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Monday, 22 May

01:08

00:15

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Sunday, 21 May

22:39

Inflation to surprise on the downside "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

Inflation set to freefall

Something I've been musing for a long while, is whether inflation could fall 'too far', or turn negative over the next year or two. 

It wouldn't exactly be a surprise if it happened. 

After all, on the demand side we've seen the fastest pace of monetary tightening in modern history.

And on the supply side, things are rapidly being righted too.

Shane Oliver of AMP regularly reports his pipeline indicator, and guess what...


Look out below!

16:25

2-Sense: Big 3 property news stories of the week "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

2-Sense podcast


I joined Chris Bates of Blusk to discuss the big 3 property news stories of the week. 

In our second month, we now have around 17,000 unique listeners.

Tune in here (or click on the image below):


"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgWZLTmmMUw&t=1s" target= "_blank">YouTube here:

05:26

Sydney leads housing recovery "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

Auctions bounce

Sydney is suffering from a chronic shortage of quality stock on the market, and the auction market is running increasingly hot. 

The preliminary auction clearance rate for Sydney was 79.3 per cent this weekend, and getting close to the 'boomtime' 80 per cent level. 


It's a remarkable rebound, but as PropTrack reported this week, the rental markets in most of the larger capital cities are getting tighter, and tighter, and tighter...and this leading to a fear of missing out from buyers. 

Don't get me wrong, there's still a lot of pain in the post, with today's mortgage rates likely to be excruciating for plenty of existing borrowers, to the extent that interest rates will probably need to fall again at some point over the next 6 to 12 months as consumer spending in the economy crumples (interest rates may need to fall in order to get new home sales moving again from decade lows as well). 

For the time being, however, employment levels remain very healthy, vendors have practically gone on strike, and the in the big cities rental markets are heading to tighter levels than we've seen before. 

...

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Saturday, 20 May

19:25

Everybody Knows, Part 14: Comparative Trials of Russell Pridgeon and Jahar Tsarnaev "IndyWatch Feed National"

(L) Russell Pridgeon, age 64 at 2018 arrest, Photo: abc.net.au (not sure why the cops are pixelated) (R) Jahar Tsarnaev, age 19, at 2013 arrest, Photo provided by Massachusetts state police(L) Russell Pridgeon, age 64 at 2018 arrest, Photo: abc.net.au (not sure why the cops are pixelated) (R) Jahar Tsarnaev, age 19, at 2013 arrest, Photo provided by Massachusetts state police

by Mary W Maxwell, LLB

As Gumshoe News readers will know, I am trying to spotlight the upcoming trial of Dr Russell Pridgeon in order to examine its unfairness. Dee McLachlan had already been doing that since at least 5 April 2019, the day she filmed Pridgeons red-carpet speech. The present series is roughly based on a book Russell put together in haste before packing his toothbrush for (potential) prison. Its at Amazon with the title Everybody Knows.

In this article I will emphasize the deja vu-ness of the Pridgeon trial to a person (me) who has been very much involved in the Boston trial, United States v Tsarnaev.

...

17:19

Utilitarianism comes to benefit-cost analysis "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

Kevin Drum points to an obscure, but radical proposal to change the way the US government does benefit cost analysis. The Office of Management and Budget has released draft guidance saying

One practical approach to implementing weights that account for diminishing marginal utility uses a constant-elasticity specification to determine the weights for subgroups defined by annual income. To compute an estimate of the net benefits of a regulation using this approach, you first compute the traditional net benefits for each subgroup. You can then compute a weighted sum of the subgroup-specific net benefits: the weight for each subgroup is the median income for that subgroup divided by the U.S. median income, raised to the power of the elasticity of marginal utility times negative one. OMB has determined that 1.4 is a reasonable estimate of the income elasticity of marginal utility for use in regulatory analyses.

This is pretty obscure, but what it means is that, a project that delivers a dollar of benefits to each of a group of poor people is worth more than a project that delivers a dollar of benefits to each of a group of poor rich people.

A lot more !

Kevin uses a graph to illustrate, showing that an extra dollar for the median household is worth 50 times as much as an extra dollar for a household with an income of $1 million a year. Conversely, an extra dollar for households at the bottom of the income distribution is worth 12 times as much as an extra dollar at the median.

Its actually simpler to get the intuition of you use an elasticity of 1, which corresponds to logarithmic utility. Then you can sum up the implications by saying that a given percentage increase (or reduction) in income yields the same additional (or reduced) utility no matter who gets it. So, for example, if a policy halved Elon Musks income, while doubling the income of a single randomly chosen US household, it would be evaluated as neutral. If the policy doubled the income of two households, it would be beneficial. More generally, you can just add up all the percentage changes in income from the project (included the taxes needed to finance* it). If that sum is positive, the project should be approved.

This proposal would imply such radical changes that it is almost certain to be killed off. But its a straightforward implication of mainstream neoclassical welfare economics, based on utilitarianism. And the estimated elasticity is very close to that we usually get when we look at individual choices under risk (you can translate to social welfare using a device like Rawls veil of ignorance).

Even if the proposal is never implemented, it has some striki...

17:09

This fate awaits Snake Matt Kean "IndyWatch Feed National"

Liberal members boo and stage a walk-out on Liberal leader John Pesutto at the partys state council meeting in Bendigo #springst pic.twitter.com/xxAiy5OlJq Annika Smethurst (@annikasmethurst) May 20, 2023

16:40

Albanese urged to take stand against nuclear weapons during G7 summit in Hiroshima "IndyWatch Feed Enviro.au"

International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons wants Labor to send a message to the region and sign and ratify a treaty to impose a ban on atomic weapons

Guardian Daniel Hurst 19 May 23

Anthony Albanese is being urged to take a firm stand against nuclear weapons when he attends the G7 summit in Hiroshima this weekend.

The prime minister has been invited to attend the summit in Hiroshima, which along with Nagasaki was devastated by the US atomic bombing in the closing stages of the second world war.

Albanese is due to arrive in the city on Friday afternoon and will join the mayor of Hiroshima for a visit to the Peace Memorial Park, including the ruins of the former industrial promotion hall now known as the A-bomb dome.

A Nobel prize-winning group, the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (Ican), has written to Albanese to urge him to make good on Labors promise to join a new treaty to impose an outright ban on nuclear weapons.

The party platform said a Labor government would sign and ratify the treaty, after taking account of factors including the need to work to achieve universal international support.

Ican cited Albaneses ...

16:39

Ukrainian diplomat fears terrible summer ahead "IndyWatch Feed Enviro.au"

 https://www.rt.com/russia/576550-terrible-price-ukraine-counteroffensive/

The countrys troops may have to pay a terrible price in a planned counteroffensive, envoy Vadim Pristaiko said

Ukraine could suffer heavy losses during its much-anticipated counteroffensive against Russia, Vadim Pristaiko, Kievs ambassador to the UK, warned on Thursday.

In an interview with British broadcaster ITV, the diplomat said: I know that it can be a very terrible summer and the price is terrible.

Pristaiko also said Kievs Western backers have piled too much pressure on Kiev and have built up too much expectations about the spring campaign.

When asked to comment on why Ukraine maintains its position on not revealing its losses in the conflict, Pristaiko replied: internally, we understand how many of us are already killed and lost.

We understand that it will be extremely difficult to fight with a nation that is 16 times bigger than us, the envoy said. But we are determined to do it and we are not going to tell Russians how painful it is they know it is painful and we know it is painful.

The Ukrainian ambassador also acknowledged that while US President Joe Biden and his administration have emerged as one of Kievs most staunch supporters, his successor might prove to be less willing to help the country.

One of the weaknesses of democracy is the cyclical nature, and we have the same we have to take into account this cycle in politics, he said.

We understand that the time might come that we wont enjoy such great support, that is why we have to put all the pressure right now, Pristaiko said. That is why we are asking our friends, can you bring everything to the table? Allow us to have a decisive push this time.

For several months, Ukraine has been speaking about a counteroffensive against Russia to reclaim territories Kiev considers as its own, but some officials have complained about a lack of ammunition, weapons, and even adverse...

16:37

Hiroshimas nuclear history sounds an urgent warning for G-7 summit "IndyWatch Feed Enviro.au"

Democracy Now,  Laura Kelly, The Hill: May 19, 2023

HIROSHIMA The cost of war is ever-present in this nuclear-scarred city, which this week is playing host to a high-stakes summit of the Group of Seven (G-7) nations amid Europes bloodiest conflict since WWII. 

The Atomic Bomb Dome, bearing its skeleton roof and partially remaining walls from when it was irrevocably transformed at 8:15 a.m. on Aug. 6, 1945, is a haunting testament to the horror wrought by mans determination to pursue maximum destruction. 

And it serves as the backdrop for a weekend summit at a time when the use of nuclear war is once again openly threatened on the world stage from loose Russian talk, North Korean provocations, Irans nuclear buildup and Chinas expanding arsenal

President Biden, attending the summit, will not be issuing an apology on behalf of the United States for using the atomic bomb, the White House said ahead of the presidents arrival in Japan..

Just across from the Peace Memorial Park is the museum housing the testimonies of survivors and the victims of the atomic bombing gruesome stories of people scorched by the heat of the blast, their skin hanging off their bodies just as their clothes hung like rags. An estimated 140,000 people died as a result of the bombing. 

Among the museums displays include a 2010 photo of then-President Obama shaking hands with then-Russian President Dmitry Medvedev following the signing of the New START treaty, a watershed moment signaling a commitment from the two leading nuclear powers to reduce their nuclear stockpiles

Kishida is overseeing a massive military mobilization in Japan in response to Russias invasion of Ukraine. Kishida visited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv in March, an extraordinary show of solidarity from an Asian nation. 

. World leaders are gathering in Hiroshima at a time in which experts warn the risk of nuclear confrontation is at its highest since the Cold War.&n...

16:36

Biden Wont Apologize for 1945 Nuclear Attacks on Japan as G7 Leaders Gather in Hiroshima "IndyWatch Feed Enviro.au"

 https://www.democracynow.org/2023/5/19/headlines/biden_wont_apologize_for_1945_nuclear_attacks_on_japan_as_g7_leaders_gather_in_hiroshima, MAY 19, 2023

As the G7 summit gets underway in Hiroshima, Japan, world leaders agreed to new sanctions against Russia over the invasion of Ukraine. Ahead of their first joint meeting today, President Biden and the other leaders paid tribute to the victims of the worlds first nuclear attack the U.S. bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945 laying wreaths at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial and planting a tree. President Biden did not issue an apology for the attack. A group of anti-nuclear activists rallied on the streets.

Niishima: Biden is in Hiroshima, and hes brought along with him a button to fire a nuclear missile. I cannot forgive him for this. He needs to apologize to the people in Hiroshima.

At least 140,000 people died in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, which leveled the city. Three days later, the U.S. dropped an atomic bomb on Nagasaki, killing another 74,000 people. Japans Prime Minister Fumio Kishidas family is from Hiroshima, and he lost relatives in the citys bombing. Kishida has pushed for the abolition of nuclear weapons, while leading the nations biggest military buildup since World War II.

Meanwhile, Oxfam reports G7 countries collectively owe poor nations in the Global South more than $13 trillion in development and climate assistance. But instead, these countries are saddled with daily debt repayments of $232 million, deepening the global chasm of inequality.

16:33

GKP S5/E12 The Voice to Parliament with Indigenous Elder Grandmother Mulara "IndyWatch Feed National"

https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-vz4hg-14128af Gday Folks, On todays show Andy joins me to discuss the upcoming Voice to Parliament referendum with our special guest, Grandmother Mulara. What is the Voice to Parliament? So far all we have been hearing and seeing are campaigns by the Government to Vote Yes in the referendum. But what is this referendum really []

16:00

POEM: Park on Park "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

POEM: Park on Park

 

PARK ON PARK  

Nick OLoan and Nic Clark
both work at a carpark
located at 1 Park Road
Milton

OLoan owns
and Clark clerks
at the carpark
which is called Park on Park

You can often find OLoan moaning
about all the work hes doing
but on a Monday
its a shoe-in
that he'll be in the pool
lazing away

while Clark, the fool
slaves all day
as he struggles
to complete a degree
in Marketing
at QUT

If you are ever in the area drop in!
These two boys can often
provide some inspiration
if you're without some other
sunnier
destination.

Just a little story
about my two friends
Nicholas OLoan
the owner of Park on Park
and Nicolas Clark
the carpark clerk.


This poem is part of an unpublished poetry anthology written by David Donovan and illustrated by Mark David.

You can read more from IA founder and publisher Dave Donovan on Twitter @davrosz. Follow Independent Australia on Twitter @independentaus, Facebook HERE and Instagram HERE. See more cartoons from Mark David on Facebook HERE.

14:59

14:52

Independence of the Victorian Bar - members in revolt over support for The Voice "IndyWatch Feed National"

I've received a number of notes from members of the Victorian Bar who are quite properly furious about their leadership's public support for Albanese's Voice. This note is typical: Dear colleague, I write to you in response to the Bars forthcoming Poll on whether, in essence, the Victorian Bar should...

14:05

13:28

Fears of Abandonment: Australia, Biden and Cancelling the Quad Visit "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

Much needless fuss has been generated by President Joe Bidens cancellation of his visit to Australia for the Quad meeting, a now regular gathering of leaders from the US, Japan, India and Australia. He had other things on his mind: dealing with fractious debt ceiling negotiations taking place back in the United States.  Students of

The post Fears of Abandonment: Australia, Biden and Cancelling the Quad Visit appeared first on The AIM Network.

12:53

12:49

Precisely. "IndyWatch Feed National"

The presumption of innocence has been dangerously warped by the #MeToo movement, Bruce Lehrmanns lawyer Steven Whybrow SC has claimed. Read and watch his full first interview since Mr Lehrmann's trial over Brittany Higgins rape allegations: https://t.co/CgCYO411r6 pic.twitter.com/o1r1RklaGO The Australian (@australian) May 19, 2023

12:26

12:22

12:15

Lib members heckle, boo and walk-out on weak lefty opposition leader John Pesutto "IndyWatch Feed National"

Liberal members boo and stage a walk-out on Liberal leader John Pesutto at the partys state council meeting in Bendigo #springst pic.twitter.com/xxAiy5OlJq Annika Smethurst (@annikasmethurst) May 20, 2023

12:00

'Great Southern Land': New ice in Aussie classic's veins "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

'Great Southern Land': New ice in Aussie classic's veins

Iconic Australian song 'Great Southern Land' is rocking a cool new coat, courtesy of Sydney-via-LA multi-instrumentalist and producer Cassian.

'GREAT SOUTHERN LAND': NEW ICE IN CLASSIC'S VEINS

With no less than the blessing of Icehouse frontman Iva Davies himself, Cassians brand new single has breathed fresh life into the Australian classic 'Great Southern Land', ready for a new generation.

Of his new creation, the talented producer said: 'Being involved with the legacy of this song is probably the greatest honour of my career thus far, one that I dont take lightly.'

Wrapping it in shiny new clothes while keeping the essence of the original this is Cassians love letter to his home country.

Cassian told Independent Australia:

I feel like it's a song that is unavoidable growing up in Australia, especially in the '90s. For me personally, it just always resonated, always felt meaningful, always felt cool, always felt fresh and unique. It's a song I found myself always coming back to. Finding out how Iva produced it in his bedroom using synths that I'm still using today only strengthened how I feel about the song and his legacy.

It was definitely a labour of love for Cassian, going through over 100 iterations of the piece, meticulously manipulating and crafting each individual sound.

Having previously worked with artists Rfs Du Sol, Peking Duk and Hayden James, Cassian has...

10:30

Will the US Default on Its Debt? Part Two "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

What is the debt ceiling?

Its a numeric limit on the total debt that the US Treasury is allowed to issue. Theres no debt ceiling in the US Constitution. Instead, its imposed by statute.

Theres no legal requirement for that statute. The debt ceiling could be repealed by Congress, at which point there would be no limit on the size of the national debt.

Still, Congress likes the idea of a debt ceiling. It forces the White House and Treasury to come back to Congress from time to time to request increases as needed. This gives Congress some leverage to ask for political concessions in return for raising the debt ceiling.

So, the debt ceiling is really a political football rather than a serious macroeconomic policy tool. In the end, Congress always approves the ceiling increases. In a way, the debt ceiling debate is all for show.

To be clear, the debt ceiling does not mean the Treasury cannot issue any new debt. It means that Treasury cannot issue debt that increases the total outstanding above the ceiling.

Getting around the debt ceiling a shell game of dodgy options

Treasury is at the ceiling now.

The US is still running deficits. How are the new deficits being financed? The Treasury has to resort to extraordinary measures to keep paying the bills. Lets look at some of their options.

The Treasury has several slush funds, such as the Exchange Stabilisation Fund, that it can tap into to pay bills without Congressional approval. Believe it or not, the Treasury sometimes has positive cash flow even though the deficit is increasing. This happens around this time of year when more Americans are paying their taxes than are claiming refunds.

This positive cash flow can help the Treasury pay bills temporarily, even if a dry spell emerges late in the year. (This typically happens in the summer when tax payments slow down and use it or lose it spending increases.) Finally, the Treasury can sell assets (Grand Canyon, anyone?) to put some cash in the till.

A trillion-dollar coin?

You may have heard of the trillion-dollar coin idea. It wont happen, but heres how it works.

The Treasury would ask the US mint to produce a solid platinum coin. The Treasury would give the coin to the Federal Reserve and simply declare that the coin was worth US$1 trillion. (Assuming it to be a one-ounce coin, the actual market price is about US$1,000.)

The Fed would put the coin in a vault and credit the US Treasury general account US$1 trillion. The Treasury could spend that newly printed money as it wished. The Treasury would not violate the debt ceiling because no new debt would be issued; the Fed would just create the dollars out of thin air. Easy breezy.

...

10:30

Why the Latest Bank Crisis Is Far From Over "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

I spent most of 2022 asking anyone who would listen a simple question: Why has nobody blown up yet? Why hasnt there been a bank crisis? Why has no pension fund imploded? Why havent insurance companies gone haywire?

You see, we had one of the worst years ever for financial markets, in the US in particular. That was especially true because bonds and stocks had fallen together during a period of inflation.

A balanced portfolio of US stocks and bonds wouldve delivered the worst return since before the Great Depression, according to my calculations.

The result was unusually bad because stocks and bonds are supposed to offset each other. A bad year in stocks is supposed to be offset by a good year in bonds. Thats the whole point of owning such a diversified portfolio. But the theory failed in 2022. Both plunged, with inflation adding insult to injury.

And yet, no financial institution had blown up in spectacular fashion. There was no Lehman Brothers moment. No sovereign default or currency peg breaking. We couldnt even come up with a proper name for the 2022 crash because there was no single particularly noticeable event to name it after.

This completely mystified me at the time. How could risk free, 30-year UK Government bonds crash 60% without sending UK financial institutions into meltdown, for example?

I asked a series of famous thinkers this question over and over again, usually in the moments after recording an interview with them on some other topic. They all told me a variety of reasons that werent very convincing.

Some said that banks had hedged their exposures and risks to the crashes in derivatives markets.

Others said that financial institutions didnt hold the long-term bonds that had fallen especially badly.

Others said that the revenue benefits of higher interest rates outweighed the capital losses for financial institutions. (Higher interest rates mean more profits for banks and insurance companies.)

This all seemed fair enough. Even if I didnt see how it could quite offset the vast losses that financial institutions must have suffered on the value of their assets.

For example, if you use derivatives to evade losses on bond prices falling, that merely transfers the loss to someone else. Its still being suffered by someone.

Another reason experts frequently gave me to explain the financial systems stability in the face of such losses particularly annoyed me. In fact, I remember losing my temper and interrupting one patient colleague about it in a rather rude way.

The former banker, who had quit his job in anticipation of the 2008 financial crisis, claimed the post-financial crisis reforms had made banks and other financial institutions less risky. They held more capital in reserves.

This seriously annoyed me because it was like claiming that banks were safe in 2006 because of securitisation. A claim that many peopl...

10:30

A Republic? YES; a Christian Republic? NO "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

By Brian Morris   So where is the roadblock to an Australian republic? Too many have assumed, for too long, it was simply hereditary monarchy once Queen Elizabeth had passed the bejewelled orb and sceptres to Charles the road was then clear. Incontrovertibly, the need to precisely frame a sound referendum question is crucial

The post A Republic? YES; a Christian Republic? NO appeared first on The AIM Network.

09:51

Robo-debt findings delayed to allow NACC referrals "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

Robo-debt findings delayed to allow NACC referrals

Pigsfly News understands at least some of these notices have been sent to people who have featured at the hearings of this royal commission.

09:27

US skincare company using school shooting to sell its products. "IndyWatch Feed National"

pic.twitter.com/gKww03ZFAC lifelong nuggets fan (@annamelissa) May 19, 2023

09:16

Peter Dutton spot on. "IndyWatch Feed National"

Excellent point. VOTE NO! #PerthNews #QLDPOL pic.twitter.com/7yZXsNvU5d JILL (@1Swinging_Voter) May 19, 2023

08:18

Officer's job under review, homicide squad called in, as advocates call out police handling of 95yo tasering "IndyWatch Feed National"

Clare Nowland was at Yallambee Lodge in Cooma when staff called NSW Police to the facility

An advocacy group representing people with disabilities has criticised a senior constable for his use of a taser on a 95-year-old woman with dementia at her Cooma aged care facility.

Key points:

  • ...

08:10

In which the pond discovers that the dog botherer is a bed wetter, while the Bjorn-again one serves stale breadcrumbs to the reptiles ... "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

 


The lizard Oz is looking particularly threadbare this weekend, with the digital edition cutting back on the top of the page ...




A double-barrelled effort by Dame Slap on the Lehrmann matter, including an alleged EXCLUSIVE, really meaning quoting an interested party in the matter, and the endearing use of "Bruce"? 

That was more than enough for a red card, but it also left the pond looking threadbare and tattered, though it did suggest that the reptile anxiety about being snubbed had subsided and turned into a one day wonder ... (yes, the immortal Rowe has again left uncle Elon's mad attic and is back home).






Thank the long absent lord for the dog botherer, for this day he's turned bed wetter.

Now the pond doesn't mean to abuse or offend the incontinent - the pond is of an age when an inconvenient trickle has to be taken as part of the rich comedy of life - but it seems the term of the week to describe the faint-hearted, the weak-kneed, or if you're from Tamworth and taking the piss, the gutless wonders ...


...

08:00

'Power of the people' derails Melbourne's neo-Nazis "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

'Power of the people' derails Melbourne's neo-Nazis

If not for the anti-fascists who gathered at Parliament House in Melbourne last week, a group of neo-Nazis would have succeeded with their anti-immigration racist rant, writes Tom Tanuki.

ON SATURDAY, 15 May, Australian neo-Nazis organised a rally in Melbourne. Their intent was to stand atop Melbournes Parliament House steps in Spring Street and call for a stop to immigration. 

Australia doesnt often see publicly-declared fascists and Hitlerites hold rallies on the streets in the way that the National Socialist Network (NSN) has been inching its way toward doing since early 2021 when it first began a public campaign in the provocative publicity-generating tradition of the American Nazi Party. (Theres been plenty of covert neo-Nazi rally organising, mind you; theyre just usually less than upfront about it.) 

When NSN showed up to support UK transphobe Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull (also known as Posie Parker) only a month ago, the public began paying close attention. 

It was hard not to: footage of neo-Nazis being given a protected space by Victorian Police to march back and forth in front of Parliament House steps is confronting to everyone and a shock to a broader mainstream audience who havent been paying attention to NSNs efforts.

Their almost universally-reviled politics of hate generate easy national attention. They use that to recruit. No genuine creativity or thought is required from them. They might draw on historic grassroots and political fascist aesthetics because they call themselves "traditionalists", but they als...

07:32

Zelensky declares his love for Biden "IndyWatch Feed National"

We have a dream... One day our pilots will protect our skies with modern F-16s. Today, our heroic country has taken a huge step towards this goal! The free world is launching a program to train our pilots on F-16s! Thank you President Biden for this long-awaited decision! Thank pic.twitter.com/d7EqXBocUp...

03:37

00:35

The Quads Big Moment "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

The Quad is increasingly viewed as an important potential tool for delivering public goods in the Indo-Pacific and preventing China from achieving regional dominance. But a coalition comprising Australia, India, Japan, and the US is bound to face challenges.

00:15

Friday, 19 May

23:24

The Experts and Downsides of Do My Homework for Me Services: An in depth Analysis "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

The Execs and Down sides of Do My Homework for Me Services: An extensive Analysis

In present day fast-paced surroundings, learners in many scenarios uncover by by themselves overcome with tutorial duties. With limited deadlines, tricky coursework, and extracurricular commitments, it truly is no shock that some school learners look for exterior aid to alleviate their workload. one fashionable answer is turning to do my homework for me companies. This document aims to provide a comprehensive investigation inside the experts and negatives of these suppliers, shedding light-weight throughout the ethical important things to take into account and potential favorable aspects and downsides for college kids.

Section one: Determining Do My Homework for Me Services

1.a single Defining Do My Basic research for Me Services

Explanation with all the principle and just how it options.
Different kinds of alternatives offered tutoring, assignment completion, essay crafting, and so on..
1.two The Improve of Do My Research for Me Services

Factors contributing to the intercontinental recognition of this sort of companies.
The intent of know-how then the on the web in enabling their expansion.
An overview from the marketplaces landscape and trade tendencies.
Section two: The pros of Do My Homework for Me Services

2. 1 Time Administration and Workload Distribution

How these options can actually allow higher education learners even more effective take care of their time.
The capability to cut back again tension and panic and worry very similar to deadlines.
Balancing tutorial workload with other responsibilities.
2.two Entry to Authority Support and Resources

The advantage of tapping into a pool of materials authorities.
Learning odds thru publicity to high-quality obtain the position done.
Access to some mammoth selection of tactics that wont be offered to learners.
2.three Enhanced Performance and Grades

How specialist help can positively affect tutorial general efficiency.
The probable for better comprehension of topics and concepts.
Enhanced ability to satisfy assignment disorders and tips.
2. 4 Customization and Personalization

Tailored tactics to special seeking out out choices and choices.
Addressing distinct working out gaps and difficulties.
The likelihood to acquire personalised responses and way.
Section a few: The Downsides of Do My Research for Me Services

3.one Moral Considerations

Examining the moral implications of outsourcing tutorial succeed.
The excellent line amid enable and tutorial dishonesty.
Potential repercussions and long-term effect on working out.
3.two Dependency and Not plenty of Self-Efficacy

The risk of gaining overly reli...

22:09

MP at Cairns crime rally warns that vigilantes are going to deal with juvenile crime as Labor has failed to act "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Juvenile car thieves steal 80 cars in Cairns during April; KAP Member for Hill Shane Knuth has been taking on Labor for their free ticket out of jail for juvenile car thieves and house breakers some as young as 10. These kids appear to be organised by crime syndicates as few of the many late []

22:00

Shutting Down the Israeli Arms Industry, with Huda Amori "IndyWatch Feed National"

The MintPress podcast The Watchdog, hosted by British-Iraqi hip hop artist Lowkey, closely examines organizations about which it is in the public interest to know including intelligence, lobby, and special interest groups influencing policies that infringe on free speech and target dissent. The Watchdog goes against the grain by casting a light on stories largely ignored by the mainstream, corporate media.

Even as Israels war against Palestine continues unabated, a new movement has arisen in the United Kingdom, challenging the Israeli war machine and it has been winning some impressive victories.

Founded in 2020, Palestine Action is a grassroots activist movement that seeks to end British complicity in Israeli war crimes by shutting down arms manufacturing sites across the U.K. Today, Lowkey welcomes back Palestine Action co-founder Huda Amori to talk about the rise of her organization that has taken the country by storm and has weapons manufacturers fleeing. Born in the U.K., Amori is a Palestinian-Iraqi whose father was chased out of his home by Israeli soldiers in 1967, and forced to flee, without even a pair of shoes.

Decades later, Amori has found a way to fight back, using direct action to occupy and shut down Elbit Systems, Israels largest arms firm. With the help of the community in her native Oldham, Amori and Palestine Actions occupation has forced Elbit Systems to leave the town and sell their factory at a substantial loss. Last summer, they abandoned their London headquarters. And last winter, the British Ministry of Defence canceled around 280 million (around U.S.$350 million) of contracts with the company.

Elbits products, such as drones and surveillance tech, are directly used on the civilian population of Palestine, Amori explained. They are then marketed as battle tested around the world and sold to countries like Australia and India.

If you are building weapons here to be sent back to Israel to be used against Palestinians, or if you are a customer of weapons that have been developed on the Palestinian people, then you are just as guilty, Amori said, adding:

For example, the British Ministry of Defence buy many of these weapons after they have been developed and used against the Palestinians, which only encourages the further development and use of weapons on Palestinians, and to continue the occupation. This cycle of violence just continues to benefit the oppressors and work against the oppressed.

...

21:38

What a surprise, Stan Grant has a new book to flog. "IndyWatch Feed National"

The Queen Is Dead Stan Grant 4.80 15 ratings5 reviews From Stan Grant, leading journalist and author of the critically acclaimed bestsellers Talking to My Country and Australia Day , comes an extraordinary and powerful call to action. 'History is not weighted on the scales, it is felt in our...

21:07

Reclaim Your Confidence: 4 Things You Can Do when Losing Your Hair 2023 Guide "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

Losing hair can be a difficult and overwhelming experience for anyone. It can cause feelings of insecurity, low self-esteem, and even depression ... Read more

20:38

Top 5 Hairpiece Styles Trending Among Men Today "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

Are you looking to stay up-to-date with the latest hairpiece styles for men? With fashion trends ever-evolving, it can be hard to ... Read more

20:34

Link "IndyWatch Feed National"

MEDIA RELEASE 19 May 2023 Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong today announced financial sanctions and an export ban, targeting sectors of economic and strategic significance to Russia. These additional targeted measures aim to slow Russias war machine. Australias action is...

20:08

Unlocking Confidence and Style: The Allure of Wigs for Women "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

For generations, women have looked to wigs as a way to unlock their confidence and style. From queens of the olden days ... Read more

19:58

Population to grow 4,430,000 in 10 years "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

Population boom

CBRE extrapolated in a report insight that Australia's population will grow by around 4.43 million over the next decade, following a pause in immigration through the international border closures period. 


Source: CBRE

This will represent an increase in the Aussie population of well over +15 per cent over the decade, driving significant demand for housing, with most of the population growth expected to take place along the eastern seaboard. 


Australia's population growth is presently running at around +2 per cent, one of the fastest population growth rates in the developed world.

The UK and Canada are also following a similar strategy. 

...

19:02

18:58

The Letter from The Cape Podcast Episode 7 "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

Episode 7 for my Podcast Letter from The Cape is now available. In this podcast, we discuss the dangers that arise when we are lured into thinking that our experiences as households of our financial constraints and our budget somehow provide us with intelligence to assess the spending opportunities of our national

18:47

Stan Grant announces he's 'walking away' from ABC QandA because of racism. "IndyWatch Feed National"

I speak of truth, not grievance. Yet that is not how it has been reported. Racism is a crime. Racism is violence. And I have had enough. I am writing this because no one at the ABC whose producers invited me onto their coronation coverage as a guest ...

18:34

Bodysuit or Jacket: Which Is the Best for Cycling 2023 Guide "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

Cycling is an enjoyable and rewarding experience, but to ensure the best possible ride its important to have the right clothing. Biking ... Read more

18:09

The Ultimate Pinot Affair Weekend: Top Events to Experience in Geelong this weekend "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

Get ready to immerse yourself in a celebration of all things Pinot Noir as Geelong hosts the highly anticipated Pinot Affair weekend in May 2023, running 19 21. This highly anticipated wine-tasting event, now in its 4th year, showcases the world-class cool climate Pinot Noir of the Bellarine, Surf Coast, and Moorabool Valley of Geelong.

This event promises an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts, gastronomes, and lovers of all things Pinot.

With a wide array of events taking place across Geelong, weve curated a list of the top activities to ensure you make the most of your Pinot Affair weekend.

So, grab a glass of Pinot Noir and lets explore the must-attend events!

BBQ, Blues and Pinot Noir at Bellarine Estate

Join Bellarine Estate Winery Saturday night the 20th of May for a night of BBQ, Blues and Pinot noir.

There will be a range of back vintage Pinot Noir on by the bottle and glass. Bellarine Estates Pinot Noir Gin will also be available by the bottle or try one of their specialty cocktails. Alister Turrill will be playing the blues for a truly memorable night.

Buy a ticket and find out more here.

Pinot Masterclasses

Expand your knowledge and refine your palate by attending the exclusive Pinot Masterclasses happening across the weekend. Led by renowned winemakers and industry experts, these classes delve into the nuances of Pinot Noir, exploring its different styles, regional variations, and aging potential. Learn to identify the characteristics that make a great Pinot and take your appreciation of this captivating varietal to new heights.

A real highlight will be Scotchmans Hills Pinot Noir Masterclass with Chief Winemaker, Robin Brockett. Here youll enjoy a Pinot Noir tasting of current and specially selected back vintages of some of Scotchmans Hills finest vintages. One of Australias pre-eminent Pinot Noir Winemakers, Robin Brockett will lead the Masterclass, answering any questions you may have.

Pinot Piazza at Austins Wines + 6Ft6 Wine

A real highlight of the weekend will be the exclusive event at Austins Wines. For one weekend, during the day on Saturday and sunday, the team are transforming the winery into an Italiano paradise, featuring delicious pasta dishes cooked up by the talented team at Pasta Face. You can expect mouth-watering options such as Gnocchi with Pinot Ragu, Meatball Sliders, and even delicious Cannoli to satisfy your sweet tooth.

As you savoir your meal and mingle with friends, you can enjoy the rich flavours of the signature Pinot Noir, perfectly paired with every dish. And with live music, the atmosphere will be buzzing with the sounds of Italia. The cellar door will be toasty warm and inviting, providing the p...

17:42

HAND IN HAND with PluggnB: Andre Bugatti chats his new record on JUICE "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

 

  • Andre Bugatti :: on JUICE with Nazty Gurl
 

Andre Bugatti is a master in the art of deliberate effortlessness. The Auckland-raised, Sydney-based PluggnB artist goes all in on his projects the rapping, the singing, the producing, mixing, shooting, and editing and damn does he make it look easy. The polymath swung by the studio on Monday for JUICE with Nazty Gurl to chat about his latest record.

Clocking in at just over 20 minutes in runtime, Andre Bugattis ten track LP HAND IN HAND is a fleeting melodic sunset trip that captures the gentle confidence of a creative hitting their stride. Its music for when youre feeling yourself, for when youre in your zone; big things are coming, but all in due time. 

The album is described as belonging to the genre of PluggnB. A portmanteau of plugg and R&B, the genre is known for its contrasting heavy bass and hard-hitting percussion with rich bed of synths and melodic vocals. Signature to PluggnB is its characteristic bounce, which Andre explained is achieved via the Rick Rubin effect of deliberately removing elements f...

17:38

Australian stock exchange officially abandons blockchain plans: Report "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

ASX has abandoned its software rebuild using blockchain technology to explore more conventional options.

17:32

Banksia Hill Detention Centre on the spotlight "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

The Banksia Hill Detention Centre is in the spotlight, after a Greens State Senator delivered more than 50 letters written by the Aboriginal Legal Service of WA to the States Upper House.

The letters allegedly contain formal complains of children detained in the centre about the misconduct and abuse from the Youth Control Order.

Produced By: Frank Bonaccorso

Featured In Story: Dr Brad Pettitt Greens Member from the Legislative Council in WA

First aired on The Wire, Friday 19 May 2023

The post Banksia Hill Detention Centre on the spotlight appeared first on 4YOU 98.5FM Capricorn Community Radio.

Banksia Hill Detention Centre on the spotlight "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

The Banksia Hill Detention Centre is in the spotlight, after a Greens State Senator delivered more than 50 letters written by the Aboriginal Legal Service of WA to the States Upper House.

The letters allegedly contain formal complains of children detained in the centre about the misconduct and abuse from the Youth Control Order.

Produced By: Frank Bonaccorso

Featured In Story: Dr Brad Pettitt Greens Member from the Legislative Council in WA

First aired on The Wire, Friday 19 May 2023

The post Banksia Hill Detention Centre on the spotlight appeared first on Fraser Coast FM 107.5.

17:31

Anthony Albaneses first year as PM: yay or nay? "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Its been a year since Anthony Albanese became Prime Minister after an intense political campaign.

While the Labor government has achieved some goals this year, there are many challenges ahead.

Produced By: Eduardo Jordan

Featured In Story: Amanda Copp National Radio News Political Reporter in Canberra

First aired on The Wire, Friday 19 May 2023

The post Anthony Albaneses first year as PM: yay or nay? appeared first on 4YOU 98.5FM Capricorn Community Radio.

Anthony Albaneses first year as PM: yay or nay? "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Its been a year since Anthony Albanese became Prime Minister after an intense political campaign.

While the Labor government has achieved some goals this year, there are many challenges ahead.

Produced By: Eduardo Jordan

Featured In Story: Amanda Copp National Radio News Political Reporter in Canberra

First aired on The Wire, Friday 19 May 2023

The post Anthony Albaneses first year as PM: yay or nay? appeared first on Fraser Coast FM 107.5.

17:31

Roundtable on cleaner energies for First Nations communities "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

This week, First Nations communities got involved in a community roundtable about energy transition in Alice Springs.

The Federal Government and State and Territory Energy Ministers committed last year to co-design and implement a First Nations Clean Energy Strategy under the National Energy Transformation Partnership.

This will help to reduce the costs of electricity for those First Nations remote areas, where the price is one of the highest across Australia.

Produced By: Martin Davies

Featured In Story: Karrina Nolan Executive Director of Original Power and Yorta Yorta woman

First aired on The Wire, Friday 19 May 2023

The post Roundtable on cleaner energies for First Nations communities appeared first on 4YOU 98.5FM Capricorn Community Radio.

Roundtable on cleaner energies for First Nations communities "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

This week, First Nations communities got involved in a community roundtable about energy transition in Alice Springs.

The Federal Government and State and Territory Energy Ministers committed last year to co-design and implement a First Nations Clean Energy Strategy under the National Energy Transformation Partnership.

This will help to reduce the costs of electricity for those First Nations remote areas, where the price is one of the highest across Australia.

Produced By: Martin Davies

Featured In Story: Karrina Nolan Executive Director of Original Power and Yorta Yorta woman

First aired on The Wire, Friday 19 May 2023

The post Roundtable on cleaner energies for First Nations communities appeared first on Fraser Coast FM 107.5.

17:30

CARM women face discrimination at work: research "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Recent research from the Diversity Council of Australia reveals how culturally and racially marginalised (CARM) women experience discrimination at work, locking them out of leadership roles.

Two thirds of the participants felt they had to act white to get ahead.

Often workplace gender equity initiatives fail to consider the different life experiences and needs of women, not giving all women the opportunity of a leadership role.

Produced By: Netta Finney

Featured In Story: Lisa Annese CEO of Diversity Council of Australia

First aired on The Wire, Friday 19 May 2023

The post CARM women face discrimination at work: research appeared first on 4YOU 98.5FM Capricorn Community Radio.

CARM women face discrimination at work: research "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Recent research from the Diversity Council of Australia reveals how culturally and racially marginalised (CARM) women experience discrimination at work, locking them out of leadership roles.

Two thirds of the participants felt they had to act white to get ahead.

Often workplace gender equity initiatives fail to consider the different life experiences and needs of women, not giving all women the opportunity of a leadership role.

Produced By: Netta Finney

Featured In Story: Lisa Annese CEO of Diversity Council of Australia

First aired on The Wire, Friday 19 May 2023

The post CARM women face discrimination at work: research appeared first on Fraser Coast FM 107.5.

17:24

Australians encouraged to contribute to setting, tracking and achieving Australias climate change targets "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

Climate Change Authority Media Release The Climate Change Authority has released a consultation paper inviting Australians to contribute their input to the Authoritys advice on the response to climate change. The Issues paper, entitled Setting, tracking and achieving Australias emissions reductions targets, asks 31 questions including what do you think Australias 2035 target should be?

The post Australians encouraged to contribute to setting, tracking and achieving Australias climate change targets appeared first on The AIM Network.

17:16

Giveaway: Sydney Opera House: Vivid LIVE 2023 "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

From Weyes Blood to Alfa Mist, Ashli to Sleaford Mods, Vivid LIVE 2023 is absolutely stacked with both Australian and overseas artists.

Vivid LIVE 2023 is a whole-of-House takeover celebrating iconic and ambitious artists that defy expectations and break new ground across genres.

Throughout May and June at the Sydney Opera House witness original premieres, one-off projects and unmissable performances from Australian artists, alongside select global acts and emerging voices.

FBi Radio is giving away a double pass to each of the following Sydney Opera House Vivid LIVE shows:

Becca Hatch 26 May
Future Classic 27 May
Birdz & Fred Leone present: Girra 28 May
Yaeji 28 May
Maina Doe 3 June

WIN A DOUBLE PASS TO ONE OF FIVE SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE VIVID LIVE SHOWS

For your chance to win, email membership@fbiradio.com with SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE VIVID LIVEin the subject heading. Must include your FBi Radio supporter number and contact details in the body, as well as what gig youd like to attend.

Not an FBi Radio supporter? Wishing you were? Join the family here!

The post Giveaway: Sydney Opera House: Vivid LIVE 2023 appeared first on FBi Radio.

16:58

Giveaway: Win a double pass to the Sydney Film Festival "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

See it all and immerse yourself in emotion from the glee to the grit to the glory as Sydney comes alive with 200+ movies screening at the 70th Sydney Film Festival.

Sydney Film Festival is back for another year of screening films you wouldnt usually find in the multiplex. Highlights include Astroid City (dir. Wes Anderson), Past Lives (Sundance and Berlinale 2023), and Reality (starring Sydney Sweeney!).

Catch a flick at the Festivals flagship venue State Theatre, or in cinemas around the CBD, Newtown, Cremorne, Randwick, Western Sydney and more.

FBi Radio is giving away ten double admit codes to redeem for an SFF session of your choice.*

WIN A DOUBLE PASS TO THE SYDNEY FILM FESTIVAL

For your chance to win, email membership@fbiradio.com with SYDNEY FILM FESTIVAL in the subject heading. Must include your FBi Radio supporter number and contact details in the body, as well as what event youd like to attend.

Not an FBi Radio supporter? Wishing you were? Join the family here!

*subject to exclusions. Codes are not redeemable for the festival opening and closing nights or for special screenings.

The post Giveaway: Win a double pass to the Sydney Film Festival appeared first on FBi Radio.

16:41

Libraries to remain open "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

The Barwon Heads, Geelong West and Highton libraries will remain open, and Chilwell Library will continue as a staffed library, as confirmed after a meeting with Geelong Regional Libraries CEO Vanessa Schernickau and City of Greater Geelong Acting CEO Kaarina Phyland.

The libraries were in danger of closing after a shortfall in funding.

However, the libraries will operate on reduced hours and will close altogether on Sundays.

The Acting CEO of the City of Greater Geelong informed the CEO of Geelong Regional Libraries that Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library will not open before 1 July 2024, and therefore this requested operating funding ($356,000) will not be required until the following financial year.

Geelong Regional Libraries will not receive the $762,000 that was requested to operate the newly opened Boronggook Drysdale Library. Every time a new library is opened in Greater Geelong, Geelong Regional Libraries works with CoGG to agree on the hours of operation and staffing levels. The agreed-upon funding required to run these libraries has always been provided in previous council budgets.

CoGG is responsible for the design, planning, development and building of libraries. CoGG owns the buildings, Geelong Regional Libraries delivers all library services.

Therefore, there is still a budget shortfall of $762,000 in Councils 2023/24 draft budget that will result in the following significant service reductions at Geelong Regional Libraries, such as:

There will be no libraries in Greater Geelong open Saturday afternoons except Geelong Library (Belmont, Boronggook Drysdale, Corio, Lara, Leopold, Ocean Grove and Waurn Ponds libraries closing earlier on Saturday)

There will be no libraries in Greater Geelong open on Sunday except Geelong Library (Boronggook Drysdale, Corio and Waurn Ponds libraries will all close Sunday)

A reduction in services at Kim barne thaliyu/Geelong Heritage Centre

Existing staff vacancies may not be filled

The above reductions are not sufficient to meet the shortfall, Geelong Regional Libraries will now work to review and assess where savings can be made.

These changes will take effect from 1 July 2023 and will only affect libraries in Greater Geelong. No library services in other local government areas serviced by Geelong Regional Libraries will be impacted.

Geelong Regional Libraries CEO Vanessa Schernickau said We exist to provide much loved library services to our communities and we have prioritised keeping all libraries open. However, the budget shortfall that remains is still significant and your experience at your local library in the City of Greater Geelong will look different.

The post Libraries to remain open appeared first on Ocean Grove Voice.

16:21

Australian exchanges dispel debanking fears amid Binance saga, but risks loom "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

Australian crypto exchanges report no problems with their payment providers, but the lack of local laws means more debanking incidents cant be ruled out.

16:18

Coalition clown show on nuclear on full display in Senate inquiry "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

A Senate nuclear power inquiry held its only public hearing on Monday. For the most part it was an opportunity for Coalition Senators to express their furious agreement with misinformation fed to them by pro-nuclear witnesses.

Jim Green 17 May 2023 2023, https://reneweconomy.com.au/coalition-clown-show-on-nuclear-on-full-display-in-senate-inquiry/

And it was an opportunity for culture warriors Matt Canavan and NSW Senator Hollie Hughes (Shadow Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy) to compete with each other to see who could get the most column-inches in the Murdoch tabloids and the most air-time on Murdochs Sky TV.

...

16:16

Explore the creatures of the Wizarding World at Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature at the Melbourne Museum "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Created by the Natural History Museum in London with Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment, the acclaimed exhibition Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature at Melbourne Museum.

Combining science, nature and fantasy, this extraordinary exhibition demonstrates how the natural world has ignited myths, legends and incredible stories for generations, inspiring a new-found sense of admiration for the diversity of life on Earth. Study the connection between animals that roam our planet and their fictional counterparts: the magical creatures from the fan-favourite film series Fantastic Beasts and Harry Potter, and celebrate the real-world scientists who help us understand our planets extraordinary creatures so we can protect them for the future.

Stay up to date with whats happening in and around the region here.

 

View this post on Instagram
...

16:16

Pentagon seeks authority to transfer nuclear submarines (and costs) to Australia "IndyWatch Feed Enviro.au"

Finally, the Pentagon is also asking Congress for permission to accept Australian payments to bolster the U.S. submarine industrial base. Australia has offered to make an undisclosed sum of investments in the U.S. submarine industrial base as part of AUKUS.

Defense News, By Bryant Harris and Megan Eckstein 17 May 23

WASHINGTON The U.S. Department of Defense asked Congress to authorize the transfer of nuclear-powered submarines to Australia as part of the trilateral AUKUS agreement with the U.K.

Three legislative proposals, submitted on May 2 and first posted online Tuesday, would greenlight the sale of two Virginia-class submarines to Australia, permit the training of Australian nationals for submarine work and allow Canberra to invest in the U.S. submarine industrial base

Importantly, the proposals spell out a clear path forward to facilitate the transfer of Virginia-class submarines to Australia while ensuring we have the necessary authorities to accept the Australian Governments investments to enhance our submarine industrial base capacity and provide training for Australian personnel. Rep. Joe Courtney of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the Armed Services Committees sea power panel

AUKUS stipulates that Australia will buy at least three and as many as five Virginia-class submarines in the 2030s as part of phase two of the agreement, giving Congress more than a decade to authorize the sale. This years proposal, which the Pentagon hopes will become part of the fiscal 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, asks that Congress approve just two of those submarines without a deadline to consummate the transfers and without specifying the specific vessels to be transferred.

The proposal argues that this small amount of flexibility is necessary since the transfers depend on Australian readiness to operate the submarines, which will involve developing Australias submarine industrial base through training and appropriate shipyard infrastructure.

To that end, a second legislative proposal would authorize U.S. de...

16:14

Ukraines neighbors ready to pay off Zelensky to stop conflict Seymour Hersh "IndyWatch Feed Enviro.au"

 https://www.rt.com/news/576436-zelensky-poland-us-hersh/ 17 May 23

EU nations have privately urged the president of the war-torn country to end the fighting, a US official told the veteran journalist.

Poland is leading a group of European nations that are secretly urging Vladimir Zelensky to find a way to settle the conflict with Russia, veteran journalist Seymour Hersh has reported, citing a knowledgeable American official.

According to US intelligence, other EU countries that want to see an end to the fighting include Hungary, Germany, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, Hersh wrote in an article published on his Substack page on Wednesday.

Hungary is a big player in this and so are Poland and Germany, and they are working to get Zelensky to come around, the unnamed official claimed. Those countries have made it clear that Zelensky can keep what hes got if he works up a peace deal even if hes got to be paid off, if its the only way to get a deal.

By keep what hes got, the source was referring to the Ukrainian presidents villa in Italy and interests in an offshore bank, Hersh clarified.

However, Zelensky has so far rejected the proposal, while other major European players France and the UK  are too beholden to the Biden administration, which is continuing to back the Ukrainian leader, the official said.

One of the main reasons why Poland and the others want the conflict to end is because the burden of accommodating Ukrainian refugees has become too much for them, the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist wrote.

The problem for those countries is how to get the US to stop supporting Zelensky, Hershs source suggested.

He claimed that US intelligence is well aware that Ukraine is running out of money and that the next four or months are critical. And Eastern Europeans are talking about a deal.

However, he added that its not clear to the intelligence community what the president and his foreign policy aides in the White House know of the reality.

The US is still training Ukrainians how to fly our F-16s that will be shot down by Russia as soon as they get into the war zone. The mainstream press is dedicated to Biden and the war, and Biden is still talking about the Great Satan in Moscow while the Russian economy is doing great, the o...

16:10

Melissa McCarthys Ursula drag makeup is getting dragged "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Nate Woodall

Disney just offered a glimpse at Melissa McCarthys transformation into Ursula for the upcoming live-action Little Mermaid, and honey, the library is open. Last month, fans were treated to the first teaser trailer of Disneys live-action Ursula, with many drag queens quickly clocking the closeups of her suspicious eye makeup. But now, with the release ...

The post Melissa McCarthys Ursula drag makeup is getting dragged appeared first on QNews.

16:10

How the West, and Zelensky, derailed the Minsk Agreements between Ukraine and Russia "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

<p><p><figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href= "https://antinuclearinfo.files.wordpress.com/2023/05/zelensky-a-bit-worried-b.jpg"> <img alt="" class="wp-image-230703" height="96" src= "https://antinuclearinfo.files.wordpress.com/2023/05/zelensky-a-bit-worried-b.jpg?w=700" width="142"></a></figure> <p><strong><em>Adonis Cirillo, commenting on Rt.com, 17 May 23</em></strong></p> <p>Everyone knows, or should know, that the Western sponsored Maiden Revolution (coup dtat) KILLED Ukraine, and more than 14,000 of its own citizens since 18 Feb, 2014.<br> <br> If you are undecided or uneducated to the events leading up to the Wests coup dtat, you may download & watch UKRAINE ON FIRE 2016 Oliver Stone documentary. (<strong><em>ED. note Youtube has banned viewers from downloading this film, but not pro-Ukrainian videos )</em></strong><br> <br> (you will see US Deputy Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland (the Maidan midwife), US Democrat & Republican Congressmen (e.g., Lindsey Graham), US Advisors (e.g., John Bolton), and NGOs inside Ukraine before, during, and after the coup dtat)</p> <p>If you continue to unwind history, you will discover that Ukraine of today is inextricably linked to the Bush/Gorbachev Agreements of 1989-90 and the subsequent Western Violations thereof (e.g., The continued expansion of US & NATO forces in Europe).

NOTE : Ex-Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said the Minsk Agreements meant nothing and claimed credit for giving Kiev enough time to militarize. RT 17 June, 2022 | Ex-German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the Minsk accords were signed in order to give Ukraine time to make the country stronger Zeit Newspaper 7 Dec, 2022 | Ex-French President Franois Hollande agreed with Merkel, saying that her comment was right on this point. It is the merit of the Minsk agreements to have given the Ukrainian army this opportunity, RT 30 Dec, 2022 | Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky took credit for derailing Minsk Agreements RT 9 Feb, 2023  <a href= "https://www.rt.com/news/576436-zelensky-poland-us-hersh/" rel= "noreferrer noopener" target= "_blank">https://www.rt.com/news/576436-zelensky-poland-us-hersh/</a></p></p></p>

16:08

Global heating is predicted to trigger more nuclear outages in France every year "IndyWatch Feed Enviro.au"

extreme heat and droughts amid
climate change could impact nuclear plants, which use water to cool down.

 EDF expects to lose 1.5% of its nuclear output, or about 5 TWh, annually
by 2050 due to the impact of global warming based on an average production
of 400 TWh, an executive said on Tuesday.

This compares with a current
average loss of nuclear power output caused by global warming of 0.3%, or
1.2 TWh, Cecile Laugier, head of environment at EDFs nuclear branch,
told reporters. This echoes a report released in March by Frances Court
of Auditors, which said global warming could trigger three to four times
more outages than today. Increased risk of extreme heat and droughts amid
climate change could impact nuclear plants, which use water to cool down.

 Montel 16th May 2023

https://www.montelnews.com/news/1499729/heat-to-cause-15-yearly-nuclear-output-loss-by-2050edf

16:06

Nuclear Fusion breakthrough hits hurdles as five experiments fail "IndyWatch Feed Enviro.au"

Japan Times, BY DAVID R. BAKER, BLOOMBERG 17 May 23,

The U.S. government lab that made a long-awaited breakthrough in fusion energy late last year has run five similar experiments since then without being able to replicate the results.

The milestone came in December as the the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory near San Francisco reported achieving the first fusion reaction that produced more energy than it took to create a threshold known as ignition. The achievement opened the possibility of power plants one day running on nuclear fusion, the same energy source as the sun.

Since then, the lab has run five similar experiments, shooting the worlds most powerful laser at small diamond capsules filled with hydrogen, said Lawrence Livermore Director Kim Budil. But so far, ignition hasnt been achieved again.

Speaking at an event at the lab Monday celebrating Decembers breakthrough, U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said the federal government would spend $45 million over the next four years to create a series of research hubs pursuing the kind of fusion achieved at Lawrence Livermore, known as inertial confinement. https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2023/05/09/business/nuclear-fusion-experiments-fail/

16:05

Imperial Protectionism: US Foreign Policy for the Middle Class "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

What does a foreign policy for the middle class of the United States entail? President Joe Bidens national security adviser is rather vague about this. But in a speech in April at the Brookings Institution, Jake Sullivan enunciated a few points that do much to pull the carpet from under the rules-based international order, unmasking

The post Imperial Protectionism: US Foreign Policy for the Middle Class appeared first on The AIM Network.

16:05

Dreamtime at the G 2023 entertainment announced "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

Every year, the Richmond and Essendon footy teams come together to play each other in a massive celebratory match honouring Aboriginal and Tores Strait Islander communities in Australia.

As well as the big game, the event features a ton of live entertainment and ceremonies throughout the evening. The artists have now been announced for the upcoming event, set to take place at the MCG this Saturday May 20.

Dreamtime At The G 2023

  • Amos Roach (and the Archie Roach Band)
  • Bumpy
  • MoJu
  • Radical Son
  • Fred Leone
  • Michael Long

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

At the beginning of the night, Aria-nominated singer-songwriter MoJu and Butchulla songman Fred Leone will collaborate on a musical performance. Wurundjeri dance groups Djirri Djirri, Bandok Tati and Dreamtime Contemporary Dancers will join them on stage for a moving and unforgettable show.

Aunty Joy Murphy AO will hold a Welcome to County to open up the match, followed by a Dreamtime ceremony dance done by members of both competing football clubs.

The halftime show will be performed by The Archie Roach Band, lead by Archie Roachs own son, Amos Roach. He will be joined by MoJu, Noongar artist Bumpy, and Kamilaroi and Tongan singer Radical Son.

For the first time ever, a dramatic light display will add to the spectacle, combining tradition with technology.

The annual event is one of the biggest on the footy calendar.

We know storytelling is an important part of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and were excited to bring this tradition to life on the hallowed turf of the MCG, on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people, like weve never seen before, says AFL Executive General Manager Customer and Commercial Kylie Rogers.

To grab your tickets to the Dreamtime at the G football event, head here. 

The post Dreamtime at the G 2023 entertainment announced appeared first on Forte Magazine.

16:04

Sceptical opinions about Vladimir Zelensky "IndyWatch Feed Enviro.au"

Admittedly these comments come from a pro Russian site.

The pity is that there is no scepticism about Zelensky in the Western media who dont understand that we are not formally at war against Russia.

My own opinion is that Zelensky is a prisoner of his own (ill-informed) charisma. He does not now dare to negotiate with Russia if he tried, he would be probably be killed very quickly by Ukraines right-wing zealouts.

Adonis Cirillo Forgotten Fact :
The Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts Self-Governance Referendums were part of the original Minsk Agreements

That everybody agreed to

Including the United Nations!

D_Banner other EU countries that want to see an end to the fighting . Its not that hard to fix. The war will stop the day after they stop paying for it.

TBTB The US has its own special units surrounding Zelensky. He cant make any move or statement the US does not allow or he will suffer an accident to be blamed on Russia, of course. The scripts are ready. But Seymour story has some veracity as the burden of supporting Ukrainian refugees and subsidizing the neo-Nazi regime while facing inflation and economic crisis is too much for many Europeans. Sooner or later, Europe will split into camps, those who will stick with the US hawks and those who dissent. Time is not on the West side. The biggest threat for the cabal is the rapid expansion of the BRICS and dedollarization.

Gamab Sol you can bribe him all you want he wont stop this war until all of Ukraine belongs to private American equity firms, and full scale war with Russia is provoked. It would be better to take Ukranian refugees in, than to negotiate with piano comedian

Scorched Earth Zelensky decides totally nothing.
The US decides whether the war stops or not.

Lectrodectus Ukraine Is Now A Country In Ruin, Millions Displaced, Thousands Of Ukrainian Soldiers Killed, All This Could Have Been Avoided If Zelensky Had Of Implemented The 2014 Minsk Treaty The Aftermath Of This (Avoidable) Conflict Will Condemn Future Generations Of Ukrainians To Decades Of Extreme Financial Hardship As It Will Be They Who Will Be Made To Repay The Billions Upon Billions Zelensky And His Neo-Nazi Regime Have Borrowed To Wage Their Personal War Against Russia. A Bleak Future Awaits All Ukrainians. Merkel And Macron..Were Instrumental In...

16:03

SACOSS responds to proposed new anti-protest laws "IndyWatch Feed National"

Friday, 19 May 2023

SACOSS is concerned both by the potential unintended consequences of changes to legislation around South Australians' rights to peaceful protest, and the speed with which these changes are being made.
 
South Australia's record of progress arising from the work of the labour, environmental, and civil society movements is an enviable one. And peaceful protest has often been vital in helping achieve this progress.
 

16:00

Anti-nuclear activists protest Japanese government plans to release radioactive water into the Pacific Ocean "IndyWatch Feed Enviro.au"

DOZENS of anti-nuclear activists protested today to demand Japan scrap its plan to release radioactive water from a tsunami-damaged nuclear power plant into the sea, which may begin this summer.

Dont dump contaminated water into sea, protesters chanted outside the Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings (Tepco) headquarters in Tokyo, holding banners with their demands such as Dont nuke the Pacific, and Stop contaminated water...

Several activists from South Korea joined Tuesdays rally.

The Pacific Ocean does not belong to Japan. It belongs to all living things in the ocean and everyone who depends on it for their livelihoods, said Kyoungsook Choi, a Korea Radiation Watch co-ordinator.

We are here today to send the message that Japan does not have the right to dump the radioactive water. more https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/w/anti-nuclear-activists-protest-japanese-government-plans-release-radioactive-water

Air goes for a slam dunk but misses the hoop "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

Air goes for a slam dunk but misses the hoop

In the 1980s, a struggling shoe company bet everything on pursuing the greatest basketball player in the history of the sport. Digital editor Dan Jensen shares his thoughts on Air, now streaming on Amazon Prime.

MICHAEL JORDAN is as synonymous with basketball as he is with the Nike brand. But it took a massive gamble to turn the shoe company into one of the worlds leading sports brands, a story told in the movie Air, directed by Ben Affleck.

In 1984, Nike was struggling to compete against Adidas and Converse. Needing to sign an upcoming basketball star to promote their shoes, it took a gamble by talent scout Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon) to try and lure newcomer Michael Jordan and the rest, as they say, is history.

Ben Affleck has proven himself as an accomplished director in the past with films like Argo and The Town, and Air once again showcases his talent behind the camera. Kicking off with a montage of 80s nostalgia before transitioning into the story, Air does a great job of convincingly placing the viewer in the time period.

Aside from that, Affleck manages to get some stellar performances from the hugely talented cast. Co-starring alongside Damon as Nike CEO Phil Knight, the film also stars Jason Bateman, Viola Davis and...

15:59

15:56

Will Jokowis Economic Legacy Survive Beyond Indonesias Election? "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

Since taking office in 2014, Indonesia's leader has eschewed the nostrums of Western neoliberalism. The country's trajectory will likely continue into a more challenging age.

15:31

15:21

Why nuclear power wont work in Australia yet another explainer "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

My latest piece in Independent Australia over the fold

OPPOSITION LEADER Peter Duttons call for nuclear power, made as part of his Budget reply speech, should not be taken too seriously. In its nine years in office, the L-NP took no steps to promote nuclear energy, not even an attempt to repeal the largely symbolic ban imposed by John Howard in 1998. Duttons renewed call can best be understood as a dog whistle to the climate denialists who dominate the partys base, allowing him to oppose practical measures for decarbonisation without explicitly embracing denialism.

Still, its worthwhile to be informed about the current state of nuclear power and the prospects for deploying it in Australia. If nuclear power really was the cheap and reliable option claimed by its proponents, the immediate benefits of replacing coal and preventing imminent climate disaster would outweigh long-term concerns about adding to the (already large) stock of nuclear waste that will require indefinite storage.

In reality, however, nuclear power is set for continued decline globally. In a country like Australia, with no existing regulatory structure or skills base, nuclear power is hopelessly uneconomic and will never happen.

HELEN CALDICOTT: Albanese needs to keep Australia nuclear-free
HELEN CALDICOTT: Albanese needs to keep Australia nuclear-free

The election of Anthony Albanese as Prime Minister heralds a new era in Australias approach...

15:18

15:17

"IndyWatch Feed Qld" "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

On Tuesday 9 May, a nice pair of corporate bizjets were spotted visiting Emerald Airport.


Poolhurst Aviation Air Charter Services Pilatus PC-24 jet VH-VTF arrived from Archerfield and later departed to Dalby.



And Special Mining Services / Flight Options (Australia) Embraer EMB-505 Phenom 300E bizjet VH-UYX arrived from Sydney and later departed to Mareeba.


...

15:00

Freo goliath in Geelongs way "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Fremantle ruckman Sean Darcy looms as a major stumbling block in Geelongs quest to get back onto the winners list.

The in-form big man tore Sydney to shreds last week along with Luke Jackson booting three goals and Cats coach Chris Scott knows what sort of an influence they can have on a game.

So much of AFL footy at the moment is timing in terms of when you play teams and its logical to think that there was going to be a period where they need to feel each other out and work on their cohesion and connection and almost half way through the season they appear to be getting that so thats bad luck to us, he said.

Theyre a big challenge. Darcy in particular is spending a lot of time in the ruck, hes a big ruckman and Ive got a high regard for him so its a big job for, not only for Jonathon Ceglar, but all our taller guys.

Geelong travels to Perth to take on the Dockers tomorrow.

Freo has won two in a row in impressive style while Geelong stumbled to a resurgent Richmond last Friday night.

Injury-riddled Dockers star Nat Fyfe has had two encouraging performances as a sub under his belt and Scott said he is planning for him to play a full game.

We are planning for him to be in the 22, he said.

Hes a little bit harder to plan for than maybe he has been in the past because theyve earmarked him as a forward through the pre-season and I know firsthand what a quality player he can be in that part of the ground but I wouldnt be surprised to see him spend decent stints in the midfield as well.

Patrick Dangerfield wont play, but isnt far off.

[Hes] going really well, Scott said.

He moved really well at training today. Were obviously going to hold him back, weve been really clear about that. Not sure exactly where it is except to say that we always thought it would be pre-bye somewhere.

Not this week, but after this week weve only got two weeks pre-bye, so its still looking somewhere in that time frame.

The post Freo goliath in Geelongs way appeared first on Ocean Grove Voice.

14:58

Dan Andrews and Murdoch crying wolf "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

Rupert Murdoch has done incalculable harm to the democratic experiment throughout the AUKUS nations and beyond. In Victoria, his propaganda campaigns have made him the magnate who cried wolf. The states integrity infrastructure is in perilous condition but Newscorps constant invective against Labor governments, and Premier Dan Andrews government in particular, has made it more

The post Dan Andrews and Murdoch crying wolf appeared first on The AIM Network.

14:52

14:46

A massive two-day donut festival is coming to Melbourne in June and were here for it "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

The Queen Victoria Market is well known as a donut hot spot those jam-filled delights from the American Donut Kitchen are an absolute must-try for foodies visiting the city.

But next month, theyre kicking their dough game up a notch with a full, two-day festival dedicated to our favourite bready snack. The event is in its third year and has become a beloved fixture of the QVMs winter calendar.

Donut Festival 2023

  • The Queen Victoria Market will host its third donut festival this June 3 and 4 from 9am to 4pm in the C and D sheds
  • There will be a whole range of sweet and salty offerings, including vegan and gluten-free varieties
  • The event is free to enter

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

Find nutella-topped churro donuts, traditional Greek loukoumades, Golden Gaytime glazed creations and even savory spaghetti and mac-and-cheese donuts. Is the world really ready for that kind of food fusion? Were not sure, but itll have to be.

 

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14:43

The Presets Are Celebrating 20 Years With 20 DJ Sets "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

The Presets are celebrating 20 years in music in style with a frenzied few months of DJ performances.

Back in 2003, the Sydney duo started out on their journey to the top of Australian electronic music. Over the past two decades, The Presets live show has grown into an immense audio-visual experience thats impressed at festivals across the globe.

During a recent visit to a Sydney nightclub where the pair cut their teeth all those years ago, Julian Hamilton and Kim Moyes were inspired to celebrate their 20th anniversary by going back to where it all began.

Between July and September, The Presets will perform 20 nights of DJ sets around the country, exclusively playing at small clubs and bars.

Weve been lucky enough to play the biggest stages and festivals in the world over the past 20 years, Moyes says, but nothing compares to the buck-wild intensity of an intimate party. They are an entirely different beast and we cant wait to unleash over these 20 nights.

DJing in small clubs is a whole different experience to performing our usual live show on the big stage with the lights and visuals and things like that, adds Hamilton. It is more freewheeling and immediate we feed off the energy of the crowd, weaving our own tracks in with classic jams by our favourite artists. So its a 20 years celebration of not only our music, but also all the incredible tunes that inspire us. Plus we get a chance to throw in a few unreleased surprises too.

Tickets for the upcoming tour are available now via the duos official website. Special guests will perform alongside them at each show, specially chosen by The Presets to create a memorable night.

-->
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14:38

Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt is heading to Geelong in June so prepare to create some frozen yogurt masterpieces "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

Filling the huge hole in our yoghurt hearts since the loss of Froyo and Yummo in years gone by, Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt Store is heading our way, offering a delectable treat for all yoghurt enthusiasts.

Tutti Frutti, the renowned frozen yogurt chain, will be opening its doors in Westfield Geelong this June, bringing along a wide array of frozen yogurt flavours and toppings, smoothies, cones and Acai Bowls.

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

Whether you have a penchant for classic flavours like vanilla and chocolate or crave more exotic options such as mango or green tea, Tutti Frutti has something to satisfy every palate with more than 80 different flavours to choose from.

The self-serve concept at Tutti Frutti allows customers to create their own frozen yogurt masterpieces. With a plethora of toppings ranging from fresh fruits and crunchy nuts to colourful sprinkles and decadent sauces, the possibilities are endless. Whether you prefer a simple and refreshing combination or a bold and extravagant creation, Tutti Frutti offers a playground for your taste buds. Simply pick your cup, pick your yoghurt, load it up with toppings and pay by weight.

 

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14:34

Long Furby memory hole "IndyWatch Feed National"

The year is 1998 and a spectre is haunting capitalism from ages six and upthe spectre of virtual and robotic kin. All the powers of the capitalist class have entered an unholy alliance to exploit this spectre: Tyco, Hasbro, and Mattel, or: Tickle Me Elmo, Furby, and Tamagotchi.

The post Long Furby memory hole appeared first on Overland literary journal.

14:15

14:13

Huge double-digit % drops in most retail spending categories year-on-year. "IndyWatch Feed National"

There's an overall modest increase in spending, but only because of food items - the only categories to record growth on last year (we've gotta eat). But imagine you're operating a business in these markets; Jewellery (down 21.1%), Home Furnishings (down 17.5%), Electronics (down 15.9%) and Lodging (down 14.8%). Apparel...

14:01

Pan-African News Wire "IndyWatch Feed National"

88-year-old Australian Doctor Freed 7 Years After Kidnapping by Islamic Extremists in West Africa

By ROD McGUIRK

FILE - Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong listens beside Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo during a joint press conference at a hotel in Makati City, Philippines on Thursday May 18, 2023. An 88-year-old Australian doctor held captive in West Africa for more than seven years has been released, the Australian government said on Friday, May 19.(Lisa Marie David/Pool Photo via AP, File)

CANBERRA, Australia (AP) An 88-year-old Australian doctor held captive by Islamic extremists in West Africa for more than seven years has been freed and has returned to Australia.

Ken Elliott was safe and well and was reunited with his wife and their children on Thursday night, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said.

Im very pleased to advise that Dr. Ken Elliott, whos been held hostage in Western Africa for some seven years, has been reunited in Australia with his family, Wong told reporters in Sydney.

Elliott and his wife were kidnapped in Burkina Faso, where they had run a medical clinic for four decades. Jocelyn Elliott was released three weeks later.

We wish to express our thanks to God and all who have continued to pray for us, Elliotts family said in a statement released by Wongs department.

We express our relief that Dr. Elliott is free and thank the Australian government and all who have been involved over time to secure his release, the family statement said.

Wong said no ransom was paid to secure Elliotts freedom, but no other details on his release were disclosed. Media reported he was reunited with his family in Perth, the west coast city where he is from.

At 88 years of age, and after many years away from home, Dr. Elliott now needs time and privacy to rest and rebuild strength, the family added.

The militant group behind the kidnapping, Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb, rose to prominence in large part through kidnap-for-ransom operations targeting foreign aid workers and tourists....

14:01

Why Ukraine Must Lose to Save the World "IndyWatch Feed National"

QUESTION: Mr. Armstrong, I originally thought you were just a Putin supporter. Yet as time has gone by, it is becoming very clear that you are correct and that Zelensky is waging this war for the West to conquer Russia. His meeting with the Pope and rejecting his offer to mediate clearly established he will not seek peace. Are we headed into a nuclear war? Did Ukraine really shoot down a Russian hypersonic missile?

Concerned

KL

ANSWER: There is a major problem with Ukraines claims of shooting down a barrage of supersonic missiles. This cannot be confirmed independently and Ukraine is notoriously always putting out fake news typically to get more money. The incentive to create this type of fake news is that Western countries who have been supporting Ukraine are concerned that the military support for Kiev may soon peak as they run out of funds. There is concern that funds for Ukraine will be curtailed ahead of the 2024 presidential election in the United States, the Financial Times recently reported. The Neocons are desperately trying to create World War III before the 2024 election. They are fighting against any cutbacks for Ukraine. This has highlighted that European officials now are increasingly concerned about the flow of aid next year as the US enters a divisive presidential campaign.

According to the FT, Washington has been Kievs major source of military aid. US officials interviewed by the newspaper say the remaining funds preapproved by Congress could sustain Ukraine for about another five months. Western officials in regular contact with the US over Ukraine told the FT that Washington sees that period of time as the last real chance for Kiev to change the situation on the ground. There is a twist. That is the debt ceiling and funds would stop flowing after June 1st unless Biden yields on his insane agenda.

European official told the FT newspaper We cant keep the same level of assistance forever.  Politico reported earlier that only $6 billion of the original $48 billion military aid package that the US had approved previously i...

14:00

Podcast #94: Moving forward in Thailand "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

Ben is joined by journalist Erin Cook to discuss last weekends national election in Thailand, which saw the progressive Move Forward win the most seats and set up prospects for a coalition government made up of parties that are not supporters of the royal and military elite that has run the country since the 2014 coup.

This podcast is supported by the Tally Rooms supporters on Patreon. If you find this podcast worthwhile please consider giving your support.

You can subscribe to this podcast using this RSS feed in your podcast app of choice, but should also be able to find this podcast by searching for the Tally Room. If you like the show please considering rating and reviewing us on iTunes.

13:59

Bakhmut girl, 11, escapes Ukrainian military child thieves, saved by Wagners snipers "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

This compelling video opens issues of child abduction by Ukrainian soldiers. From the mouth of this 11 year old girls she relates her direct experience then how a Russian sniper protected her escape. The sniper event also contains a soldiers interpretation that conflicts with the girls encounter.

13:56

Boy George talks defying gay cliches and what sets Aussies apart "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Nate Woodall

Culture Club, the iconic British band that ruled the charts in the 80s with hits like Karma Chameleon and Do You Really Want to Hurt Me, is back on the road and heading Down Under! Ahead of their highly-awaited comeback, I caught up with Boy George to talk about Culture Clubs evolution as a band, ...

The post Boy George talks defying gay cliches and what sets Aussies apart appeared first on QNews.

13:42

After Dark: 1915 and Anther Spirits are hosting an immersive Winter Solstice dining experience "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

<p><p>Whether youre a fan of winter or wish it would go away, you cant deny the beauty of the Winter Solstice. Also known as midwinter, the Winter Solstice occurs when the Earths poles has its maximum tilt away from the Sun. It happens twice yearly, once in the middle and once at the end. The Winter Solstice is the day with the least daylight and the longest night of the year!</p> <p>To celebrate the annual event, this Winter will see the culmination of one of Geelongs most exciting collaborations, with the launch of After Dark at Federal Mills. 1915 Restaurant and Bar has joined with Anther Spirits to create an innovative, culinary celebration of Winter Solstice, set in the evening of Friday 23rd June, 2023.</p> <p class="p1"><b><i>Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region </i></b><a href= "https://fortemag.com.au/food/"><span class= "s1"><b><i>here</i></b></span></a><b><i>.</i></b></p> <p>The two established icons of Geelongs food and drink scene are inviting patrons to join them in celebrating the longest night of the year, by way of a delicious 3-course candle-lit dinner at 1915 paired with finely crafted Anther Spirits cocktails. The menu will have killer combinations of earth and fire.</p> <p>Dinner will be crafted by Chef Andy Symeonakis from 1915, inspired by the traditions of Winter Solstice while the gin cocktails to match are designed specifically by Anther Spirits Chief Distiller, Derv McGowan.</p> <p>Tickets are $145 each and include a fiery gin cocktail on arrival, a decadent three-course meal and three drinks to pair perfectly with the food either three gin cocktails or three wines.</p> <p>Indulge in some ancient traditions, bask in the candlelight, connect with community, and be surprised at what the Solstice can provoke for you!</p> <p><strong>It all goes down from 6:30pm on Friday 23 June, 2023 at 1915 Restaurant & Bar, 33 Mackey Street, North Geelong. Tickets are on sale now here. </strong></p> <p>The post <a href= "https://fortemag.com.au/after-dark-1915-and-anther-spirits-are-hosting-an-immersive-winter-solstice-dining-experience/" rel="nofollow">After Dark: 1915 and Anther Spirits are hosting an immersive Winter Solstice dining experience</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fortemag.com.au" rel="nofollow">Forte Magazine</a>.</p></p>

13:31

Noosa residents surveyed on future of unofficial nude beach "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Jordan Hirst

Queensland is the only Australian state with no legal nude beaches, and the states naturists want that to change. Locals say Alexandria Bay in Noosa has been an unofficial clothing-optional spot for decades. But in April, the beach made headlines when police cracked down in response to complaints. On April 16, Queensland police charged a ...

The post Noosa residents surveyed on future of unofficial nude beach appeared first on QNews.

13:24

MSNBC interview on The Palestine Laboratory "IndyWatch Feed National"

My US mainstream TV debut just happened!

MSNBCs Medhi Hasan introduced my new book, The Palestine Laboratory, and gave it the proper context. Then we spoke about Israels ethno-nationalism, the arms trade and using Palestine as a testing ground.

The fact that this discussion can happen, on prime-time US TV, shows that theres an increasingly open space (in some places!) to discuss Palestine.

The post MSNBC interview on The Palestine Laboratory appeared first on Antony Loewenstein.

13:20

Anti-protest laws in SA must be blocked "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

The Human Rights Law Centre is calling on the South Australian Legislative Council to block proposed anti-protest laws that were rushed through the House of Assembly by the Malinauskas Government. If passed, the laws would undermine the ability of everyone in SA to exercise their freedom to peaceful protest.

The Summary Offences (Obstruction of Public Places) Bill 2023 (SA) could see people hit with fines of up to $50,000 and three-month jail terms, merely for blocking a footpath. It disproportionately criminalises peaceful protests, for instance people handing out pamphlets about gambling harm in front of a shop in Rundle Mall, or workers gathering on a footpath to demand better pay and conditions.

In the last five years, New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria and Queensland have all passed anti-protest laws which impose severe penalties on people for engaging in peaceful protest. South Australias proposed anti-protest laws would carry the harshest financial penalties in Australia.

David Mejia-Canales, Senior Lawyer at the Human Rights Law Centre said:

Two days after the Malinauskas government told gas corporations that the state is at their service, the SA Government is making good on its word by rushing through laws to limit the right of climate defenders and others to protest.

Australias democracy is stronger when people protest on issues they care about. But the SA Governments knee-jerk action in response to peaceful climate protestors at an annual fossil fuels conference, is yet another attack on peoples right to protest.

The right to protest is fundamental to our democracy; from First Nations land rights to the eight-hour workday - protest has been crucial to achieving  many important social changes. 

This knee-jerk reaction by the South Australian government will undermine the ability of everyone in SA to exercise their right to peacefully protest, from young people marching for climate action to workers protesting for better conditions. The Legislative Council must reject this Bill.

Background

On Wednesday morning, Extinction Rebellion protesters suspended themselves from a bridge and closed traffic for 90 minutes.

By Thursday afternoon, the SA Government, with support from the opposition passed changes to the Summary Offences Act, which currently imposes a $750 fine and no jail time.

Photo credit: Michael Coghlan from Adelaide, Australia, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Media contact:
Thomas Feng
Media and Communications Manager
Human Rights Law Centre
0431 285 275
...

13:17

Swedish review of my new book, The Palestine Laboratory "IndyWatch Feed National"

The leading Swedish daily newspaper, Aftonbladet, has published a fascinating story about the Nakba and my new book, The Palestine Laboratory. Written by Shora Esmailian, the article assesses the legacy of the Nakba and how Israel now uses the weapons of war to promote itself around the world.

Heres the PDF: Shora Esmailian om Nakba, 75 r

The English translation (via Google Translate):

The violence against Palestine breeds the arms trade
Today it has been 75 years since the Nakba the great catastrophe of the Palestinians

Remember the Palestinian General Strike of 1936 and the mass protests of 1939 that challenged the British colonizers transformation of the Palestinian Mandate into a national home for Jews.
Remember the 1967 war, when the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and the Golan Heights came under Israeli occupation.
Remember the first intifadas grassroots organizing with mass rallies, neighborhood schools, subsistence farming and feminist awakenings. Also remember the stones that were then thrown at the occupying forces.
Remember the so-called peace talks and Yasser Arafats handshake with Yitzhak Rabin.

Remember the armed struggle during the second intifada and also its suicide bombings. Remember the international activists who were run over and killed by Israeli bulldozers and snipers.
Remember the demonstrations in the West Bank against the wall. Remember those protests both through the ballot and in the streets against their own political leaders and remember the international calls for boycotts, sanctions and divestment to put pressure on the state of Israel.
Remember the rockets from Gaza and also remember the peaceful mass protests at its borders.
Remember Khader Adnan, the first Palestinian prisoner to die on hunger strike on May 2 this year.

Remember the entire Palestinian struggle on this day, when 75 years have passed since al-Nakba the great catastrophe for the Palestinians in 1948, when the State of Israel was established and between 750,000 and 800,000 Palestinians out of a population of almost two million were forced to flee. When 531 villages were razed to the ground, 15,000 people were killed and the rest were raped, beaten and captured.

The fight for freedom has been going on for almost a hundred years and is a smorgasbord. Its just a matter of picking and choosing among fighting organizations, ideologies and tactics. It has been peac...

13:14

Ash Grunwald announces special show in Queenscliff "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

Australias foremost bluesman Ash Grunwald is heading to the beautiful Bellarine this October with an intimate show at Queenscliff Town Hall.

Taking place on Saturday, 14 October 2023, the legendary singer-songwriter will take to the stage at Queenscliff Town Hall  a music venue created by the team at QMF the music jewel of the Bellarine.

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

A journeyman, storyteller, and troubadour at heart, Australias foremost bluesman Ash Grunwald has inspired a generation to hit the road in an old beat-up Bedford to surf by day jam by night.

With six Australian Top-50 albums to his credit, alongside five ARIA, four AIR Award Nominations, two APRA Awards, and gong for Best International Act at the 2014 LA Music Critic Awards, Grunwald is cast in bronze among Australias most successful blues musicians.

Enshrined by Australian folklore, his live shows are known to rock the house yet touch the soul, serving a tsunami of dance, beats, roots, bass n blues.

You wont want to miss this.

Tickets are on sale now here. 

The post Ash Grunwald announces special show in Queenscliff appeared first on Forte Magazine.

13:06

Sky News Australia interview on PNG independence at risk under US security deal "IndyWatch Feed National"

PNG is set to sign a so-called security pact with the US though there are serious questions about the lack of sovereignty for the small nation.

I was interviewed about it on Sky News Australia, speaking as the co-founder and co-editor of Declassified Australia.

The post Sky News Australia interview on PNG independence at risk under US security deal appeared first on Antony Loewenstein.

13:00

New doco looks at living and dying well "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Lance and Cecile met at a choir group in Croyden 15 years ago, and since their love blossomed Lance has been the strength for his wife Cecile, who is blind.

But when Lance noticed weakness in his arms while trimming hedges three years ago and was subsequently diagnosed with Motor Neuron Disease (MND) he and Cecile knew they would face many challenges.

Their story is one of many captured in the new documentary, Live the Life You Please, and one of three that features Geelong residents.

Ever since I was diagnosed, which was in March 2020, almost immediately, save for a few tears in between, Cecile and I wanted to be as positive as possible in the situation that we were placed in, Lance said.

It wasnt our choosing, the way life comes true for us. But it doesnt matter if were in a bad situation, we try to make it as light-hearted as possible.

We always have a laugh, always confer with each other, always try to maximise our efforts in making the situation as easy as possible.

Highly relevant in a time when most of us will experience palliative care before we die, Live the Life You Please explores the important issues that surround the end of our lives; how we deal with the challenges of dying slowly, bereavement and, most importantly, the importance of communicating what we want the end of our lives to look like.

The films director Mike Hill said normalising and stimulating discussions about how we wish to make that final journey was one of the main intentions of Live the Life You Please.

Theres a recent study that shows that 88 per cent of Australians think that its really important to talk about what they want towards the end of their life, but 50 per cent of us never have that conversation, Mr Hill said.

Its really evident that theres a need to make it easier to have this conversation and thats why we made the film; to help create a safe way into discussing this topic that we often either put out of mind or find hard to discuss.

I think the film is really extraordinary, Im very proud of it. And its surprisingly upbeat and joyful and you get that from someone like Lance, whos living with the serious condition of MND but still really living his best life given these circumstances.

A special Q&A showing of Life the Life You Please is at Geelong Village Cinemas at 6pm on Tuesday, May 23.

The post New doco looks at living and dying well appeared first on Ocean Grove Voice.

12:58

Notes From The Front "IndyWatch Feed National"

from G5

McGregor, McGovern, and Johnson here; are sane Intel analysts. I had previously encountered McGovern.

Johnson correctly describes how Western Intel has been subjugated for the ridiculous belief that repeated false narratives of propaganda prevail. As absurd as the equally ridiculous notion of Shock and Awe.

Propaganda may have domestic political value at best. But what the Americanised suck in, has nothing to do with The Russian Military retaking Europe. This time from American NAZIS.

It widens...

12:46

Seemingly drunk taxi driver "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Last night I got picked up from the airport by a Cairns Taxi, as soon as I sat down I could smell what I could relate to being a metho smell. I initially gave the benefit of the doubt and put it down to being possibly hand sanitiser, but as the ride progressed and we got talking and I started leaning towards "this guy is drunk", slurring words, mumbling, just general flags from working around alcohol. His driving was fine but we only when into town, not far. My wife is saying I should report him but firstly I wouldn't know how/where and two I can't really substantiate/prove my hunch.

So I'll put this to you all, thoughts?

submitted by /u/CharlieUpATree
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12:45

Hotch potch roll out of renewables in Qld destroys thousands of acres of forest, Ravenshoe railing against huge windfarm "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Queensland Labor is intent on destroying forests and the coal goose that laid the golden egg, closing down coal fired power in favour of unreliable wind and sacking 30,000 miners, no thanks to the CFMEU which has deserted its mining industry members A NEW campaign has been launched in opposition to a major wind farm []

12:34

Is it hard to find job in Townsville? "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Hi, Im just wondering is it hard to find a job in Townsville? Im living in Cairns at the moment, and its been 3 months I couldnt get any hospitality job. I tried door-to-door (even I drop with cover letter as well), heaps amount of online but still nothing I saw lots of people in Facebook is desperately looking for job in Cairns. I want to move either to Townsville or Mackay, but Im still not sure. Even actually I love to live in Cairns, 8 months for me in here is really good (despite of the job). But I dont want to wasting more of my time here. Please let me know if you have any suggestions. Thank you so much. I really appreciate that.

submitted by /u/Eliviaa
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12:23

Micro and nanoplastics may be affecting food safety "IndyWatch Feed National"

Micro and nanoplastics are pervasive in our food supply and may be affecting food safety and security on a global scale, a new study led by CSIRO, Australias national science agency, has found.

The study is one of the first to analyse the academic literature on microplastics from a food safety and food security risk viewpoint, building on past studies which primarily tracked plastics in fish.

It shows that plastics and their additives are present at a range of concentrations not only in fish but in many products including meat, chicken, rice, water, take-away food and drink, and even fresh produce.

Plastics enter the human food chain through numerous pathways

CSIRO analytical chemist, food safety specialist and lead author of the paper, Dr Jordi Nelis, said these plastics enter the human food chain through numerous pathways, such as ingestion as shown in the fish studies, but one of the main ways is through food processing and packaging.

Fresh food for example can be plastic free when its picked or caught but contain plastics by the time its been handled, packaged and makes its way to us, said Dr Nelis.

Machinery, cutting boards, plastic wrapping can all deposit micro and nanoplastics onto our food that we then consume. This study highlights the need to understand what plastic could end up in food to manage food safety and security.

Biosolids

Another important pathway for these contaminants to enter our agriculture system is through biosolids sourced from wastewater treatment.

Biosolids are a rich fertiliser for agricultural land, but they can contain plastic particles from many sources, such as from the washing of synthetic clothing.

These particles could build up in the soil and change the soil structure over time, which may affect crop production, food security and ecosystem resilience. For example, plastic materials can trick the good bacteria in the soil into thinking they are the roots of plants, meaning the plants end up with less of the nutrients they need.

The study also discussed how additives in plastics that help make plastic work in our modern world can leach into our environment, potentially contaminating our food supply. Additives that make plastic flexible or resistant to UV radiation, for example, can include flame retardants, heavy metals, phthalates, hardeners or other chemical compounds.

More research is needed

There are currently no definitive studies that demonstrate micro and nanoplastics in the environment cause harm to humans, however more research is needed to fully understand health effects.

More research is also needed to better understand the effects of plastics and their additives on food safety and...

12:23

Kylie Minogue rocks catsuit and wind machine in Padam Padam video "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Jordan Hirst

Kylie Minogue has dropped the fierce video for her heartbeat-inspired new single Padam Padam, complete with red Mugler catsuit with cape and a wind machine. The dance banger is the first single from Kylies new album Tension, which is out in September. Late last night, Kylie officially released the single after it snuck out ...

The post Kylie Minogue rocks catsuit and wind machine in Padam Padam video appeared first on QNews.

12:17

Highly Suspect announces 2023 Australia and New Zealand tour "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

The genre-bending modern rock back will be coming down under this summer for a quick three-date jaunt.

Starting with a few shows over in New Zealand, theyll head on over to Melbournes Stay Gold on November 23 before making their way over to Sydney and Brisbane.

Highly Suspect Australian Tour 2023

  • Nov 17 The Loons, Christchurch
  • Nov 18 The Powerstation, Auckland
  • Nov 19 San Fran, Wellington
  • Nov 23 Stay Gold, Melbourne
  • Nov 24 Crowbar, Sydney
  • Nov 25 The Brightside, Brisbane

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

In 2022, the American five-piece released their latest album, The Midnight Demon Club fans can expect to hear songs from this release on tour in November. The new album features the singles Pink Lullabye and Natural Born Killer.

With it, the band added an electro-pop twist to their traditional alternative rock sound, giving them a fresh edge and keeping fans on their toes.

Highly Suspect got their start as a local cover band, playing songs by classic rock favourites including Sublime, Pink Floyd and Jimi Hendrix.

After dropping a series of EPs in their early days, they released a self-titled compilation album that saw them rise to new heights, touring with Stone Temple Pilots and the Deftones.

With four studio albums, a handful of Grammy nominations and years worth of world tours under their belts, its likely the guy will deliver a rockin live show when they come to town.

Presale tickets to see Highly Suspect on their Australia and New Zealand tour are set to unlock on May 22 at 10am AEST. General admission will go on sale the following day.

To sign up for the Highly Suspect presale, head here.

The post Highly Suspect announces 2023 Australia and New Zealand tour appeared first on Forte Magazine.

12:00

VIDEO: IA's Word on the Street Broadbeach on the Budget "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

VIDEO: IA's Word on the Street Broadbeach on the Budget

In our latest episode of Word on the Street, IA founder Dave Donovan took to the Broadbeach Mall on the Gold Coast to ask locals their thoughts on the Federal Budget.

In the meantime, he also had a chance to discuss Pacific politics with some PNG holidaymakers, an interesting take on Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton, and the dangers of drop bears with a visiting Canadian.

DAVE: It's an unusual political system we've got where we have a chief potato...

 

INTERVIEWEE: I don't know if you're kidding... It's almost like it's a pastime here to mess with foreigners.

Hit play on the video below and enjoy our latest episode!

Don't forget to LIKE the video, SHARE it and subscribe to the IA YouTube channel, so you can stay up to date with future episodes and other great video content!

Follow Independent Australia on Twitter at @independentaus, on Twitter HERE, Facebook HERE and Instagram HERE.

11:09

11:00

Season closes early at Lake Connewarre "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Geelong hunters have been left ropeable by the state governments decision to close Lake Connewarre to duck shooters 11 days earlier than planned.

Lake Connewarre, Reedy Lake and Hospital Swamp will be off limits to duck hunters from Friday May 19 for the release of the orange bellied parrots. The shooting season was initially scheduled to end on May 30.

Geelong Field and Game conservation officer Trent Leen said that closing Lake Conneware during the duck shooting season was a complete overreach of power.

The pest mitigation works that we do has a much greater impact on ensuring the survival of the orange bellied parrots than anything else would, he said.

The parrots already had a successful release last year when we had a full legislative duck season, so theres no reason to delay it and theres no reason to do anything.

Mr Leen said the orange bellied parrots release could have gone ahead without restricting the shooting season as in previous years, and that hunters helped protect the parrots from pests.

We can not only hunt game in the state game reserves during the season, but we can also hunt pests like rabbits and foxes, he said.

Theyre (government) actually hindering the removal of some of those pest animals so its certainly not a logical decision.

Mr Leen said Greater Geelong residents were the losers out of all of this and that hunters generated close to $7 million and 119 full-time jobs for the area.

Now with the restricted season at the start and the end, all those dollars are just going to go elsewhere now, he said.

Geelong Duck Rescue chair and wildlife rescuer Natalie Kopas said the early end to the season was great news and that rescuers would still be out there patrolling the wetlands.

We wish it would have happened earlier because the parrots have been around there for a little while, but still better late than never, she said.

Well still have teams checking those wetlands to ensure that nobody there claims they didnt know about the closures.

I hope this is the very last time duck shooting happens in Geelong and the rest of the state.

The post Season closes early at Lake Connewarre appeared first on Ocean Grove Voice.

11:00

Professor Ian Plimer book launch Not For Greens "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

The Institute of Public Affairs launch of Ian Plimer's new book from Connor Court Publishing, 'Not For Greens', in Melbourne on Tuesday 22 July 2014.

10:57

Binance Australia partner hints at rising scams after debanking exchange "IndyWatch Feed Economics.au"

Cuscal, the company that handles the Australian dollar on- and off-ramping for the exchange, declined to comment specifically on why it decided to pull support for Binance Australia.

10:52

The Presets announce special 20th Anniversary DJ Tour and theyre coming to Torquay "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

Sydney electronic kings The Presets have announced a huge national DJ tour throughout July, August, and September in celebration of their 20th anniversary.

Kicking off in July in Mulgrave, the 20 Years 20 Nights tour will take the duo across the East Coast with various stops in the likes of Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, Torquay, and Sydney before jetting over to Darwin where theyll finish the tour in September. Armed with a huge DJ set, theyll be playing at small clubs and bars, reconnecting with the electric spirit that got them making music in the first place.

The Presets 20th Anniversary clubland tour 2023

Friday, July 14 Village Green Hotel, Mulgrave
Saturday, July 15 Pier Bandroom, Frankston
Thursday, July 20 Beach Hotel, Byron Bay
Friday, July 21 Fridays Riverside, Brisbane
Saturday, July 22 Kings Beach Tavern, Caloundra
Friday, July 28 Burleigh Bazaar, Gold Coast
Saturday, July 29 C.EX, Coffs Harbour
Friday, August 4 Shoal Bay Country Club, Shoal Bay
Saturday, August 5 Drifters Wharf, Central Coast
Thursday, August 10 Gilligans, Cairns
Friday, August 11 Kirwan Tavern (Outdoors), Townsville
Saturday, August 12 Magnums Hotel, Airlie Beach
Friday, August 18 Beer Deluxe, Albury
Saturday, August 19 Torquay Hotel, Torquay
Friday, August 25 UOW Uni Bar, Wollongong
Saturday, August 26 Kambri Anu, Canberra
Wednesday, August 30 The Station, Perisher
Friday, September 1 Miranda Hotel, Sydney
Saturday, September 2 Dee Why RSL, Sydney
Saturday, September 9 Monsoons, Darwin

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

In 2003 two young Sydneysiders started making beats together at their inner-city studio. They began by banging out DJ sets in small clubs, testing out tracks theyd made together at home alongside tunes that were inspiring them at the time.

In the 20 years since, The Presets live show has grown into an audio-visual behemoth thats dominated festival main stages around the world, but a recent visit to a legendary Sydney nightclub where the duo cut their teeth inspired the guys to celebrate their anniversary by going back to where it all began.

Weve been lucky enough to play the biggest stages and festivals in the world over the past 20 years, explains Kim Moyes, but nothing compares to the buck-wild intensity of an intimate party. They are an entirely dif...

10:52

Richmond Valley Councils ambitious growth agenda "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

A new Community Strategic Plan (CSP) for Richmond Valley Council has set what they call an ambitious growth agenda for 2040, including more people, housing, jobs and green spaces.

The plan also sets key directions to ensure communities are sustainable, and that Council protects the environment and uses natural resources wisely.

By 2040, the Richmond Valleys population is expected to grow by 4,000, creating some 2,000 extra employment opportunities, including 600 direct jobs from the Regional Job Precinct. There is also a plan to unlock flood-safe lands with room for 2,000 new homes.

A pathway for steady, responsible growth

General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said the new CSP sets a pathway for steady, responsible growth in the Richmond Valley, which would provide much-needed homes for local families, more jobs for young people and more services and facilities for our towns and villages.

There are many exciting initiatives ahead in the next 20 years as we finish the major works weve begun and open new opportunities for our Valley, said Mr Macdonald.

We will deliver our plans to secure long-term water supplies, provide new and upgraded water and sewage infrastructure and enhanced community facilities across the entire Valley to support the more than 2,000 new homes which can be built on flood-safe land.

Mayor Robert Mustow said the preceding natural disasters challenged and redefined the way we lived but did not redefine our sense of community and the values we share.

The threshold of change and opportunities

Cr Mustow said in the first long year after the flood, Council worked with its community to rebuild the Valley, which now stood on the threshold of change and opportunities. Councils focus remains on continuing to build back better after the floods, while harnessing new opportunities to grow and diversify our economy and provide much-needed housing for our community. 

Council has developed four key directions for its future plans based on the feedback it received from the community consultation program.

  1. Strengthening our role in the region
    This direction is based on the Richmond Valley Growth Management Strategy, recently adopted by Council, and the remaining actions of the Rebuilding the Richmond Valley Recovery Plan. It also includes strategies from the Key Directions in Economic Development paper recently presented to the local business community for consulta...    ......

10:43

Hawke and Keating were overt socialists once attending Minto communist training camp for Aborigines "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Letter to the Editor Here is some information for you, I personally sighted Bob Hawke and Paul Keating arriving and leaving Howard Road, Minto NSW, in 1977 through to 1979 in commonwealth vehicles driven by commonwealth government drivers. I naturally carried out inquiries into why commonwealth vehicles and Labor members were  visiting the property known []

10:38

How real estate agents get away with selling dodgy properties "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

<p><p><div id="cyclelinks"></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href= "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkj1wZ761Xlr_K_vXIsfIxKTGJwN44r582NfhL0ALuugXx7BApSs1dvKd-nHg2_Zwpy8MQ9VQwHyjsX36085nzdY__0ODNzmqUBy87IwEwm82Emb5uObPuKoAOUZhtmPtYRulhQPqWqQ_2Jb-8h5YkWGPBOydq_0iCaF0EMNjmzVBKfrHvK5z_hchIcg/s1023/Ray%20White.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src= "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkj1wZ761Xlr_K_vXIsfIxKTGJwN44r582NfhL0ALuugXx7BApSs1dvKd-nHg2_Zwpy8MQ9VQwHyjsX36085nzdY__0ODNzmqUBy87IwEwm82Emb5uObPuKoAOUZhtmPtYRulhQPqWqQ_2Jb-8h5YkWGPBOydq_0iCaF0EMNjmzVBKfrHvK5z_hchIcg/s320/Ray%20White.jpg" width="320"></a></div> <br> <p class="dropcontent">The colonys laws have been set up to benefit actions in business/commerce/trade.</p> <p class="dropcontent">The tax system has been (deliberately) geared up to the benefit of corporations, many avoid paying tax altogether for their entire business existence. </p> <p class="dropcontent">Throughout all this unfairness persons who participate in the economy have been classified as consumers, where consumer law has been introduced to give an illusion of fairness.</p> <p class="dropcontent">Sure, many examples can be brought up in court cases where the corporations lost and the consumer allegedly won.</p> <p class="dropcontent">Australia is a protectionist nation, and will go to any lengths to keep this, irrespective of how the consumer is harmed, as long as the government isnt.</p> <p class="dropcontent">One industry that is allowed to continue racketeering is the real estate industry, because the government directly benefits from this.</p> <p class="dropcontent">IF a licenced motor car trader sells an automobile, checks & balances must be made, where the road-worthiness of the vehicle must be proved with the appropriate paperwork.

The onus is then on the (licenced) seller.

No such luck in the the real estate market.

In MANY instances a residential dwelling is presented to a prospective consumer and the realtor is fully aware of the dwellings pitfalls, which are deliberately hidden from the purchaser.</p> <p class="dropcontent">Not only this, but the agent is absolved from any responsibility or liability, where a 180 is done and this falls on the purchaser, under a scam called due diligence.</p> <p class="dropcontent">In Victoria, the due diligence checklist falls under the responsibility of the consumer as stated in the institution called Consumer Affairs Victoria, at the time of this post, under the address: <a href= "https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/duediligencechecklist"><i><span style="color: #38761d;"&...

10:32

Tampons in the men's toilets at Sydney Uni: inclusion. "IndyWatch Feed National"

Unbelievable. These are crazy times. TAMPONS AND SANITARY PADS IN MEN'S TOILET Sydney university. Decline of Western civilisation accelerates. pic.twitter.com/vbIPluFStG Dr David Adler (@DrDavidAdler1) May 18, 2023

10:28

AWPA -West Papua Update No 3/ 2023 "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"



  Australia West Papua Association (Sydney) 


AWPA Update No 3/ 2023


17 May  2023


Armed clashes have continued...

10:26

Supreme Court rules for social media giants in cases over third-party content, declines to address Section 230 "IndyWatch Feed National"

Supreme Court rules for social media giants in cases over third-party content, declines to address Section 230 --The major question of how far Section 230 should go remains unanswered | 18 May 2023 | The Supreme Court on Thursday handed big tech companies, including Google and Twitter, legal wins in a pair of lawsuits alleging that the companies should be liable for ISIS [I-CIA-SIS] attacks because of content the terror organization promoted using their platforms. The companies were sued separately by the families of the victims. In the case against Twitter, Justice Clarence Thomas authored a unanimous opinion saying that the families did not provide sufficient evidence to establish that the companies should be held liable for aiding and abetting... The justices declined to answer the question of how far the scope of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act goes. The nearly 30-year-old law gives digital platforms a measure of immunity from some criminal and civil claims.

10:16

Albanese Condemns Australia to Decades of Austerity, as Bipartisan Militarisation Continues "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

US president Joe Biden cancelled next weeks Sydney Quad Leaders Summit on Wednesday. But not to worry, as China-focused security meetings are now coming so thick and fast that the next one will be around soon enough, especially with the growing...

The post Albanese Condemns Australia to Decades of Austerity, as Bipartisan Militarisation Continues appeared first on Sydney Criminal Lawyers.

10:04

"IndyWatch Feed Vic" "IndyWatch Feed Allstate"

<p><p>Australian ARIA-award-winning act Boy & Bear are coming out swinging in 2023, today sharing a new single and video Strange World ahead of their self-titled fifth studio album,<em> Boy & Bear </em><em> </em>available May 26 independently. Alongside the release, the band have announced a huge list of regional Australian tour dates across September to November, following their national headline tour dates in June and July.</p> <p>The bands regional tour will see them hit Castlemaine, Torquay, Albury, Newcastle, the Blue Mountains, Mackay, Townsville and more.</p> <h3>Boy & Bear Regional Tour Dates

Wednesday, September 13  Theatre Royal, Castlemaine (VIC)<br> Thursday, September 14 Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, Traralgon (VIC)<br> Friday, September 15 Pier Bandroom, Frankston (VIC)<br> Saturday, September 16 Torquay Hotel, Torquay (VIC)<br> Thursday, September 21 Beer Deluxe, Albury (NSW)<br> Friday, September 22 Anitas Theatre, Thirroul (NSW)<br> Thursday, September 28 Civic Theatre, Newcastle (NSW)<br> Friday, September 29 Drifters Wharf, Central Coast (NSW)<br> Saturday, September 30 Blue Mountains Theatre + Community Hub, Blue Mountains (NSW)<br> Friday, October 6 The River, Margaret River (WA)<br> Wednesday, October 11 Seabreeze Hotel, Mackay (QLD)<br> Thursday, October 12 Magnums, Airlie Beach (QLD)<br> Friday, October 13 JCU Uni Bar, Townsville (QLD)<br> Saturday, October 14 Tanks Arts Centre, Cairns (QLD)<br> Thursday, November 9  Kings Beach Tavern, Sunshine Coast (QLD)<br> Friday, November 10 Burleigh Bazaar, Gold Coast (QLD)<br> Saturday, November 11 Empire Theatre, Toowoomba (QLD)</p> <p class="p1"><b><i>Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews </i></b><a href= "https://fortemag.com.au/music/"><span class= "s1"><b><i>here</i></b></span></a><b><i>.</i></b></p> <p>The forthcoming albums opening song, Strange World reverberates with a quintessentially Australian chorus of cicadas as the band enter their homecoming era. A warbling synth bordering psychedelia oozes a warm aura as the song progressively builds to a harmonious groove, while the tracks lyricism explores the universal emotion of struggling to operate in a world where nothing seems fair.</p> <p>Speaking to Strange World, Boy & Bears Dave Hosking shares: Strange World was written just as COVID hit. Jon and I were working on an idea and it was during this period that COVID came and wiped out our Australian tour. After a previous forced break due to illness kept us from touring for a long time, it seemed t...</p></p>

10:00

Grave concerns for Melbourne detention hunger striker "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

The Refugee Action Coalition has grave concerns for the welfare of Mahdi (not his real name) an Iranian asylum seeker now in his 23nd day on hunger strike in Melbournes detention centre, MITA (Melbourne Immigration Transit Accommodation). It is understood that the 42-year-old asylum seeker has now stopped drinking.

The hunger strike is one of the most serious to have taken place in immigration detention in recent years.

It has been Home Affairs recent practice to allow hunger strikers in detention to collapse before proving medical attention to rehydrate them. This practice also avoids detainees being able to consciously deny treatment, as is their right.

Mahdi has been found to be a refugee but the Minister has refused to grant the visa on character grounds. That refusal follows the cancellation of his bridging visa in 2016.

Mahdi has been in a mental hospital and then prison just four months from August to December 2016, but he has now been in immigration detention for almost seven years!

Mahdi is a victim of s501 of the Migration Act which allows the government to impose extra-judicial punishment on non-citizens. He is one of the refugees who is a victim of the governments indefinite detention polices that UN special rapporteur on torture Alice Edwards has called inhumane.

Immigration Minister Andrew Giles has said many times that the government is committed to risk-based immigration detention policies, and that people should be living in the community if they do not pose a risk. So why is Mahdi (and others like him) still in immigration detention?

Daily protests have been held in Yongah Hill detention centre for more than two weeks calling for immigration detainees to be freed.

Mahdi has already been diagnosed as suffering from PTSD from his treatment in Iran. His prolonged time in detention has left him even more traumatised.

Mahdi told the Refugee Action Coalition a few days ago, Brother, I dont want to live any more, Im tired of everything. After the criminal justice system sentenced Mahdi to just four months in prison, the immigration system has imposed a life sentence.

Its time to end the torture, said Ian Rintoul, spokesperson for the Refugee Action Coalition, Mahdi should be released.

For more information contact Ian Rintoul 0417 275 713

The post Grave concerns for Melbourne detention hunger striker appeared first on Refugee Action Coalition.

10:00

CARTOONS: Biden gives Australia the elbow "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

CARTOONS: Biden gives Australia the elbow

Biden gives Australia the elbow

Awkies for AUKUS.

Mark David is IA's resident cartoonist. You can see more cartoons from Mark on his website Mark David Cartoons, or follow him on Twitter @mdavidcartoons.

09:44

Review into betting ads must target all digital avenues "IndyWatch Feed Enviro.au"

Associate Professor, School of Economics, Finance and Marketing at RMIT, Dr Lauren Gurrieri. Photo supplied.

The issue of gambling advertising has resurfaced after federal opposition leader Peter Dutton announced that the Coalition government will move to ban sports betting advertising during the broadcasting of games and that would include air time an hour on either side of a sporting game.

The Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told media that he personally finds betting advertisements during sporting matches annoying and that there is a review underway.

Its not enough

But Associate Professor, School of Economics, Finance and Marketing at RMIT, Dr Lauren Gurrieri, says that concentrating efforts around footy matches is not enough.

Gambling marketing is pervasive and is increasingly becoming normalised as part of sporting culture more broadly.

Duttons call to ban sports betting advertising during and on either side of the broadcast is an important step in the discussion towards decoupling this association. However, it wont be enough to deter people.

Dr Gurrieri says every year the gambling industry continues to up its investment in advertising. According to Nielsen Research, Australias gambling industry increased its spend on advertising by almost $200m in 10 ye...

09:37

NSW Police Allegedly Taser 95-Year Old Woman in Nursing Home "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

An elderly New South Wales woman is fighting for her life in hospital after allegedly being tasered by police officers at a nursing home, causing her to fracture her skull as she hit the floor. Investigations into the actions of...

The post NSW Police Allegedly Taser 95-Year Old Woman in Nursing Home appeared first on Sydney Criminal Lawyers.

09:36

Labor Cant Manage Money! Says Leader of The Party Who Left A Trillion Dollar Debt! "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

Now before the fact checkers get stuck into the headline, Id like to withdraw it and admit that the Coalition did not leave a trillion-dollar debt, it was, in fact, a mere $889,000,000,000. However, headlines arent about accuracy; theyre either clickbait or some sub-editors way of making some pun that is neither funny nor actually

The post Labor Cant Manage Money! Says Leader of The Party Who Left A Trillion Dollar Debt! appeared first on The AIM Network.

09:33

Mostly, clients have no idea how unpleasant it is working with mother-of-pearl "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Pendants strengthened with a bright silver rail and claw-set with 18ct yellow gold and a wide silver jump ring jewellertothelost

First you need a large amount of rough to sort through to find the useable areas, hand sawing on the bench is tedious and the smell permeates the studio. The rough is shaped and then we cant count the lost hours of polishing. The circular engraved piece on the left is an antique Chinese game counter, the piece on the right is a thick emerald-cut shape. These rarely come onto the market and when they do we purchase all we can and the studio starts its magic, setting and finishing.

*The Pearl is symbolically seen as perfection, from which issues the lightning of consciousness Lunar; the power of the waters; the essence of the moon and controller of the tides; the embryo; cosmic life; the life-giving power of the Great Mother; the feminine principal of the ocean; law in cosmic life; justice.

* an illustrated encyclopaedia of traditional symbols J. C. Cooper

09:23

Has anyone tried the 208/209 bus route from Yolanda Dr to Uni? "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

I just wanted to know if the 208/209 bus to uni is currently operating? It says so on the Translink app but just wanted to verify since a lot of people have mentioned the unreliability of buses in Townsville. Thanks!

No bike or car yet so please don't comment about this.

submitted by /u/teppiez
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09:00

Library battle on again "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

A second battle to save Barwon Heads Library from permanent closure has begun, just five years after people power won the day.

The library was slated for closure, along with libraries at Highton and Chilwell, in 2018, but a public backlash resulted in council reversing its decision, allowing it to stay in operation.

However, Geelong Regional Library Corporation (GRLC) said it could close Barwon Heads, Geelong West and Highton libraries by September this year after the City of Greater Geelong (CoGG) suggested it find $1.118 million in response to its draft budget.

GRLC said it asked for a two percent increase to funding in councils draft budget, and while that has been met, it does not include funds to operate two new libraries Boronggook Drysdale Library (opened April 2023) and Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library (opening 2024) leaving a gap in GRLC funding of $1.118 million in 2023-24.

In order to find the extra $1.118 million, GRLC said it may close Barwon Heads, Geelong West and Highton libraries, transition Chilwell Library to an

unstaffed model and Corio and Boronggook Drysdale libraries would close on Sundays, while eight local libraries would close earlier on Saturdays.

Friends of Barwon Heads Librarys Karen Firth said the group was optimistic that their library would stay open.

Its completely different this time, she said.

It hasnt come out of a service model review, this is a funding issue so its completely different.

I dont see the library closing, but the money needs to arrive and I think it will.

I think the two CEOs need to sort it out and work it out and I think they will.

Ms Firth said a study revealed for every dollar spent on the library, it gets $4.30 back and was money well spent.

She said the library, which is open for 16 hours per week, had 11,000 visits per year.

The councillors dont want to close it, Geelong Regional Libraries dont want to close it, but here we are, she said.

We got brand new bookshelves literally last week the irony of it.

Ms Firth urged people to sign the petition to save the library at change.org/p/save-the-barwon-heads-community-library.

Ms Firth said she didnt want the library to fall out of GRLCs hands and into the hands of council, which was a solution being mooted. She said the relationship between the library and GRLC was positive.

GRLC chief executive Vanessa Schernickau said closing the libraries is the last thing we want to do.

But with the COGG draft budget as it stands we have been left with no choice, she said.

A funding shortfall of this size cannot be found by reducing programs or events, or small modifications to our operating models.

CoGG said it did not support the closure of any library and that GRL...

08:47

Voice to Parliament: the brains behind the No campaigns "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

Voice to Parliament: the brains behind the No campaigns

Just who are the key people behind the campaigns against an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, and what are their arguments?

08:30

Minorities supporting minorities: Why the LGBTIQA+ community should support the Voice "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

By Paula Gerber

The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, celebrated on 17 May each year, is generally a time to reflect on the advances that have been made in increasing respect for the rights of LGBTIQA+ people, as well as think about the work that still needs to be done. However, this year, rather than looking at how we can better protect the rights of the LGBTIQA+ community, it is appropriate to consider how the LGBTIQA+ community can help to secure better protection for the rights of another minority.

Later this year, all Australians will be required to vote in a referendum that will determine the extent to which we will respect the human rights of Australias Indigenous peoples. In particular, we will be voting yes or no to amending the Constitution to recognise Indigenous peoples and to establish a Voice to Parliament.

The LGBTIQA+ community is the only other minority group in Australia that has lived through the stress and strain of a campaign in which the majority got to vote on the extent to which the human rights of a minority will be respected. In 2017, Australians were invited to answer the question Should the law be changed to allow same-sex couples to marry?. The outcome was a resounding yes with 7,817,247 people (61.6% of respondents) supporting the institution of marriage being opened up to same-sex couples. 

In many ways the marriage equality vote is not comparable to a vote on The Voice, because it was a non-compulsory postal survey, rather a mandatory referendum. There was no legal necessity for the marriage equality postal survey; the Marriage Act 1961 could have been amended to allow same-sex couples to marry by the passage of a simple Bill through Parliament. There is, however, a legal necessity for the referendum on the Voice, since that is the only way the Australian Constitution can be amended.

Indigenous Australians and LGBTIQA+ Australians have a long history of supporting and inspiring each other. As Tasmanian LGBTIQA+ activist Rodney Croome observed,

Indigenous activists played a greater role in inspiring the Australian LGBTIQA+ movement than is often acknowledged. The Aboriginal civil rights movement that led up to the 1967 referendum showed LGBTIQA+ advocates that change in Australia was possible. It was a forerunner of the early movement to decriminalise homosexuality.

There is, of course, overlap between the two minority groups with many queer Indigenous people organising Yes campaigns for marriage equality, including by setting up groups such as Black Fellas for Marriage Equality. &nbsp...

08:24

In which the pond discovers a terra nullius mind, and joins the fifty shades of grey man in yet again nuking the planet ... "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

 


What with the weather turning nippy, and the planet turning hot, and marvel of marvels, at the same time, the pond has had trouble getting up of late in the morning to contemplate the herpetarium, and even more trouble finding reference to that story featured in The Conversation, Global warming to bring record hot year by 2028 probably our first above 1.5C limit ...

The pond anxiously scanned the top of the reptile digital edition, but alas drew a terra nullius ...




Instead there was some heat, but it was just more more of the usual heated reptile coverage, including comrade Dan, and the Lehrmann matter, and cackling Claire sounding exceptionally stupid, and carrying on like a prize maroon ...

The notion of "perverting the English language" is deeply weird and perverted, it being a matter of pride for those devoted to the language that it is flexible, inventive, and capable of responding in new ways as matters arise ...

Indeed, the OED spends a considerable amount of time tracking new offerings, such as deepfake, antigram and groomzilla... and the pond noted some new insults, such as lamester, crazy-pants, and freako, though the most likely seemed to be dish dog ...

Rather than waste time on cackling Claire offering a dish best served cold and using the notion of filthy preverts to hide her fear and loathing of trans folk, the pond thought it might just do a Humpty Dumpty ... with this coming after the wise old egg celebrated the notion of 364 unbirthdays ...



...

08:08

08:00

Why nuclear power wont work in Australia yet another explainer "IndyWatch Feed Politics.au"

Why nuclear power wont work in Australia yet another explainer

While the Liberal Party continues its push for nuclear power in Australia, there are many reasons why renewables are a far better option, writes Professor John Quiggin.

OPPOSITION LEADER Peter Duttons call for nuclear power, made as part of his Budget reply speech, should not be taken too seriously. In its nine years in office, the L-NP took no steps to promote nuclear energy, not even an attempt to repeal the largely symbolic ban imposed by John Howard in 1998. Duttons renewed call can best be understood as a dog whistle to the climate denialists who dominate the partys base, allowing him to oppose practical measures for decarbonisation without explicitly embracing denialism.

Still, its worthwhile to be informed about the current state of nuclear power and the prospects for deploying it in Australia. If nuclear power really was the cheap and reliable option claimed by its proponents, the immediate benefits of replacing coal and preventing imminent climate disaster would outweigh long-term concerns about adding to the (already large) stock of nuclear waste that will require indefinite storage.

In reality, however, nuclear power is set for continued decline globally. In a country like Australia, with no existing regulatory structure or skills base, nuclear power is hopelessly uneconomic and will never happen.

Twenty years ago, it seemed likely that nuclear would be a viable option to replace coal. The development of new Generation III designs seemed to overcome many of the safety problems of 20th-Century reactors like those at Three Mile Island and...

07:53

Fossil fuels to reap $57.1 billion from Australian taxpayers "IndyWatch Feed National"

Matthew Elmas  wrote (the new Daily 4 May 2023) about the escalation of government subsidies handed to fossil fuel companies, as the government spruiked its claim that it will act far more decisively and go further on the reduction of carbon emission. It doesnt add up. Its time to put an end to it.

The value of subsidies and tax breaks for fossil fuel companies across Australia will reach a record $57.1billion in the next four years.

A new report by the Australia Institute found subsidies for fossil fuel giants in federal and state budgets will soon cost taxpayers 14 times more than the Disaster Ready Fund.

Although the Albanese government has stopped some of the Morrison governments more egregious handouts, it has kept other ones, said Rod Campbell, a research director at the Australia Institute.

Total assistance to fossil fuel producers from governments has fallen from $11.6 billion in 2021-22 to $11.1 billion in 2022-23 $9.7 billion of which will come from federal coffers.

From there, however, payments will rise to a record level in the next four years, driven by expectations of even higher fuel tax credit payments.

A year on from the climate election and we have fossil fuel subsidies breaking records in tandem with the rising global temperatures that put our economy at risk, Mr Campbell said.

Australian governments are now planning to spend more on exacerbating climate change through these subsidies than they are on getting ready for climate disasters.

Prominent examples of federal fossil fuel handouts identified in the report include a $1.9 billion plan to support a petrochemical hub in Darwin and $141 million for carbon capture and storage.

Exemptions under the fuel tax excise for fossil fuel companies are tipped to generate $7.8 billion in tax credits for fossil fuel firms in 2022-23.

Major gas projects like Middle Arm Sustainable Development Precinct and the Kurri Kurri Power Station are receiving huge handouts from the Commonwealth government, Mr Campbell said.

These subsidies provide a huge opportunity for governments that are looking to cut costs and take climate action. Its time to stop funding climate change and start funding the response.

Am...

07:40

Programming Manager Job @ Eastside Radio "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Were on the look out for our new Program Manager here at Eastside Radio.

Fixed Term Position: This position is for 2 days a week with a 12-month contract + option for permanent part-time role.

Closing Date for Applications: 30 June 2023

Salary: $50,000 pro rata

Summary

Eastside Radio is the community station for the City of Sydney and Eastern Suburbs. Having been on air for over 30 years the station is an established cultural icon with a loyal following of listeners.

We love the arts, jazz music, world music, the blues, soul music, Hip Hop, funk and electronic sounds. We are the only station in Sydney to devote 5 mornings a week to supporting theatre, dance, film, design, literature, indigenous, visual and other art forms. Every afternoon we focus on the issues that matter to the community.

Many of our presenters and producers are working musicians, DJs and artists at the forefront of Sydneys creative scene. Others come from distinguished careers in politics, advertising, journalism, science and education. While are youthful broadcasters are at the start of creating their own successful journey.

The Eastside Radio Programming Manager (PM) provides support to our 84 programs with more than 130 presenters and producers. With assistance from the Programming Committee and Board the PM will be responsible in implementing the creative direction of the stations programs. The PM will help design technological advances to improve broadcasting and ensure relevance in the modern media landscape.

The successful candidate will be employed by the station for a fixed-term with a workload of 2 to potentially 3 days per week.

Short listed applicants will be interviewed by the Managing Director, HR Manager and a Member of the Board.

This is an exciting opportunity to be a part of a unique and innovative community station.

Please address the selection criteria in your application.

Duties:

  1. Be the primary point of contact for all on air program makers on Eastside Radio.
  2. Initiate and filter Program feedback from the Programming Committee to improve presenters and their shows.
  3. Ensure that all programs have access to the studios as desired.
  4. Stay in contact with the Sponsorship Manager, Music Manager and presenters and/or producers about their programs relative content.
  5. Monitor the Eastside Radio 89.7FM studios, streaming and on demand services from a sound quality perspective.
  6. Where necessary provide editorial assistance to program blogs.
  7. Manage all substitutions beyond individual show responsibility including any pre-records and evergreens.
  8. Create some go to list for replacements for Arts, Drive and Jazz plus an emergency call list
  9. Help all programs to build an audience especially through online initiatives.
  10. Co-op.........

06:45

Be a firefighter on open day "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

Byron Bay Fire Station Deputy Captain, Matt Crisp, says the station is looking for more people to join the the On-Call Firefighting team. Photo Tree Faerie.

Byron firefighters will hold an open day this weekend which is just as much about fun as it is about the serious issues of fires.

There will be activities for everyone there will be giveaways and free safety advice. Its a great opportunity to speak to firefighters about your Home Safety Plan and book a free Safety Visit.

...

06:41

Market Talk May 18, 2023 "IndyWatch Feed National"

ASIA:

 

Japans economy experienced a faster-than-expected recovery in the first quarter, coming out of a recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The growth was primarily driven by increased consumption following the pandemic, which helped counter the challenges posed by global economic conditions. However, concerns have arisen due to signs of a slowdown in economic growth in the United States, Europe, and China. This uncertainty has raised questions about when the central bank can withdraw its extensive stimulus program. Recent government data showed that Japans economy grew by 1.6% in January-March, surpassing market expectations and marking the first increase in three quarters. The nominal gross domestic product also reached a record high, supported by rising prices.

 

The major Asian stock markets had a mixed day today:

  • NIKKEI 225 increased 480.34 points or 1.60% to 30,573.93
  • Shanghai increased 13.09 points or 0.40% to 3,297.32
  • Hang Seng increased 166.68 points or 0.85% to 19,727.25
  • ASX 200 increased 37.60 points or 0.52% to 7,236.80
  • Kospi increased 20.74 points or 0.83% to 2,515.40
  • SENSEX decreased 128.90 points or -0.21% to 61,431.74
  • Nifty50 decreased 51.80 points or -0.28% to 18,129.95

 

 

The major Asian currency markets had a mixed day today:

  • AUDUSD decreased 0.00437 or -0.66% to 0.66153
  • NZDUSD decreased 0.00357 or -0.57% to 0.62123
  • USDJPY increased 0.851 or 0.62% to 138.521
  • USDCNY increased 0.04441 or 0.63% to 7.05311

 

 

Precious Metals:

  • Gold decreased 25.84 USD/t oz. or -1.30% to 1,955.88
  • Silver decreased 0.306 USD/t. oz or -1.29% to 23.420

 

Some economic news from last night:

Japan:

Adjusted Trade Balance increased from -1.21T to -1.02T

Exports (YoY) (Apr) decreased from 4.3% to 2.6%

Trade Balance (Apr) increased from -755.1B to -432.4B

Australia:

Employment Change (Apr) decreased from 61.1K to -4.3K

Full Employment Change (Apr) decreased from 82.5K to -27.1K

Unemployment Rate (Apr) increased from 3.5% to 3.7%

New Zealand:

PPI Input (QoQ) (Q1)...

06:37

06:35

Amber alert for blue-green algae at Uki "IndyWatch Feed Alllocal"

An amber alert has been issued for the Tweed River at Uki.

Tweed Shire Council has issued an amber alert for blue-green algae in the Tweed River at Uki, two weeks after declaring an amber alert for Clarrie Hall Dam.

Councils Water and Wastewater operations Manager Brie Jowett said the amber alerts meant blue-green algae might be multiplying in the affected waterways.

...

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