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Is it better to shower in the morning or at night?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p>It’s a question that’s long been the cause of debate: is it better to shower in the morning or at night?</p> <p>Morning shower enthusiasts will say this is the obvious winner, as it helps you wake up and start the day fresh. Night shower loyalists, on the other hand, will argue it’s better to “wash the day away” and relax before bed.</p> <p>But what does the research actually say? As a microbiologist, I can tell you there actually is a clear answer to this question.</p> <p>First off, it’s important to stress that showering is an integral part of any good hygiene routine — regardless of when you prefer to have one.</p> <p>Showering helps us remove dirt and oil from <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2015.2586">our skin</a>, which can help prevent skin rashes and infections.</p> <p>Showering also removes sweat, which can quell body odour.</p> <p>Although many of us think that body odour is caused by sweat, it’s actually produced by bacteria that live on the surface of our skin. Fresh sweat is, in fact, odourless. But skin-dwelling bacteria – specifically <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/staphylococcus-aureus/about/index.html">staphylococci</a> – use sweat as a direct nutrient source. When they break down the sweat, it releases a sulphur-containing compound called <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-68860-z">thioalcohols</a> which is behind that pungent BO stench many of us are familiar with.</p> <h2>Day or night?</h2> <p>During the day, your body and hair inevitably collect pollutants and allergens (such as dust and pollen) alongside their usual accumulation of sweat and sebaceous oil. While some of these particles will be <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/all.16378">retained by your clothes</a>, others will inevitably be transferred to your <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16364170/">sheets and pillow cases</a>.</p> <p>The sweat and oil from you skin will also support the growth of the bacteria that comprise your <a href="https://academic.oup.com/femsle/article-abstract/362/16/fnv111/558026?redirectedFrom=fulltext">skin microbiome</a>. These bacteria may then also be transferred from your body <a href="https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=40029">onto your sheets</a>.</p> <p>Showering at night may remove some of the allergens, sweat and oil picked up during the day so less ends up on your bedsheets.</p> <p>However, even if you’ve freshly showered before bed, you will still <a href="https://washingtoncitypaper.com/article/221338/straight-dope-do-you-really-sweat-one-liter-each-night/">sweat during the night</a> – whatever the temperature is. Your skin microbes will then eat the nutrients in that sweat. This means that by the morning, you’ll have both deposited microbes onto your bed sheets and you’ll probably also wake up with some BO.</p> <p>What particularly negates the cleaning benefits of a night shower is if your bedding is not regularly laundered. The odour causing microbes present in your bed sheets may be transferred while you sleep onto your clean body.</p> <p>Showering at night also does not stop your <a href="https://doi.org/10.1136/jcp.18.1.16">skin cells</a> being shed. This means they can potentially become the food source of house dust mites, whose waste can be allergenic. If you don’t regularly wash your sheets, this could lead to a build-up of dead skin cell deposits which will feed more dust mites. The droppings from these dust mites can <a href="https://aafa.org/allergies/types-of-allergies/insect-allergy/dust-mite-allergy/">trigger allergies</a> and <a href="https://www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/living-with/indoor-air-pollution/home#dust-mites">exacerbate asthma</a>.</p> <p>Morning showers, on the other hand, can help remove dead skin cells as well as any sweat or bacteria you’ve picked up from your bed sheets during the night. This is especially important to do if your sheets weren’t freshly washed when you went to bed.</p> <p>A morning shower suggests your body will be cleaner of night-acquired <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7690701/">skin microbes</a> when putting on fresh clothes. You’ll also start the day with less sweat for odour-producing bacteria to feed on – which will probably help you smell fresher for longer during the day compared to someone who showered at night. As a microbiologist, I am a day shower advocate.</p> <p>Of course, everyone has their own shower preference. Whatever time you choose, remember that the effectiveness of your shower is influenced by many aspects of your personal hygiene regime – such as how frequently you <a href="https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=40029">wash your bed sheets</a>.</p> <p>So regardless of whether your prefer a morning or evening shower, it’s important to clean your bed linen regularly. You should launder your sheets and pillow cases at least weekly to remove all the sweat, bacteria, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1136/jcp.18.1.16">dead skin cells</a> and sebaceous oils that have built up on your sheets.</p> <p>Washing will also remove any <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/all.16378">fungal spores</a> that might be growing on the bed linen – alongside the nutrient sources these odour producing microbes use to grow.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><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/256242/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em>By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/primrose-freestone-315921">Primrose Freestone</a>, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Microbiology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-leicester-1053">University of Leicester</a></em></p> <p><em>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-it-better-to-shower-in-the-morning-or-at-night-heres-what-a-microbiologist-says-256242">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Pexels / </em><em>Caique the Creator</em></p> <p> </p> </div>

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

<p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>The crash also left veteran racer Tom Tunstall, 47, hospitalised with serious back and abdominal injuries. He remains under medical care.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.”</p> <p>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.”</p> <p>The emotional toll of the incident was evident as tributes poured in across the motorsport community.</p> <p>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.”</p> <p>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.”</p> <p>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.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

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"Patrons yelled to stop": Comedy Festival rocked by death on opening night

<p>Melbourne’s comedy scene was rocked by tragedy on the opening night of this year’s International Comedy Festival, as an attendee suffered a fatal medical episode mid-show, leading to the abrupt cancellation of the event.</p> <p>The distressing incident occurred during comedian Michael Hing’s performance at the Palais Theatre, where a man on the upper level of the venue suffered a medical emergency. Attendees quickly responded, providing CPR in the dark while Hing remained unaware of the unfolding crisis.</p> <p>“[It] would have been at least 15 mins worth before the show stopping, and [it] only stopped as patrons yelled to stop performing,” one audience member told <em>The Daily Mail</em>.</p> <p>Another witness expressed dismay over the handling of the situation, stating, “I can’t believe they [the organisers] didn’t communicate with backstage to halt the show, and that it took the public to yell out to the comedian to stop for something to happen.”</p> <p>The Melbourne International Comedy Festival addressed the incident in a statement posted on Instagram, confirming the show’s cancellation.</p> <p>“Melbourne International Comedy Festival regrets to confirm that there was a medical emergency while the Opening Night Allstars Supershow was taking place this evening at the Palais Theatre,” a festival spokesman said. “The show was stopped and cancelled. The Festival will be in touch with all ticket holders tomorrow.”</p> <p>Victoria Police later confirmed the man’s death. “Police will prepare a report for the Coroner following the death of a man in St Kilda on Wednesday, 26 March,” a spokesman said. “Emergency services were called to a theatre on Lower Esplanade about 9pm. A man, who is yet to be formally identified, died at the scene.”</p> <p>Health worker Andrea Bortoli, who was sitting in the upper level’s front row, described the distressing scene as people began leaving and it “became quite obvious that someone was getting CPR. It was just obviously really distressing, so we wanted to leave,” she told <em>The Age</em>. </p> <p>Eventually, the theatre lights were turned on, and patrons were informed that the show had been cancelled.</p> <p>The Allstars Gala is one of the most anticipated nights of the festival, bringing together some of the biggest names in comedy. This year’s event was hosted by Hing.</p> <p>As news of the tragedy spread, comedian Dave Hughes expressed his sympathies on social media, writing, “All performers thoughts are with the family affected”.</p> <p><em>Images: Palais Theatre / MichaelHing.com</em></p>

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Infant tragically dies at Melbourne family daycare

<p>A tragic incident has unfolded at a family daycare centre in Melbourne, where an infant has passed away. The devastating event has left the local community in shock as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding the child's death.</p> <p>Authorities responded to the facility in Skye, an hour southeast of the CBD, following reports of the baby’s death. According to the <em>Herald Sun</em>, police are currently at the scene conducting investigations, and the daycare centre remains under heavy scrutiny as officials gather information.</p> <p>“Police will prepare a report for the coroner following the death of an infant at a family daycare facility in Skye,” a police statement read.</p> <p>“An investigation into the circumstances is ongoing but the death is not being treated as suspicious.”</p> <p>A neighbour reportedly heard screams coming from the property just moments before emergency services arrived. Witnesses described a chaotic and distressing scene as first responders worked frantically to save the child. Despite their efforts, the infant could not be revived at the scene, and the exact cause of death remains unknown.</p> <p>The area has been declared a major crime scene, with multiple police and ambulance vehicles stationed at the property throughout the evening. Authorities are interviewing witnesses and reviewing any available security footage to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.</p> <p>Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy as the community awaits further details. A report will be prepared for the coroner, who will ultimately determine the official cause of death.</p> <p><em>Images: Nine News</em></p>

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Disgraced former MP Barry Urban dies three months after alleged assault

<p>Disgraced former WA Labor MP Barry Urban has died, three months after an alleged attack at a tyre business in Perth’s southeast. Urban, 56, passed away in hospital on Saturday night, WA Premier Roger Cook confirmed.</p> <p>"Barry was the subject of a dreadfully violent attack in the workplace and has been fighting for his life ever since," Cook told reporters. </p> <p>The incident occurred in November when Urban, who managed the Kelmscott business, had a verbal altercation with a customer. Police allege that 25-year-old Jerry Aniseto Masipau punched Urban in the head, causing him to fall and sustain critical injuries upon hitting the ground.</p> <p>Urban was rushed to Royal Perth Hospital, where he remained in critical condition. Masipau, from Seville Grove, was charged with multiple offences, including grievous bodily harm, common assault, aggravated burglary, reckless driving and having no authority to drive.</p> <p>"Unfortunately, (Mr Urban) succumbed to his injuries and police are now obviously reviewing the charges in relation to that incident," Cook stated.</p> <p>Urban had been working at the tyre business since his release from prison in 2023, after serving 18 months of a three-year sentence for forging records and lying to state parliament.</p> <p>His political career was short-lived. Elected in 2017 for the Darling Range seat, Urban resigned less than eight months later following revelations that he had fabricated academic qualifications and military service records. His downfall began when he wore a distinctive medal to official events, claiming it was awarded for investigating war crimes in the Balkans. Investigations later revealed he had not earned the commendation and had instead purchased it online. Further scrutiny uncovered additional falsehoods, including fabricated university degrees and an inaccurate claim of serving as a sergeant in the West Midlands police force.</p> <p>Urban resigned in May 2018, moments before a parliamentary committee tabled its findings on his misconduct. When sentencing him, Judge Carmel Barbagallo described him as "the real-life Pinocchio of parliament".</p> <p>Premier Cook acknowledged Urban’s troubled past but expressed condolences, saying, "Barry… was someone of perhaps flawed character, none of us are perfect but he was part of the WA Labor family, so we're very sad for him and his family. He was a very jovial guy, a very likeable guy and someone who had his troubles."</p> <p><em>Image: Facebook</em></p>

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Aussie bloke's hilarious revenge on parking inspectors

<p>An Aussie bloke has taken a devious revenge plan to the next level as he aims to even the score between him and parking inspectors. </p> <p>Julian Morgans, who is no stranger to receiving an influx of parking fines, decided to take a unique approach to revenge, giving new meaning to the phrase "if you can't beat them, join them".</p> <p>The man decided to play the ultimate prank on the parking inspectors by applying for a job to take up the role himself, documenting his plan on Instagram. </p> <p>"So, I get parking fines all the time, and I'm sick of it, so recently I decided to get revenge," he said in a video. </p> <p>"I started by applying for a job as a parking inspector and I went for an interview."</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFBt711zWh8/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFBt711zWh8/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by @julianmorgans</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>He got a call back from the recruiter saying they were happy with what he had to offer and gave him the job, but on day one of his new role, he set his devious plan in motion. </p> <p>"So, I went in on my first day, Monday morning, 9am, and they gave us our parking inspector uniform and this, for me, was the perfect opportunity to slip away and go to the pub," he said. "So, there I was. I'm at the pub, on the clock and they're paying me."</p> <p>"I'm in my parking inspector uniform and I'm just drinking beers and I played some pool, hung around and got a little drunk and I had a great time."</p> <p>He then mentioned that, later on, he received a call from his new employer to check in on how he was coping. </p> <p>"So, my phone just rang and it's the parking inspector office and I think they're wondering where I am, and I wasted a full day of their money," he said.</p> <p>He told his boss that he was quitting after his first day, expecting the boss to be angry since he hadn’t issued any parking fines, but was met with a very different reaction.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFL6A3Lza5M/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFL6A3Lza5M/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by @julianmorgans</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"I don't want to do the job, I'm sorry," he said, while his new employer responded, "No, that's OK, that's fine, buddy, that's up to you."</p> <p>The employer continued with some words of advice, saying, "You'll be fine. Whatever you do, I'm sure you'll succeed because that's what you're meant to do. I wish you all the best, bud, and thanks for letting me know."</p> <p>Mr Morgans was shocked about how "cool" his boss was with him quitting after producing no work on day one, and in a matter of minutes changed his tune on parking inspectors. </p> <p>"I wanted him to be angry here, I wanted him to validate the whole thing. Instead, he was just kind of lovely," Mr Morgans said. </p> <p>"I think I'm surprised here because I've always thought of parking inspectors as just total animals. I was surprised to find that in an industry that I absolutely hate, some of the people are kind of lovely."</p> <p>While many flocked to the comments to share how funny they thought his day-long prank was, others were much more critical. </p> <p>"Do you give a crap about all the time of the employees of government you wasted?" one person wrote, while another added, "Here's a tip, just follow rules? There are limits on parking for a reason. Do you deserve to park somewhere all day more than anyone else?"</p> <p>Mr Morgans didn't argue back and, on reflection, acknowledged his emotions got the better of him as he planned the prank.</p> <p>"Very fair feedback. I knew it wasn't a morally perfect stunt but I got my car towed a few months ago and got mad. This was my divisive but cathartic response," he said.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

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“Lesson learnt”: Expat fined for parking mistake

<p>A British expat has copped a hefty fine after going against a "common sense" road rule.</p> <p>The man had just moved to Sydney and was visiting the famous beaches in Shoalhaven, NSW when he copped a $200 fine for parking on the wrong  side of the road, facing against the direction of traffic flow.</p> <p>“Never heard of this before. It didn’t say anything about no parking and I’ve come back, and I’ve got a ticket, ” he said n the video posted on social media. </p> <p>While it is an offence in Australia, in the UK the parking technique is permitted, except at night. </p> <p>“Lesson learnt,” he ended his clip.</p> <p>The video received a lot of comments, with one asking the obvious question: “Didn’t you see what the other cars were doing?”</p> <p>Another added: “If the cars are all facing the one way, park that way. Why would you park facing the wrong way then all the other cars are facing the other way?” </p> <p>“Wasn’t it obvious?” a different person questioned.</p> <p> </p> <div class="embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none !important; width: 535px;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7462819112226540833&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40archoz_2025%2Fvideo%2F7462819112226540833&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign-useast2a.tiktokcdn.com%2Ftos-useast2a-p-0037-euttp%2FogAIQEeARJOEnAQfRA5kCUnTbHGDECF1PRWDjH%7Etplv-dmt-logom%3Atos-useast2a-i-0068-euttp%2Fo0nbEYRzCBSwQAAwr8ARPoEAiB5iZIQdj0FCv.image%3Flk3s%3Db59d6b55%26x-expires%3D1737849600%26x-signature%3DbzHLO2CQeaQN%252BZr1Nmm%252Fw5t8q1A%253D%26shp%3Db59d6b55%26shcp%3D-&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> <p>Others told him that it was just "common sense" but he insisted that everyone in the UK parks in different directions” despite also driving on the left-hand side of the road.</p> <p>A few people explained why they think the rule exists. </p> <p>“I think it’s because to get out of that park you would have to drive into oncoming traffic,” one user suggested. “Maybe in the UK your lanes are small and this would be okay but 99 per cent of our roads are wide and this is not needed.”</p> <p>“And to get into that park in the first place, you have to drive on the wrong side,” another person pointed out.</p> <p>Some British commenters could relate to the man's mistake, saying:  “I’ve been caught out doing this too,” and “It did my head in when I first moved here!”</p> <p>The penalty for parking in the wrong direction of travel can reach up to 257, and in school zones, this fine can increase to $330 plus two demerit points.</p> <p><em style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #323338; font-family: Figtree, Roboto, 'Noto Sans Hebrew', 'Noto Kufi Arabic', 'Noto Sans JP', sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff; outline: none !important;">Images: TikTok</em></p>

Money & Banking

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"Cheeky and playful": Five-year-old remembered after being killed by parking meter

<p>Tributes have poured in for a five-year-old boy who was tragically crushed by a parking meter at a museum in Western Australia. </p> <p>Paramedics were called following reports the five-year-old, known as Sammy, had been critically injured by the disused parking meter outside the Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre, about 170km south of Perth, on January 15th.</p> <p>Sammy was airlifted to Perth Children’s Hospital where he later died from his injuries. </p> <p>In a statement, Sammy’s family thanked everyone for their support following the death of the young boy who “brought so much joy”. </p> <p>“We are so grateful for the support that we have received from family, friends and the general public,” the family said. </p> <p>“We would also like to acknowledge the support from the staff at the museum, first responders and the care given to Sammy at the BRH and PCH, which was so loving and respectful." </p> <p>“Sammy impacted everyone he met. He was wise beyond his years and brought so much joy with his cheeky, playful nature.”</p> <p>More than $21,000 has been raised by the community for the boy’s family as they come to terms with the tragedy.</p> <p>The GoFundMe campaign was set up to help with ongoing expenses “during this difficult time”. </p> <p>“This tragedy has deeply impacted those who know and love this family, as well as the hospital staff, colleagues, friends, and community members who have been involved,” the GoFundMe campaign said.</p> <p>“No family should have to face such heartbreak while also worrying about financial burdens. Let’s come together as a community and show this family they are not alone."</p> <p>A spokesman for WorkSafe WA previously told media the boy had been hit by a disused parking meter in a courtyard at the Bunbury Museum, not the parking area.</p> <p>City of Bunbury chief executive Alan Ferris told the ABC the city would work closely with authorities to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident, as an investigation into the incident remains ongoing. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Nine</em></p>

Caring

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Tradie fights "unfair" fine for parking across his own driveway

<p>A frustrated tradie is fighting an "unfair" fine he copped for parking in his own driveway.</p> <p>Mark Fricker, a builder from Newcastle, was photographed last September by a council camera when his ute was briefly stopped across his driveway with two wheels in the gutter of the bus zone that fronts his property.</p> <p>The man was only parked in the precarious spot for a few minutes to open the gate to his home. </p> <p>He only became aware of the alleged offence when he received a fine about 10 days later, with the penalty notice saying he was parked in a bus zone and was required to pay $320. </p> <p>The fine was generated by the council’s mobile licence plate recognition technology with cameras attached to council cars patrolling the city’s streets to monitor parking offences.</p> <p>Fricker told <a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/tradie-fights-unfair-320-parking-fine-after-common-driveway-act-050252102.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Yahoo News</em></a> the fine was ‘unfair’ and would not have been issued if a ranger was on the scene to see what was going on.</p> <p>While he attempted to take up the matter with his local council, he was referred back to Revenue NSW and felt he had no option but to contest the fine in court.</p> <p>“If it had been a person and not a car, they wouldn’t have issued the fine,” Fricker said.</p> <p>“I don’t feel an automated camera system is right. If a ranger had seen me park there, get out and open the gate, and move the car in, he wouldn’t have worried about it. He could see that I’m not a threat or danger to a bus, or passengers getting on or off, so it wouldn’t have happened."</p> <p>Fricker's dispute is just one of many to arise from the increased use of controversial ticketless parking fine systems used by councils across NSW.</p> <p>There was a 49 per cent surge in ticketless parking fines issued in NSW during the 2023-24 financial year, with revenue from ticketless fines surged to $158 million for that period, up 54 per cent on the previous year.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Newcastle Herald</em></p>

Money & Banking

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Acclaimed musician dies after cancer diagnosis

<p>Acclaimed Melbourne musician Dean Sky-Lucas has tragically died just days after he was rushed to hospital for the removal of a stomach ulcer.</p> <p>Sky-Lucas was a singer, accompanist, lecturer and multi-instrumentalist who performed with several orchestras in Melbourne and Tasmania.</p> <p>The musician took to Facebook on November 18th to tell his followers he was about to undergo surgery to remove the stomach ulcer, which is believed to be from an advanced cancer. </p> <p>Just 18 days later, a family member posted to his Facebook page to make the shocking announcement of the beloved singer’s death.</p> <p>“I am very sad to announce that our beloved Dean unexpectedly passed away today,” the post said.</p> <p>“His exact cause of death is uncertain but we do know that while he was still in hospital recovering from surgery he learned that he had advanced cancer.</p> <p>“I am so sorry to deliver this shocking news this way. Please send him your loving thoughts and prayers.”</p> <p>Sky-Lucas’ death has prompted a flood of tributes, as one friend wrote online, “Devastated. Beautiful man.”</p> <p>“Oh, I’m so shocked. Our lovely Dean. Such sorrowful news. The world will be less for his loss,” another wrote.</p> <p>Others remembered him for his musical talents, as one fan wrote, “Oh no, that’s so sad. He was such a fine musician and we enjoyed his sojourn in NZ a few years back. A terrible loss."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

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"About time": Coles bold parking move sparks debate

<p>Frustrated staff at a Coles-owned bottle shop in Brisbane have taken matters into their own hands and retaliated against drivers flouting parking rules outside their store. </p> <p>Management at a First Choice Liquor Market store in Newstead have locked in cars taking advantage of the customer-only spaces. </p> <p>It is understood that some cars remain parked in the 15-minute spots for extended periods, sometimes overnight, despite signs saying that fines apply. </p> <p>A photo shared on Facebook showed a car with P-plates blocked in by a yellow bollard and note that read: "Due to you not adhering to the parking rules, your vehicle has been locked in by management and will be kept on record." </p> <p>"Please see First Choice management to discuss your options".</p> <p>A local woman who shared the photos said there "were at least two other cars locked in" when she was passing by this week. </p> <p>Locals were divided by the store's actions, but many supported their decision.</p> <p>"About time. Pub takes all the spaces," one said. "I’ve been there when the store opens and there have been no car spaces available".</p> <p>"Don’t park where you shouldn’t. It’s simple," another added. </p> <p>A third said it was "about bloody time" something was done about the parking. </p> <p>However, a few others had a more understanding approach, with one local saying that the limited parking in a large apartment complex across the road could be contributing to the limited parking. </p> <p>Another suggested the staff had gone too far, noting the importance of being able to "flee" in a hurry, particularly in violent situations. </p> <p>"The thought of their vehicle being blocked in by bollard, should an unthinkable situation arise, is horrific to think of," she said.</p> <p>"While I understand this would be frustrating for your shop, it could be putting someone’s life in danger — as another perspective to think of."</p> <p>Coles have responded to the management's actions explaining that their commitment to customers means  providing "parking and clear access to our stores."</p> <p>"The Newstead store carpark is owned by Coles and has signage throughout the carpark informing locals about parking time restrictions which are also painted on the parking bays," a Coles spokesperson told <em>Yahoo News</em>.</p> <p>"To ensure we are making our stores more accessible for customers, our store team may use its discretion to remind the community of the parking rules.”</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

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Mother of baby scalded in park makes sad admission

<p>The mother of baby Luka, who was just nine-months-old when he was attacked by a stranger in a Brisbane park, has made a heartbreaking admission about her son's healing process. </p> <p>Baby Luka and his mother were enjoying the sun in Hanlon Park on August 27th when a stranger approached and poured boiling hot coffee over the baby boy. </p> <p>The nine-month-old was rushed to hospital, while the man accused of the attack remains at large. </p> <p>Luka, now one-year-old suffered serious burns to 60 per cent of his body, including his face, upper body and arms, and has undergone seven operations since the attack. </p> <p>The young boy's mum has now revealed that it may take her son up to one year to fully recover as he heals from the mental, emotional and physical damages from the attack. </p> <p>"In those first few weeks, we had no idea what his future was going to look like, especially because the burns were so significant," she told <a href="https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/baby-luka-on-the-road-to-recovery-after-hot-coffee-attack-but-suspect-years-from-day-in-court/news-story/c6dd3c9c8f68d493faba84a655e7cf90" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener"><em>The Courier Mail</em>.</a></p> <p>"He didn't have a bath for, like, a month when he had all the bandages, and when we poured water over his head when we had a bath, he started screaming."</p> <p>Luka's mum said her son was still "wary" around people and had become shy when in a group setting, as opposed to his confidence around others before the incident. </p> <p>The woman went on to say her son's skin had "healed really well" since the synthetic skin grafts; however, his dad explained it would take years for the scars to settle. </p> <p>"We are definitely optimistic at this point, he already looks better than we ever thought," Luka's father said. </p> <p>"Hopefully by the time he becomes a teenager you won't even be able to see the scars anymore."</p> <p><em>Image credits: 9News / Facebook</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Hero kindergarten teacher remembered at community park vigil

<p>Hundreds of people have gathered in a vigil to honour Eleanor Bryant, the speech pathologist killed by an <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/heroic-kindergarten-teacher-identified-after-horror-crash" target="_blank" rel="noopener">out-of-control water tanker</a> that crashed into a Victorian kindergarten earlier this week.</p> <p>Friends, colleagues and first responders gathered at Lions Park in Riddells Creek to pay tribute to the mother of two, with flower tributes growing for the heroic kindergarten teacher. </p> <p>Macedon Ranges Shire Council chief executive Bernie O'Sullivan said the vigil aimed to provide connection and support for the grieving community.</p> <p>"Eleanor Bryant was such a beautiful person and her impact and reach [was received] in such a positive way," O'Sullivan said.</p> <p>"It's still really raw and a massive shock to this tight-knit community in Riddells Creek."</p> <p>The mother-of-two has been remembered by her family for her caring and down-to-earth nature. </p> <p>"She was the light of our lives: a cherished mother, wife, daughter and sister, and beloved by all her family and enormous network of friends," they previously said in a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/she-was-the-light-of-our-lives-family-s-tribute-to-hero-kindergarten-teacher" target="_blank" rel="noopener">statement</a>.</p> <p>A three-year-old boy was injured in the crash. </p> <p>The 68-year-old driver of the truck, who was believed to have suffered a medical episode, was taken to hospital but has since been discharged, and no charges have been laid. </p> <p><em>Images: Nine</em></p>

Caring

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The Voice 2025 coaches line-up leaked

<p><em>The Voice Australia</em> appears set to have a major cast shake up, following Guy Sebastian's shock <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/music/guy-sebastian-drops-bombshell-news" target="_blank" rel="noopener">departure</a> from the show after six years. </p> <p>An insider told <em>Yahoo Lifestyle</em> that current coaches Kate Miller-Heidke and Adam Lambert are also saying goodbye to the show. </p> <p>Channel Seven is said to be in the final stages of locking their new line-up, which includes former fan favourites like Keith Urban. </p> <p>“The line-up that Channel Seven wants is Keith Urban, Jessica Mauboy, Ronan Keating and LeAnn Rimes,” the source told <em>Yahoo Lifestyle.</em> </p> <p>“They’ve all been on the show before and conversations had started a few months back.”</p> <p>Urban last appeared on the singing competition as coach in 2022, and fans were overjoyed when he appeared as a guest earlier this year. </p> <p>"Keith was asked about returning when he recorded a performance for the grand finale and he sounded open to the idea - as long as it works with his wife Nicole Kidman's plans to be back in Australia at the same time," the insider said. </p> <p>The source also said that US singer Rimes is likely to return as well. </p> <p>"In the lead-up to this year’s finale, LeAnn's management kept talking about the next series and what she plans to do differently," they said. </p> <p> “LeAnn was clear about her ambition to return next year and Channel Seven are keen to have her back after her artist won.”</p> <p>Jessica Mauboy, who was coach for the show from 2021 to 2023, left the series this year to focus on her music and go on tour, but Channel Seven are also keen to welcome her back. </p> <p>“There were always plans to bring Jess back at some point and viewers really missed her contribution this season," the insider said. </p> <p>“The conversation about Jess had been on the cards with or without Guy. It seemed the network was already looking at flipping Kate Miller-Heidke, who seemed a little out of place on the show."</p> <p>As for Ronan Keating, who was last seen on the show in 2016, the source said he was keen to appear on the Australian version of the show again. </p> <p>Channel Seven is expected to officially announce the 2025 lineup for <em>The Voice Australia</em> at their upcoming Upfront event this month.</p> <p>“One thing is for sure <em>The Voice Australia </em>will go on without Guy Sebastian and 2025 looks set to have one of the best line-ups without him." </p> <p><em>Images: Channel Seven</em></p> <p> </p>

TV

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Fury over black market for disabled parking permits

<p>An investigation has uncovered a rise in the black market for disabled and mobility permits on online classified sites.</p> <p>According to motoring news outlet <a href="https://www.drive.com.au/caradvice/outrage-after-disabled-parking-permits-spotted-for-sale-online/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Drive</em></a>, some users around Australia are using Facebook and other social media outlets to sell their unused mobility parking permits to give other drivers unauthorised access to disabled parking spots.</p> <p>The publication unearthed one permit for sale in Sydney was priced at $500 and valid until 2028.</p> <p>The permit was equipped with the holder, photo ID, and a description stating the buyer will get free unmetered parking and that the permit is valid Australia-wide.</p> <p>A spokesperson for Transport NSW told <em>Drive</em> this practice is illegal and carries large fines for both the purchaser and seller, adding that the permit holder is subject to cancellation for misuse.</p> <p>“The sale of mobility parking permits online is illegal, and Transport for NSW urges anyone who is aware of this happening to report it to NSW Police," the spokesperson said. “These permits are reserved only for people with permanent or temporary mobility challenges as assessed by a medical professional."</p> <p>“The regulatory penalty for misuse of a permit is currently a penalty notice of $818 or a maximum court-imposed penalty of $2200 under the Road Transport (General) Regulation 2021. This includes ‘permitting another person to have possession of it’.”</p> <p>A spokesperson for the Department of Social Services Australia went on to stress the importance of not buying a mobility parking permit if you are not legally entitled to one.</p> <p>“Australia’s Disability Strategy recognises that people with disability should be supported to live more accessible and connected lives within their communities, including being able to fully participate in social, recreational, and cultural events," the spokesperson said.</p> <p>“The inappropriate use of accessible parking spaces can negatively impact people with disability.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Drive / Facebook</em></p>

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Missing woman found after 12 days in national park

<p>Missing woman Lovisa 'Kiki' Sjoberg has been found alive after almost two weeks lost in the Snowy Mountains region of New South Wales. </p> <p>The 48-year-old photographer was last seen driving into the Kosciuszko National Park on October 15th and was reported missing six days later when she failed to return a hire car.</p> <p>After setting up a command post at the Kiandra Courthouse on the Snowy Mountains Hwy, police began an intensive search for the woman immediately.</p> <p>A wide-scale search was conducted involving the Mounted Unit, Dog Unit, SES, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Rural Fire Service, a Surf Life Saving Helicopter and members of the public.</p> <p>On Sunday afternoon, the woman was found injured on the Nungar Creek Trail at Kiandra.</p> <p>She was treated at the scene by paramedics for exposure and what appeared to be a snake bite before being taken to a local hospital in a stable condition.</p> <p>Worried friends of Ms Sjoberg have expressed their relief and joy on Facebook about the news of her discovery, thanking the community for their support. </p> <p><em>Image credits: NSW Police / llawarra Police Rescue Squad</em></p>

Caring

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Nicole Kidman bids farewell to her mother at intimate funeral

<p>Nicole Kidman has said a tearful goodbye to her beloved mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, during an intimate funeral service held at St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Lavender Bay, Sydney.</p> <p>The 57-year-old Oscar winner was supported by her husband, country music star Keith Urban, and their two daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret, as family and close friends gathered to honour Janelle’s life.</p> <p>84Janelle Kidman, 84, <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/nicole-kidman-confirms-heartbreaking-family-news" target="_blank" rel="noopener">passed away in early September</a> after a long illness. The family, including Nicole's sister, journalist Antonia Kidman, and Janelle’s eight grandchildren, shared moving tributes at the service. Among them was TV host Lucia Hawley, the eldest of the grandchildren, who gave a heartfelt speech.</p> <p>The service was also attended by a number of notable figures from Australia’s entertainment industry, including actor Russell Crowe, broadcaster Peter Overton, and his wife, television personality Jessica Rowe.</p> <p>The news of her mother's passing reached Nicole while she was in Venice, Italy, for the Venice Film Festival on September 8, where she was being honoured with the Best Actress award for her role in the upcoming thriller <em>Babygirl</em>. Unable to attend the ceremony, director Halina Reijn accepted the award on her behalf and read a touching message from Kidman, in which the actress expressed her grief.</p> <p>“Today, I arrived in Venice to find out shortly after my brave and beautiful mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, had just passed,” Kidman’s statement began. “I’m in shock and I have to go to my family, but this award is for her. She shaped me, she guided me, and she made me. I am beyond grateful that I get to say her name to all of you through Halina. The collision of life and art is heartbreaking. My heart is broken.”</p> <p>Janelle Kidman’s cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, but she had reportedly been battling health issues since 2016 when she suffered a suspected heart scare. Her passing comes nearly a decade after the death of her husband, Dr Antony Kidman, who died of a heart attack in Singapore in 2014.</p> <p>Kidman, who divides her time between Nashville, Manhattan, and Australia, remains close to her family despite her international career, often speaking about the pivotal role her mother played in her life and career.</p> <p><em>Images: 9News / Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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China expert reveals new theory on why man scalded baby in park

<p>An expert on Chinese social issues has shed new light on the potential motive behind the attack on a baby in a Brisbane park. </p> <p>In August, nine-month-old Luka was enjoying Hanlon Park with his mother when the man poured boiling hot coffee on the infant before fleeing the scene. </p> <p>Police identified the attacker as a 33-year-old man from China, who travelled to his home country after the attack, evading capture by police. </p> <p>As many hypothesise about the <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/alleged-motive-of-man-who-scalded-baby-revealed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">motive</a> behind the attack, Will Sterzel, a prominent critic of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), said the attack follows a trend of similar attacks in China. </p> <p>Sterzel, who lived in China for 14 years but left for America after the CCP criticised his vocalness over his frustration with the government, explained that the man's attack on baby Luka is reflective of his own social life and displeasure with state bureaucracy. </p> <p>"When his latest application for a visa was rejected, he did what so many in China do: lashed out and took revenge on society by attacking a child," Mr Sterzel said.</p> <p>"He even said to his friend that he wanted to take revenge on white people."</p> <p>According to Mr Sterzel, the phenomenon reflects a deep-seated frustration that some Chinese nationals feel about the living conditions under the ruling Communist Party.</p> <p>"What it boils down to at the root of it all is injustice," Mr Sterzel claimed. </p> <p>He went on to explain that China lacks government support - such as mental health services, public funds or charities - for those in situations of misfortune, prompting many people to lash out. </p> <p>"When you're down on your luck the government will not help you in China, there are no social programs and if your family isn't willing to float you you're done for," Mr Sterzel said.</p> <p>"There simply are no mental health facilities or systems in place to deal with mental health. So, when people snap and are at wit's end they have no recourse, they're not allowed to blame the government, they cannot strike or protest or petition or take action."</p> <p>"They have nowhere to turn and so they selfishly lash out at society trying to inflict as much damage as possible and in China children are the most precious and important part of society."</p> <p>Mr Sterzel explained that children in China are faced with a lot of responsibility, and are often forced to be providers for their entire family. </p> <p>"All that the entire family's future rides on how good a job the child gets," Mr Sterzel said.</p> <p>"So, by attacking and murdering young children these disgruntled cowards inflict huge damage to society disrupting the plans and livelihoods of multiple generations. The grandparents can no longer retire, the parents' lives are destroyed and China's already shrinking demographics get smaller."</p> <p>"They have inflicted maximum damage to society."</p> <p>Mr Sterzel stressed that "revenge against society" attacks were not cultural tradition, adding, "This is a problem that's continuing to grow in China and unfortunately get exported abroad."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Queensland Police / 9News</em></p>

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$22,000 fine imposed on Waratah thieves

<p>A spate of thefts of one of Australia's most iconic native plants have prompted a furious warning from authorities. </p> <p>More than 20 Waratahs have "disappeared" from the Brisbane Water National Park on the Central Coast alone, according to NSW National Parks, and thieves can risk a potential fine of  $22,000 for hacking the bright flower. </p> <p>“It is illegal to pick waratahs or any other plant in any area protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act,” an NPWS spokesperson told <em>Yahoo News</em>. </p> <p>Rangers can issue a $300 on-the-spot fine to those caught illegally picking the flower.</p> <p>“The maximum fine under the Biodiversity Conservation Act is $22,000. NPWS is keen to receive details of anyone illegally picking waratahs.”</p> <p>Over the long weekend, locals in the Blue Mountains have hit out at "selfish" tourists for "ripping" waratahs from their stems, with images of the act posted on social media. </p> <p>“Just went to check on a beautiful double header waratah in local bushland only to find someone, well prepared with their secateurs, has cut it clean off. Beyond disgusted!” environmental conservation organisation Wild Blue Mountains said.</p> <p>“This is just not on. They had been giving joy to everyone who passed them but now they’re gone due to one person’s selfish actions.”</p> <p>Last week, NSW National Parks had installed signage about “helping protect the Waratah” to deter culprits from taking them and they've even painted some of the stems with a “non-toxic blue paint”.</p> <p>“Waratahs need to go through their full lifecycle to produce seeds, so picking them deprives the ecosystem of a new generation of plants,” NSW National Parks said.</p> <p>“These flowers are more than just a pretty face, they also provide nectar for birds and other native animals. Please leave them be so we can all enjoy more of these beautiful flowers in years to come.</p> <p>“If you want to pick something in a national park, pick your nose instead!”</p> <p><em>Image: NSW National Parks/Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

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An unbroken night’s sleep is a myth. Here’s what good sleep looks like

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amy-reynolds-424346">Amy Reynolds</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/claire-dunbar-1651340">Claire Dunbar</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gorica-micic-187159">Gorica Micic</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/hannah-scott-424633">Hannah Scott</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nicole-lovato-60684">Nicole Lovato</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a></em></p> <p>What do you imagine a good night’s sleep to be?</p> <p>Often when people come into our sleep clinic seeking treatment, they share ideas about healthy sleep.</p> <p>Many think when their head hits the pillow, they should fall into a deep and restorative sleep, and emerge after about eight hours feeling refreshed. They’re in good company – many Australians hold <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychores.2014.09.011">the same belief</a>.</p> <p>In reality, healthy sleep is cyclic across the night, as you move in and out of the different stages of sleep, often waking up several times. Some people remember one or more of these awakenings, others do not. Let’s consider what a healthy night’s sleep looks like.</p> <h2>Sleep cycles are a roller-coaster</h2> <p>As an adult, our sleep moves through <a href="https://www.sleepfoundation.org/stages-of-sleep">different cycles</a> and brief awakenings during the night. Sleep cycles last roughly 90 minutes each.</p> <p>We typically start the night with lighter sleep, before moving into deeper sleep stages, and rising again into rapid eye movement (REM) sleep – the stage of sleep often linked to vivid dreaming.</p> <p>If sleeping well, we get most of our deep sleep in the first half of the night, with <a href="https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep/stages-of-sleep#:%7E:text=During%20REM%20sleep%2C%20your%20eyes,from%20acting%20out%20your%20dreams">REM sleep</a> more common in the second half of the night.</p> <p>Adults usually move through five or six sleep cycles in a night, and it is entirely <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychores.2014.09.011">normal</a> to wake up briefly at the end of each one. That means we might be waking up five times during the night. This can increase with older age and still be healthy. If you’re not remembering these awakenings that’s OK – they can be quite brief.</p> <h2>What does getting a ‘good’ sleep actually mean?</h2> <p>You’ll often hear that adults <a href="https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-topics/how-much-sleep-do-you-really-need#:%7E:text=Sleep%20requirements%20stabilise%20in%20early,their%20best%20the%20next%20day">need between seven and nine hours</a> of sleep per night. But good sleep is about more than the number of hours – it’s also about the quality.</p> <p>For most people, sleeping well means being able to fall asleep soon after getting into bed (within around 30 minutes), sleeping without waking up for long periods, and waking feeling rested and ready for the day.</p> <p>You shouldn’t be feeling excessively sleepy during the day, especially if you’re regularly getting at least seven hours of refreshing sleep a night (this is a rough rule of thumb).</p> <p>But are you noticing you’re feeling physically tired, needing to nap regularly and still not feeling refreshed? It may be worthwhile touching base with your general practitioner, as there a range of possible reasons.</p> <h2>Common issues</h2> <p>Sleep disorders are common. Up to <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35478719/">25% of adults</a> have insomnia, a sleep disorder where it may be hard to fall or stay asleep, or you may wake earlier in the morning than you’d like.</p> <p>Rates of common sleep disorders such as insomnia and <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-apnea/symptoms-causes/syc-20377631">sleep apnoea</a> – where your breathing can partially or completely stop many times during the night – also increase with age, affecting <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32280974/">20% of early adults</a> and 40% of people in <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35082023/">middle age</a>. There are effective treatments, so asking for help is important.</p> <p>Beyond sleep disorders, our sleep can also be disrupted by chronic health conditions – such as <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0012369218311139">pain</a> – and by <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jsr.13075">certain medications</a>.</p> <p>There can also be other reasons we’re not sleeping well. Some of us are woken by children, pets or traffic noise during the night. These “<a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07420528.2021.2003375">forced awakenings</a>” mean we may find it harder to get up in the morning, take longer to leave bed and feel less satisfied with our sleep. For some people, night awakenings may have no clear cause.</p> <p>A good way to tell if these awakenings are a problem for you is by thinking about how they affect you. When they cause feelings of frustration or worry, or are impacting how we feel and function during the day, it might be a sign to seek some help.</p> <p>We also may struggle to get up in the morning. This could be for a range of reasons, including not sleeping long enough, going to bed or waking up at irregular times – or even your own <a href="https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-categories/circadian-rhythm-disorders#:%7E:text=The%20circadian%20rhythms%20throughout%20the,regulation%20of%20our%20sleeping%20patterns">internal clock</a>, which can influence the time your body prefers to sleep.</p> <p>If you’re regularly struggling to get up for work or family needs, it can be an indication you may need to seek help. Some of these factors can be explored with a sleep psychologist if they are causing concern.</p> <h2>Can my smart watch help?</h2> <p>It is important to remember sleep-tracking devices can <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41746-024-01016-9">vary in accuracy</a> for looking at the different sleep stages. While they can give a rough estimate, they are not a perfect measure.</p> <p>In-laboratory <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31277862/">polysomnography</a>, or PSG, is the best standard measure to examine your sleep stages. A PSG examines breathing, oxygen saturation, brain waves and heart rate during sleep.</p> <p>Rather than closely examining nightly data (including sleep stages) from a sleep tracker, it may be more helpful to look at the patterns of your sleep (bed and wake times) over time.</p> <p><a href="https://jcsm.aasm.org/doi/10.5664/jcsm.8356">Understanding your sleep patterns</a> may help identify and adjust behaviours that negatively impact your sleep, such as your bedtime routine and sleeping environment.</p> <p>And if you find viewing your sleep data is making you feel worried about your sleep, this may not be useful for you. Most importantly, if you are concerned it is important to discuss it with your GP who can refer you to the appropriate specialist sleep health provider.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. 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More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amy-reynolds-424346">Amy Reynolds</a>, Associate Professor in Clinical Sleep Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/claire-dunbar-1651340">Claire Dunbar</a>, Research Associate, Sleep Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gorica-micic-187159">Gorica Micic</a>, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Clinical Psychologist, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/hannah-scott-424633">Hannah Scott</a>, Research Fellow in Sleep Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nicole-lovato-60684">Nicole Lovato</a>, Associate Professor, Adelaide Institute for Sleep Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p> <p><em>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-unbroken-nights-sleep-is-a-myth-heres-what-good-sleep-looks-like-238069">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

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