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Why does my hair turn green from the swimming pool?

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/magdalena-wajrak-1432339">Magdalena Wajrak</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/edith-cowan-university-720">Edith Cowan University</a> If you are a blonde like me and enjoy laps in a swimming pool, you may have noticed your hair acquires a green tint after frequent swims in chlorinated water. This happens to both bleached and natural blondes. In fact, the green tinge happens to everyone, but it’s less visible on dark hair and those whose hair isn’t damaged by chemical treatments such as bleaching. But what exactly causes this green discoloration, and what can we do about it? Most of us blame the chlorine in the pool water. However, although chlorine does play a part, it is not the main culprit. <h2>Which chemicals in the pool turn the hair green?</h2> The element to blame for the green staining of hair is copper. The main source of copper is copper sulfate (CuSO₄), a compound added to swimming pools to prevent the growth of algae. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1568988320301803?via%3Dihub">Contact with algae</a> can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues, and ingesting water with algae can lead to serious gastrointestinal problems. Only a small amount (around 0.5mg per litre or 0.5 parts per million) of copper sulfate is needed to prevent algal growth. However, copper can also enter swimming pools through the corrosion of water pipes, so concentrations may be higher in some pools. Copper sulfate crystals are greenish-blue in colour. So, when hair comes into contact with copper ions – a positively charged variant of a copper atom with extra electrons – those ions get absorbed by the hair and cause the greenish hue. Scientists were fascinated by the green “pool hair” phenomenon as far back as the 1970s, so we actually have research data on copper being the cause. One very <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/article-abstract/538197">interesting study in 1978</a> performed experiments by immersing hair samples into water containing different concentrations of copper ions, chlorine and various pH values (neutral and basic). Their results showed hair exposed to free copper ions does turn green. Furthermore, when hair is oxidised (meaning electrons are removed from the hair proteins) by chlorine, it actually damages the hair, enhancing the absorption of copper ions. Hair submerged in water with chlorine but without copper ions did not turn green. Meanwhile, hair exposed to water with only copper ions and no chlorine still formed a green colour. Hence, chlorine by itself does not play a role in causing the green hue we see in “pool hair”, but it does exacerbate it. <h2>So, how does copper get into the hair?</h2> <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4684-0943-7_24">Other research teams</a> have conducted <a href="https://doi.org/10.1071/ch9682437">more extensive studies</a>, using sophisticated instruments, such as scanning electron microscopy, to examine how exactly copper ions attach to the hair. Our hair is predominantly composed of protein called keratin. Keratin is classified as a “structural fibrous protein”, meaning it has an elongated, sheet-like structure. The keratin structure is composed of various <a href="https://chem.libretexts.org/Courses/University_of_Kentucky/UK%3A_CHE_103_-_Chemistry_for_Allied_Health_(Soult)/Chapters/Chapter_4%3A_Structure_and_Function/4.4%3A_Functional_Groups">chemical groups</a> (types of atom groupings with similar properties), such as carboxyl groups, amino groups and disulfide groups. Copper ions have the ability to form bonds with these groups, forming a copper-keratin complex. This complex remains in the hair, causing it to appear green. Interestingly, the most recent study <a href="https://doi.org/10.32657/10356/142466">conducted in 2020</a>, showed copper ions mainly bind to the disulfide groups. This study also found other metal ions such as zinc, lead, chromium and mercury also bind to hair in the same way. This is very useful in <a href="https://theconversation.com/forensic-breakthrough-study-suggests-humans-can-be-identified-by-the-proteins-in-their-hair-65051">forensic analysis</a>, for example, because forensic scientists can analyse hair samples to determine if a person has been exposed to a particular metal. Light-coloured hair already has the most visible green discoloration, but research has shown that damaged hair, caused by bleaching, straightening, or exposure to sun, is the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19586601/">most susceptible</a> to the binding of copper ions. This is because in damaged hair the disulfide groups have “broken bonds” (the link that holds the elements within these groups together is broken), making it easier for the copper ions to bind to the hair. <h2>Can I prevent the green colour or get rid of it?</h2> To prevent your hair from turning green in a swimming pool, you have two basic options. The first is a physical barrier – just wear a swim cap. The second option is chemical – you can pre-treat your hair with an alkaline shampoo. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0891584918310050">Studies have shown</a> under alkaline pH conditions, the copper ions won’t attach to the hair. To treat your hair before going to the pool, you can either use a shampoo with a pH higher than 7, or you can even try mixing some baking soda into your regular shampoo. But what can you do if your hair has already turned greenish? Well, you can try washing your hair with a shampoo designed to achieve this, typically marketed as a “chlorine removal” shampoo. These products contain a chemical called EDTA – it can bind to metal ions (such as copper) and thus will remove copper from the hair. You may have heard tomato sauce or ketchup is a good way to get the green out of your pool hair – potentially because the red pigments are supposed to “cancel out” the green ones. However, I’m not aware of any scientific evidence this would work. Correction: This article has been amended to clarify that alkaline shampoos have a pH higher than 7, not lower.<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/211736/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/magdalena-wajrak-1432339">Magdalena Wajrak</a>, Senior lecturer, Chemistry, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/edith-cowan-university-720">Edith Cowan University</a> Image credits: Getty Images 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/why-does-my-hair-turn-green-from-the-swimming-pool-211736">original article</a>.

Beauty & Style

Mysterious liquid turns popular rock pool green

A mysterious liquid has turned a popular public rock pool at Cronulla beach fluorescent green. The liquid, believed to be a natural fluorescent dye, fluorescein, was seen pouring into the usually clear waters of the pool on Friday. 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. “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. 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. 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. Many locals are cautious despite the claim that the dye is mostly harmless. One user wrote on a Facebook page for Cronulla locals that dye was “legal to use in a stormwater drain”. “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. Images: Facebook

Travel Trouble

Only in Florida! Woman's shocking find lurking in backyard pool

Florida woman Lynn Tosi was not the only one who wanted to stay cool during the summer. Tosi came home to an unwanted guest: a 3.5 m alligator that had busted through her screened-in porch and was vibing in her pool. “I just kind of circled around, not knowing what I was going to do next. I sure wasn’t going outside,” Tossi said. The crook-a-dile waddled through a nearby forest to try and find water, and struck gold when he found Tossi’s pool. Without a care in the world, the insti-gator left a large hole in Tosi’s screened-in porch. “He busted right through there, kind of like the Kool-Aid man, you know,” Tosi shared. As the weather gets warmer, Alligators are becoming increasingly active, and Tosi, who has learned from this wild encounter, encouraged all homeowners to double-check their pools and lakes before diving in. “The professional coming to take him out was actually pacing and got on the phone and was really surprised by what they were up against,” Tosi recalled. In another image, the Alligator can be seen restrained, and they were lucky it didn’t snap. This encounter is one of three reported in Valusia County over the last five days. Trappers have reminded residents that the alligators are most active at dusk and dawn. Image: Lynn Tosi, NBC, CNN

Real Estate

The world’s coolest swimming pool could be yours

A unique home in the “opal capital of the world” has hit the market, but its location isn’t the coolest thing about it. The three-bedroom, one-bathroom home in Coober Pedy, South Australia, is both completely underground and boasts its very own indoor swimming pool, located in the main entertaining room. Dubbed “Faye’s Underground Home”, the property is lived-in - a rarity for the area - and open to tourists, who can pay a small fee to go on a guided tour. The home’s six main rooms include the three bedrooms and entertaining room, as well as a kitchen, lounge and dining room with a built-in bar, and a wine cellar. According to <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/25-old-water-tank-road-coober-pedy-sa-5723-2013265706?utm_source=nine.com.au&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=editorial-content" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the listing</a>, the home features jade walls, timber details, and bursts of retro colour. It was originally a one-bedroom dug-out that the local mail truck driver called home, before being converted into the residence it is today. While a price guide hasn’t been set for the home, <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/news/coober-pedys-underground-home-with-indoor-pool-is-a-rare-gem-1186477/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Domain</a> has reported that the median house price for Coober Pedy sits at around $74,500, having increased by 12.9 percent since last year. Located 846 kilometres north of Adelaide, Coober Pedy has a population of 1769 people mostly over the age of 60. Images: Lin Andrews Real Estate

Real Estate

The five best books to read by the pool this summer

Australian literature is having a real moment, so here’s our pick of the best Australian novels to soak up with the sun this summer. The Narrow Road to the Deep North, Richard Flanagan It took Tasmanian author Richard Flanagan 12 years to write this Booker Prize-winning novel, and it’s easy to see why. Based on his father’s real-life experience, it’s a beautifully written, haunting read about a Japanese Prisoner of War camp on the Thai-Burma death railway during the Second World War. It focuses on Dorrigo Evans, an Australian surgeon haunted by a love affair with his uncle's young wife two years earlier, struggling to save the men under his command from starvation, cholera, and brutal beatings. At times the novel is harrowing, graphic and disturbing, but is ultimately a story of love in the midst of a cruel war. The Light Between Oceans, M. L Stedman Read this novel. We could just leave it there, to be honest, it’s that good. Hollywood movie rights were recently snapped up so, because books are nearly always better than subsequent films, read it quickly! It has won three prestigious ABIA awards, including their 'Book of the Year', and also won the Indie Awards' 'Book of the Year'. It’s 1926 and Tom Sherbourne is a young lighthouse keeper on a remote island off Western Australia. He and his young wife Isabel live a quiet life, cocooned from the rest of the world. Fatefully soon after suffering devastating miscarriages, a boat washes ashore carrying a dead man and a crying infant. Only years later do they discover the devastating consequences of the decision they made that day - as the baby's real story unfolds. Get your tissues ready. This book will stay with you for life. Promise. The Night Guest, Fiona McFarlane Fiona McFarlane’s debut novel has been shortlisted for the Stella prize and the Miles Franklin Award. One morning Ruth, an elderly widow, wakes thinking a tiger has been in her house in a small coastal town. Later that day a carer, Frida, arrives to look after her. Both Frida and the tiger are here to stay, and neither is what they seem. The Night Guest is a mesmerising novel about love, dependence, and the fear that the things you know best can become the things you're least certain about. Eyrie, Tim Winton Tim Winton’s 25th book follows Tom Keely, whose reputation is in ruins, whose marriage is over and career finished. Holed up in a grim high rise, cultivating his newfound isolation, he reluctantly meets a woman from his past and a boy who will change his life. Eyrie is heart-warming and human, and reassures the reader that no matter how low you can feel, life will renew itself and take new paths, whether you want it to or not. The Swan Book, Alexis Wright This is like nothing you’ve ever read before. Set in the future, around the time of Australia’s third centenary, we see Aboriginals still living under the Intervention in the north, in a country fundamentally altered by climate change. The book centres around the life of a mute young woman called Oblivia, the victim of gang-rape by petrol-sniffing youths. We follow her from the displaced community where she lives to her marriage to Warren Finch, the first Aboriginal president of Australia, and her elevation First Lady. Alexis Wright’s previous novel, Carpentaria, was a prize-winning best-seller and The Swan Book has been short-listed for the Miles Franklin Award. Image: Getty

Books

5 things you must never do on a cruise pool deck

The pool deck is one of the most popular locations on any cruise liner, and it might just be the one where the most faux pas are performed. <a href="http://www.cruisecritic.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cruise Critic</a> has put together a list of cruise ship pool mistakes everyone must avoid. Here are five of the most common. Avoid these mistakes, or face walking the plank! 1. Hog the deck chairs Now this is one way to make enemies out on the open ocean. Only reserve chairs that you are actively using (heading off to the buffet to pig out for an hour means you’re not actively using it), especially if you’re not planning to return for an extended period. 2. No applying enough sunscreen How many holidays have been ruined by sunburn? Instead of spending hours of your trip doused in aloe vera gel, make sure you regularly apply sunscreen when you’re on the cruise pool deck. It’s also worth taking additional measures like hats and sunnies. 3. Wearing a Speedo Unless you’re moonlighting as a Calvin Klein model, wearing a Speedo can be a quick way to cause a mutiny onboard. You have to remember that people of all levels of modesty will be sharing the deck, so make sure your swimmers leave something to the imagination. 4. Taking your drink into the pool While it might seem like a natural thing to do, taking your drink to the pool and lead to an unfortunate spill. And if it’s an alcohol beverage, you leave yourself open to an increased change of dehydration and dizziness which is the last thing you need. 5. Moving around too quickly This one should be a given, but the pool deck is slippery and you’d be surprised how many people end up upside down because they weren’t taking care. Moving around on a pool deck too quickly can leave you open to a nasty slip, or even knocking someone else over. Do you have any cruise pool deck faux pas you think we should add? Let us know in the comments below. Image: Getty

Cruising

Straight to the pool room: a love letter to The Castle on its 25th anniversary

The phrases “Tell him he’s dreamin’”, “That’s going straight to the pool room”, “How’s the serenity?” and “It’s the vibe” have become Aussie staples. These now-classic quotes all come from The Castle - voted the <a href="https://10play.com.au/theproject/articles/australia-votes-the-castle-as-favourite-movie-of-all-time/tpa220123fkyho" target="_blank" rel="noopener">best Australian film ever</a> in a recent poll. <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0118826/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Castle</a> was released in Australia 25 years go. It charmed the socks off us on its release and its reputation and influence as the quintessential Australian film have grown since. Centred on an ordinary working class family, the Kerrigans, the film tells of their legal fight against greedy developers and the government when their house and land are threatened with a plan to extend an airport runway. When his neighbours’ properties are also targeted, Darryl Kerrigan, the father, organises a protest committee. It hires perhaps the most inept suburban solicitor, Dennis Denuto (Tiriel Mora), to dispute the case in court - and fails. Dennis’s main defence is that: It’s the constitution. It’s Mabo. It’s justice. It’s law. It’s the vibe … no, that’s it, it’s the vibe. It’s the vibe Reputedly <a href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/movies/the-castle-star-michael-catons-tiny-salary-finally-revealed/news-story/470e84d6c6e933022878909c0cdde864" target="_blank" rel="noopener">filmed over 11 days</a> on a very small budget, it <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0118826/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stars mostly television actors</a>, or those who were at that time just emerging, such as Michael Caton, Anne Tenney, Stephen Curry, Eric Bana and Wayne Hope. It’s true the production values are ordinary at best and the visuals are uninspiring, but who cares? This all adds to the feeling of the familiar and very real world of the Kerrigans. The best parts of the film are the characters, the exploration of family and most importantly, the naive and gentle humour expressed through the character’s dialogue. The film is full of dad jokes that you just know Darryl tells over and over. From telling opposing lawyers to “suffer in their jocks”, or saying every cheap knick-knack they find is “going straight to the pool-room”, the humour is comprised of bad puns, repetitive gags and parochial sayings. Darryl’s repetitive, good-natured bits, such as being amazed at every dinner that his wife makes, regardless of whether it’s just rissoles or chicken, is clearly meant to be humorous - but we don’t laugh at the Kerrigans, we laugh with them. This is because the humour is all expressed through their glass half full view of the world. All of the Kerrigans have this eternal positivity and optimism. After losing the court case and facing eviction, they look for the good in it. Most people would be happy not to live next to a busy airport but Dale Kerrigan only sees the benefits, “It will be very convenient if we ever have to fly one day”. Straight to the pool room The Kerrigan values are similar to many working class Australians: anti-authoritarianism, the <a href="https://theconversation.com/orright-you-spunkrats-heres-where-all-our-aussie-summertime-language-came-from-171113" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Aussie battler ethos</a>, a sense of political antipathy, and a belief in common sense and that natural justice will prevail. This is why this film has endured over so many years - Australians recognise themselves in the characters. The Kerrigans are just ordinary people who find delight in their ordinariness. Darryl works the tow-truck, they have little money, their house is built on a landfill site and their eldest son is in prison. They go on holiday - not to Bali or Hawaii, but to Bonnie Doon, a little country town with a small lake and a shack that Darryl built amongst towering electricity pylons. A place many people would run a mile from. Again, the family don’t see this as a negative. As Dale says wisely, “Dad, he reckons power-lines are a reminder of man’s ability to generate electricity”. The Castle embraces an A Current Affair mentality - that someone, somewhere in business or in government is always trying to rip-off the honest little guy. Darryl Kerrigan represents all the honest, hard working Australian battlers who have been done over by forces greater than them. We all want to see the tables turned and the little guy win - this is why underdog stories such as this are so popular. Dale has dug a hole But The Castle goes beyond such simple classifications. The events portrayed are just a sideline to the family dynamics - the bond of family and community in every situation, good and bad, is paramount to the film. Every Kerrigan supports each other and celebrates their achievements no matter how small, such as the pride they have in Dale having dug a hole. Even if the Kerrigans aren’t like your family, you secretly wish they were. How deeply embedded the characters and dialogue are in the Australian psyche can be demonstrated is one anecdote. The real Bonnie Doon shack was <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-01-30/going-to-bonnie-doon-castle-shack-up-for-sale/1922894" target="_blank" rel="noopener">listed for sale</a> in 2011. The estate agent was inundated with people calling asking for the price. When told, <a href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/the-castles-shack-goes-up-for-sale/news-story/612b5ddf386c481195ac7fd7796c3792" target="_blank" rel="noopener">they universally replied</a>, “Tell him he’s dreamin’”. This article originally appeared on The Conversation. Image: YouTube

Movies

Charges over unlicensed drink driving after smashing into pool

A Perth woman who was rescued by two tradies after her car crashed into a backyard pool, which has seen the men lauded as heroes, has ended her close call with several charges from police. CCTV footage from the home showed the dramatic situation unfolding, after the woman’s car went through the back fence, landed in the pool and began to sink. The men were among several neighbours who rushed over to save the woman trapped inside her car. “Get out of the car, come on, go, you alright?” her rescuers could be heard saying. The two men, Ed and Adam, jumped into the pool and were forced to smash one of the car windows with a brick to pull the woman to safety. “She’d be dead now,” Ed told <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/cctv-shows-driver-ploughing-through-fence-of-home-landing-in-pool-thornlie-perth/1bf5b159-c203-461b-9b77-e26dd733c64e" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9News</a>. “She was in full panic mode. Adam was on one side talking to her (saying) ‘get away from the window’. “I’m just really pleased she’s okay, that’s the most important thing.” Thiri Htut, the 25-year-old driver, thanked Ed and Adam for saving her life. “I’d be dead,” she said. She has since been charged with unlicensed driving and drink driving. To see the astonishing full video, click <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/cctv-shows-driver-ploughing-through-fence-of-home-landing-in-pool-thornlie-perth/1bf5b159-c203-461b-9b77-e26dd733c64e" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Images: 9News

Legal

The $2 pool noodle hack everyone’s trying this Christmas

With the festive holiday quickly approaching, you can fight the urge to splurge on Christmas decorations by trying your hand at this ridiculously cheap table centrepiece. All you need is a pool noodle - costing $2 from Kmart - as well as a hot glue gun and some Christmas baubles. When one woman shared the hack on Facebook, her post received almost 3000 likes and sparked a flood of recreations. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845956/pool-noodle-xmas.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/918725e646524f32822e0d3f13a30bc4" /> Image: Image: Angelica Marotta Vine (Facebook) “First time hack pretty pleased with the result!” she captioned the photo of her table runner, which was mostly sourced from Kmart, Big W and Target. The DIY decoration has been frequently appearing in Facebook groups including <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1188470091287226" target="_blank">Kmart Inspired Homes</a> and <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/330596703984165" target="_blank">Kmart Home Decor & Hacks Australia</a> with some classy results. <img style="width: 500px; height: 201.171875px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845958/259786511_4483985271669638_4094311627553942329_n.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/73ac2e2e37db4fd2abe8d6da0ed7fbc4" /> Image: Heather Kyler (Facebook) To make it, <a href="https://www.bhg.com.au/pool-noodle-christmas-wreath-hack?category=diy">follow</a> these five steps: Step 1. To keep the pool noodle straight, feed a thin metal rod through the centre of it. Step 2. Start attaching baubles with the hot glue gun and work your way along the noodle. <img style="width: 500px; height: 333.3333333333333px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845957/pool-noodle-xmas2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/71372b34fa114037a5d50c9edfa4f35e" /> Image: Angelica Marotta Vine (Facebook) Step 3. Once the baubles are attached, fill in any gaps with flowers, branches and other Christmas decorations. To get extra coverage, pull apart a Christmas wreath and fill the gaps on the noodle with the leaves. Step 5. Once decorated, spray the piece with fake snow. Image: Haydn Fellows (Facebook)

Home Hints & Tips

“Unlike any other”: World’s highest 360-degree infinity pool opens in Dubai

Dubai has welcomed the world’s first 360-degree infinity pool as its latest record-breaking tourist attraction. The 750-square-metre pool deck sits on the 50th floor of the Palm Tower, which offers unbeatable views of Dubai’s skyline. At 200-metres in the air, the <a rel="noopener" href="https://auraskypool.com/" target="_blank">Aura Skypool</a> also takes out the top spot as the world’s highest infinity pool and has been described as “an island in the sky”. The new space also features a lounge with VIP sun beds and a bar serving tapas dishes and cocktails. Guests have the choice of booking in for a morning or sunset session by the pool, or a full-day VIP “island” experience, costing between $AUD 65 ($AED 170) and $AUD 226 ($AED 600). “Aura is truly unlike any other destination in the UAE and the world,” Antonio Gonzalez, the CEO of Sunset Hospitality, the company behind the pool, <a rel="noopener" href="https://travel.nine.com.au/latest/worlds-highest-360degree-infinity-pool-opens-in-dubai/25d66d7e-2ef6-4673-be13-825aab58a0da" target="_blank">said</a> in a statement last month. “With 360-degree views of some of the world’s most iconic sights, from the man made Palm Jumeirah - celebrating this year 20 years since its construction - through to Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa and Ain Dubai - all in one view, it’s a breathtaking new destination that will continue to showcase the very best of Dubai.” The opening of Aura Skypool comes after the launch of a 240-metre high observation deck at The Palm, two floors above the infinity pool. The residential building and hotel also features the Middle East’s first SushiSamba restaurant - a chain of fusion restaurants found across the UK and USA. Images: Aura Skypool

International Travel

Police on a "deep dive" to hunt down stolen pool

Image: Victoria police Police in Victoria are on a deep dive trying to hunt down the thieves who stole an entire seven-metre-long swimming pool. In a statement on Tuesday, Victoria Police said the “very large” fibreglass pool was stolen on October 20th from a construction site on Moncrieff Crescent in Wandana Heights, Victoria. Police believe the offender, or offenders, who stole the pool entered the construction site between 10:30 pm and 11 pm on the 20th. A truck was used to load the pool, which is worth $14,000, before driving away. “The truck had grey/silver tape or plastic covering what may be a company name on both sides of the cab as well as yellow ‘oversize’ signs on the front and rear,” police said. To help with the investigation, Victoria Police have released images of the truck leaving the premises. The pool was by the brand ‘modern pool’ and is a slate colour.

Legal

World’s deepest pool opens in Dubai

Dubai, home to the world’s tallest skyscraper and largest mall, has recently welcomed another record-breaking attraction - the deepest dive pool in the world. A new pool that is 60 metres deep and filled with 14 million litres of fresh water - equivalent to six Olympic swimming pools - opened on June 29 by invitation only as part of the Deep Dive Dubai attraction. The pool will be open to the general public later this year. The pool also holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s deepest swimming pool for diving, taking the record from Poland’s 45-metre-deep Deepspot pool. The pool will feature two underwater habitats with a dry chamber at six and 21-metres deep, 56 underwater cameras, and advanced sound and mood lighting systems. The attraction will also include a ‘sunken city’, with an abandoned streetscape and an apartment, garage, arcade and more that divers of all levels can explore. Its first visitors have included movie star Will Smith, who shared a video of his visit to the pool on Instagram. <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/reel/CRCKVIfB-br/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <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/reel/CRCKVIfB-br/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Will Smith (@willsmith)</a> </div> </blockquote> “So I’m always in Dubai, and a friend of mine told me I have to check out this pool. There’s something weird about it. Deep Dive Dubai, I’m about to go down. The deepest pool on Earth, 200 feet deep. Madness,” Smith said in the video. The diving complex also offers courses for diving beginners and certified divers, as well as a restaurant equipped with windows and TV screens where non-diving family and friends can watch the divers. The depth of the pool has prompted Deep Dive Dubai to post a notice on <a href="http://www.deepdivedubai.com/">its website</a> discouraging visitors from seeing the city’s famous Burj Khalifa after diving. “Don’t visit the top of the skyscraper after diving,” the notice read. “After any dive, it’s recommended to wait 18-24 hours before ascending higher than 300 metres. However, there is no risk in diving after having visited the tallest building in the world.” Images: Deep Dive Dubai

International Travel

Toddler found in pool bathroom with stranger sparks investigation

A swimming pool in the southwest of Sydney was forced to close down after a two-year-old boy went missing and was later found in the toilets, naked, and with a stranger. Police are investigating a possible assault after the boy was reported missing in Bexley Aquatic, or Angelo Anestis Aquatic Centre, at Bexley North, on Saturday. <div style="width: 190px;"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{url}" data-width="420"></div> </div> He was found half an hour later, in the pool bathrooms with clothes removed and in the company of a male stranger. The centre addressed concerned parents on its Facebook page, confirming that police are investigating an allegation of a possible assault. “We appreciate your concern on the matter regarding a child separated from their parent at the facility yesterday,” it said on Sunday. “The facility was closed this morning as a precaution in case further investigation was required. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7840273/daily-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/2e726c65dce34b0d921ef558e8a15e4a" /> Image Facebook / 7 News “The safety of our staff and patrons are our number one priority and the facility remains safe to attend. The pool has since reopened and the centre said it was “not aware of any risk to child safety”.

Legal

Lisa Curry returns to the pool with adorable grandson

In a swimming career that spanned 23 years, Lisa Curry was consistently ranked as one of the top 25 swimmers in the world. Representing the country a total of 16 times from 1977 to 1992, she remains the only Australian competitor to have held Commonwealth and Australian record in every stroke except backstroke. And now, after a long break, the 58-year-old is making her way back into the pool. Taking to Instagram on Monday, the athlete shared a video of her returning to the pool. "Rolling the tired heavy arms over," Lisa began. She added: "Time to get my mojo back - first swim for ages - seems like forever... actually was I ever an olympic swimmer but at least my nieces googles suit me And Flynn.... omg... cutest ever! @morgangruell @ryan.gruell." <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/tv/CKdVcPknali/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <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/tv/CKdVcPknali/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Lisa Curry AO (@lisacurry)</a> </div> </blockquote> In the video, Lisa starts off her swim with a few laps of freestyle. It then cuts to her grandson Flynn, who is eagerly waiting for his swimming lesson. "Are you a good swimmer, will you be good like granny?" Lisa can be hear asking her grandson. "Yeah!" Flynn enthusiastically replies, before giving a demonstration of his freestyle using his "big arms." "Good boy! Yay! What Olympics is that? 2040 Olympics, 50 freestyle," the proud grandmother can be heard telling Flynn. Fans quickly made their way to the comments to react to Lisa's return to the pool as well as her adorable relationship with her grandson. "I hope he has your love for the water," Flynn's father Ryan said. "Congrats Lisa, it's so hard to get up and moving after tragedy & trauma. You're doing so well," another person wrote. "Your stroke hasn't changed!! Flynn's big arms are gorgeous," a third penned. "You're wonderful and always inspiring," a fourth mused.

Beauty & Style

Bunning shoppers go nuts for 4-metre pool

Bunnings has helped Aussies stay cool ahead of a hot summer by dropping a bargain of a deal. The retail giant is selling a giant pool for the fraction of the price of having one built, with one fan pointing out it's perfect for summer. “Just wanted to appreciate this Bunnings pool for under $500,” the woman named Vikki wrote in the Bunnings Mums, Inspiration, Hacks, Tips and Tricks page, which has almost 100,000 members. “It is so decent and great size. “For any one who wants one, they are not online and there’s no click or collect. “Use the item number in the picture and call your stores or the Bunnings headquarters number and they will tell you who has it and you can buy off the shelf.” <div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> The Bestway Rectangular Pool Set Rectangle Pool is a 4.1m x 2m above ground pool that costs $490, that comes with a power steel frame, a pump and a ladder. “Thank you for posting about this pool,” one person posted. “I finally tracked one down. Picking it up on the weekend.” “Wow, so cheap,” said another impressed Facebook user. Stock may vary at different Bunnings stores. </div> </div> </div>

Home Hints & Tips

“Scumbag” man slammed for stripping down in Anzac Pool of Reflection

A man is yet to be identified after he stripped down to just his underwear and waded through the Pool of Reflection at Sydney’s Anzac Memorial. The internet caught wind of the man after a Reddit user shared a photo of the man online in the middle of the Memorial pool. He was spotted in his semi-nude state and posing for a photo in the Hyde Park memorial in Sydney’s CBD. Reddit user nextspedition posted the photograph for the world to see. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7838544/anzac.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/2a17901002444be8ab7ee7c9355ac6b2" /> “Congrats on the muscles mate, but how about not doing your photo shoot in the ANZAC pool of reflection? Ya know, like respect?” the post read. Other Reddit users were quick to slam the man for his actions, as the pool holds significant importance. It has a symbolic association with Anzac soldiers’ battles in France and Belgium. “I reckon its some scumbag influencer getting ready for November 11th” one Reddit user suggested. “Can’t even blame it on tourists because there are none,” another wrote. The Anzac Memorial pays tribute and gives honour to the service and sacrifice of servicemen, servicewomen, and their families. “The Anzac Memorial holds a significant historical collection of approximately 6000 objects that tell the personal stories of servicemen and servicewomen, and their families,” reads the Anzac Memorial website.

News

5 amazing swimming pools from around the world

You’ll definitely want to add these unbelievable pools to your bucket list once we're allowed to travel again. These pools aren’t your average run-of-the-mill rectangular hotel pools. With jaw-dropping views, unique concepts, and even terrifying experiences, curiosity will definitely get the better of you when it comes to pool time. Here are some of the most unique pools our world has to offer. Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7837842/the-blue-lagoon.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/a7eedfbcba354178a76e85a1fe9bc1da" /> In Grindavik, Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous spots in the country because of its transcendent geothermal features. Heated water is vented naturally from the ground and remains at around 37 degrees Celsius. Some say that the water has healing powers for various skin diseases. San Alfonso del Mar <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7837843/san-alfonso-del-mar.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/959e6a7358a0466684d1cf029809f20c" /> Chile’s San Alfonso del Mar is a private resort in the beachside city of Algarrobo, and boasts one of the world’s largest man-made swimming pools. Spanning over 1000 metres, the deep end plunges to 35 metres. The annual maintenance fee is said to be over US$3 million. Ubud Hanging Gardens <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7837841/ubud-hanging-gardens.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/c112f69b256f4d29ba0d96e4d92b7d33" /> Sharing its name with one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the Hanging Gardens swimming pool in Ubud is located in a luxurious Balinese resort. The pool clings to a precipitous edge of the densely forested valley, allowing swimmers to overlook the trees from the elevated waters above. SkyPark, Singapore <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7837844/skypark-singapore.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/800c1b25927f41caa556aaff97f26b87" /> Skypark at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore boasts an infinity pool 55 stories above ground. At the world’s most expensive hotel, the water flows over the edge of the building giving swimmers a jaw-dropping view of the city. Devil’s Pool, Victoria Falls, Africa <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7837840/devils-pool-at-the-top-of-victoria-falls.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/1826629db2144f90a7839aed3af37f78" /> At the top of Victoria Falls in Africa, one of the largest waterfalls in the world, this natural formation called Devil’s Pool can safely hold swimmers and give them an amazing view of the natural wonder. A rock wall sits at the edge of the pool preventing the water from pulling swimmers over the side. Written by Emma Taubenfeld. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/travel/12-amazing-swimming-pools-from-around-the-world">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, here’s our <a href="https://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRA93V">best subscription offer</a>. <img style="width: 100px !important; height: 100px !important;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7820640/1.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/f30947086c8e47b89cb076eb5bb9b3e2" />

Cruising

12 amazing swimming pools from around the world

These pools aren’t your average run-of-the-mill rectangular hotel pools. With jaw-dropping views, unique concepts, and even terrifying experiences, curiosity will definitely get the better of you when it comes to pool time. Here are some of the most unique pools our world has to offer. Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa In Grindavik, Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous spots in the country because of its transcendent geothermal features. Heated water is vented naturally from the ground and remains at around 37 degrees Celsius. Some say that the water has healing powers for various skin diseases. San Alfonso del Mar Chile’s San Alfonso del Mar is a private resort in the beachside city of Algarrobo, and boasts one of the world’s largest man-made swimming pools. Spanning over 1000 metres, the deep end plunges to 35 metres. The annual maintenance fee is said to be over US$3 million. Ubud Hanging Gardens Sharing its name with one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the Hanging Gardens swimming pool in Ubud is located in a luxurious Balinese resort. The pool clings to a precipitous edge of the densely forested valley, allowing swimmers to overlook the trees from the elevated waters above. SkyPark, Singapore Skypark at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore boasts an infinity pool 55 stories above ground. At the world’s most expensive hotel, the water flows over the edge of the building giving swimmers a jaw-dropping view of the city. Devil’s Pool, Victoria Falls, Africa At the top of Victoria Falls in Africa, one of the largest waterfalls in the world, this natural formation called Devil’s Pool can safely hold swimmers and give them an amazing view of the natural wonder. A rock wall sits at the edge of the pool preventing the water from pulling swimmers over the side. Pamukkale Pools, Turkey The white calcium and limestone deposits of the Pamukkale Pools in Turkey serve as shelves in the water. The pools are known for their abundance of minerals, with many visitors believing they have healing powers. Huvafen Fushi, Maldives This resort in the Maldives is known as ‘sensory heaven’. The pool mimics the clear night sky and fireflies, making this a truly romantic spot. Mona Vale Beach Rock Pool, Sydney This pool on Sydney’s northern beaches is located at the tip of a sand spit at the northern end of Mona Vale Beach. At high tide the pool becomes surrounded by water, creating the illusion for swimmers of floating in the middle of the ocean. Cave pools, Santorini Carved into the mountains slopes of the Greek island of Santorini are villas and hotel suites – or ‘caves’. The cave hotels come in numerous shapes and sizes, many with their own stunning lagoons that provide jaw-dropping views across the Aegean Sea. Gellert Baths, Budapest Founded over 100 years ago and located in the Gellert Hotel in Budapest, the Gellert Baths has 10 pools of different sizes and temperatures, all in an Art Nouveau setting. With mosaic floors and stained-glass windows, this is one of Hungary’s most photogenic spots. Ik Kil Cenote, Mexico This stunning natural pool is in Ik Kil Archeological Park in Mexico. About 30 metres wide and 40 metres deep, the pool has waterfalls and wild jungle plants. And it only costs US$6 to swim here! Written by Emma Taubenfeld. This article first appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/travel/12-amazing-swimming-pools-from-around-the-world">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.com.au/subscribe">here’s our best subscription offer</a>.

International Travel

Swimming pool bans and $50K fines: What the new water restrictions mean for you

The beginning of spring has marked the start of the NSW Government’s new water limitations that come with heavy fines available for individuals and businesses. The stage one restrictions have technically been in place since June 1, but the three-month grace period has expired. Those who don’t comply will pay the price with harsher stage two restrictions expected to set in within the next 12 months and stage three won’t be too far behind. Hose bans, personal water limits and up to $50,000 for violations are among measures that are going to be considered in the absence of rain. The stage one restrictions are usually implemented when dam levels drop below 50 per cent, and they’re currently sitting at just below 49 per cent for the first time in 12 years. There’s little relief expected in the coming months, as the Bureau of Meteorology’s spring climate outlook has forecasted a drier than average season for most of the country. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en-gb"> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Spring?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Spring</a> is just around the corner… so what's the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BOMoutlook?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BOMoutlook</a> for the next 3 months? 🌱 🌼 🌸 Drier and warmer-than-average conditions are likely to continue in the coming months, with above-normal <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bushfire?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bushfire</a> potential and frost risk. Find out more: <a href="https://t.co/Gn6IiIvAx6">https://t.co/Gn6IiIvAx6</a> <a href="https://t.co/9Q886liXbc">pic.twitter.com/9Q886liXbc</a> — Bureau of Meteorology, Australia (@BOM_au) <a href="https://twitter.com/BOM_au/status/1166946322995384321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">29 August 2019</a></blockquote> What do the stage one restrictions mean for you? The restrictions mean for businesses and residents, you are not able to: <ul> <li>Water your lawn or gardens between 10 am and 4 pm</li> <li>Use standard sprinklers and watering systems at any time</li> <li>Leave hoses running unattended</li> <li>Wash vehicles and buildings with a hose that isn’t fitted with a trigger nozzle or high-pressure cleaning equipment</li> <li>Clean hard surfaces such as paths, driveways and paved areas with a hose as part of a general clean </li> </ul> Fines of $220 apply to individuals and $550 for businesses and will be handed out by community water officers that drive around Sydney’s suburbs. Sydney Water is also encouraging residents to file a complaint about any neighbours who fail to comply with restrictions.

Domestic Travel

Can you spot the child drowning in a public pool?

Video footage has captured the horrifying moment an eagle-eyed lifeguard spots a child drowning in a public pool, packed with swimmers. The lifeguard immediately springs into action when she notices the swimmer in distress, in a pool that is believed to be in the US. The video, posted to the YouTube channel Lifeguard Rescue, shows the child losing their grip on an inflatable ring and then calling for help with their arms in the air. Can you spot the child in distress? <img style="width: 500px; height:278.391167192429px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7820071/1.jpg?width=500&height=278.391167192429" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/4de3d225a79d4ffd87a621c5f29408c1" /> The child is in the deep end of the pool near the middle, between two groups of swimmers. The footage shows the lifeguard jumping into the pool with her emergency life float and dragging the child to safety. <img style="width: 500px; height:301.2618296529968px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7820072/2.jpg?width=500&height=301.2618296529968" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/2835515ec11c45d0a0bb4e3d8355d16a" /> According to the <a href="https://www.royallifesaving.com.au">Royal Life Saving National Report</a>, 291 people drowned in Australia in the 2017 financial year. The report reveals that 44 of those deaths occurred in a swimming pool.

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5 amazing swimming pools from around the world

12 amazing swimming pools from around the world

Swimming pool bans and $50K fines: What the new water restrictions mean for you

Can you spot the child drowning in a public pool?

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