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Mysterious liquid turns popular rock pool green

<p>A mysterious liquid has turned a popular public rock pool at Cronulla beach fluorescent green.</p> <p>The liquid, believed to be a natural fluorescent dye, fluorescein, was seen pouring into the usually clear waters of the pool on Friday.</p> <p>The dye is often used to help experts track the flow of water to identify any leaks and has low toxicity, which means it is harmless despite the daunting colour.</p> <p>“We believe the discolouration is likely to be fluorescein dye, which is commonly used in plumbing/drain testing and dissipates quickly once diluted,” a spokesperson for the New South Wales Environmental Protection Authority said.</p> <p>According to Australian dye manufacturer, Tintex, the dye is also used to “locate leaks in plumbing, tracing pipe locations, detect drain damage and water pathways,” and is odourless and non-toxic to the environment.</p> <p>However, in a safety data sheet, Tintex has also warned about the potential health effects which include eye irritation, skin irritation, irritation of the digestive tract and respiratory tract irritation.</p> <p>Many locals are cautious despite the claim that the dye is mostly harmless.</p> <p>One user wrote on a Facebook page for Cronulla locals that dye was “legal to use in a stormwater drain”.</p> <p>“Doesn’t look good whatever it is,” another responded, while other cautious residents replied that they wouldn’t swim in the area until the dye fully dissipates.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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The real reason liquids over 100ml can’t be brought onto international flights

<p dir="ltr">One thing most people keep in mind when setting off on an international holiday is to condense any liquids in their carry-on to 100ml or less, or run the risk of it being thrown out by security.</p> <p dir="ltr">This goes for bottles of water, makeup, skincare, and other liquid toiletries, as well as big bottles of hand sanitiser or the coffee you bought on the way to the airport. </p> <p dir="ltr">While we accept this is a part of boarding an international flight, a lot of people don’t know the reasoning behind the strict rules. </p> <p dir="ltr">So, why can’t we take liquids over 100ml in our carry-on on an overseas flight?</p> <p dir="ltr">A Department of Home Affairs and Australian Border Force spokesperson told <a href="https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-advice/why-liquids-over-100ml-need-to-be-tossed-for-international-flights/news-story/385fc9198465d82812f04d000c4f339c">news.com.au</a> restrictions on the volume of liquids, aerosols and gels were introduced in many countries around the world, including Australia, following the disruption of a terrorist plot in the UK back in 2006.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 2006 transatlantic aircraft plot targeted various aircrafts with specific liquid explosives.</p> <p dir="ltr">“[And as such] screening measures restrictions on what can be carried on board an aircraft have been enforced to ensure the safety and security of travellers,” the spokesperson said.</p> <p dir="ltr">Even if you have a 100ml or more bottle of liquid that is only half filled, it will still be thrown away by security.</p> <p dir="ltr">The only exceptions to this rule are some baby products and medications, but these must be presented to security officials along with a doctor's letter. </p> <p dir="ltr">While these rules are non-negotiable for international flights, domestic flights around Australia don’t have the same level of restriction. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p>

International Travel

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Big W launches massive online flash sale in light of liquidation rumours

<p>Big W has launched a massive two-day flash sale, with prices slashed on over 2,000 items site-wide.</p> <p>The sale, dubbed the “Click Bonanza” launched at 7 am this morning and will run until midnight on March 20th – or while stock last.</p> <p>There are huge price drops on homeware items, including a Dyson V6 Handstick, which is down from $529 to $349.</p> <p>A Breville Nespresso machine is also being offered at almost half price, which is ideal for espresso lovers everywhere.</p> <p>Toys are on offer at an amazing 25 per cent off, so there’s never been a better time to snag those gifts for the grandkids at a discount.</p> <p>But if toys aren’t your thing, there are discounts on electronics, with 30 per cent off on all Cygnett products.</p> <p>Clothing is on offer for just $1, and even the Harry Potter range of clothing, which is highly sought after, is on offer with a 25 per cent discount.</p> <p>Big W told <em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/home/big-w-launches-massive-online-flash-sale-on-homewares/news-story/85eac8abab234afe91a72afa5d902b52" target="_blank">news.com.au</a>:</em></p> <p>“There was a sale for every room of the house, from the living room to the kitchen and right through to the bedrooms — even the kids’ rooms.”</p> <p>With Macquarie Wealth Group recommending that up to <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/struggling-to-stay-afloat-big-w-could-be-forced-to-shut-down-a-third-of-its-stores" target="_blank">a third of stores be shut down</a> in order to return Big W to profitability, this sale comes as a welcome surprise.</p> <p>Are you planning to get your hands on anything? Let us know in the comments below.</p>

Money & Banking

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Best and worst dishwashing liquids revealed

<p>CHOICE has released its list of the best and worst dishwashing liquids on the Australian market, slamming numerous detergent brands which the consumer watchdog claims are “worse than water” when it comes to cleaning dishes.</p> <p>The consumer advocacy group put 30 common commercial products to the test, scrubbing a marked white tile, and found seven brands were less effective than warm water.</p> <p>“Most people would find it shocking to hear that regular tap water and a bit of elbow grease works better than some of the common detergents found at the supermarket,” Choice spokeswoman Stefanie Menezes told <a href="http://www.news.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>news.com.au</strong></em></span></a>.</p> <p>The consumer watchdog tested a variety of stains on the white tiles which were left overnight before they came into contact with the different detergent varieties, with each product tested multiple times for consistency.</p> <p>“CHOICE put 30 commercial detergents and two D.I.Y. recipes to the test in its latest review and found seven performed worse than water,” Menezes said.</p> <p>“That’s because the detergents are slippery and can actually lubricate your sponge so it glides off your plate, meaning they don’t work as well when you’re trying to scrub off those tough bolognaise stains from dinner.”</p> <p>Earth Choice dishwashing liquid, Coles Smart Buy dishwashing liquid and Coles Super Strength Dishwashing Liquid fared worst out of the detergents, tested, with Morning Fresh Ultra Concentrate Ultimate, Kin Kin naturals Eco Dishwash Liquid, and Woolworths Select Shine Super Concentrate Antibacterial were the top performers.</p> <p><strong>TOP SCORES</strong></p> <p>Morning Fresh Ultra Concentrate Ultimate — 80 per cent</p> <p>Kin Kin Naturals Eco — 75 per cent</p> <p>Morning Fresh Ultra Concentrate Advanced (fast dry technology) — 70 per cent</p> <p><strong>LOWEST SCORES</strong></p> <p>Earth Choice — 28 per cent</p> <p>Coles Smart Buy — 29 per cent</p> <p>What are your thoughts? Do you think this will change which dishwashing liquid you go with in the future? Let us know in the comment section below!</p>

Home & Garden

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4 benefits of liquid soap dispensers

<p><a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/bathroom-accessories/product-type_soap-dispensers?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-soap-dispensers&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=soap-dispensers" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liquid soap</span></strong></a> dispensers are now widely used in homes, offices and public venues. Whether you use your soap dispenser based on style, size or affordability, here are the benefits of washing your hands with it.</p> <p><strong>1. Cleanliness</strong></p> <p>Soap dispenses help reduce germs and bacteria between uses due to the lack of contact with the soap. This reason has made soap dispensers increasingly popular. Soap dispensers also contribute to having a neat and tidy bathroom as a soap bar isn’t constantly being move around and used in the sink.</p> <p><strong>2. Protection</strong></p> <p>Soap dispensers don’t just stop the soap contents inside from germs but the dispenser acts a protection against other forms of contamination. Dispensers can protect soap against climatic effects, hazardous chemicals and infection. The bottle also helps preserve the soap for longer user.</p> <p><strong>3. Variety</strong></p> <p>If you want to add a few accessories to your bathroom to make it look nicer than a soap dispenser should be on the list. It is a simple luxury that makes a big difference in a bathroom. There are many styles, colours and shapes available for you to choose one so that your soap dispenser fits in with the theme of your bathroom. Soap dispensers are also made in different materials. Over60’s favourite soap dispenser are the <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/bathroom-accessories/products/linen-house-soap-dispenser-cruz?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-cruz-soap-dispenser&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=cruz-soap-dispenser" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">ceramic </span></strong></a>and <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/bathroom-accessories/products/linen-house-soap-dispenser-marble?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-marble-soap-dispenser&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=marble-soap-dispenser" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">marble</span></strong></a> soap dispensers.</p> <p><strong>4. Cost</strong></p> <p>Soap dispensers give the user enough liquid with just one touch of the dispenser. This makes it a cost-effective option as excessive amounts of soap aren’t used to wash your hands. Refilling liquid soap dispensers is quick and easy and the process won’t make a mess in your bathroom. There are also many <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/bathroom-accessories/product-type_soap-dispensers?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-soap-dispensers&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=soap-dispensers" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">affordable soap dispensers</span></strong></a> on the market that you can purchase.</p> <p><em><strong>To find your bathroom essentials, including soap dispensers, <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/bathroom?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-bathroom&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=over60-shop" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">head to the Over60 Shop</span></a> for high-quality offerings.</strong></em></p> <p><a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/bathroom?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-banner-bathroom&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=over60-shop" target="_blank"><img src="http://media.oversixty.com.au/images/EditorialAddon/201706_Shopnow_EditorialAddon_468x60_Bathroom.jpg" alt="Over60 Shop - Bathroom Range"/></a></p>

Home & Garden

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This cruise line has banned almost all liquids

<p>Norwegian Cruise Line has announced a major change to its carry-on liquid policy, banning almost all liquids with the exclusion of corked wine and baby formula.</p> <p>The line made the announcement in an email sent to its partners and customers.</p> <p>The email stated, “At Norwegian Cruise Line, the safety and security of our guests and crew is our top priority. To ensure a safe and enjoyable onboard environment for all, guests are prohibited from bringing any beverages – including liquor, beer and non-alcoholic drinks such as water, soda and juices – on board the company's ships either as carry-on or checked luggage.”</p> <p>The exceptions to the policy include wine (although it’s subject to a corkage fee) and purified or distilled water if it's being used for baby formula or in a medical device.</p> <p>The policy will come into effect on all Norwegian Ships from July 15.</p> <p><img width="500" height="334" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/23840/cruise-drink.jpg" alt="Cruise Drink" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p>The rule hasn’t gone down well with all cruisers, with many bemoaning the fact that this will force them to front up the costs for many highly priced drink packages.</p> <p>Posting on the <a href="http://www.cruisecritic.com.au" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Cruise Critic</strong></span></a> forum, one regular cruise taker said, “I enjoy having soda in the room so I can fill a glass with ice, pour myself some soda, and sit on the balcony and relax. Now I can't do that anymore. If I want soda, I need to go all the way to wherever they sell it, and bring it back to the room. Awful.”</p> <p>Norwegian Cruise Line has confirmed the policy extends to port excursions, meaning beverages purchased on shore must be finished or discarded before returning.</p> <p>What’s your take on the policy? Do you think it’s reasonable for the cruise line to put in this rule, or do you think it’s unfair on people taking cruises?</p> <p>Share your thoughts in the comments.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock / Victor Maschek </em></p> <p><strong><em>No matter where you’re travelling to, making sure you know how to access your cash while away – and in the most affordable way – is very important. Easy to use and with countless benefits, the Over60 Cash Passport allows you to securely access your cash in the same way you use an ATM or credit card­. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://oversixty.cashpassport.com.au" target="_blank">To apply for a card today, click here.</a></span></em></strong></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/travel/cruising/2016/06/cruise-discounts-you-should-know-about/"><strong>5 cruise discounts you should know about</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/travel/cruising/2016/06/when-you-miss-your-cruise/"><strong>What to do if you miss your cruise</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="/travel/cruising/2016/04/norwegian-cruise-line-offers-onboard-go-kart-track/"><strong>Norwegian Cruise Line offers onboard go-kart track</strong></a></em></span></p>

Cruising

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5 places you should never use dishwashing liquid

<p>Although dishwashing liquid is a great cleaner, capable of lifting the dirtiest of stains and greasiest of greases off almost everything, it does have its limitations. These are the five places to never use dishwashing soap.</p> <p><strong>1. Car</strong></p> <p>It’s been touted as a handy way to clean your car, but dishwashing liquid is much too harsh on the paint of cars. It will strip away any protective wax, making your car vulnerable to scratches and nicks. Make sure you have the right cleaner for the job.</p> <p><strong>2. Dishwasher</strong></p> <p>It might seem logical if you’ve run out of dishwashing tablets to simply grab the dishwashing liquid, but it’s a big mistake. Dishwashing liquid won’t work in the dishwasher as it’s too sudsy and if put in the dishwasher, you’ll be dealing with an overflowing machine.</p> <p><strong>3. Washing machine</strong></p> <p>Dishwashing liquid simply does not contain the heavy-duty detergent to clean clothes the right way. Also, like the dishwasher, it will result in a flood of suds.</p> <p><strong>4. Windows and mirrors</strong></p> <p>Dishwashing liquid will leave streaks so don’t skip the glass cleaner if you’re looking for clean windows and mirrors.</p> <p><strong>5. Hands</strong></p> <p>Never substitute hand soap for dishwashing liquid! It’s much harsher than the soaps we use to clean our hands and will damage skin over time.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/dirty-home-items/">5 surprisingly dirty things in your house</a></span></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/uses-for-sunlight-soap/">Surprising uses for sunlight soap you’ll love</a></span></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2015/12/homemade-remedies-for-the-garden/">Homemade remedies for the garden</a></span></em></strong></p>

Home & Garden

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