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Marine species are being pushed towards the poles. From dugong to octopuses, here are 8 marine species you might spot in new places

<p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gretta-pecl-128477">Gretta Pecl</a>, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-tasmania-888">University of Tasmania</a></em>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/curtis-champion-1373045">Curtis Champion</a>, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/southern-cross-university-1160">Southern Cross University</a></em>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/zoe-doubleday-393169">Zoe Doubleday</a>, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a></em></p> <p>If you take a plunge in the sea this winter, you might notice it’s warmer than you expect. And if you’re fishing off Sydney and catch a tropical coral trout, you might wonder what’s going on.</p> <p>The reason is simple: hotter water. The ocean has absorbed the vast majority of the extra heat trapped by carbon dioxide and other greenhouses gases. It’s no wonder heat in the oceans is building up rapidly – and this year is <a href="https://theconversation.com/ocean-heat-is-off-the-charts-heres-what-that-means-for-humans-and-ecosystems-around-the-world-207902">off the charts</a>.</p> <p>That’s even without the likely arrival of El Niño, where the Pacific Ocean gets warmer than usual and affects weather all over the world. Our coastal waters <a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/oceanography/oceantemp/sst-outlook-map.shtml">are forecast</a> to be especially warm over the coming months, up to 2.5℃ warmer than usual in many places.</p> <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/533327/original/file-20230622-27-cqb9j1.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/533327/original/file-20230622-27-cqb9j1.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=482&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533327/original/file-20230622-27-cqb9j1.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=482&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533327/original/file-20230622-27-cqb9j1.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=482&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533327/original/file-20230622-27-cqb9j1.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=605&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533327/original/file-20230622-27-cqb9j1.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=605&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533327/original/file-20230622-27-cqb9j1.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=605&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Oceans around Australia are forecast to be much warmer than usual. SSTA stands for projected Sea Surface Temperature Anomaly, the difference between forecast ocean temperatures and a historical baseline period encompassing 1990–2012.</span> <span class="attribution">Bureau of Meteorology</span></figcaption></figure> <p>Many marine species live within a narrow temperature range. If the water heats up, they have to move, and if they don’t, they might die. So those that can move, are moving. In Australia, at least 200 marine species have <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/gcb.15634">shifted distributions</a> since 2003, with 87% heading south.</p> <p>This pattern is happening all around the world, both on land and <a href="https://theconversation.com/thousands-of-photos-captured-by-everyday-australians-reveal-the-secrets-of-our-marine-life-as-oceans-warm-189231">in the ocean</a>. This year, the warmer ocean temperatures during winter mean Australia’s seascapes are likely to be more like summer. So, the next time you go fishing or diving or beachcombing, keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready. You may glimpse the enormous disruption happening underwater for yourself.</p> <h2>Here are eight species on the move</h2> <p><strong>1. Moorish idol (<em>Zanclus cornutus</em>)</strong></p> <p>Historic range: northern Australia</p> <p>Now: This <a href="https://www.redmap.org.au/species/1/204/">striking fish</a> can now be seen south of Geraldton in Western Australia and Eden in New South Wales.</p> <p>This is a great fish for divers to spot on hard-bottomed habitats.</p> <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/533373/original/file-20230622-21-6g6xk8.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/533373/original/file-20230622-21-6g6xk8.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/533373/original/file-20230622-21-6g6xk8.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533373/original/file-20230622-21-6g6xk8.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533373/original/file-20230622-21-6g6xk8.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533373/original/file-20230622-21-6g6xk8.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533373/original/file-20230622-21-6g6xk8.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533373/original/file-20230622-21-6g6xk8.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="moorish idol" /></a><figcaption><span class="caption">Moorish Idols are heading south to escape the heat.</span> <span class="attribution">Shutterstock</span></figcaption></figure> <p><strong>2. Branching coral (<em>Pocillopora aliciae</em>)</strong></p> <p>Historic range: northern NSW</p> <p>Now: Look out for this <a href="https://www.redmap.org.au/species/2/255">pale pink beauty</a> south of Port Stephens, not far from Sydney.</p> <p>Seemingly immovable species like coral are fleeing the heat too. They’re already providing habitat for a range of other shifting species like tropical fish and crab species.</p> <p><strong>3. Eastern rock lobster (<em>Sagmariasus verreauxi</em>)</strong></p> <p>Historic range: common in NSW</p> <p>Now: South, as far as <a href="https://www.redmap.org.au/species/2/167">it can get.</a> It’s now found in Tasmania and even in <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-the-marine-biological-association-of-the-united-kingdom/article/westward-range-expansion-of-the-eastern-rock-lobster-sagmariasus-verreauxi-in-australia/8DE945E58E1DDA1A2BB7431065AAC8EC">South Australia</a>.</p> <p>This tasty greenish crustacean <a href="https://www.int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v624/p1-11/">doesn’t like heat</a> and has moved south into the territory of red southern rock lobsters (<em>Jasus edwardsii</em>).</p> <p><strong>4. Gloomy octopus (<em>Octopus tetricus</em>)</strong></p> <p>Previous range: common in NSW</p> <p>Now: As far south as Tasmania.</p> <p>Look out for this slippery, smart invertebrate in <a href="https://www.redmap.org.au/species/2/127">Tasmanian waters</a> this winter. You might even spot the octopus nestled down with some eggs, as this looks to be a <a href="https://www.publish.csiro.au/mf/mf14126">permanent sea change</a>.</p> <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/533376/original/file-20230622-17-lf2y8r.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/533376/original/file-20230622-17-lf2y8r.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/533376/original/file-20230622-17-lf2y8r.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=462&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533376/original/file-20230622-17-lf2y8r.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=462&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533376/original/file-20230622-17-lf2y8r.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=462&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533376/original/file-20230622-17-lf2y8r.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=581&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533376/original/file-20230622-17-lf2y8r.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=581&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533376/original/file-20230622-17-lf2y8r.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=581&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="gloomy octopus" /></a><figcaption><span class="caption">The gloomy octopus is also known as the common Sydney octopus.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Niki Hubbard, Wikimedia</span>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC BY</a></span></figcaption></figure> <p><strong>5. Whitetip reef shark (<em>Triaenodon obesus</em>)</strong></p> <p>Previous range: northern Australia</p> <p>Now: <a href="https://www.redmap.org.au/species/3/185">South of K'gari</a> (formerly known as Fraser Island).</p> <p>Classed as vulnerable in parts of the world, this tropical shark is a slow swimmer and never sleeps. It poses very little danger to humans.</p> <p><strong>6. Dugongs (<em>Dugong dugon</em>)</strong> Previous range: northern Australia</p> <p>Now: As far south as Shark Bay in WA and <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-05-17/tweed-river-dugong-sighting-boaties-warned/102355438">Tweed River</a> in New South Wales.</p> <p>Our waters are home to the largest number of dugong in the world. But as waters warm, they’re heading south. That means more of us may see these elusive sea-cows as they graze on seagrass meadows.</p> <p>Some of the most adventurous have gone way out of their normal range – in 2014, a kitesurfer <a href="https://www.redmap.org.au/articles/2021/07/26/are-dugongs-hitching-a-ride-south/">reported</a> passing a dugong at City Beach, Perth. As a WA wildlife expert says, dugongs may occasionally stray further south of Shark Bay but “given the recent warming trend […] more dugong sightings might be expected in the future”</p> <p><strong>7. Red emperor (<em>Lutjanus sebae</em>) and other warm water game fish</strong></p> <p>Previous range: northern Australia</p> <p>Now: Appearing much further south – especially in WA.</p> <p>Look for <a href="https://www.redmap.org.au/species/1/108/">red</a>, threadfin, and redthroat emperors in southwest WA as the Leeuwin current carries these <a href="https://www.redmap.org.au/articles/2021/07/26/game-fish-follow-warm-route-south/">warm water species</a> south. As WA fisheries expert Gary Jackson has said, this current is a warming hotspot, acting like a warm water highway for certain marine species.</p> <p>These fish are highly <a href="https://goodfish.org.au/species/red-emperor/">sought after</a> by fishers.</p> <p><strong>8. Long-spined sea urchin (<em>Centrostephanus rodgersii</em>)</strong></p> <p>Historic range: NSW and Victoria</p> <p>Now: Tasmania</p> <p>Look out for these <a href="https://www.redmap.org.au/species/2/34/">spiky critters</a> in southern and western Tasmania. The larvae of these urchins have crossed the Bass Strait and found a new home, due to warming waters. Urchins are grazers and can scrape rocks clean, creating urchin barrens where nothing grows. That’s bad news for kelp forests and the species which depend on them. In response, Tasmanian authorities are working to create a <a href="https://fishing.tas.gov.au/community/long-spined-sea-urchin-management/long-spined-sea-urchin-strategy#:%7E:text=%E2%80%8B%E2%80%8B%E2%80%8BTackling%20the%20longspined%20sea%20urchin&amp;text=Unchecked%2C%20the%20urchin's%20presence%20is,at%20around%2020%20million%20individuals.">viable urchin fishery</a> to keep numbers down.</p> <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/533379/original/file-20230622-33216-7lslyr.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/533379/original/file-20230622-33216-7lslyr.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/533379/original/file-20230622-33216-7lslyr.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533379/original/file-20230622-33216-7lslyr.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533379/original/file-20230622-33216-7lslyr.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533379/original/file-20230622-33216-7lslyr.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533379/original/file-20230622-33216-7lslyr.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/533379/original/file-20230622-33216-7lslyr.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="long spined sea urchins" /></a><figcaption><span class="caption">Long-spiked sea urchins are voracious eaters of seaweed.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/johnwturnbull/32131133496/in/photostream/">John Turnbull/Flickr</a>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC BY</a></span></figcaption></figure> <h2>You can help keep watch</h2> <p>For years, fishers, snorkellers, spearfishers and the general public have contributed their unusual marine sightings to <a href="https://www.redmap.org.au/">Redmap</a>, the Australian citizen science project aimed at mapping range extensions of species.</p> <p>If you spot a creature that wouldn’t normally live in the waters near you, you can upload a photo to log your sighting.</p> <p>For example, avid spearfisher Derrick Cruz logged a <a href="https://www.redmap.org.au/sightings/1624/">startling discovery</a> with Redmap in 2015: A coral trout in Sydney’s waters. As he told us: “I’ve seen plenty of coral trout in tropical waters, where they’re at home within the coral. But it was surreal to see one swimming through a kelp forest in the local waters off Sydney, much further south than I’ve ever seen that species before!”</p> <p>How does tracking these movements help scientists? Many hands make light work. These vital observations from citizen scientists <a href="https://data-blog.gbif.org/post/gbif-citizen-science-data">have helped</a> researchers gain deeper understanding of what climate change is doing to the natural world in many places, from bird migrations to flowering plants to marine creatures.</p> <p>So, please keep an eye out this year. The heat is on in our oceans, and that can mean sudden change. <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/207115/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gretta-pecl-128477">Gretta Pecl</a>, Professor, ARC Future Fellow &amp; Director of the Centre for Marine Socioecology, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-tasmania-888">University of Tasmania</a></em>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/curtis-champion-1373045">Curtis Champion</a>, Research Scientist, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/southern-cross-university-1160">Southern Cross University</a></em>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/zoe-doubleday-393169">Zoe Doubleday</a>, Marine Ecologist and ARC Future Fellow, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/marine-species-are-being-pushed-towards-the-poles-from-dugong-to-octopuses-here-are-8-marine-species-you-might-spot-in-new-places-207115">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

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“Absolutely despicable”: Teens attack off-duty chief inspector with pole

<p dir="ltr">A Sydney mayor has condemned an alleged attack against an off-duty police officer, describing the act as “absolutely despicable”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Chief Inspector Bob Fitzgerald, who also serves as a councillor with Blacktown City Council, was on his way to work on Monday morning when he intervened when three teenagers were seen harassing other passengers and railway staff at Rooty Hill station, per <em><a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/truecrimeaustralia/police-courts-nsw/senior-cop-allegedly-assaulted-by-three-teens-at-rooty-hill-train-station/news-story/de5e5f399ce968fc04a2a1b6800f2849" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Telegraph</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Police said Inspector Fitzgerald approached the teens, aged 14, 13, and 12, at about 4.30 am and asked them to stop what they were doing, informing them he was a police officer.</p> <p dir="ltr">When he went to arrest the 14-year-old with the help of a member of the public, the boy resisted before verbally abusing and assaulting Inspector Fitzgerald, police allege.</p> <p dir="ltr">It’s alleged Inspector Fitzgerald was struck multiple times to the head with a bike seat pole.</p> <p dir="ltr">He was taken to hospital for head injuries that required stitches and was later released.</p> <p dir="ltr">The member of the public was also allegedly assaulted but didn’t require medical attention.</p> <p dir="ltr">More police rushed to the station, arresting all three boys and taking them to Mount Druitt police station.</p> <p dir="ltr">Tony Bleasdable, the mayor of Blacktown City, said on Tuesday that he condemned the attack on Inspector Fitzgerald, who he described as “one of our city’s finest”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Cr Fitzgerald is a pillar of our community who has earned widespread respect over many years,” Mr Bleasdale said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Not only is he a dedicated police officer, he is a community volunteer, and a passionate Blacktown City Councillor who has given so much to his community for so long.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As mayor, I condemn this alleged attack on one of our city’s finest and denounce violence in all its forms.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Bleasdale said the council wanted to promote a culture of nonviolence through their work with NSW Police, the PCYC and other organisations, and encouraged residents to call out violence before wishing Inspector Fitzgerald a speedy recovery.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Council is committed to creating a safe community for our residents to live, work and play,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We pursue this through our crime prevention plan and work with our local police in particular.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Council encourages residents to call out violence in any shape or form and report any acts of violence to police.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I wish Bob a speedy recovery.”</p> <p dir="ltr">All three boys were charged with affray, with the 14-year-old facing another charge for resisting an officer in execution of duty, and the 13-year-old facing charges for causing grievous bodily harm to a police officer on duty reckless as to actual bodily harm and common assault. The 12-year-old was also charged with causing grievous bodily harm to a police officer on duty reckless to actual bodily harm.</p> <p dir="ltr">They were refused bail and faced children’s court on Tuesday.</p> <p dir="ltr">As police inquiries continue, anyone who witnessed the attack or who have footage from the incident, are urged to contact Mt Druitt Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-739a7620-7fff-c8d4-9482-55bec567a06b"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: The Daily Telegraph</em></p>

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A pop-up hotel is coming to the North Pole

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ever dreamed of spending a night under the stars at the North Pole? Next year, you can tick it off your bucket list – if you are willing to part with $150,000.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The new North Pole Igloos Hotel is set to open throughout April 2020, with 10 heated luxury domes in the frozen centre of the Arctic Ocean. With transparent ceilings and walls, guests can be “one with the nature and experience the Northern Lights'' according to the hotel operators.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Guests will need to fork out €95,000 (about AU$154,500) for the one-of-a-kind trip, which includes a one-night stay at the North Pole and two-night stay at Svalbard – the last frontier town between Norway and the North Pole – along with transportation, meals and guides.</span></p> <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B16dGwelSXM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B16dGwelSXM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">Explore remote lands without any light pollution with our movable Glass Igloo Camp and enjoy of mighty Northern Lights at your very own heated glass igloo ⭐ , , , , , , #LuxuryAction #leadingspecialist #northernlights #igloo #glassigloo #privatecamp #travelexperiences #remoteplaces #finland #sweden #norway #arctic</a></p> <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 post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/luxuryaction/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> Luxury Action - Private Travel</a> (@luxuryaction) on Sep 2, 2019 at 8:10am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The pop-up project was created by Luxury Action, a travel company known for its high-end experiences in the Arctic and Nordic regions.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The firm’s CEO and founder Janne Honkanen told </span><em><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/laurabegleybloom/2019/09/18/would-you-pay-105000-to-stay-in-an-igloo-in-the-north-pole/#6171fc221cc4"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Forbes</span></a></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that more visitors have been asking about the state of the Arctic nature since he opened the luxury lodge Octola in Finnish Lapland in December 2018.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I thought that this is the time and the opportunity to give a chance for my guests to experience the North Pole with Arctic explorers and scientists in a safe way,” Honkanen said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">He said he hoped the North Pole Igloos Hotel will help raise awareness about the impacts of climate change in the region.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The North Pole is one of the most exclusive travel destinations on Earth,” he told </span><em><a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/09/18/pop-up-hotel-in-the-north-pole-will-charge-guests-100000-to-stay.html"><span style="font-weight: 400;">CNBC</span></a></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“All our guests [are concerned about) Arctic nature and the climate crisis. I believe they are also the best messengers to spread word of how climate change affects our lives in the Arctic and its effects on Arctic animals and nature.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Honkanen told </span><em><a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/north-pole-pop-up-hotel/index.html"><span style="font-weight: 400;">CNN</span></a></em> <span style="font-weight: 400;">that his hotel is a “purely sustainable experience” and will not put the Arctic environment at risk.</span></p>

International Travel

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Coldest day in decades – prepare for two icy blasts

<p>As winter draws closer, parts of Australia are being warned to prepare for the coldest day in decades as a cold front brings icy conditions.</p> <p>Sydney is expected to be hit with two icy blasts as Melbourne prepares for a month’s worth of rain in three days.</p> <p>Today, Sydney can expect a cold Friday with forecasts predicting the coolest day since November 2017. Temperatures are currently sitting at five degrees above the average for May, at 25C.</p> <p>Over the weekend, Melbourne is facing a month’s worth of rain in just three days. Today and tomorrow, Melbourne is also expected to be hit with the coldest two days in Autumn since 1978, with an expected maximum temperature of 13C.</p> <p>The Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe weather warning for large parts of Victoria, including Melbourne.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">A Severe Weather Warning has been issued for parts of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Victoria?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Victoria</a> including <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Melbourne?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Melbourne</a>: <a href="https://t.co/JrHe5r6hFC">https://t.co/JrHe5r6hFC</a> Heavy rainfall and damaging winds are possible later today and Friday. Please check warning text for your particular location. <a href="https://t.co/VVDmXRyjG2">pic.twitter.com/VVDmXRyjG2</a></p> — Bureau of Meteorology, Victoria (@BOM_Vic) <a href="https://twitter.com/BOM_Vic/status/994368638789529600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2018</a></blockquote> <p>Queensland will also feel a winter chill with temperatures expected to drop by 7C this weekend.</p> <p>The cool change comes after many capitals experienced warmer temperatures in April.</p> <p>A stray low-pressure system with a polar air mass moving north from the Southern Ocean is responsible for the cold front.</p> <p>Today, Canberra is expected to have its coldest day in almost two decades. Sky News Weather chef meteorologist Tom Saunders told <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://news.con.au" target="_blank">news.con.au</a></strong></span> that today, Canberra will face its coldest May day in 18 years with a high of 9C.</p> <p>Mr Saunders said the entire southeast of Australia would be impacted by the cold polar air mass.</p> <p>“The cold air is causing temperatures to drop sharply, and is also leading to showers, hail and storms over much of southeast Australia,” he said.</p> <p>“Warnings are already current for southeast South Australia and eastern Tasmania for damaging winds.</p> <p>“Warnings will most likely follow over parts of VIC and NSW later today or tomorrow.”</p> <p>Here’s what you should expect in your city over the weekend.</p> <p><strong>Sydney</strong></p> <p>Today 18C, Saturday 18C with showers, Sunday 20C with showers.</p> <p><strong>Canberra</strong></p> <p>Today 9C with showers, Saturday 12C, Sunday 12C.</p> <p><strong>Melbourne</strong></p> <p>Today 13C with showers, Saturday 15C with showers, Sunday 16C with showers.</p> <p><strong>Adelaide</strong></p> <p>Today 18C with showers, Saturday 19C, Sunday 20C.</p> <p><strong>Hobart</strong></p> <p>Today 15C with heavy rain, Saturday 15C with heavy rain, Sunday 14C.</p> <p><strong>Brisbane</strong></p> <p>Today 26C, Saturday 22C, Sunday 23C.</p> <p><strong>Perth</strong></p> <p>Today 30C, Saturday 29C, Sunday 25C.</p> <p><strong>Darwin</strong></p> <p>Today 34C, Saturday 32C, Sunday 31C. </p>

Travel Tips

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Wild weather: Icy cold front about to hit

<p>Parts of Australia that have spent most of April and the start of May wondering when the weather is finally going to cool down are set for a sudden departure from the warm, balmy conditions, with an icy cold front set to hit today.</p> <p><a href="http://www.news.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>News.com.au reports</strong></em></span></a> Melbourne and Adelaide are expected to cop the worst of it, as an intense cold front approaches the southeast corner of the country.</p> <p>Sky News Weather chief meteorologist Tom Saunders said the chilly conditions would come as a rude shock to Aussies enjoying the second hottest April on record.</p> <p>“We have near record high May temperatures in NSW and the ACT and much-needed rain over southern Australia with the risk of damaging winds,” he said.</p> <p>“Much of the southeast recorded their hottest April on record, including Canberra and Sydney,” Mr Saunders said.</p> <p>“It was also the driest April in 21 years with a countrywide average of only 10.2mm.”</p> <p>South Australia is expected to receive some much-needed rain, and heavy wind gusts have been forecasts for parts of Victoria, with winds of up to 110km/h expected to hit the alpine regions.</p> <p><iframe width="650" height="450" src="https://embed.windy.com/embed2.html?lat=-34.886&amp;lon=142.734&amp;zoom=4&amp;level=surface&amp;overlay=rain&amp;menu=&amp;message=&amp;marker=&amp;calendar=&amp;pressure=&amp;type=map&amp;location=coordinates&amp;detail=&amp;detailLat=-34.886&amp;detailLon=142.734&amp;metricWind=default&amp;metricTemp=default" frameborder="0"></iframe></p> <p>“Friday will be colder over the southeast and again windy with showers and even some Alpine snow,” Mr Saunders said.</p> <p>“The weather will ease over the southeast during the weekend.”</p> <p>Sydney will be comfortable with high of 26°C, while Melbourne and Adelaide are expected to see a max of 18°C, with similar conditions forecast for Canberra and Hobart.</p> <p>Elsewhere it’s still going to be pretty warm with a top of 33 °C in Darwin and 28°C in Brisbane. Perth is expected to be mostly sunny, with 22°C as the max.</p> <p>What are your thoughts?</p>

Domestic Travel

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Icy superstorm set to lash eastern US

<p>If you happen to be in the US at the moment, it’s time to prepare for some wild weather. Almost the entire eastern half of the country is bracing for what could be the year’s worst winter storm. A New York home on the banks of Lake Ontario seems to have been the first – and worst – hit by the icy superstorm, with freezing water whipped against the house, completely caking it in ice.</p> <p>“Amazed at how many people think I sprayed foam on the place,” photographer John Kucko, who shot the unbelievable image, wrote on <a href="https://twitter.com/john_kucko/status/841233514133622784" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Twitter</span></strong></a>.</p> <p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FJohnKuckoDigital%2Fvideos%2F1853260368277844%2F&amp;show_text=0&amp;width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p> <p>Luckily, homes surrounding the “ice house” were spared from the same frozen fate thanks to retaining walls protecting them from the lake.</p> <p>The country experienced a warmer than usual winter, but even though spring is just around the corner, it seems winter has one more surprise for east coasters. Dubbed “Winter Storm Stella,” the powerful nor’easter formed off the coast after two low pressure systems collided. Already, some regions have experiences snowfall of up to 46cm.</p> <p>Today and tomorrow, affected parts of the country are warned to expect record-low temperatures, wind gusts of almost 100km/h, plus “blizzard conditions in places, difficult travel and power outages.”</p> <p>“Significant amounts of snow are forecast that will make travel dangerous,” the National Weather Service warns. “Only travel in an emergency. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.”</p> <p><em>Image: John Kucko/Twitter.</em></p>

News

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Pole dancing grandpa becomes internet sensation

<p>If a person’s quality was measured by the variety of hobbies they’re willing to try, 55-year-old grandfather Allan Reinikka would be something of a renaissance man.</p> <p>Allan’s tried his hand at photography, rally car racing, corset making, roller derby and has now turned his attention to a new aerobatic pastime – pole dancing!</p> <p>And as you can see from the photos in the gallery above, he’s getting the hang of it!</p> <p>Allan took up the sport after being coaxed into it by a work college Tamara MacKenzie, who just so happens to be the current Queensland Amateur Pole Champion.</p> <p>"We were working on a photo shoot and I admired the strength involved with the sport," Allan told the Morning Bulletin. "She dragged me along to one of the classes at Beyond Gravity Pole Fitness Academy and I've been addicted ever since."</p> <p>Allan attends classes twice a week, working on moves that require incredible feats of strength. He’s proof age is no barrier when it comes to conquering new obstacles.</p> <p>"I like the moves that focus on strength rather than flexibility, as being bendy doesn't come naturally to me," Allan said. "It can take a little longer for me to recover from moves compared to my younger and more able-bodied pole friends, but it's all about the challenge of taking the body to new limits.”</p> <p>"Plus I can't think of any other sport you get to practice in your underwear!"</p> <p>To see some of the incredible poses and moves Allan can perform scroll through the gallery above. His skill and strength is actually quite impressive.  </p> <p>What’s your favourite hobby? Do you think you’d ever be willing to try your hand at pole dancing? Please let us know in the comments below!</p> <p><em>Image credit: Facebook / Tamara MacKenzie</em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2016/04/cat-meets-dogs-at-dog-show/" target="_blank">Watch this friendly cat meet 50 dogs at a dog show</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2016/04/prince-george-president-barack-obama-photos/" target="_blank">The story behind Prince George’s presidential photos</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2016/04/lifeguard-helps-wheelchair-bound-veteran-surf/" target="_blank">Lifeguard helps make wheelchair-bound army vet's dream come true</a></strong></em></span></p>

News

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Pineapple and almond protein icy-pole

<p>Are you craving some ice-cream but on a health kick? Courtesy of chef and nutritionist Zoe Bingley-Pullin from Good Chef Bad Chef, here’s a healthy icy-pole you won’t feel guilty about gobbling down.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Ingredients: </strong></span></p> <ul> <li>1 cup Vitasoy Almond Milk</li> <li>1 tbsp crushed almonds</li> <li>1 tbsp crushed seed mix (pepitas, sunflower and chia seeds)</li> <li>1-2 tbsp honey (optional)</li> <li>1 tbsp shredded coconut</li> <li>1 cup pineapple, diced (or fruit of choice)</li> <li>1 banana, diced</li> </ul> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Method:</span></strong></p> <p>1. Combine all ingredients into a food processor/blender and blend until smooth</p> <p>2. Pour mixture into ice-block moulds and freeze for 4-6 hours until firm</p> <p>Courtesy of Vitasoy ambassador, Zoe Bingley-Pullin</p> <p><strong><em>Have you ordered your copy of the Over60 cookbook, The Way Mum Made It, yet? Featuring 175 delicious tried-and-true recipes from you, the Over60 community, and your favourites that have appeared on the Over60 website, head to the <a href="https://shop.abc.net.au/products/way-mum-made-it-pbk" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">abcshop.com.au</span></a> to order your copy now. </em></strong></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/food-wine/2016/01/lemon-blueberry-muffins/">Lemon blueberry muffins</a></span></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/food-wine/2016/01/apple-and-cinnamon-mug-cake/">5-minute apple and cinnamon mug cake</a></span></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/food-wine/2015/12/apple-and-blueberry-yogurt-bars/">Apple and blueberry yogurt bars</a></span></em></strong></p>

Food & Wine

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Summer watermelon icy poles

<p>These healthy watermelon icy poles are as cute and colourful as they are tasty. Here’s how to make this perfect mid-summer treat.</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Serves:</span></strong> 10</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Ingredients: </span></strong></p> <ul> <li>2 cups blended watermelon (about 1/4 of a large watermelon)</li> <li>1 Fresh Young Thai coconut</li> <li>Juice of 1 lime</li> <li>3 Kiwis</li> </ul> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Method: </span></strong></p> <ol> <li>Using a blender, mix up the fresh watermelon until it forms a liquid. Pour it into icy pole moulds to ¾ full. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for 3-4 hours until firm. </li> <li>Blend the coconut water and white coconut flesh together until smooth. Add the white liquid to the mould so that it creates a thin white layer on top of the watermelon layer. Freeze for 2-4 hours. </li> <li>Peel and blend kiwi fruits and lime juice. Fill the last remaining space in the moulds with the liquid and freeze again until all layers are hard. Serve on a hot summer’s day.</li> </ol> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="/lifestyle/food-wine/2015/08/watermelon-cucumber-sangria/">Watermelon and cucumber sangria</a></strong></span></em></p> <p><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="/lifestyle/food-wine/2015/08/creative-ice-cube-ideas/">Creative ice cube ideas for your next party</a></strong></span></em></p> <p><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="/lifestyle/food-wine/2014/11/watermelon-jam/">Recipe: Watermelon jam</a></strong></span></em></p>

Food & Wine

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An interesting look at how the electricity system works

<p>Our homes are a long way from power-generating plants but by understanding the electricity system, you can better understand your electricity bill.</p> <p><strong>How does the power get to your house?</strong></p> <p>There are three businesses involved in getting the power to your house.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Generators </span></p> <p>Generators produce electricity from sources like coal and natural gas (and others such as sun or wind). They are responsible for electricity power stations and sell electricity at wholesale prices to retailers.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Distributors </span></p> <p>Distributors or networks own the poles and wires that deliver electricity to your home. They are responsible for fixing faults like blackouts and damaged electricity lines.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Retailers </span></p> <p>Retailers buy electricity from generators and then sell it to you.</p> <p><strong>Who pays for the costs of generators, poles and wire?</strong></p> <p>Your electricity bill is allocated towards the costs of generators, distributor’s network and retailers.</p> <p>A breakdown of a typical bill would be around 24 per cent for generators, 55 per cent for the distributors and 21 per cent retail costs.</p> <p><strong>Who sets the price for electricity?</strong></p> <p>The price you pay for your energy service includes the tariff and any other fees and charges that may apply under your contract.</p> <p>According to the government’s Australian Energy Regulator, some retailers have offers or tariffs that are “regulated,” which means the price is set by government. In Queensland, New South Wales, the ACT and Tasmania, you can ask for a contract with a regulated electricity price. Regulated prices for gas are only available in New South Wales. In Victoria and South Australia, there are no regulated offers or tariffs (for electricity or gas), which means that energy retailers set all of their own prices.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/energy/2015/05/cheap-ways-to-keep-house-warm/">Top 5 energy efficient ways to keep your house warm this winter</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/energy/2015/05/save-money-on-energy-bills/">4 ways to save money on your energy bills</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/energy/2015/09/energy-saving-gadgets/">Smart gadgets that will help you save on energy</a></strong></em></span></p>

Home & Garden

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Ice storm causes frozen cars to leave behind icy bumper shells

<p>A recent ice storm in North Carolina in the US has left some rather interesting things in its wake – like phantom frozen bumpers mysteriously parked&nbsp;around town.&nbsp;</p><p>One woman, Kimberly Freeman,&nbsp;was shocked to see a frozen Jeep&nbsp;bumper standing up on its own icicle feet in the parking lot where she works. She captured a photo of the nearly unbelievable sight.</p><p>According to experts, the most likely&nbsp;scenario to explain this phenomenon is that the driver warmed up the engine before driving away. In the process, the ice loosened from the warming car but remained in tact due to the frozen icicles holding it up from the ground.</p><p>Since this photo surfaced a number of others have been taken and gone viral.</p><p><img width="498" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/3849/icy-bumper-2_498x280.jpg" alt="Icy Bumper 2 (1)"></p><p><strong>Related links:</strong></p><p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2015/02/cyclone-brought-town-together/" target="_blank">How Cyclone Lam brought this small town together</a></strong></em></span></p><p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2015/02/frozen-niagara-falls/" target="_blank">This photo of a frozen Niagara Falls is breathtaking</a></strong></em></span><em><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</strong></em></p><p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2015/02/meteor-exploded-over-new-zealand/" target="_blank">A meteor exploded over New Zealand</a></strong></em></span></p>

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