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Why you should visit Lake Toba in Indonesia

Anne Sinclair, 68, was born in England but spent most of her youth in Darwin, Northern Territory. Now in a position to travel and explore the world, Anne looks forward to sharing her personal experience and encourages others to step out and have fun. If you are travelling in Indonesia, why not consider visiting Sumatra? Are you perhaps seeking that very special spot for a holiday and soak up peacefulness, then this little gem might be right up your alley? This little jewel of Indonesia, is tucked away within lush green mountainous terrain, and almost perfect weather, lakefront villas and a community of most obliging people. And it’s all here at Lake Toba, the waters surrounding Samosir Island - an island, within the island of Sumatra. The catastrophe of a giant volcano eruption some 70,000 years ago (as quoted in Wikipedia notes) created this most incredible crater and dare we say, gave mankind this new piece of paradise; a peaceful contrast to its beginnings I would think? Then, in the immense scheme of things we have total enjoyment of nature’s inexplicable creation. According to the Toba Catastrophe Theory, proposed by S.H. Ambrose of the University of Illinois and Urbana-Champaign in 1998 – the effects of the Toba eruption may have decreased the size of human population to only a few tens of thousands of individuals. This hypothesis was not widely accepted though as similar effects on other animals had not been observed. But that was then, and this is now… To get you to this little piece of paradise, is relatively easy. If you do some Google searches you are bound to find an airline heading this way. Probably a morning arrival at Medan (Kuala Namu airport) would best serve your plans, as the drive out to Lake Toba from the airport, is around four hours. Very well worth it! The taxi drivers are very accommodating and will most assuredly stop at a café, or do a wash room stop for you to freshen up along the way. The taxi will likely pass through some very interesting little villages, showing you the mixture of cultures with Mosques and both Protestant and Catholic Churches almost built side by side. Little villages are filled with busy locals adding to the exciting culture of Sumatra. Very attractive structures could coax the camera snapping time, and wonderful cultural villages which could well deserve some memorable photos. Once you arrive at Parapat, the little township where you catch the ferry across Lake Toba, everything is quite organised; with the colourful ferries departing from Parapat mainland almost at every half hour. Ferry crews are very obliging and will assist you and any cases or bags on to the ferry, and safely placed for the half hour journey across this ocean-blue Lake Toba. The Journey could be a little longer, just depending on which attractive Villa you have chosen to be home for your stay. There is an abundance of Villas and Resorts, with prices ranging to suit any budget. Some of the bigger Resorts (like The Carolina) do have swimming pools, but the water of Lake Toba is quite safe and most inviting for a refreshing swim. You will be helped again by the crew as you come ashore on Samosir Island. An Island donned with amazing waterfront villas. My choice for this visit has been Tuk Tuk Timbul. Overlooking the calm waters on Lake Toba, one could well think one was perhaps relaxing and gazing across the cold yet delicately blue water of Lock Ness. But no, the waters of Lake Toba are much warmer than Lock Ness. This body of water is a natural lake occupying the caldera of a super volcano. This Lake is around one hundred kilometres long. The Island of Samosir is unbelievable attractive. With nature providing cool weather all year round with such dynamic views of the mountainous ranges, and waterfront villas in abundance, fresh food and fabulous prices. It’s all here. This grand ocean-blue lake, found high amongst Sumatra’s volcanic peaks, is where the amiable Christian Batak people reside. Their folk dance and villages are excitingly captivating as their Batak buildings still stand, some in reasonably good condition. It’s nice to see this cultural growth with their Batak homes standing proudly alongside more of what we might refer to as, modern structures. Again, whilst you are on Samosir and also worth a visit is the small village of Tuk Tuk which has a great concentration of tourist facilities; and Tomoki village too, being the main village on the east coast of the Island. The people who reside here are very approachable and responsive, and will help you at any time. Many speak English so, it’s easy to communicate and find your way. If you are seeking somewhere extra special with peaceful surrounds, then Lake Toba at Samosir ticks all the boxes for you. Please keep this little story your personal secret, as Lake Toba lazily boasts uniqueness, with its distinction of utter calm and natural beauty - derived from natures force. Images: Getty

International Travel

The Grace Albert Park Lake: the right place for now and the future

Life is a journey and each phase along the way has its own joys and challenges. When the time comes to downsize and you’re seeking a healthy retirement lifestyle where you can live your best Melbourne life, look no further than the award-winning <a href="https://www.thegracealbertparklake.com.au/?utm_source=OverSixty" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Grace Albert Park Lake</a>. Member-owned health and wellbeing company, Australian Unity, is behind this prestigious high-rise retirement village, located in the upmarket leafy suburb of South Melbourne. The development recently won an award for the Best Retirement Development at the Property Council Retirement Living Awards. According to The Grace Sales Manager, Martine Vance, “what makes this development unique is that people can live independently in this luxury community, with peace of mind regarding their possible future needs. The Alba, opening in 2023, will offer assisted living and residential aged care, so residents will be able to access a range of additional support services should they need them. An iconic inner-city location “When it comes to luxury retirement living, there’s nothing else like it in the South Melbourne area”, says Martine. Perfectly placed across from Melbourne’s stunning Albert Park Lake, The Grace offers luxury retirement living at its best. Whether you’re into jogging, cycling or golf, you have some of the city’s best outdoor facilities at your doorstep. You’re also moments away from the famous South Melbourne markets, the Botanic Gardens and the trendy cafes and restaurants of South Yarra. For lovers of culture and the fine arts, the Arts Centre and the National Gallery of Victoria are also only minutes away from home. The one, two- and three-bedroom apartments on offer at The Grace have been meticulously designed to offer residents expansive, light filled open plan living areas for stylish and relaxed entertaining. Designed by Fender Katsalidis and interiors by Mim Design, the neutral colour palette allows you to add your own personal touch to create a sense of familiarity and comfort. “The master bedroom has a fully-fitted wardrobe and marble ensuite. Similarly, there’s a stunning Italian marble island bench in the kitchen, which has Miele appliances and an integrated Fisher and Paykel fridge, freezer and dishwasher, “says Martine. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/11/TheGrace02.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Be part of a like-minded community When you choose to venture beyond your own personal sanctuary and mingle with your neighbours, The Grace has multiple shared spaces to enjoy. On par with a luxury hotel, every second floor of The Grace has a themed room residents can use at their leisure, including private dining rooms, a plush theatrette and a piano lounge. To keep you fit and active in the comfort of your own home, The Grace’s exclusive wellbeing facilities include a pool, gym and studios offering personal yoga and Pilates classes. There’s even a games room for when the grandchildren visit, an art studio, an edible garden and a beautiful rooftop terrace, which has views of the lake, bay and city. Lock up and leave Unlike other residential apartments with a mixture of occupants, where you don’t know who’s coming and going, The Grace gives you the comfort and security of living in a community of retirees at a similar life stage, as well as being in a community with access control systems in place and a concierge on site seven days per week. An eye to the future At The Grace, you can also choose your level of independence and will be supported to live in your own home for as long as you choose. If you feel you need a little extra support with daily chores in the future, once The Alba is complete and residents are settled, you have the option of having access to services such as cooking, cleaning and laundry being brought in to assist you. This means you can enjoy the lifestyle for as long as you choose. Images: Supplied This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with <a href="https://www.thegracealbertparklake.com.au/?utm_source=OverSixty" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Grace Albert Park Lake</a>.

Real Estate

Kath and Kim “cancelled” before it began

Kath & Kim creators have revealed that the ABC almost didn’t let the show go ahead just days before shooting started. With the show’s 20th anniversary coming up in the form of Kath & Kim: Our Effluent Life, a legion of fans all around the world are gearing up for the foxy ladies of Fountain Lake. However, the four seasons, a 2005 telemovie Da Kath & Kim Code and the 2012 movie, Kath & Kimderella almost didn’t come to be because of the ABC. Gina Riley, who plays Kim in the show revealed that the ABC almost pulled the plug on the show before shooting began. “As I remember it, it was the Friday afternoon and we were going to pre-production the following Monday and we got a call saying, ‘It’s no longer the direction we want to go in,’” Riley recalled to <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/culture/tv-and-radio/noice-different-unusual-how-kath-and-kim-was-made-and-almost-wasn-t-20221107-p5bwbi.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Age</a>. “We were completely rocked, but we thought we’ve got a pretty watertight deal memo. And they were like, ‘We’re doing you a favour; you don’t want to do this to yourselves.’ “And then we went, ‘OK, we’ll go somewhere else.’ And they said, ‘Oh, no, you can’t take it anywhere else.’ So that was when we went, ‘You know what? This is very unjust. And we’re going to fight it.’” Riley and her co-star/writer Jane Turner weren’t taking no for an answer and “fought back the decision”. “We were very determined to make the show we had pitched, and in reality we didn’t stop writing and working on it. It was too awful so we just pretended it wasn’t happening.” Soon after the bad news, Australian television producer Sandra Levy was appointed as head of TV at the ABC and she was “sorting out” the series. Luckily for them, they were able to sort it out because ABC was committed to the project but wanted to tune out some fine details. Kath & Kim: Our Effluent Life will show over two nights on Channel 7 and 7Plus for the 20th anniversary. Creators Gina Riley and Jane Turner along with stars Magda Szubanski, Glenn Robbins and Peter Rowsthorn will make an appearance along with a star studded cast. There will be special appearances from Kylie Minogue, Michael Bublé, Adam Gilchrist, Ricky Ponting, Eric Bana, Mick Molloy, Tony Martin, Richard E Grant, Barry Humphries, and even a former prime minister. The reboot will include never-before-seen moments as well as hilarious bloopers from the archives of more than 1000 tapes and 240 shoot days. There will also be a tribute to the late cricketer and Sharon’s favourite cricketer, Shane Warne, who passed away earlier in the year. Image: ABC

The magnificent Lake Eyre Basin is threatened by 831 oil and gas wells

The heart-shaped Lake Eyre Basin covers about one-sixth of Australia. It contains one of the few remaining pristine river systems in the world. But new research shows oil and gas activity is extending its tentacles into these fragile environments. Its wells, pads, roads and dams threaten to change water flows and pollute this magnificent ecosystem. The <a href="http://www.publish.csiro.au/MF/MF22063" target="_blank" rel="noopener">study</a>, by myself and colleague Amy Walburn, investigated current and future oil and gas production and exploration on the floodplains of the Lake Eyre Basin. We found 831 oil and gas wells across the basin – and this number is set to grow. What’s more, state and Commonwealth legislation has largely failed to control this development. State and national governments are promoting massive gas development to kickstart Australia’s economy. But as we show, this risks significant damage to the Lake Eyre Basin and its rivers. <h2>A precious natural wonder</h2> The Lake Eyre Basin is probably the last major free-flowing river system on Earth – meaning no major dams or irrigation diversions stem the rivers’ flow. This country has been looked after for tens of thousands of year by First Nations people, including the Arrernte, Dieri, Mithaka and Wangkangurru. This care continues today. The biggest rivers feeding the basin – the Diamantina, Georgina and Cooper – originate in western Queensland and flow to South Australia where they pour into Kathi Thanda-Lake Eyre. As they wind south, the rivers dissect deserts and inundate floodplains, lakes and wetlands – including 33 wetlands of national importance. This natural phenomenon has happened for millennia. It supports incredible natural booms of plants, fish and birds, as well as tourism and livestock grazing. But our new research shows oil and gas development threatens this precious natural wonder. <h2>Massive industrial creep</h2> Our <a href="http://www.publish.csiro.au/MF/MF22063" target="_blank" rel="noopener">analysis</a> used satellite imagery to map the locations of oil and gas development in the Lake Eyre Basin since the first oil wells were established in late 1950s. We found 831 oil and gas production and exploration wells exist on the floodplains of the Lake Eyre Basin – almost 99% of them on the Cooper Creek floodplains. The wells go under the river and its floodplains into the geological Cooper Basin, considered to have the most important onshore petroleum and natural gas deposits in Australia. Our research also shows how quickly oil and gas mining in the Lake Eyre Basin is set to grow. We identified licensing approvals or applications covering 4.5 million hectares of floodplains in the Lake Eyre Basin, across South Australia and Queensland. The <a href="https://www.bioregionalassessments.gov.au/assessments/geological-and-bioregional-assessment-program/cooper-basin/cooper-gba-region-stage-two-report" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CSIRO</a> recently examined likely scenarios of 1,000 to 1,500 additional unconventional gas wells in the Cooper Basin in the next 50 years. It predicted these wells would built be on “pads” – areas occupied by mining equipment or facilities – about 4 kilometres apart. They would typically access gas using horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. Fracking is the process of extracting so-called “unconventional gas”. It involves using water and chemicals to fracture deep rocks to extract the gas. This polluted water, known to be <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/srep46582" target="_blank" rel="noopener">toxic to fish</a>, is brought back to the surface and stored in dams. Two locations we focused on were in South Australia at the protected, <a href="https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/topics/water/wetlands/coongie-lakes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ramsar-listed Coongie Lakes site</a>, which was recognised as internationally significant in 1987. The other site was in Queensland’s channel country, also on the Cooper floodplain. In total across the Coongie Lakes sites, we found a three-fold increase in wells: from 95 in 1987 to 296 last year. We also identified 869 kilometres of roads and 316 hectares of storage pits, such as those that hold water. Some of these dams could potentially hold polluted fracking water and become submerged by flooding, particularly at Coongie Lakes. <h2>A disaster waiting to happen?</h2> Examples from around the world already show oil and gas exploration and development can reduce water quality by interrupting sediments and leading to elevated <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/12/4/941" target="_blank" rel="noopener">chemical</a> <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1213871110" target="_blank" rel="noopener">concentrations</a>. Production waste can also degrade floodplain <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1742-6596/1515/3/032037" target="_blank" rel="noopener">vegetation</a>. The <a href="https://www.bioregionalassessments.gov.au/assessments/geological-and-bioregional-assessment-program/cooper-basin/cooper-gba-region-stage-two-report" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CSIRO says</a> risks associated with oil and gas development in the Cooper Basin include: <ul> <li>dust and emissions from machinery that may cause habitat loss, including changes to air quality, noise and light pollution</li> <li>disposal and storage of site materials that may contaminate soil, surface water and/or groundwater through accidental spills, leaks and leaching</li> <li>unplanned fracking and drilling into underground faults, unintended geological layers or abandoned wells</li> <li>gas and fluids contaminating soil, surface water, groundwater and air</li> <li>changes to groundwater pressures could potentially reactivate underground faults and induce earthquakes.</li> </ul> Fracking for unconventional gas also requires drawing <a href="https://www.bioregionalassessments.gov.au/assessments/geological-and-bioregional-assessment-program/cooper-basin/cooper-gba-region-stage-two-report" target="_blank" rel="noopener">large amounts of water</a> from rivers and groundwater. <h2>The laws have failed</h2> Our findings raise significant questions for Australian governments and the community. Are we prepared to accept industrialisation of the Lake Eyre Basin, and the associated risk of pollution and other environmental damage? Have the companies involved earned a social licence for these activities? Where do the profits end up, and who will bear the social, environmental and financial costs of such intense development? Clearly, state and federal environmental protections have failed to stop unfettered development of the basin. These policies include the Lake Eyre Basin <a href="https://www.dcceew.gov.au/water/policy/national/lake-eyre-basin/agreement" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Agreement</a>, signed by the states, the Commonwealth and the Northern Territory, which has been in place since 2000. Australia’s federal environment law – the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act – is supposed to protect nationally important areas such as Ramsar wetlands. Yet our research identified that just eight developments in the basin were referred to the Commonwealth government for approval and with only one deemed significant enough for assessment. This legislation does not deal adequately with the cumulative impacts of development. And finally, gas extraction and production is <a href="https://theconversation.com/1-in-5-fossil-fuel-projects-overshoot-their-original-estimations-for-emissions-why-are-there-such-significant-errors-177714" target="_blank" rel="noopener">associated with</a> substantial “fugitive” emissions - greenhouse gases which escape into the atmosphere. This undermines Australia’s emissions reduction efforts under the Paris Agreement. The governments of South Australia and Queensland should restrict mining development in the Lake Eyre Basin. And stronger federal oversight of this nationally significant natural treasure is urgently needed. In response to this article, Chief executive of the Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association, Samantha McCulloch, said in a statement: <blockquote> The oil and gas industry takes its responsibilities to the environment and to local communities seriously and it is one of the most heavily regulated sectors in Australia. The industry has been operating in Queensland for more than a decade and the gas produced in Queensland plays an important role in Australia’s energy security. </blockquote> This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-magnificent-lake-eyre-basin-is-threatened-by-831-oil-and-gas-wells-and-more-are-planned-is-that-what-australians-really-want-191078" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. Image: Shutterstock

Travel Trouble

What happens when a petting zoo visits an aged care home

In June 2022, residents, families and team members at Arcare North Lakes had an a-moo-sing time with the beloved animals from mobile petting zoo, Amazing Animals. Residents had the opportunity to feed and pat the farm animals which included ducks, chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, sheep and baby animals such as piglets, a one-month-old calf and a three-week-old goat. While holding onto the baby goat, resident Joyce Crawford said, “I love you! I would take you home in a flash; I just need a bag big enough to steal him,” Joyce’s husband John, who is also a resident at Arcare North Lakes and is visually impaired, spent quality time with the animals as the Lifestyle team made sure to bring them close to him. He fed and cuddled them and enjoyed the sensory experience. “I had a great time with the animals and I’m glad we could spend time with them today,” John said. The residents enjoyed their visit so much that they have already booked them in for another visit. “Animal therapy is a wonderful way to support aged care residents as it promotes confidence, supports sensory and tactile stimulation and enables them to relive memories as many of the residents grew up on farms. One question was asked time and time again "can we keep them!" it was such a special moment for them to enjoy.” - Lifestyle Coordinator Maree said. “There were smiles, laughs and enthusiasm as resident’s shared stories and fond memories of their own experiences working on their farms,” lifestyle Coordinator Maree said. Check out the adorable gallery below.

Retirement Life

"How can they do this?" Iconic house of Kath and Kim demolished

The iconic house used in the popular Australian TV series that gave us foxy ladies Kath and Kim has been demolished. Demolition works began on Monday on the property known as "Chateau Kath" in the fictional “effluent” suburb of Fountain Lakes. Pete Rowsthorn, who played Brett in the series, said the house contained a lot of memories but it's time to move on. “It was a weird house, if I bought it I'd probably pull it down too," he told ABC Melbourne radio. "It had really quite small rooms … the squeaky back door, that was all natural sound. There was no foley man putting that on top. "I played cricket in the backyard with Shane Warne, I danced in the garage with Kylie Minogue, I sat and had dinner with Barry Humphries dressed up as a monk.” The home, actually located in the Melbourne suburb of Patterson Lakes, was last sold for $1.485 million in 2016. Owner Joanne Kelly said it was time for a change as works begin to build a two-storey property for her family. She held an open house in 2019 to raise money for cancer, which gave fans from all over the country to see the estate in person. ABC rented the home from 2002 to 2007 for the filming of the series which has a large following. It follows the story of a dysfunctional mother and daughter created and played by Jane Turner and Gina Riley. Fans in the Facebook group “Da Kath & Kim appreciation society”, which has more than 114,500 followers have been left devastated at the home’s demolition. Many questioned why the house would be purchased and renovated given its significance to fans all over. “Why would you buy a perfectly good house.. and one that has (dare I say) cultural significance to a great number of people, and then destroy it? It makes no sense,” someone asked. “I only had two reasons for wanting to visit Australia - to see the Kath & Kim house and visit Ramsay Street. Nothing goes right. Guess I’ll stay at home in the UK and drown my sorrows,” another said. “Amazing how the demolition of the fake Kath and Kim house pulls on your heart strings. RIP to memories,” someone else commented. “How is the house not ERITAGE listed!? Well, if it's not, it bloody well should be. The house is turn of the century, an Edwardian dream... BLOODY HOWARD,” another commented with references to the show. “Bunch of crims, tearing this effluent home down. Should be heritage listed,” someone else commented. “Why on earth are they doing this?? Is the new owner tired of fans stopping by?? This is honestly so awful of them,” someone asked. “How can they do this!? This house is an important part of Australian culture!” another stated. Images: Facebook

Real Estate

Retreat with private lake and outdoor bar for sale

A massive mansion tucked away in the mountains with its own lake and outdoor bar has hit the market for the first time in 15 years. Cedar Lodge Retreat sits on top of Tamborine Mountain in Queensland and offers breathtaking views of Canungra Valley to the Great Dividing Range. “Every day you will feel like the last on earth to see the sun as it falls behind the ranges, displaying colours and visual tones which need to be seen to be believed,” the <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/tamborine-mountain-qld-4272-2017753766?utm_source=nine.com.au&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=editorial-content" target="_blank" rel="noopener">listing</a> reads. The huge property, which also offers another home on the land, can be accessed along a private road but is still remote and private. The main residence, which was built in 1974, boasts five huge bedrooms and four bathrooms and has been constantly renovated to “align with the estate’s timeless quality”. The Master Suite on the top floor, includes a kingsize bedroom, parents retreat, luxury ensuite with dual shower heads, spa and large walk-in-robe. The lounge room has high ceilings and an open fireplace which is perfect for those cooler nights. There is also a tennis court, a large basement wine cellar and an entire top-floor primary suite. The Outlook Bar is also perfect to host a number of guests with the stunning views. Built only 12 years ago, the second residence includes an open-plan lounge, dining and kitchen experience. Perfect for guests staying the night or a few days, with the four bedroom and three bedroom amenities. The property is only minutes away from the local town centre, multiple wineries, cafes, breweries and distilleries. Cedar Lodge Retreat will go to auction with the real estate agent keeping mum about how much the property could fetch. Images: Domain

Real Estate

“Only in Canberra”: Locals rescue kangaroo from lake

Three Canberra locals have had an unlikely run-in with a kangaroo, after finding it standing in the cold waters of Lake Burley Griffin. Passer-by David Boyd filmed the moment two men rescued the marsupial from the water, which was later on a Canberra group Facebook page. “This was my morning - only in Canberra - well done to these two guys,” Mr Boyd wrote. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> ONLY IN CANBERRA. From David Boyd 📸 <a href="https://t.co/KFc5Qmg4hw">pic.twitter.com/KFc5Qmg4hw</a> — Julian Abbott 💉💉 (@JulianBAbbott) <a href="https://twitter.com/JulianBAbbott/status/1440097357614379008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2021</a></blockquote> In the clip, the nervous roo allows the men to carry it out of the water and back onto land. Then, the kangaroo offered its paw to ‘thank’ its rescuers for their help. “Aw, he’s thanking ya,” Mr Boyd can be heard saying in the background. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844339/kangaroo.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/4d2ecbbcca2040c7b5d0eaf2b665c856" /> Image: David Boyd / Facebook The video, which has been viewed over 400,000 times, received a flood of comments from concerned viewers wondering whether the animal was okay. Mr Boyd confirmed that the kangaroo “came good”, while another onlooker revealed that the animal ended up back in the lake again, prompting a second rescue. <img style="width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844341/242490125_10157139604002185_4809991376119986184_n.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/8f7f9c7559234f6dae9aa044af038177" /> Image: Penelope Twemlow / Facebook “The kangaroo ended up back in the lake so a second group of people rescued it again (twice over), only to see it deliberately jump back in the lake so we ended up calling the rangers,” Penelope Twemlow wrote. Image: David Boyd / Facebook

Domestic Travel

Polluted lakes turn pink, frustrating local residents

Though many tourist spots boast being unusually coloured, Argentina’s pink lakes won’t be widely advertised. Several lakes outside the city of Trelew have suddenly turned bubblegum pink, concerning locals and prompting authorities to search for an explanation. Since then, the authorities have uncovered a truck which has been disposing waste from nearby fish factories in the region’s network of lagoons. Environmental and virologist Federico Resrepo told AFP that the colour change was due to sodium sulfate in the fish waste, which is an antibacterial agent used to preserve prawns for export. Juan Micheloud, the environmental control chief of the area, told AFP: “The reddish colour does not cause damage and will disappear in a few days.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Experts say pollution from a chemical used to preserve prawns for export purposes may have changed this Argentinian lagoon's color to bright pink. <a href="https://t.co/doGMeE9U6d">pic.twitter.com/doGMeE9U6d</a> — DW News (@dwnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/dwnews/status/1419773772727341059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote> Residents have complained about the pollution, which has also caused foul odours to spread. In protest of the pollution, residents of the neighbouring town of Rawson blocked the roads to prevent trucks transporting fish waste from leaving the factory. “We get dozens of trucks daily, the residents are getting tired of it,” environmental activist Pablo Lada told AFP. “Those who should be in control are the ones who authorise the poisoning of people.” With the factories generating thousands of jobs within the province, tension has been growing between frustrated locals and the area’s reliance on the factories economically. “Fish processing generates work … it’s true,” Lada said. “But these are multi-million-dollar profit companies that don’t want to pay freight to take the waste to a treatment plant that already exists in Puerto Madryn, 35 miles away, or build a plant closer.” The lagoon, which covers an area between 10 to 15 hectares, is not used for recreation, and is located within the Industrial Park of Trelew.

International Travel

Mother who killed her children by driving in lake has sentenced reduced

A mother who killed three of her children by deliberately driving into a lake at Wyndham Vale has had her original jail sentence reduced after a complicated legal saga. Akon Goude killed her four-year-old twins, her 16-month-old son and almost killed her fourth child when she drove an SUV into a Wyndham Vale lake in 2015. Guode won an appeal after she disagreed with her 26-year prison sentence. "The Court of Appeal accepted that objectively Ms Guode's offending was 'about as heinous a crime as one could reasonably contemplate,'" the Summary of Judgment read. "At the time Ms Guode committed the offences, she had a major depressive disorder consequent upon her giving birth to her youngest child and her life was in turmoil. "Moreover, as the sentencing judge observed, Ms Guode had had an extraordinarily difficult life, having watched her husband being murdered in South Sudan before she herself was raped until she was unconscious. "Ms Guode's mental functioning was impaired by her major depressive disorder to a point where her capacity to exercise appropriate judgment, and her capacity to think clearly and make calm and rational choices, and to appreciate the wrongfulness of her conduct at the time, was impaired. "In all the circumstances, she was entitled to some mercy in the sentence imposed." Goude is now set to serve 18 years in prison. She can apply for parole in 14 years and will most likely be deported after her release.

Legal

Get the inside scoop to Switzerland's Lake Geneva region

Home to amazing Swiss food and wine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, world-renowned events and some of Europe’s most spectacular sceneries, Switzerland’s Lake Geneva Region has a lot more to boast than just watches and chocolate - the usual suspects that spring to mind when it comes to this French speaking region of the country. The scenery Surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains that roll into rows of verdant vineyard-covered slopes, there really is no bad angle when it comes to Lake Geneva. Along the expansive shoreline you’ll find beautiful old towns and villages decorated with multi-coloured geraniums as well as well-preserved cobbled streets. It all adds to the unique charm of this region and keeps history standing still. However, subtle modern elements creep in here and there so you won’t forget you’re still in the 21st century. The contrast of old and new is what makes a visit to this region truly eclectic. Activities One of the major highlights and events of the region is the Montreux Jazz festival, where thousands of jazz lovers descend on the shores to soak in the Swiss summer and enjoy the tunes of the world’s most popular music legends. Down the road is Vevey, gateway to the breathtakingly beautiful Lavaux vineyards. Take in a World UNESCO Heritage Site, while savouring the extraordinary flavours of the region. As Swiss wines are not generally exported due to limited produce, the exclusivity of the produce only adds to the allure. If you simply can't eat and drink any more, then a visit to the Olympic Museum in the historical city of Lausanne is sure to impress any sport lover. The story of the Olympics from the very beginning until today has been painstakingly documented and is presented in an exciting way – worth a visit they say! To learn more about attractions in the Lake Geneva Region and Switzerland, visit <a href="https://www.myswitzerland.com/en/">myswitzerland.com.</a> Fact file The best way to see and experience Switzerland is with a Swiss Pass, which entitles the holder to hop onto any train, bus or boat during the duration of the visit. The Pass also allows the holder free entry to more than 470 museums around the country and 50% discounts on mountain peak rails. Visit myswitzerland.com/rail for more information. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/inside-scoop-to-switzerlands-lake-geneva-region.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a>

Cruising

Picture perfect poison: Warning over Melbourne’s bizarre pink lake

Rangers in Melbourne have issued a warning to tourists against going for a swim in the pink lake to achieve the perfect shot for their social media feeds. Melbourne’s new attraction in Westgate Park has people flocking to take photographs of the pink lake, much to the chagrin of rangers. The lake turns pink due to replacing the original saltmarsh that was already there. When levels of the saltmarsh are higher than normal, along with high temperatures, lots of sunlight and a lack of rain, algae grows in the lake. <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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxbV7yyH2Pc/" 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="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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxbV7yyH2Pc/" target="_blank">A post shared by 🍒 (@paigekimmorley)</a> on May 13, 2019 at 8:05pm PDT </div> </blockquote> The type of algae grows in the lake produces a red pigment according to <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-02-21/why-does-this-melbourne-lake-turn-pink/10833186">the ABC</a>, which is called beta carotene. This turns the lake pink. The lake is currently pink and is expected to stay this way until later in autumn, where it will return to being blue. This is due to the weather cooling down as well as the increase of rainfall. People have been warned by the park authorities in Victoria to not come into contact with the water. Despite the algae not being harmful to local wildlife, the same can’t be said for humans. “Algae growing in the salt crust at the bottom of the lake produces the red pigment (beta carotene) as part of its photosynthesis process and in response to the extremely high salt levels,” Phil Pegler, manager conservation planning and programs at Parks Victoria,<a href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au/"> told the Herald Sun.</a> “In order to protect the sensitive saltmarsh vegetation around the lake, visitors are urged to obey all signage and any barriers in place. “We recommend people avoid coming into contact with the water as it is very saline (salty) so can cause skin irritation.” However, this shouldn’t stop people from getting out and exploring nature. “Getting out in nature has proven health and wellbeing benefits. As the lake is currently pink, grab the kids and take them down so they can better understand and appreciate how fragile and beautiful our environment is and hopefully take steps to protect it so future generations can also enjoy it,” explained Pelger.

Travel Trouble

The heartbreaking story behind this note found by the side of a lake

A school rowing club has shared the heartbreaking story behind a mystery note the team discovered at a lake. Earlier this week, a school rowing club from Sutton Coldfield in the UK went down to their local lake for a training session when they made the unexpected discovery. Tied to the gate was an emotional note from an anonymous woman who had visited the lake, asking for a very important favour. "This note was left on the gate at the water this afternoon," Bishop Vesey's Grammar School Rowing Club wrote on Twitter. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> This note was left on the gate at the water this afternoon. No name or number left but whoever you are, rest assured your rose is in place in the middle of the lake. <a href="https://t.co/GAQcbQRSZJ">pic.twitter.com/GAQcbQRSZJ</a> — BVGS Rowing (@BVGSRowing) <a href="https://twitter.com/BVGSRowing/status/1052911464456081410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2018</a></blockquote> The note read: "Please can someone throw this into the lake for me? My late husband’s ashes are in the lake and I can’t get to the lakeside in my wheelchair anymore and gates are locked – have to drive back up north tonight. Thank you x." Alongside the note, the widow left a single red rose. After reading the heartbreaking message, the rowing club made sure they fulfilled the woman’s wishes. "No name or number left but whoever you are, rest assured your rose is in place in the middle of the lake," the rowing club tweeted, sharing a photo of the rose in the middle of the water. Since sharing the woman’s emotional story, the rowing team’s tweet has received over 162,000 ‘likes’ and over 46,000 retweets. The story has been impactful for many users, with one even saying it has “restored their faith in humanity”. "I really hope karma exists, because you guys only deserve the very best," wrote one user. Another wrote: "It touched my old heart. Just a wonderful thing to do for someone you'll never know and I hope whomever this lady was she somehow finds out." Another added: "There are some wonderful, caring people in the world, if you can't find one, be one.”

Relationships

10 unmissable lakes in Australia

Australia is full of endless amounts of variety and that especially applies to our natural wonders. These 10 lakes dispersed across Australia give travellers unmissable views and a glimpse into this sunburnt country’s rich history. Scroll through the gallery above to see which lakes in Australia you should consider making a visit to. Have you been lucky enough to visit any of these lakes? Let us know in the comments below.

Cruising

Western Australia’s Lake Hillier will take your breath away

Western Australia is known for its pink lakes and Lake Hillier, with its vibrant bubblegum-coloured waters, is one of the most spectacular. The lake is around 600 metres long and is fringed by a narrow strip of sand leading onto thick forest of eucalypts and paperbark trees. This is then separated by a row of sand dunes from the and deep blue waters of the Southern Ocean, making for a remarkable contrast. Why is it pink? Strangely enough, no one really knows why the water is this eye-catching colour. It could be the combination of high salinity and a specific species of algae, which creates a similar effect in other lakes around the world. However, Lake Hillier behaves differently – the water doesn’t change colour with temperature fluctuations and even retains its pink hue when bottled. Where is it? Lake Hillier is on Middle Island in the Recherche Archipelago off the southern coast of Western Australia. There are 105 islands sitting around 50 kilometres offshore and stretching 230 kilometres from the town of Esperance to Israelite Bay. Middle Island is the largest in the Recherche Archipelago, covering almost 11 square kilometres. Matthew Flinders named the island in 1802. <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/idkwZ-t1DVI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> Can I visit it? Yes! You can join a tour from the town of Esperance, which will involve a short cruise out to Middle Island and then a walk around the lake. There are special walkways built along the shore so that you don’t damage the fragile ecosystem. Unfortunately, you can’t swim in the lake as it is used only for scientific research. For the best views of the lake, and to fully appreciate the contrasting colours of the surroundings, you’ll need to see it from the air on a scenic flight. Have you ever been to Lake Hillier?

International Travel

10 reasons you should visit Lake Macquarie in 2017

Few parts of Australia are as perfect for a weekend escape as Lake Macquarie. From the beaches to the bushland beauty, trails, cultural hotspots and everything in between, this gorgeous corner of the Hunter is perfect for a holiday. Here are 10 reasons you should go to Lake Macquarie in 2017. 1. Redhead Beach – A favourite with families and surfers alike, Redhead Beach has stunning cliffs, rocky outcrops and an iconic shark tower. The beach is patrolled in the warmer months and is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. 2. Fernleigh Track – Constructed in place of the former Belmont railway line, Fernleigh track is a lovely stroll or cycle that gives you a chance to enjoy some of the region’s remarkable landscapes and views at a leisurely pace. 3. Warner’s Bay – Perfect if you’re looking for something to eat or to do a bit of local shopping, Warner’s Bay has a range of boutiques, cafes and restaurants featuring some of the most sumptuous local produce you can find in Australia. 4. Speers Point Park – If you’ve got grandchildren in tow, you’d be doing them a disservice if you didn’t visit Speers Point Park. Arguably, the best play space in Australia, this playground is full of incredible equipment for the littlies. 5. Lake Macquarie Art Gallery – Looking to take in a little bit of culture? Lake Macquarie Art Gallery features an enviable collection of travelling and permanent exhibitions for visitors to view, all set among lovely, leafy grounds. 6. Wallarah National Parks – Boasting some of the most incredible views in the Hunter Region, Wallarah National Park is a stunning pocket of coastal bushland. The panoramic ocean views from the scenic lookouts is worth the hike. 7. Rathmines Park – A serene spot to sit back and relax, Rathmines Park was once home to the largest seaplane base in the southern hemisphere during WWII. There’s no end of historical significant to revel in as you visit. 8. Watagan Mountains National Park – A favourite among locals (and for good reason), Watagan Mountains National Park has it all from winding walking trails to picture perfect campgrounds and some of the best lookouts in the Hunter. 9. Toronto Foreshore – If you want to have a nice meal with your nearest and dearest, head to Toronto Foreshow. Dine at one of the many incredible restaurants, with Lake Macquarie as a gorgeous backdrop to your meal. 10. Pelican Foreshore Reserve – Few places in NSW are as picnic-perfect as the gorgeous Pelican Foreshore Reserve. Beloved by locals, this picnic spot has shady grassed areas, useful BBQs and an easily accessible jetty for fishing. What else would you add to the list? Share your tips in the comments below. For more information about Lake Macquarie, <a href="http://www.visitlakemac.com.au">click here</a>. Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/12/man-fends-off-shark-with-garden-broom/">Man fends off shark with garden broom</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2016/11/surfer-paddles-straight-into-shark/">Oblivious surfer paddles straight into shark</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2016/10/diver-escapes-death-shark-in-cage/">Shark breaks into diver’s cage</a>

International Travel

This lake in India is highly toxic

An incredibly rare, unnatural phenomenon has enveloped a lake in India, which has become polluted to such an extent that toxic froth appears on the surface of the lake. Running approximately 36 kilometres, Bellandur Lake is the largest and most polluted body of water in Bangalore, the region’s technology hub. Foam, which sometimes bursts into flames, has been caused by decades of pumping untreated chemical wastes and sewage into the water. <img width="500" height="250" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/9858/india-toxic-lake-bangalore-two_500x250.jpg" alt="India Toxic Lake Bangalore Two" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> Image credit: Debasish Ghosh High ammonia and phosphate content has combined with low dissolved oxygen to create the toxic foam that spills onto nearby roads and releases a toxic stench whenever the city sees rain. Documentary photographer, Debasish Ghosh, expressed concerns to the BBC: “There’s so much pollution that it will take lots of time and lots of investment to bring this lake back to normal. To what it was maybe two decades ago, when people say there would still be migratory birds in there.” While these images are captivating in a tragic way, the cause of this phenomenon is ultimately unnatural and it’s an important reminder of the need to protect our own waterways. Related links: <a href="/news/news/2015/08/village-gathers-to-rescue-stranded-baby-elephant/">Watch an entire village rescue baby elephant stranded in well</a> <a href="/travel/international-travel/2015/08/words-top-landmarks/">The world’s top 30 landmarks</a> <a href="/news/news/2015/10/world-beard-and-moustache-championships/">Amazing pictures from the World Beard and Moustache Championships</a>

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This lake in India is highly toxic

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