Search

Bakery offering free food if you beat the boss at a simple game

After struggling with dwindling customer numbers during the pandemic, a small bakery in Melbourne has come up with a unique way to drum up more business. The Pie Place in Coburg, north of Melbourne, is offering a free pie to any customer who can defeat the owner, Justin Talbot, in a simple game of Rock, Paper, Scissors. Justin admitted to <a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/today/free-pies-melbourne-baker-unique-offer-for-customers-who-beat-him-at-rock-paper-scissors/483a1355-d491-4b77-a1b0-50b0c72fe503">Today</a> that while the idea is unconventional, he said that when free food is involved, “you can’t go wrong”. "I was at home having a few beers and I thought, how can I drum up more business?" he said. "So I thought, why not have a bit of fun with my customers? We've been here for 40 years this month. I've been here for 10 years and I love being here, I love interacting with my customers, having a yarn with them, having a joke with them - it's pretty much my favourite part of work.” "Rock Paper Scissors is something out of the ordinary, everyone knows how to play, it's fun and if you win, you get a free pie." The initiative has gone down a treat with locals, with many claiming the shop has the “best pies” and are willing to risk their hand for a freebie. As Justin’s game gets more and more popular, he said he is willing to fork out whatever it costs to give out the free pies in order to connect with the community. <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1TKgHxU0m8E?si=Rs9-G3TCQhQako8o" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Image credits: Today

Food & Wine

Aussie bloke's hilarious revenge on parking inspectors

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

Legal

What’s the difference between a food allergy and an intolerance?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jennifer-koplin-13384">Jennifer Koplin</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/desalegn-markos-shifti-1530163">Desalegn Markos Shifti</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a> At one time or another, you’ve probably come across someone who is lactose intolerant and might experience some unpleasant gut symptoms if they have dairy. Maybe it’s you – food intolerances are estimated to affect <a href="https://nutritionaustralia.org/fact-sheets/food-intolerances/#How-common-are-food-intolerance-reactions?">up to 25%</a> of Australians. Meanwhile, cow’s milk allergy is one of the most common food allergies in infants and young children, affecting around <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38992429/">one in 100</a> infants. But what’s the difference between food allergies and food intolerances? While they might seem alike, there are some fundamental differences between the two. <h2>What is an allergy?</h2> Australia has one of the <a href="https://theconversation.com/were-the-allergy-capital-of-the-world-but-we-dont-know-why-food-allergies-are-so-common-in-australian-children-228786">highest rates of food allergies</a> in the world. Food allergies can develop at any age but are more common in children, affecting more than <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38992429/">10% of one-year-olds</a> and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38597846/">6% of children</a> at age ten. A food allergy happens when the body’s <a href="https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/immune-system">immune system</a> mistakenly reacts to certain foods as if they were dangerous. The <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24388012/">most common foods</a> that trigger allergies include eggs, peanuts and other nuts, milk, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37375617/">shellfish</a>, fish, soy and wheat. Mild to moderate signs of food allergy include a swollen face, lips or eyes; hives or welts on your skin; or vomiting. A <a href="https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/fast-facts/food-allergy">severe allergic reaction</a> (called anaphylaxis) can cause trouble breathing, persistent dizziness or collapse. <h2>What is an intolerance?</h2> Food <a href="https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/food-other-adverse-reactions/food-intolerance">intolerances</a> (sometimes called non-allergic reactions) are also reactions to food, but they don’t involve your immune system. For example, lactose intolerance is a metabolic condition that happens when the body doesn’t produce enough lactase. This enzyme is needed to break down the lactose (a type of sugar) in dairy products. Food intolerances can also include reactions to natural chemicals in foods (<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4604636/">such as salicylates</a>, found in some fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices) and problems with artificial preservatives or flavour enhancers. Symptoms of <a href="https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/food-other-adverse-reactions/food-intolerance">food intolerances</a> can include an upset stomach, headaches and fatigue, among others. Food intolerances don’t cause life-threatening reactions (anaphylaxis) so are less dangerous than allergies in the short term, although they can cause problems in the longer term <a href="https://www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/consumer/life-events-and-food/allergy-and-intolerance">such as malnutrition</a>. We don’t know a lot about how common food intolerances are, but they appear to be <a href="https://www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/consumer/life-events-and-food/allergy-and-intolerance">more commonly reported</a> than allergies. They can develop at any age. <h2>It can be confusing</h2> Some foods, such as <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33510829/">peanuts and tree nuts</a>, are more often associated with allergy. Other foods or ingredients, such as caffeine, are more often associated with intolerance. Meanwhile, certain foods, such as cow’s milk and wheat or gluten (a protein found in wheat, rye and barley), can cause both allergic and non-allergic reactions in different people. But these reactions, even when they’re caused by the same foods, are quite different. For example, children with a cow’s milk allergy can react to very small amounts of milk, and serious reactions (such as throat swelling or difficulty breathing) can happen within minutes. Conversely, many people with lactose intolerance can tolerate small amounts of lactose <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10708184/">without symptoms</a>. There are other differences too. Cow’s milk allergy is more common in children, though many infants will <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36185550/">grow out</a> of this allergy during childhood. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30388735/">Lactose intolerance</a> is more common <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11155274/">in adults</a>, but can also sometimes be temporary. One type of lactose intolerance, <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10708184/">secondary lactase deficiency</a>, can be caused by damage to the gut after infection or with medication use (such as antibiotics or cancer treatment). This can go away by itself when the underlying condition resolves or the person stops using the relevant medication. Whether an allergy or intolerance is likely to be lifelong depends on the food and the reason that the child or adult is reacting to it. Allergies to some foods, such as milk, egg, wheat and soy, often resolve during childhood, whereas allergies to nuts, fish or shellfish, often (but not always) <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7899184/">persist into adulthood</a>. We don’t know much about how likely children are to grow out of different types of food intolerances. <h2>How do you find out what’s wrong?</h2> If you think you may have a <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8152468/">food allergy or intolerance</a>, see a doctor. <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7794657/">Allergy tests</a> help doctors find out which foods might be causing your allergic reactions (but can’t diagnose food intolerances). There are two common types: skin prick tests and blood tests. In a skin prick test, doctors put tiny amounts of allergens (the things that can cause allergies) on your skin and make small pricks to see if your body reacts. A blood test checks for allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood that show if you might be allergic to a particular food. Food intolerances can be tricky to figure out because the symptoms depend on what foods you eat and how much. To diagnose them, doctors look at your health history, and may do <a href="https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/food-other-adverse-reactions/food-intolerance">some tests</a> (such as a breath test). They may ask you to keep a record of foods you eat and timing of symptoms. A temporary elimination diet, where you stop eating certain foods, can also help to work out which foods you might be intolerant to. But this should only be done with the help of a doctor or dietitian, because eliminating particular foods can lead to <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4604636/">nutritional deficiencies</a>, especially in children. <h2>Is there a cure?</h2> There’s currently no cure for food allergies or intolerances. For allergies in particular, it’s important to strictly avoid allergens. This means reading food labels carefully and being vigilant when eating out. However, researchers are studying a treatment called <a href="https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/allergy-treatments/oral-immunotherapy-for-food-allergy">oral immunotherapy</a>, which may help some people with food allergies become less sensitive to certain foods. Whether you have a food allergy or intolerance, your doctor or dietitian can help you to make sure you’re eating the right foods. Victoria Gibson, a Higher Degree by Research student and Research Officer at the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work at the University of Queensland, and Rani Scott-Farmer, a Senior Research Assistant at the University of Queensland, contributed to this article.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/243685/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jennifer-koplin-13384">Jennifer Koplin</a>, Group Leader, Childhood Allergy & Epidemiology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/desalegn-markos-shifti-1530163">Desalegn Markos Shifti</a>, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Child Health Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805">The University of Queensland</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/whats-the-difference-between-a-food-allergy-and-an-intolerance-243685">original article</a>. </div>

Body

Readers response: Which discontinued fast food item do you want to come back?

We asked our reader what discontinued food item they would love to see make a comeback. Here's what they said. Lillian Mary Brand - KFC had this wicked bean salad back in the 80's!!! Loved it!! Ellen Kuchel - Lattice Biscuits and Polly Waffles. Phill Johnston - All you can eat at Pizza Hut. Bruce Hopkins - Henny Penny Chicken. Sharyn Wood - KFC in the late 60s early 70s had the most amazing gravy I have ever tasted. A pot of the gravy with their bread rolls was a very cheap meal! Herman Zirkzee - Real milkshakes in metal containers with ice cream and malt. Maureen Whale - Georgie Pie. Robyn Joy Davis - Potato skins from Sizzlers. Christine Murphy - Scrambled eggs and big breakfast from Macca's. Julia Haffenden - Hungry Jack's hotdog and Yumbos. Image credits: Shutterstock

Food & Wine

“Lesson learnt”: Expat fined for parking mistake

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

Money & Banking

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

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

Caring

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

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

Money & Banking

Going for a bushwalk? 3 handy foods to have in your backpack (including muesli bars)

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/margaret-murray-1173544">Margaret Murray</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/swinburne-university-of-technology-767">Swinburne University of Technology</a> This time of year, many of us love to get out and spend time in nature. This may include hiking through Australia’s many beautiful <a href="https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/conservation-and-heritage/national-parks/australias-national-parks">national parks</a>. Walking in nature is a wonderful activity, supporting both <a href="https://doi.org/10.1108/S2044-994120170000009004">physical</a> and <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12144-023-05112-z">mental health</a>. But there can be risks and it’s important to be prepared. You may have read the news about hiker, Hadi Nazari, who was <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/jan/08/how-missing-hiker-survived-in-kosciuszko-national-park">recently found</a> alive after spending 13 days lost in Kosciuszko National Park. He reportedly survived for almost two weeks in the Snowy Mountains region of New South Wales by drinking fresh water from creeks, and eating foraged berries and two muesli bars. So next time you’re heading out for a day of hiking, what foods should you pack? Here are my three top foods to carry on a bushwalk that are dense in nutrients and energy, lightweight and available from the local grocery store. <h2>1. Muesli bars</h2> Nazari <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/jan/09/hiker-who-left-museli-bars-in-kosciuszko-hut-hadi-nazari">reportedly ate</a> two muesli bars he found in a mountain hut. Whoever left the muesli bars there made a great choice. Muesli bars come individually wrapped, which helps them last longer and makes them easy to transport. They are also a good source of energy. Muesli bars typically contain about <a href="https://afcd.foodstandards.gov.au/fooddetails.aspx?PFKID=F000333">1,500</a>-<a href="https://afcd.foodstandards.gov.au/fooddetails.aspx?PFKID=F000344">1,900</a> kilojoules per 100 grams. The average energy content for a 35g bar is <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/foods8090370">about 614kJ</a>. This may be <a href="https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/nutrient-reference-values/nutrients/dietary-energy">a fraction</a> of what you’d usually need in a day. However, the energy from muesli bars is released at a <a href="https://glycemicindex.com/gi-search/?food_name=muesli+bar&product_category=&country=&gi=&gi_filter=&serving_size_(g)=&serving_size_(g)_filter=&carbs_per_serve_(g)=&carbs_per_serve_(g)_filter=&gl=&gl_filter=">slow to moderate pace</a>, which will help keep you going for longer. Muesli bars are also <a href="https://afcd.foodstandards.gov.au/fooddetails.aspx?PFKID=F000333">packed with nutrients</a>. They contain all three macronutrients (carbohydrate, protein and fat) that our body needs to function. They’re a good source of carbohydrates, in particular, which are a key energy source. An average Australian muesli bar contains <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/foods8090370">14g of whole grains</a>, which provide carbohydrates and dietary fibre for long-lasting energy. Muesli bars that contain nuts <a href="https://afcd.foodstandards.gov.au/fooddetails.aspx?PFKID=F000344">are typically</a> higher in fat (19.9g per 100g) and protein (9.4g per 100g) than <a href="https://afcd.foodstandards.gov.au/fooddetails.aspx?PFKID=F000333">those without</a>. Fat and protein are helpful for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16988118/">slowing down</a> the release of energy from foods and the protein will help keep you <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodhyd.2016.08.003">feeling full for longer</a>. There are many different types of muesli bars to choose from. I recommend looking for those with whole grains, higher dietary fibre and higher protein content. <h2>2. Nuts</h2> Nuts are nature’s savoury snack and are also a great source of energy. Cashews, pistachios and peanuts contain about <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/6671761_Nuts_Source_of_energy_and_macronutrients#fullTextFileContent">2,300-2,400kJ per 100g</a> while Brazil nuts, pecans and macadamias contain about <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/6671761_Nuts_Source_of_energy_and_macronutrients#fullTextFileContent">2,700-3,000kJ per 100g</a>. So a 30g serving of nuts will provide about 700-900kJ depending on the type of nut. Just like muesli bars, the energy from nuts <a href="https://glycemicindex.com/gi-search/?food_name=nut+&product_category=nuts&country=&gi=&gi_filter=&serving_size_(g)=&serving_size_(g)_filter=&carbs_per_serve_(g)=&carbs_per_serve_(g)_filter=&gl=&gl_filter=">is released slowly</a>. So even a relatively small quantity will keep you powering on. Nuts are also <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/12/5/942">full of nutrients</a>, such as protein, fat and fibre, which will help to <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2018.1514486">stave off hunger</a> and keep you moving for longer. When choosing which nuts to pack, almost any type of nut is going to be great. Peanuts are often the best value for money, or go for something like walnuts that are <a href="https://afcd.foodstandards.gov.au/fooddetails.aspx?PFKID=F006116">high in omega-3 fatty acids</a>, or a nut mix. Whichever nut you choose, go for the unsalted natural or roasted varieties. Salted nuts will make you thirsty. Nut bars are also a great option and have the added benefit of coming in pre-packed serves (although nuts can also be easily packed into re-usable containers). If you’re allergic to nuts, roasted chickpeas are another option. Just try to avoid those with added salt. <h2>3. Dried fruit</h2> If nuts are nature’s savoury snack, fruit is nature’s candy. Fresh fruits (such as grapes, frozen in advance) are wonderfully refreshing and perfect as an everyday snack, although can add a bit of weight to your hiking pack. So if you’re looking to reduce the weight you’re carrying, go for dried fruit. It’s lighter and will withstand various conditions better than fresh fruit, so is less likely to spoil or bruise on the journey. There are lots of varieties of dried fruits, such as sultanas, dried mango, dried apricots and dried apple slices. These are good sources of <a href="https://afcd.foodstandards.gov.au/fooddetails.aspx?PFKID=F008983">sugar for energy</a>, <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10121833">fibre</a> for fullness and healthy digestion, and contain <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.12944/CRNFSJ.10.1.06">lots of vitamins and minerals</a>. So choose one (or a combination) that works for you. <h2>Don’t forget water</h2> Next time you head out hiking for the day, you’re all set with these easily available, lightweight, energy- and nutrient-dense snacks. This is not the time to be overly concerned about limiting your sugar or fat intake. Hiking, particularly in rough terrain, places demands on your body and energy needs. For instance, an adult hiking in rough terrain can burn upwards <a href="https://scholar.ufs.ac.za/server/api/core/bitstreams/eb9b5b76-bdfc-456f-b833-c3e285948e4a/content">of about</a> 2,000kJ per hour. And of course, don’t forget to take plenty of water. Having access to even limited food, and plenty of fresh water, will not only make your hike more pleasurable, it can save your life.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/246968/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/margaret-murray-1173544">Margaret Murray</a>, Senior Lecturer, Nutrition, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/swinburne-university-of-technology-767">Swinburne University of Technology</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/going-for-a-bushwalk-3-handy-foods-to-have-in-your-backpack-including-muesli-bars-246968">original article</a>. </div>

Food & Wine

"About time": Coles bold parking move sparks debate

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

Legal

Mother of baby scalded in park makes sad admission

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

Family & Pets

Hero kindergarten teacher remembered at community park vigil

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

Caring

Fury over black market for disabled parking permits

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

Legal

Nearly 200 chemicals linked to cancer found in everyday food packaging

A new study has uncovered the alarming amount of potential carcinogens in food packaging and plastic tableware. Researchers from the Food Packaging Forum found that nearly 200 chemicals linked to breast cancer are being used in food packaging, with dozens of these carcinogens able to find their way into the body. “There is strong evidence that 76 known or potential breast carcinogens from food contact materials recently purchased all over the world can be found in people,” study co-author Jane Muncke said. “Getting rid of these known or suspected carcinogens in our food supply is a huge opportunity for cancer prevention.” Muncke is managing director and chief scientific officer at the Food Packaging Forum, a non-profit foundation based in Zurich, Switzerland focusing on science communication and research. The study, published last month in the journal Frontiers In Toxicology, compared a list of potential breast carcinogens to a list of chemicals that have been found in food contact materials to find out which of the potential carcinogens could be getting into people's diets. Of the 189 potential mammary carcinogens in food contact materials, with 143 of these found in plastics and 89 found in paper or cardboard. Of the recently detected chemicals found in food packaging, 40 have already been classified as hazardous by regulatory agencies around the world. Another research scientist, Jenny Kay, from Silent Spring Institute an organisation focused on the link between chemicals, women's health, and breast cancer said: “So many of these chemicals have already been classified as human health hazards, yet they are still allowed to be used in food contact materials thus allowing them to migrate into the food we eat." Early-onset breast cancer rates in women younger than 50 have been increasing, and experts said the trend cannot be explained by genetics alone. “Many of the mammary carcinogens are hormone disruptors, too, and many of the chemicals on our list can also damage DNA," Kay said. “Consumers should not have to keep track of all of the scientific literature on what chemicals to avoid. It should be on regulators to recognise the danger and take action.” The Consumer Brands Association, which represents the consumer products industry, said its members adhered to the US Food and Drug Administration’s evidence-based safety standards. “Packaging exists to protect and keep food safe for consumption,” the association’s senior vice president of product policy and federal affairs Sarah Gallo told CNN. “The FDA reviews and approves food contact substances through their science and risk-based system before they go to market. “The agency’s post-market review also provides continuous safety analysis and regulation of the approved substances.” Image: Shutterstock

Body

Missing woman found after 12 days in national park

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

Caring

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

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

Legal

$22,000 fine imposed on Waratah thieves

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

Legal

Man accused of scalding baby in park identified

The man accused of pouring scalding hot coffee over a nine-month-old baby in a Brisbane park has finally been identified, after fleeing the country. On August 27th, baby Luka was in Hanlon Park with his mother when a man approached them and poured hot coffee over the infant, leaving him with lifelong injuries. The man then fled the country before he could be identified or detained by police. Now, the man in question has now been identified as a 33-year-old Chinese national who was in Australia on a student visa. He allegedly fled the scene after gravely injuring the child and drove over the state border to Sydney, where he flew out of the country on August 31st. Queensland Police have since put an arrest warrant out for the man for intending to cause grievous bodily harm, which carried a maximum penalty of a life sentence. Police said he had no family or criminal record in Australia and had previously worked in Queensland, NSW and Victoria, with Chinese media reporting that the man was born in Hangzhou, China. “Queensland Police are working with national and international partner agencies to progress this investigation further,” a statement from Queensland Police said. Speaking to 4BC Radio on Thursday morning, Acting Assistant Police Commissioner Andrew Massingham said police were “very much committed” to arresting the man. “Our international search continues for the person that committed that horrendous crime,” he said. “That child will have those injuries for life.” Queensland Police Detective Inspector Paul Dalton previously revealed the man fled the country just 12 hours after they identified him. “Detectives are devastated that they missed this person by 12 hours. I was deflated, but that deflation quickly turns into determination and resilience to get the job done.” Image credits: 9News / Queensland Police

Caring

"It's just not OK": Parking inspectors under fire for fining innocent drivers

Melbourne drivers are being hit with parking fines despite not doing anything wrong, raising questions about the legitimacy of the infringement notices. Emma Hodgkinson from Essendon told 9News that she was fined for supposedly overstaying in a two-hour parking zone. "I was furious, it's just not OK" she told the publication. Hodkinson had only left her house 40 minutes prior to the time stamp on the fine, and used CCTV footage from her home to prove it. "When I saw the timecode on the footage and I compared it to the time on the ticket I realised I hadn't done anything wrong and it was their mistake," she said. Many other drivers have had similar experiences, with one man from Richmond saying he received a $99 penalty earlier this month, despite having almost an hour left on his Pay Stay app. Another driver was fined by Stonnington Council who said he had parked for more than two hours even though he'd only been there for about 20 minutes. In most of these examples, many other cars in the same area had also been fined. "I was able to prove I was innocent but how are [the other drivers] going to be able to prove that?" Hodgkinson said. Council Watch representative Dean Hurlston said the reason why innocent drivers are being fined could be because council parking inspectors have to hit their quotas. "We know the job of a parking inspector is well paid for good reason," he told 9News. "They definitely have quotas. Councils need money, they're cash strapped. This is a way to gouge and raise revenue." If you've been unfairly fined, it is important to collect as much evidence as possible, including photos and screenshots. Image: Nine News

Legal

How can I stop using food to cope with negative emotions?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/inge-gnatt-1425767">Inge Gnatt</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/swinburne-university-of-technology-767">Swinburne University of Technology</a> Have you ever noticed changes in your eating habits when you are sad, bored or anxious? Many people report eating either more, or less, as a way of helping them to cope when they experience difficult emotions. Although this is a very normal response, it can take the pleasure out of eating, and can become distressing and bring about other feelings of <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eatbeh.2018.02.008">shame and self-criticism</a>. Adding to the complexity of it all, we live in a world where <a href="https://butterfly.org.au/diet-culture-101/">diet culture</a> is unavoidable, and our relationship to eating, food and body image can become complicated and confusing. <h2>Emotional eating is common</h2> “Emotional eating” refers to the eating behaviours (typically eating more) that occur in response to difficult emotions. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041744">Research shows</a> around 20% of people regularly engage in emotional eating, with a higher prevalence <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0285446">among adolescents</a> and women. In a <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0285446#sec012">study</a> of more than 1,500 adolescents, 34% engaged in emotional eating while sad and 40% did so while anxious. Foods consumed are often fast-foods and other energy-dense, nutrient-poor convenience foods. <h2>Stress, strong emotions and depression</h2> For some people, emotional eating was simply a <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-09519-0">habit formed earlier in life</a> that has persisted over time. But other factors might also contribute to the likelihood of emotional eating. The physiological effects of stress and strong emotions, for example, can influence hormones such as <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/S0306-4530(00)00035-4">cortisol, insulin and glucose</a>, which can also increase appetite. Increased impulsivity (<a href="https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.158.11.1783">behaving</a> before thinking things through), vulnerability to depression, a tendency to ruminate and <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/1047840X.2014.940781">difficulties regulating emotions</a> also <a href="https://doi.org/10.1097/FBP.0b013e328357bd4e">increase the likelihood</a> of emotional eating. <h2>So what do you do?</h2> First, know that fluctuations in eating are normal. However, if you find that the way you eat in response to difficult emotions is not working for you, there are a few things you can do. Starting with small things that are achievable but can have a huge impact, such as prioritising <a href="https://theconversation.com/no-sleep-challenge-the-dangers-of-sleep-deprivation-236608">getting enough sleep</a> and <a href="https://insideoutinstitute.org.au/podcasts/episode-3-the-mindful-dietitian-fiona-sutherland">eating regularly</a>. Then, you can start to think about how you handle your emotions and hunger cues. <h2>Expand your emotional awareness</h2> Often we label emotions as good or bad, and this can result in fear, avoidance, and <a href="https://youtu.be/NDQ1Mi5I4rg?si=lv9d8qjUThSsemXG">unhelpful coping strategies</a> such as emotional eating. But it’s also important to <a href="https://www.pspnet.ca/assets/the-gottman-institute-the-feeling-wheel-v2.pdf">differentiate</a> the exact emotion. This might be feeling isolated, powerless or victimised, rather than something as broad as sad. By <a href="https://headspace.org.au/online-and-phone-support/interactive-tools/activities/understanding-emotions/">noticing</a> what the emotion is, we can bring curiosity to what it means, how we feel in our minds and bodies, and how we think and behave in response. <h2>Tap into your feelings of hunger and fullness</h2> Developing an intuitive way of eating is another helpful strategy to promote <a href="https://insideoutinstitute.org.au/blog/what-is-normal-eating">healthy eating behaviours</a>. Intuitive eating means recognising, understanding and responding to internal signals of hunger and fullness. This might mean tuning in to and acknowledging physical hunger cues, responding by eating food that is nourishing and enjoyable, and identifying sensations of fullness. Intuitive eating <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.23509">encourages flexibility</a> and thinking about the pleasure we get from food and eating. This style of eating also allows us to enjoy eating out with friends, and sample local delicacies when travelling. It can also reduce the psychological distress from feeling out of control with your <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2013.12.024">eating</a> habits and the associated negative <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2015.10.012">body image</a>. <h2>When is it time to seek help?</h2> For some people, the thoughts and behaviours relating to food, eating and body image can negatively impact their life. Having the support of friends and family, accessing <a href="https://nedc.com.au/eating-disorder-resources/interactive-digital-resource-for-eating-disorders">online resources</a> and, in some instances, seeing a trained professional, can be very helpful. There are many <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s00787-020-01498-4">therapeutic interventions</a> that work to <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2015.02.010">improve aspects</a> associated with emotional eating. These will depend on your situation, needs, stage of life and other factors, such as whether you are <a href="https://nedc.com.au/eating-disorders/types/neurodivergence">neurodivergent</a>. The best approach is to engage with someone who can bring compassion and understanding to your personal situation, and work with you collaboratively. This work might include: <ul> <li>unpacking some of the patterns that could be underlying these emotions, thoughts and behaviours</li> <li>helping you to discover your emotions</li> <li>supporting you to process other experiences, such as trauma exposure</li> <li>developing a more flexible and intuitive way of eating.</li> </ul> One of the dangers that can occur in response to emotional eating is the temptation to diet, which can lead to disordered eating, and eating disorder behaviours. Indicators of a potential <a href="https://nedc.com.au/eating-disorders/eating-disorders-explained/whats-an-eating-disorder">eating disorder</a> can include: <ul> <li>recent rapid weight loss</li> <li>preoccupation with weight and shape (which is usually in contrast to other people’s perceptions)</li> <li>eating large amounts of food within a short space of time (two hours or less) and feeling a sense of loss of control</li> <li>eating in secret</li> <li>compensating for food eaten (with vomiting, exercise or laxatives).</li> </ul> <a href="https://nedc.com.au/eating-disorders/treatment-and-recovery/treatment-options">Evidence-based approaches</a> can support people experiencing eating disorders. To find a health professional who is informed and specialises in this area, search the <a href="https://butterfly.org.au/get-support/butterflys-referral-database/">Butterfly Foundation’s expert database</a>. <hr /> If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or the <a href="https://butterfly.org.au/get-support/helpline/">Butterfly Foundation</a> on 1800 ED HOPE (1800 33 4673).<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/238218/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/inge-gnatt-1425767">Inge Gnatt</a>, PhD Candidate, Lecturer in Psychology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/swinburne-university-of-technology-767">Swinburne University of Technology</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-can-i-stop-using-food-to-cope-with-negative-emotions-238218">original article</a>. </div>

Body

"Drivers deserve better": Huge win for motorists over parking fines

In a move to stop unsuspecting drivers being hit with unfair parking fines, NSW councils will soon be banned from issuing a fine without a physical ticket. Finance Minister Courtney Houssos will legislate to effectively ban ticketless parking fines after council raked in $155 million in sneaky fines last year. Ms Houssos will introduce legislation later in September, which will require parking rangers to attach an “on-the-spot notification” to a car which gets a fine either in the form of a sticker or a traditional parking ticket. Ticketless parking fines were first introduced under former Premier Gladys Berejiklian in 2020, with councils issuing a whopping 822,310 ticketless parking fines last financial year, up almost 50 per cent from the year before. Ms Houssos said forcing councils to leave a note telling drivers they had been fined, rather than waiting for a fine to come ion the mail weeks later, was a victory for common sense. "No one ever likes to get a parking fine, but the idea you only find out about a fine weeks later doesn’t pass the common sense test,” she said. “Frustration among drivers and community members about the ticketless parking system is high – and that’s fair enough. The ticketless parking fine system was introduced by the previous government without regard for the impact on drivers and families,” she said. NSW Premier Chris Minns also backed the move, saying, “Drivers deserve better than the current system." In certain limited circumstances, rangers will be able to issue a fine without leaving a ticket, but only if they install new-warning signs, which could include areas where there is no phone reception, like national parks, or in timed enclosed car parks. NRMA Spokesman Peter Khoury said the government’s changes will rebuild public confidence, saying, “Ticketless parking fines removed transparency and made it almost impossible for motorists to contest their fine if they felt they had a legitimate case.” Image credits: Shutterstock

Legal

News

Shop

Catalogues

Contests

Entertainment

Travel

Health

Lifestyle

Finance

Property

Games

Information

Keep up to date

Search

Bakery offering free food if you beat the boss at a simple game

Aussie bloke's hilarious revenge on parking inspectors

What’s the difference between a food allergy and an intolerance?

Readers response: Which discontinued fast food item do you want to come back?

“Lesson learnt”: Expat fined for parking mistake

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

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

Going for a bushwalk? 3 handy foods to have in your backpack (including muesli bars)

"About time": Coles bold parking move sparks debate

Mother of baby scalded in park makes sad admission

Hero kindergarten teacher remembered at community park vigil

Fury over black market for disabled parking permits

Nearly 200 chemicals linked to cancer found in everyday food packaging

Missing woman found after 12 days in national park

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

$22,000 fine imposed on Waratah thieves

Man accused of scalding baby in park identified

"It's just not OK": Parking inspectors under fire for fining innocent drivers

How can I stop using food to cope with negative emotions?

"Drivers deserve better": Huge win for motorists over parking fines

Our Partners