with severe heart failure had left hospital with an artificial heart that had kept him alive until he could receive a donor heart. The patient, a man from New South Wales in his 40s, was not the world’s first person to receive this type of artificial heart. However, he is <a href="https://www.svhs.org.au/newsroom/news/australia-first-total-artificial-heart-implant">said to be</a> the <a href="https://www.monash.edu/news/articles/australias-first-durable-total-artificial-heart-implant-announced-as-a-success">first with one to be discharged from hospital</a> to wait for a heart transplant, which he’s since had. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT This machine has enabled an Australian man with severe heart failure to be the first person in the world to leave hospital with an artificial heart transplant <a href="https://t.co/6S12mINwBm">pic.twitter.com/6S12mINwBm</a> — Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1899862954155126824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2025</a></blockquote> I am a philosopher and bioethicist. I <a href="https://bridges.monash.edu/articles/thesis/Phenomenology_and_Artificial_Hearts/22312204">completed my PhD</a> on artificial hearts – particularly how these implants can change people’s lives in profound ways. Here’s what patients and their families need to consider. <h2>What is an artificial heart?</h2> Artificial hearts began to be developed in the 1960s, sponsored by the United States government and funded in a similar way to space and military programs. In 1982, a man named <a href="https://www.historynewsnetwork.org/article/hero-or-victim-the-25th-anniversary-of-barney-clar">Barney Clark</a> received the Jarvik-7 total artificial heart. Doctors removed his failing biological heart and replaced it with a plastic and metal device to circulate blood to his lungs and around his body. He lived for 112 days before dying from multi-organ failure. He never left hospital. In the 1980s and 1990s, medical device companies began to develop alternatives to total artificial hearts. These partial artificial hearts, known as ventricular assist devices, help out a biological heart by supplementing or replacing one of its two pumping chambers. These are more straightforward and versatile than total artificial hearts, and can be used for earlier stages of heart failure. Not all artificial hearts generate a pulse. Artificial hearts with a pulse generally mimic the biological heart. They pump blood in the same way the heart beats, by filling with blood and squeezing to circulate blood in waves or pulses. But some devices continuously push blood around the body instead of pulsing. So with these continuous-flow devices neither the patient nor their health team can <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11906-017-0782-6">detect a pulse</a>. <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0003497524008749">In the US between 2014 and 2024</a>, almost 30,000 patients received continuous-flow ventricular assist devices. In the same period, more than 310 total artificial hearts were implanted. The total artificial hearts <a href="https://www.syncardia.com/syncardia-total-artificial-heart-stah.html">commercially</a> <a href="https://www.carmatsa.com/en/our_product/">available</a> today are licensed exclusively as bridging therapies – to keep people alive until a donor heart becomes available – rather than permanent implants. <h2>How about the device making news this week?</h2> The device in the news – the <a href="https://www.monash.edu/news/articles/australias-first-durable-total-artificial-heart-implant-announced-as-a-success">BiVACOR Total Artificial Heart</a> – was developed by a US-Australian collaboration. This device is innovative, mainly because it is the first continuous-flow device designed to replace the whole heart. Designers are also aiming for it to be the first total artificial heart suitable as a permanent transplant (known as destination therapy). A reliable, durable and responsive total artificial heart is, <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-03-12/sydney-hospital-artificial-heart-implant-operation-success/105036154">in the words</a> of Paul Jansz, the surgeon who implanted the device, “the Holy Grail”. The BiVACOR’s clinical success so far gives us reason to be optimistic about an alternative to scarce donor hearts for responding to severe heart failure. <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/655013/original/file-20250313-56-4w24qy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&rect=12%2C12%2C8231%2C5475&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/655013/original/file-20250313-56-4w24qy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&rect=12%2C12%2C8231%2C5475&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/655013/original/file-20250313-56-4w24qy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/655013/original/file-20250313-56-4w24qy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/655013/original/file-20250313-56-4w24qy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/655013/original/file-20250313-56-4w24qy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/655013/original/file-20250313-56-4w24qy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/655013/original/file-20250313-56-4w24qy.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="Hand holding the BiVACOR artificial heart" /></a><figcaption>This device is designed to replace the whole heart, and for now, is licensed as a temporary implant, ahead of a heart transplant. BiVACOR TIQ</figcaption></figure> <h2>Transplants can change lives</h2> However, patients do not just resume their old lives when they leave hospital with an artificial heart. While the pumping component is inside their chest, there are also <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BHW0ATvgFDu/?hl=en">external components</a> to manage and monitor. A thick tube perforates their abdomen and connects to an external controller unit and power supply, which the patient carries around in a bag. Controllers must be closely monitored, and batteries must be regularly recharged. My research showed that even a perfectly safe and reliable total artificial heart could transform patients’ lives in at least three major areas. 1. Is it part of me? Do I trust it? Patients must <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/10.1080/09638288.2020.1717648">trust, tolerate and receive sensory feedback about how the device is working</a> for it to feel like part of them. In the case of an artificial heart, this might mean the device feels responsive to exercise and the body’s needs. But it may be difficult for artificial hearts to meet these criteria, especially for devices that do not generate a pulse. Patients may also question whether their heart is located in their body, or in the controller unit. They may wonder if they even have a heart, particularly if they can’t feel a pulse. 2. Beeps and alarms An artificial heart also changes how patients live their lives and <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11097-024-10050-7">navigate the world</a>. Interruptions from <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1049732317700853">loud device alarms</a> distract patients from their normal activities. And patients must switch between mains power and batteries when they <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0147956311002718">wake in the night and need to visit the toilet</a>. 3. Marking time Our hearts may be our <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neurorobotics/articles/10.3389/fnbot.2014.00015/full">natural</a> <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0301051111000032">metronomes</a>, marking time. So removing someone’s heart rhythm can confuse their sense of time. The need for batteries to be recharged periodically can also reshape patients’ days. Waiting around for a transplant heart, or the latest software update, may change patients’ perspectives on what months and years feel like. <h2>We need to give patients the whole picture</h2> Artificial hearts are remarkable devices with great promise. But patients and families also deserve to know how these extraordinary treatments might change how they feel about themselves and the world. They need to know this before they sign up for them. Artificial hearts don’t just save lives – they also change them.<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/252165/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/pat-mcconville-2344684">Pat McConville</a>, Lecturer in Ethics, Law, and Professionalism, School of Medicine, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/an-artificial-heart-may-save-your-life-but-it-can-also-change-you-in-surprising-ways-252165">original article</a>. Image: Shutterstock </div>

Body

Grieving parents blame hospital over two-year-old's death

Two grieving parents are calling for an independent investigation into a Sydney hospital after the death of their two-year-old son. Elouise and Danny Massa took their son Joe to the emergency department at Northern Beaches Hospital on the morning of September 14th after he had spent the night vomiting. The toddler had hypovolemia, a condition that occurs when the body loses too much fluid, and later tragically died. Joe's parents claim the hospital failed their son "at every level" and he would still be alive if he had received the proper care. In a statement provided to <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/grieving-parents-demand-urgent-investigation-into-sydney-hospital-after-death-of-twoyearold-son/a0de6011-adf3-49d2-8206-73ed21331c30" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9News</a>, the parents said Joe's heart rate was at 183 beats per minute when they arrived at the emergency department, yet he was misclassified as a low priority, category three patient, instead of red zone, category two. The parents went on to allege that the Northern Beaches hospital missed critical warning signs, including when Joe lost consciousness, and his mother's requests for an IV drip were denied. "I can't tell you what it's like to hold your son in your arms … to be told to sit in your chair while your child is agitated, going in and out of consciousness, lips are turning blue," Mrs Massa told 2GB on Thursday morning. "To be told to wait and have your baby literally dying in your arms is unfathomable and should not be happening at any hospital." For almost three hours, Joe was not hooked up to monitoring equipment while sitting in an emergency department chair. A serious adverse event review conducted by the hospital after Joe's death identified multiple failures, with the report claiming there was a "delay and failure to recognise deterioration" in Joe's condition. Healthscope, which operates the hospital, said in a statement: "Northern Beaches Hospital offers its deepest condolences to the Massa family for the loss of their son, Joe. We recognise Joe's death has caused unimaginable heartache and grief for the family." "We have met with the family to apologise and hear directly about their tragic experience and to discuss the findings of the Serious Adverse Event Review." "We will continue to support the family in any way that we can as we implement the improvements identified in the review, including improvements around triaging processes and internal escalation processes." <div>Joe's mother said no parents should have to go through the pain their family has endured since Joe's untimely death. "Joe was the most beautiful boy, loved by his sister and brother," she said. "He loved dinosaurs. He had the most infectious smile. He was just two months off turning two years old. He was, and is still, the light of our world. The system at Northern Beaches Hospital, the emergency department, entirely failed us at every possible level." Image credits: 9News </div>

Legal

Driver reveals "surprising" way he got out of $410 seatbelt fine

An Aussie driver who copped a $410 fine and three demerit points after their passenger made a common seatbelt move has revealed how they argued his way out of the ticket. Numerous motorists have been fined in recent weeks over the little-known road rule, where the driver could be penalised if a passenger reclines their seat too far back. Aussie lawyer Hayder Shkara argued that the rule is "step too far" as well-rested passengers can help curb the growing rate of fatalities by taking over from fatigued drivers on long car trips. Shkara shared the story of how one of his followers had successfully overturned the seatbelt fine and demerit points on social media. "He applied for a review with the police, and he actually got approved," Shkara said. "In his review he focused on the fact that car manufacturers were allowed to import these vehicles with the ability to recline in the first place, and that if there was an actual issue with the vehicle in terms of its design, it should have been stopped at the importation basis. "[He] said to the police that they were practicing safe driving protocols by changing drivers and making sure that one driver was rested and at police actually withdrew the fine. He didn't have to pay anything, and he didn't get any demerit points." Shkara told Yahoo that "normally applications for review in traffic offences are extremely difficult to be successful in and there is a low margin of success." "What is the purpose of seat belts? It is for driver and passenger safety. But we all know that fatigue is a big problem for drivers, so if drivers are switching in and out, I believe that the safer thing to do is for one driver to have proper rest so they can continue to drive safely." He said he would also encourage others who receive a fine for the same offence to try and appeal their case, as the "review doesn't require you to pay any legal fees and it is worth a shot." Image: NSW Centre for Road Safety/ TikTok

Legal

From securing pets to building ‘insect hotels’ – here are 7 ways to attract birds to your garden

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rochelle-steven-22148">Rochelle Steven</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/murdoch-university-746">Murdoch University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/david-newsome-117672">David Newsome</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/murdoch-university-746">Murdoch University</a> Home gardens can provide vital habitat for Australian birds. But there’s more to it than just planting certain types of shrubs and flowering trees. After decades of encouragement to include native plants in home gardens, urban environments have come to <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2351989423003700">favour certain species</a> and <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1442-9993.2006.01584.x">neglect others</a> including some of our most loved birds, such as fairy-wrens. Birds that thrive on nectar such as honeyeaters, and bossy birds with bold personalities such as noisy miners, some parrots and magpies, tend to dominate the scene. But it doesn’t have to be this way. We wanted to explore how urban gardens can best support a wider range of Australian birds. <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10531-025-03011-2">Our new review</a> of research on this topic revealed seven key considerations. These fall into two themes: reducing threats and improving habitat. We found there’s no point doing just the good things (such as plantings) if we don’t stop doing the bad things (such as killing insects, poisoning owls and letting cats hunt). It’s like trying to fill a bucket with a hole in it. So let’s acknowledge the complexity of nature and take a broader approach to attracting birds to our gardens, by ticking off the items on this shopping list. <h2>1. Secure pets</h2> Domestic cats kill <a href="https://www.publish.csiro.au/wr/pdf/WR19174">millions of Australian birds every year</a>. So no matter how innocent your cat looks, it remains a highly evolved predator. The only guaranteed way to protect birds and other wildlife from cats is to keep them contained inside or in purpose-built enclosures, 24 hours a day. You can find out about building your own cat enclosure from <a href="https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestock-and-animals/animal-welfare-victoria/cats/enclosures-and-fencing/building-a-cat-enclosure-attached-to-an-existing-structure">government</a> and <a href="https://catiospaces.com/catios-cat-enclosures/cat-behavior-enrichment/build-diy-catio-plan-for-your-cat/">retail</a> experts online. Dogs can also stop birds taking up residence in your garden. The mere <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.landurbplan.2013.10.005">presence of a dog can deter some birds</a>. Keeping dogs contained at night can reduce the level of disturbance to nocturnal birds. But if you really want to attract birds to your garden, you may choose to keep your dog inside more. <h2>2. Avoid using insecticides and outside lights</h2> Many flying and ground-dwelling insects are <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2002549117">in decline</a>. This is bad news for many birds including fairy-wrens, willie wagtails, fantails and robins who rely almost entirely on insects for food. But we can avoid using insecticides or any other form of lethal control such as bug zappers in our own gardens. Ideally, accept insects as a natural part of your garden. Don’t try to deter them, unless they pose a risk to public safety, such as swarming European honeybees or hordes of European wasps. You can also consider favouring native plants that naturally are resisitant to unwanted insect attack. Excess artificial light is also taking a toll on insects. Consider whether you really need to leave that outdoor light on all night. Review your existing outdoor lighting using the <a href="https://darksky.org/resources/guides-and-how-tos/lighting-principles/">five principles for responsible outdoor lighting</a>, ensuring all artificial light is useful, targeted, low-level, controlled and warm-coloured. <h2>3. Stop poisoning raptors</h2> The use of rat poison, especially those labelled as “fast action”, is <a href="https://theconversation.com/rat-poison-is-killing-our-beloved-native-owls-and-tawny-frogmouths-and-thats-the-tip-of-the-iceberg-212184">killing native owls</a> and other <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147673">birds of prey</a> at an alarming rate due to <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.06.207">secondary poisoning</a>. In other words, raptors are dying after eating rats and mice that have taken the bait. Many countries have regulated the sale and use of these products for this reason, but Australia is lagging behind. So if you “give a hoot” about our owls, <a href="https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/what-is-the-most-humane-way-to-kill-pest-rats-and-mice/">switch to snap traps</a>. There are also various other effective, humane and efficient <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-to-control-invasive-rats-and-mice-at-home-without-harming-native-wildlife-180792">options</a> available, including removing unwanted fruit from the ground, keeping sheds tidy, and securing compost bins to keep rodents under control. <h2>4. Prevent window strikes</h2> Birds can fly into windows when they’re unable to differentiate between the glass and the surrounding environment. Strikes may be lethal upon impact or result in injury. A stunned bird is also more vulnerable to predators. In Australia, bird lovers can <a href="https://birdlife.org.au/preventing-bird-strike/#:%7E:text=Why%20do%20birds%20collide%20with,help%20solve%20this%20problem%20too.">reduce the risk</a> by using <a href="https://store.birdlife.org.au/product/anti-collision-bird-stickers/">decals</a> which are decorative stickers intended <a href="https://www.sureguard.com.au/page/birds-eye-view-window-strike-deflector">for windows</a>. Screens, hanging plants or mobiles can also be placed in front of windows to help the birds avoid collisions. <h2>5. Create an inclusive garden</h2> The diversity in Australian birds extends to their diets. Beyond honeyeaters, the nation is home to huge numbers of insectivores, carnivores, seed-eaters and fruit peckers. Australian gardens typically have plenty of bottlebrush and grevilleas, which <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2004.06.004">stacks the deck in the bold honeyeaters’ favour</a>. So when buying new garden plants, try catering for a wider variety of bird species. Choose dense shrubs with small white, yellow or blue flowers to attract insects. These bushy plants also make excellent habitat for small birds. Retaining trees ensures our larger birds have nesting sites too. If you get the garden design right, with a variety of plants to suit all tastes, there is <a href="https://birdlife.org.au/a-guide-to-feeding-wild-birds-in-australia/?srsltid=AfmBOooHbf9Du1CarsSg044tVUVFxfBdopOwrOmELrQWcCSdwfKv432v">no need to feed the birds</a>. <h2>6. Encourage insects</h2> <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-09/blue-banded-bee-australian-insect-of-the-year-inaugral-vote/104572938">Native bees</a> and flies play a crucial role in ecosystems, both as pollinators and food for birds. You can provide insects with nesting habitat in the form of insect “hotels”, food (namely flowers and other insects) and safety from pesticides. These <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2015.05.003">small gestures can make a huge difference</a>. <h2>7. Water the birds too</h2> With the <a href="https://climatekids.nasa.gov/heat-islands/">urban heat island</a> effect and growing frequency of extreme heat waves, birds are in need of reliable sources of fresh water. Offer this <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11252-024-01530-4">crucial resource</a> in a water feature such as a bird bath or pond. <h2>Whole neighbourhoods for birds</h2> Your garden has never been more important for birds. Doing your bit in your own backyard can make a visible difference – you will see the birds for yourself. But true conservation gains can only be made when people work together at a larger scale. Why not start a conversation with your neighbour about attracting birds to your garden? Creating one garden for birds is great, but when we start talking about whole neighbourhoods for birds, that’s magic!<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/247561/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rochelle-steven-22148">Rochelle Steven</a>, Lecturer in Environmental Management, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/murdoch-university-746">Murdoch University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/david-newsome-117672">David Newsome</a>, Assoc. Professor of Environmental Science, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/murdoch-university-746">Murdoch University</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/from-securing-pets-to-building-insect-hotels-here-are-7-ways-to-attract-birds-to-your-garden-247561">original article</a>. </div>

Home & Garden

Two Aussies cop $35,000 fine for "illegal" enterprise

A pair of Aussies have copped a $35,000 fine for illegally collecting masses of firewood for a black market enterprise. The duo were caught during a targeted patrol inside a national park in Victoria, where fallen timber is supposed to be left as wildlife habitat. They fled after they were approached by officers, according to Parks Victoria, but had left behind evidence of their illegal enterprise. Officers found records that identified the 44-year-old man and 31-year-old woman in their abandoned Commodore, as well as their sales record and social media accounts promoting their black market business. The pair were convicted of six charges at the Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on November 22, with the man fined $20,000 and the woman $15,000 for cutting, removing and selling firewood in the Lower Goulburn National Park in May, 2023. The couple faced additional charges for damaging wildlife habitat. On Wednesday, Parks Victoria issued a warning to the public to not fall for firewood scams and illegal wood sellers after almost 10,000 trees had been illegally felled across 462 hectares of public land last year. "The illegal cut and take of firewood from national parks and protected public land is theft," Andrew Dean, a Parks Victoria Senior Enforcement Officer, said in a statement. "Theft damages and destroys wildlife habitat and robs Victorians of the natural places they love to visit. Magistrate Zebrowski's verdict sends a strong and clear message: firewood theft will not be tolerated, and offenders will be held accountable for their actions. "We encourage consumers to use common sense when purchasing firewood. Any time a deal is too good to be true, it probably is." Fallen logs are important and a key habitat for Australian wildlife including the marbled gecko, brown treecreeper and Peron’s tree frog. Images: Parks Victoria

Legal

Christmas can be challenging for people with hearing loss. Here are 7 ways you can help

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/katie-ekberg-1534998">Katie Ekberg</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/louise-hickson-2280688">Louise Hickson</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a> For many people, Christmas can be the most social time of the year. The holiday period is often filled with parties, lunches, dinners and celebrations of all kinds with family, friends and colleagues. For adults with hearing loss, however, these social gatherings can bring unique challenges. Communicating with others can be difficult, particularly in group conversations. And the more <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14992027.2019.1670363">background noise</a> there is (for example, Christmas music or children playing), the harder it is. For age-related or acquired hearing loss, hearing ability typically starts to decline from <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0107720">age 50 onwards</a>. <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/hearing-health/resources/publications/one-in-six-australians-experience-hearing-loss-poster-0?language=en">One in six Australians</a> experience some hearing loss, so it’s possible someone around your Christmas dinner table will be struggling to hear. Unfortunately, many adults with hearing loss suffer these challenges in silence. Our <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14992027.2023.2293651">research</a> shows adults with hearing loss often hide their hearing loss from others, even close family members and friends, because of feeling shame due to stigma. But there are some things you can do to ensure a loved one with hearing loss is included this Christmas. <h2>Stigma and stereotypes</h2> Stigma is when someone is treated differently by others due to a particular physical or social attribute. Across a <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14992027.2023.2293651">series of studies</a>, we conducted surveys and interviews with adults with hearing loss, their families and hearing care professionals to explore experiences of stigma for adults with hearing loss. Our research also included video recordings of real-life conversations between adults with hearing loss and their families and friends. The <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14992027.2024.2353862">results</a> suggested people often associate hearing loss with negative stereotypes of ageing, disability, reduced intelligence, having a problem or weakness, and difference. For example, one participant with hearing loss told us: <blockquote> Once they are aware that you can’t really comprehend or hear what they’re saying, they treat you different. And it’s not always positive, it’s quite often negative […] Even people who are familiar with you, my twin brother, he thinks that there’s something wrong with me because I can’t hear him properly. </blockquote> Old age was the most common stereotype associated with hearing loss. For example, one adult with hearing loss commented: <blockquote> I guess it’s just a sign of ageing. Like wearing glasses and grey hair. </blockquote> But as hearing can start declining from middle age, many adults experiencing hearing difficulties do not fit this stereotype. We see this stereotype appear in popular media as well. For example, in the TV show Bluey, the character Bingo dresses up as a “<a href="https://www.bluey.tv/characters/granny-rita/">Can’t-Hear-Anything granny</a>” in a number of episodes. In <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14992027.2024.2418970">our research</a>, people with hearing loss reported feeling embarrassment, shame, frustration, sadness and fatigue from trying to manage their hearing difficulties during everyday conversations. In the results of <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14992027.2023.2293651">a survey</a> currently under peer review, almost two-thirds felt other people laughed about or treated their hearing loss as a joke, often making them feel uncomfortable. An example <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14992027.2024.2389189">of this teasing</a> can be seen in a real-life conversation we recorded with a grandfather with hearing loss and his extended family while having afternoon tea. After the older man has ongoing trouble hearing his granddaughters, his wife teases him with the question “You got your hearing aids in Grandpa?”, which receives laughter from his son and granddaughters. While this sort of teasing might seem light-hearted, it can cause someone with hearing loss to feel embarrassed when they have trouble hearing. A key finding from <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14992027.2024.2406885">our interview research</a> was that adults with hearing loss respond to experiences of stigma by not telling others about their hearing loss. Similarly, in an international <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14992027.2023.2293651">survey of 331 adults</a> with hearing loss, the results of which are yet to be published in a peer-reviewed journal, one in four had not told anyone about their hearing loss. Others only told certain people in specific circumstances. There might, therefore, be family and friends at your Christmas gatherings facing the challenges of hearing loss without anyone knowing. <h2>Supporting loved ones with hearing loss this Christmas</h2> For adults with hearing loss, experiences of stigma can cause them to start to withdraw from social situations, participate less in conversations, and become more <a href="https://journals.lww.com/psychosomaticmedicine/abstract/2013/02000/social_isolation_and_loneliness__relationships.9.aspx">socially isolated and lonely</a>. But a greater awareness about hearing loss and inclusive communication can help tackle the stigma. Here are some simple ways you can be more inclusive of people with hearing loss this festive season: <ol> <li> Think about the location of your event – how noisy is it? When possible, choose restaurants and social settings that are quieter. Outdoor settings will generally be less noisy than indoor ones (apps such as <a href="https://theambientmenu.com.au/">The Ambient Menu</a> can help you choose). </li> <li> Turn down background noise if you can (for example, TV, radio, music). </li> <li> Speak face-to-face as much as possible. This allows for lip-reading so that people are not just reliant on their hearing. If you know someone has difficulty hearing, move closer to them and talk clearly and slightly more slowly. </li> <li> Arrange seating in a way that allows everyone to face each other. Round tables are best. </li> <li> Give people the opportunity to choose where they are seated around a table or in a restaurant. Adults with hearing loss may position themselves in the middle of a table or next to specific people they need to hear. </li> <li> If you are at an event with speeches, use a microphone when possible. </li> <li> If you notice a person not joining in the conversation you could ask them if they can hear OK and, if not, what you can do to help.<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/245943/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> </li> </ol> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/katie-ekberg-1534998">Katie Ekberg</a>, Senior Lecturer, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/louise-hickson-2280688">Louise Hickson</a>, Professor of Audiology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/christmas-can-be-challenging-for-people-with-hearing-loss-here-are-7-ways-you-can-help-245943">original article</a>. </div>

Body

Six ways to reduce loneliness this Christmas – from a psychologist

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nilufar-ahmed-377418">Nilufar Ahmed</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-bristol-1211">University of Bristol</a> Snowmen, tables groaning with food and families having a wonderful time together – these are the images that probably pop into your head when you think of Christmas. In reality, feelings of loneliness are amplified for many over Christmas. The parties and socialising in the lead up to the big day are swiftly followed by a lingering emptiness as as offices, schools and shops close for the festive season. It can feel like the whole world is caught up in a universal experience of Christmas that we are excluded from. It doesn’t help that Christmas adverts <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S096969891530120X">tap in to our emotions</a> and create an expectation of what Christmas should look like. The build up seems to start earlier each year, with evidence suggesting that people begin to think about Christmas from as early as August, and with the <a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/retail-consumer/ms-says-cash-strapped-customers-buying-christmas-gifts-early-2022-11-09">cost of living crisis</a> people have been planning their spending in advance. So by the time Christmas arrives, the festive messages will have been intensifying for weeks if not months. Christmas itself is hard if not possible to escape from entirely. But there are things you can do to manage your experience if you plan to spend time by yourself over advent. It can help to bear in mind that far fewer people are having a glossy family celebration straight out of a Coca-Cola advert than you’d expect. For some people this will be a busy period, but for others it will be a time of quiet reflection. Christmas is a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35900883/">varied experience</a>. There is no one overriding version that applies to all, or even most, people. A lot of people work over Christmas, and students (<a href="https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/blogs/staying-university-over-christmas-you-are-not-alone">especially international students</a>) may choose, or not be able to, return to their family homes. Research has found Christmas can be a time of <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11482-015-9441-8">decreased wellbeing</a> even for people surrounded by their loved ones. Reasons include <a href="https://www.nursingtimes.net/archive/how-christmas-festivities-and-pressures-can-damage-health-and-well-being-16-12-2008/">family tensions and financial worries</a>. This year the cost of living crisis and industrial disputes will throw many people’s plans into chaos. All this will disrupt that stereotype of a universal Christmas full of cheer that everyone else is experiencing without us. And while we often think of isolation as something that <a href="https://www.ageuk.org.uk/our-impact/policy-research/loneliness-research-and-resources/">impacts older older</a>, research confirms loneliness affects <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1745691615568999">all people of all ages</a>. Some studies have found actually younger people are more likely to report <a href="https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-020-02818-3">feeling lonely</a> than other age groups. There can be a huge temptation to scroll through social media feeds when we are alone to see what everyone else is doing. But high levels of social media consumption is associated with increased <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07448481.2019.1583236">negative mood</a> and <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S245195882100018X">worsened loneliness</a>. Instead, if you are worried about spending Christmas alone why not try some of these tips. <h2>1. Connect with others</h2> Put yourself out there to friends, family, loved ones, or a group that you feel a connection to. For example, join a running group if you enjoy exercise. Being part of a group that you share a purpose and <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352250X21001123">identity with</a> can raise your spirits. If you hesitate to talk to people you know because you worry they won’t have time, think about how you would respond if they reached out to you. If you would make time for them, the chances are they will too. Even if it’s just for a chat. <h2>2. Volunteer</h2> Consider volunteering with any range of age groups, communities, animal shelters or charities. Volunteering can <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/scs.12869">reduce loneliness</a> and increase your <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ejsp.2706">sense of connectedness</a>. Feeling lonely is not the same as being alone. There can be many positive aspects of being alone that you can lean into over Christmas. <h2>3. Take time for gratitude</h2> When we feel alone we can end up in a <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00332747.2016.1256143">negative loop</a> where feelings of loneliness lead to negative thoughts which reinforce loneliness. Taking a moment to practice gratitude breaks this cycle. It can <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0191886920302907">boost your wellbeing</a> by redirecting your thoughts to more uplifting aspects of life. Regular gratitude practice has been found to <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13607863.2019.1673309">reduce loneliness</a> and even <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10608-016-9785-x">depression</a>. <h2>4. Catch up on books and box sets</h2> Allow yourself to get stuck in to a good book. Reading can <a href="https://mhfaengland.org/mhfa-centre/blog/reading-good-mental-health/">brighten your mood</a>. If you are not confident in reading, you can always listen to an audiobook, or indulge in a box set that you wouldn’t have time for ordinarily. <h2>5. Exercise</h2> The <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40473-016-0089-y">physical and mental health benefits</a> of exercise are well known. Even the most gentle exercise can do wonders to cheer you up. Taking the time to focus <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12671-016-0550-8">mindfully on a walk</a> and lean into solitude can help lift you out of a downwards spiral. <h2>6. Enjoy the rituals</h2> Spending the season by yourself doesn’t mean that Christmas can’t be special. If Christmas is something that you love, then the rituals associated with Christmas can <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-celebrating-christmas-is-good-for-your-mental-health-151123">boost your mental health</a> and combat loneliness. Remind yourself that you can decide what Christmas means to you, and how you want to spend it, and that is a gift.<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/196610/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nilufar-ahmed-377418">Nilufar Ahmed</a>, Senior Lecturer in Social Sciences, CPsychol, FHEA, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-bristol-1211">University of Bristol</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/six-ways-to-reduce-loneliness-this-christmas-from-a-psychologist-196610">original article</a>. </div>

Mind

The Great Wheelie Bin Debate rolls on: What's the correct way?!

Australia is no stranger to heated debates – rugby versus Aussie rules, meat pie versus sausage roll, or which state has the best beaches. But a new challenger has emerged for the crown of most contentious topic: the humble wheelie bin. In the bustling inner-city suburbs, where space is as precious as a parking spot on a Friday night, one resident in Carlton, Sydney, has found themselves at the centre of the latest bin-based brouhaha. The seemingly innocuous act of placing wheelie bins for collection has sparked a clash of titanic proportions between neighbours, with one visually impaired newcomer caught in the middle. According to the frustrated resident, the bins in question have been making a weekly pilgrimage to the worst possible spot. “These people have been leaving their bins blocking the crossing every single bloody week since I moved here in October,” they vented. A photo shared online reveals the crime scene: two wheelie bins defiantly parked at a crossing entryway, appearing to guard it like bouncers at an exclusive nightclub. For anyone not blessed with perfect vision, navigating around them is less of a dance and more of a hazardous obstacle course: <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2024/12/wheelie-bins_reddit.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> “I’ve been so shocked at how the bins are put out. I see them on the street and I just question how that’s allowed... it’s a freaking jerk move,” the resident continued. Adding to the drama, they highlighted the danger: “I’m visually impaired, it’s not safe to just cross the road anywhere.” Bin battles are nothing new in Australia. Earlier this year, Melbourne residents went head-to-head over the correct bin-spacing protocol. Should there be a gap between bins? Should they form an impenetrable wall of waste? After what we can only imagine was a spirited exchange of opinions (and possibly garbage puns), the local council stepped in to confirm: gaps are indeed preferable. Meanwhile, Georges River Council’s website offers sage advice to would-be bin wranglers: “Avoid obstructing the footpath and driveways”, and for the love of all things recyclable, “never place items on the road or gutters”. This guidance, alas, has yet to penetrate the stubborn psyche of certain Carlton bin-barons. Our beleaguered resident, unwilling to let this trashy behaviour go unchecked, has considered taking direct action. “I’ve thought about taping a note to the bins, asking kindly to please not block the crossing, maybe explaining why it’s dangerous,” they mused. Such a note, perhaps paired with a smiley face or a diagram, could be just the diplomatic olive branch needed to defuse the situation. Or it could escalate into the neighbourhood’s first wheelie bin Cold War. Watch this carefully placed, wheelie-bin sized space. Images: Shutterstock, Reddit

Home & Garden

There are 2 main ways to stretch – the one you should choose depends on what you want your body to do

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/hunter-bennett-1053061">Hunter Bennett</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/lewis-ingram-1427671">Lewis Ingram</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a> Picture this: you’ve just woken up and rolled out of bed. Your feet hit the floor, and your legs buckle. They are in absolute agony – that run yesterday has really come back to haunt you. And then you remember you forgot to stretch before and after your run. Surely that’s the reason you’re so sore today. Or is it? We’ve all heard about the importance of stretching before and after exercise. But does it really make a difference? Here’s what the science says. <h2>What is stretching?</h2> There are many different types of stretching, but the two most common are <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22319684">static and dynamic stretching</a>. Static stretching involves moving a muscle (or muscles) into a lengthened position and holding this for a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15292749/">short period of time</a> – often anywhere between 15 and 90 seconds. A common example of this would be keeping your heels on the ground while leaning forward to touch the ground with a straight knee to stretch your hamstring muscles. Meanwhile, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21373870/">dynamic stretching</a> involves actively moving your muscles and joints back and forth through their available range of motion. Common examples include swinging your legs back and forth, from side to side, or swinging your arms in circles. <h2>Stretching before exercise</h2> The main reasons people stretch before exercise are to increase flexibility, improve performance, and reduce the risk of injury. While we know stretching <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29223884/">increases flexibility</a>, its effect on <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17909411/">performance</a> and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18027995/">injury</a> is less clear. But let’s look at what the evidence says for each one. Flexibility Both static and dynamic stretching increase flexibility, although static stretching seems to have a <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095254623000571">slightly larger effect</a>. Short-term static stretching inhibits your <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/why-does-stretching-feel-good#:%7E:text=Research%20has%20shown%20that%20static,of%20your%20sympathetic%20nervous%20system.">sympathetic nervous system</a> (your fight or flight system), which reduces the stiffness of your <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095254624000693#bib0010">muscles and tendons</a>. This makes you more flexible straight after stretching. In the long term, static stretching is thought to make you more flexible by increasing the length of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37318696/">your muscles and tendons</a> or by simply making you <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28801950/">more tolerant to the discomfort caused by stretching</a>. Performance When it comes to improving performance, this will depend on the type of physical activity you’re doing. If you are about to move your body through large ranges of motion – something like gymnastics or dancing – then the improvements in flexibility following stretching will likely result in better performance. On the flip side, research has shown static stretching may <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26642915/">impair performance</a> by up to 5% in activities that rely on maximum strength and power, such as shotput and powerlifting. This might be because of the reduced nervous system activation we mentioned earlier, making it more challenging for your muscles to produce force. However, significant impairments only seem to occur when stretching for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26642915/">more than 60 seconds</a>. Stretching for less than 60 seconds appears to impact performance minimally (by around 1%). On the other hand, dynamic stretching increases <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12762825">muscle temperature</a> and the speed at which your nerves <a href="https://cdnsciencepub.com/doi/10.1139/apnm-2015-0235">send messages to your muscles</a>, which might improve muscle performance. Dynamic stretching has been shown to <a href="https://bmcsportsscimedrehabil.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13102-023-00703-6">enhance strength and power by a small amount</a>. This might make it a better option before activities that are performed explosively, such as sprinting, jumping, lifting weights or playing team sport. Injury and soreness When it comes to reducing injury, whether stretching before exercise is beneficial remains unclear. Many studies have shown stretching <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24100287/">doesn’t have an effect</a>. But a lot of these look at the effect of stretching on all types of injuries, which might not show its true effect. For example, a broken arm from a tackle would be grouped with a calf strain, but it seems logical that stretching is more likely to reduce the risk of the calf muscle strain than the broken arm. A <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11332-024-01213-9">recent review</a> did explore the effect of stretching on different types of injuries and found static stretching may reduce the risk of muscle, but not tendon, injuries. To date, there’s no evidence to suggest stretching would reduce the risk of broken bones and contact injuries. There’s very little research exploring whether dynamic stretching alone can reduce injury risk. <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40279-023-01847-8">One study</a> showed dynamic stretching can improve joint stability, which might reduce the risk of joint injuries (such as ankle sprains). But more research is needed to make any conclusions with confidence. Many people also stretch before exercise to help prevent muscle soreness after exercise. However, <a href="https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD004577.pub3/full">research has shown</a> stretching before exercise has no meaningful impact on muscle soreness after exercise. <h2>Stretching after exercise</h2> The main reason people stretch after exercise is to improve recovery and reduce muscle soreness. The most common approach is static stretching. However, like stretching before exercise, research doesn’t indicate stretching after exercise reduces <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27447321/">muscle damage or soreness</a>. It has also been suggested <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4831894/">really intense stretching can damage your muscles</a>, which might even make muscle soreness worse. But this isn’t a consistent finding, and may only happen to certain people. However, stretching does <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21386722/">promote relaxation</a>. So gentle stretching could be a nice way to wind down after an intense exercise session. <h2>So, what should you do?</h2> Maybe a lack of stretching isn’t the reason you were sore after you run after all. Your legs are probably aching because you simply ran further, or harder, than you normally do. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stretch. The available evidence suggests doing some dynamic stretching before exercise will increase flexibility and improve your performance, whether you’re planning to go for a run, play a team sport, or lift weights. Static stretching can be great if you want to increase your flexibility, just don’t do it right before intense exercise. And after exercise, some gentle static stretching can help transition the body to a more relaxed state.<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/244048/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/hunter-bennett-1053061">Hunter Bennett</a>, Lecturer in Exercise Science, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/lewis-ingram-1427671">Lewis Ingram</a>, Lecturer in Physiotherapy, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/there-are-2-main-ways-to-stretch-the-one-you-should-choose-depends-on-what-you-want-your-body-to-do-244048">original article</a>. </div>

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"Two strikes and you're out": Crackdown on dodgy taxi drivers

The NSW government is introducing tougher penalties for taxi drivers caught ripping off passengers, as they crackdown on dodgy practices. Taxi drivers caught committing two fare-related offences will be disqualified from driving a taxi, rideshare or any other type of transport from December 6. The offences include not using their meter, overcharging, refusing a passenger travelling a short distance, demanding a fare not displayed on the meter, adding a surcharge and charging a maxi-taxi surcharge for less than five passengers. Transport Minister Jo Haylen emphasised that the "two strikes and you're out" system would be used to crack down on a “minority of rogue drivers” in the industry, ahead of the holiday season. "We're sending a strong message to the minority of rogue drivers that if they continue overcharging, not using the meter or refusing fares they now risk being kicked out of the industry," Haylen said. "From 6 December, drivers convicted twice for fare-related offences will not only be disqualified from the taxi industry but also rideshare companies like Uber and DiDi. "With these better regulations in place, passengers can have a safe and fair ride, while supporting the taxi industry. “This is a really busy time for the taxi and rideshare industries. Christmas parties are starting to kick off, people will be starting to come home through the airport, and then there are people rushing around for those last-minute gifts,” she added. "The majority of our state's 15,000 taxi drivers are doing the right thing, but these new measures will ensure that those who aren't, are out." The laws will also apply to Taxi drivers with existing breaches on record, who will now be at risk of being banned from the industry by the Point to Point Transport Commissioner Anthony Wing. More than 900 fines have been issued to taxi drivers by commissioner inspectors in the last two years. "Let me reinforce, most drivers are consistently doing the right thing, but we want all passengers to know that there will be harsh consequences for drivers who continue to break the rules - they now face being kicked out of the industry," Wing said. "We take all fare-related offences seriously which is why my Inspectors are frequently out conducting plain clothes operations along with highly visible compliance activities." He added that "small time first offenders" would not necessarily be prosecuted but issued a fine instead of a strike. Image: Shutterstock

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There are 2 main ways to stretch – the one you should choose depends on what you want your body to do

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