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What washing machine settings can I use to make my clothes last longer?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/alessandra-sutti-1513345">Alessandra Sutti</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amol-patil-1513347">Amol Patil</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/maryam-naebe-1513346">Maryam Naebe</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> Orbiting 400 kilometres above Earth’s surface, the astronauts on the International Space Station live a pretty normal social life, if not for one thing: they happily wear their unwashed clothes <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/centers-and-facilities/glenn/nasa-glenn-interns-take-space-washing-machine-designs-for-a-spin/">for days and weeks at a time</a>. They can’t do their laundry <a href="https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Engineering_Technology/Keeping_your_underwear_clean_on_the_Moon">just yet</a> because water is scarce up there. But down here on Earth, washing clothes is a large part of our lives. <a href="https://bigee.net/media/filer_public/2013/03/28/bigee_domestic_washing_machines_worldwide_potential_20130328.pdf">It’s estimated</a> that a volume of water equivalent to 21,000 Olympic swimming pools is used every day for domestic laundry worldwide. Fibres from our clothes make their way into the environment via the air (during use or in the dryer), water (washing) and soil (lint rubbish in landfill). Most of this fibre loss is invisible – we often only notice our favourite clothing is “disappearing” when it’s too late. How can you ensure your favourite outfit will outlast your wish to wear it? Simple question, complex answer. <h2>Washing machines are not gentle</h2> When you clean the filters in your washing machine and dryer, how often do you stop to think that the lint you’re holding <a href="https://theconversation.com/uk-laundry-releases-microfibres-weighing-the-equivalent-of-1-500-buses-each-year-199712">was, in fact, your clothes</a>? Laundering is harsh on our clothes, and <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0250346">research confirms this</a>. Several factors play a role: the type of washing machine, the washing cycle, detergents, temperature, time, and the type of fabric and yarn construction. There are two types of domestic washing machines: top-loader and front-loader. Mechanical agitation (the way the machine moves the clothes around) is one of the things that helps ease dirt off the fabric. Top-loaders have a vertical, bucket-like basket with a paddle, which sloshes clothes around in a large volume of water. Front-loaders have a horizontal bucket which rotates, exposing the clothes to a smaller volume of water – it takes advantage of gravity, not paddles. Top-loading machines <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12541-010-0047-7">tend to be more aggressive</a> towards fabrics than front-loaders due to the different mechanical action and larger volumes of water. Washing machine panels also present many choices. Shorter, low-temperature programs <a href="https://clevercare.info/more-eco-temperature-tips">are usually sufficient for everyday stains</a>. Choose longer or <a href="https://iprefer30.eu/animations/UK/wash-brochure-uk.pdf">high-temperature programs</a> only for clothing you have concerns about (healthcare uniforms, washable nappies, etc.). Generally, washing machine programs are carefully selected combinations of water volume, agitation intensity and temperature recommended by the manufacturer. They take into consideration the type of fabric and its level of cleanliness. Select the wrong program and you can say goodbye to your favourite top. For example, high temperatures or harsh agitation may cause some fibres to weaken and break, causing holes in the garment. <h2>Some fabrics lose fibres more easily than others</h2> At a microscopic level, the fabric in our clothes is made of yarns – individual fibres twisted together. The nature and length of the fibres, the way they are twisted and the way the yarns form the fabric can determine how many fibres will be lost during a wash. In general, if you want to lose fewer fibres, you should wash less frequently, but some fabrics are affected more than others. Open fabric structures (knits) with loose yarns <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-98836-6">can lose more fibres</a> than tighter ones. Some sports clothing, like running shirts, are made of continuous filament yarn. These fibres are less likely to come loose in the wash. Cotton fibres are only a few centimetres long. Twisted tightly together into a yarn, they can still escape. Wool fibres are also short, but have an additional feature: scales, which make wool clothes much more delicate. Wool fibres can come loose like cotton ones, but also tangle with each other during the wash due to their scales. This last aspect is what causes wool garments to shrink when <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/004051756403400303">exposed to heat</a> and agitation. <h2>Go easy on the chemicals</h2> The type of detergent and other products you use also makes a difference. Detergents contain a soap component, enzymes to make stains easier to remove at low temperature, and fragrances. Some contain harsher compounds, such as bleaching or whitening agents. Modern detergents are very effective at <a href="https://www.choice.com.au/home-and-living/laundry-and-cleaning/laundry-detergents/review-and-compare/laundry-detergents">removing stains such as food</a>, and you don’t need to use much. An incorrect choice of wash cycles, laundry detergent and bleaching additives could cause disaster. Certain products, like bleach, can <a href="https://site.extension.uga.edu/textiles/textile-basics/understand-your-fibers/">damage some fibres like wool and silk</a>. Meanwhile, research on <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0269749120366872?via%3Dihub">fabric softeners and other treatments</a> <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0233332&type=printable">continues</a> – there’s no one-size-fits-all answer about their potential impact on our clothes. <h2>Just skip laundry day</h2> So, how to ensure your clothes last longer? The main tip is to wash them less often. When it’s time for a wash, carefully read and follow the care labels. In the future, our washing machines will <a href="https://www.teknoscienze.com/tks_article/trends-in-laundry-by-2030/">recognise fabrics and select the wash cycle</a>. For now, that’s our responsibility. And the next time you throw your shirt into the dirty laundry basket, stop. Think of the astronauts orbiting above Earth and ask yourself: if they can go without clean laundry for a few days, maybe I can too? (Although we don’t recommend just burning your dirty undies, either.)<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/224064/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C1j6KLP492E?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/alessandra-sutti-1513345">Alessandra Sutti</a>, Associate Professor, Institute for Frontier Materials, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amol-patil-1513347">Amol Patil</a>, Research Engineer, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/maryam-naebe-1513346">Maryam Naebe</a>, Associate professor, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-washing-machine-settings-can-i-use-to-make-my-clothes-last-longer-224064">original article</a>. </div>

Home & Garden

Landmark aged care reforms set to benefit millions of Aussies

The federal government has reached a deal with the coalition for the long-awaited aged care reforms including $4.3 billion for in-home services. This means that senior citizens will be given more support and choice to live their golden years in dignity, as they intend to help them live at home for longer and improve conditions and protections for those in aged care facilities. "$4.3 billion will be invested in Support at Home, to come into effect on the first of July next year," Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced at Parliament House on Thursday. The Support at Home package is expected to help 1.4 million Australians live independently at home with support, before going into aged care by 2035. It will provide support for nursing, occupational therapy and day-to-day tasks like cleaning, showering, dressing and shopping, with wait times for packages cut from 12 to three months. The government will also pay all of the cost of clinical care services, with a lifetime contribution cap of $130,000 for non-clinical care costs. Those using the Support at Home program could also get $25,000 in aid to spend their final three months at home, instead of the hospital. The $5.6 billion reform package is also set to affect the availability of funding for residential aged care, including a "no worse off" assurance that people currently in aged care won't be asked to pay more for their care. New aged care quality standards will also be implemented to improve the sector and drive higher-quality care. The government also promised more resources to investigate and penalise bad behaviour by providers. Albanese said the reforms will be the "greatest improvement" to the aged care sector in 30 years. “This is about caring for the generation that cared for us,” he said. “We will deliver historic aged care reforms to ensure the viability and quality of our aged care system and support the growing number of older Australians choosing to retain their independence and remain in their homes as they age.” Aged Care Minister Anika Wells said the changes would lead to more services for older Australians. “Our reforms will create better and safer care, help reduce the fear of a system that has been neglected for far too long,” she said. The reform has been welcomed as the number of Australians over the age of 65 is expected to double and those older than 85 are predicted to triple in the next four decades. Images: Shutterstock

Caring

Craig McLachlan set to return to Aussie screens

Six years after being "crucified" in the public eye, Craig McLachlan is set to make his return to Aussie screens. The 58-year-old was unexpectedly approached by movie producers who asked him to star in a new feature film, almost seven years since his last on-screen project. Speaking exclusively with <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-13716307/Craig-McLachlan-Neighbours-Rocky-Horror-comeback-movie.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail Australia</a>, McLachlan said his return to the big screen had helped him deal with the "poisonous hate" that had eaten away at him since he was hounded out of the industry six years ago. In 2018, McLachlan was forced to quit his leading role as Frank-N-Furter in a 2018 production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show after three of his former female co-stars accused him of serious inappropriate behaviour while performing alongside him four years earlier. The former Neighbours star was charged with 13 offences of assault and indecent assault after Victoria Police investigated the allegations but he was ultimately acquitted on all counts following a four-week trial in December 2020. Now, McLachlan candidly admitted that he was unlikely to ever find it in his heart to forgive the former co-stars who accused him of sexual harassment, and that he still blames them for "ruining" his life. "Here's the thing: hate is a poisonous thing. You have to get rid of the hate – and I've done that," he said. "Forgiveness is a different story. That’s hard s**t to do." McLachlan said he had "fallen out of love" with show business after his "public crucifixion" but decided to accept the role after discussing the opportunity with long-term partner Vanessa Scammell. "I only just went and met with the producers and the director last week and agreed to do it," he said. "I wasn't expecting to be approached about a return to acting… and certainly not about signing on to do a film – it was a complete surprise." "But it's a fantastic Australian production and Vanessa and I sat down and discussed it - and talked about whether it was the right thing for both of us. When you've had your life destroyed like mine has been, you need to take a little time to rest and recalibrate." "I haven't rushed into anything. I needed to think about what we wanted to do and what - physically - I could do. And we decided this was the right thing for us." McLachlan, who has been in therapy since the allegations first came to light, said he was grateful for his partner's support during the difficult few years, and is happy to be making his return to screen with a new lease on life. "When the s**t kicks off in the media, people start running for cover and they're afraid to put their heads up to support you publicly because they're worried about them getting chopped off," he said. "I'll be forever grateful to those people who did stand by me – people like Vanessa – who helped me keep going." "Irrespective of what anyone has ever said or alleged about me, nothing I do or say would ever be done intentionally to make anyone else feel uncomfortable. I know that’s not who I am." "But as for forgiveness? Ask me again about forgiveness a little further down the track." Image credits: Getty Images

Movies

"Dignified retirement": Aussies set for $21k cash boost

The average Australian is set to receive a $21,000 cash boost following a change to superannuation contributions. From July the superannuation guarantee increased from 11 to 11.5 per cent, meaning that the compulsory superannuation payments made by employers have risen. This means that an average worker earning around $72,000 would pocket an extra $21,000 at retirement as a result of the permanent increase, according to an analysis by the Treasury Department. “Wages growth and tax cuts are putting cash in people’s pockets now, and our increase to the super guarantee will put cash in people’s pockets for the future,” Treasurer Jim Chalmers said. “This will make a meaningful difference for millions of Australians who deserve a dignified retirement. “The superannuation guarantee has increased three times under our government.” The government has been progressively increasing the super guarantee rate until it hits 12 per cent, which will come into effect from July 2025. The concessional super contributions cap - the amount that you can invest into your super each year without copping extra tax and includes employer payments - also increased on July 1, up from $27,500 to $30,000 per year. In addition to this, the after-tax super or non-concessional super contributions cap has also been increased from $110,000 to $120,000. Image: Shutterstock

Retirement Income

Roadside cameras set to target more infringements

Millions of Aussie drivers are being warned as authorities expand the number of infringements being targeted by roadside cameras. The technology, initially used to detect mobile phone use, will now target new road rules. "The laws were brought in and this technology was brought in as a preventative measure ... to stop people getting behind the wheel and taking risks that jeopardise the safety of others," NRMA head of media told Yahoo News. "The road toll is terrible nationally in Australia ... So we need to do everything we can to reduce risks on our roads." In NSW authorities are expanding the capabilities of their roadside mobile-detection cameras. From July 1 the cameras will be able to catch drivers wearing their seatbelt incorrectly. This comes after Queensland reportedly became the first jurisdiction in the world to roll out seatbelt-spotting detection along with mobile-detection. Last year, Victoria also rolled out dual mobile phone and seatbelt detection cameras last year after a two year trial. No grace period will be granted when they issue the seatbelt fines. "The expansion of mobile phone detection cameras to also apply to seatbelt offences reinforces the NSW Government’s commitment to enforcing the 50-year-old seatbelt law, actively contributing to improving road safety and reducing fatalities on NSW roads," a statement read on their official website. The department told Yahoo that all images captured by roadside cameras are automatically reviewed by software. Those that do not contain evidence of an offence will have their images deleted within an hour. Drivers in the ACT will need to make sure they have proper insurance and registration. From August, the roadside cameras alongside speed cameras and red light cameras will be used to send hefty fines to those driving without proper registration or insurance. Those caught by the cameras will have their paperwork manually checked by transport staff. An infringement for driving an unregistered vehicle in the ACT is $700 while the fine for driving an uninsured car is $973. The mobile detection cameras could also soon be programmed to detect speeding in the ACT. In South Australia, authorities began testing overhead mobile detection cameras at four busy locations in April, fines are currently not being issued, but the grace period is due to finish on June 19. Drivers caught using their phones in Adelaide will be fined $540 and three demerit points. Image: Stepan Skorobogadko / Shutterstock.com

Travel Trouble

Millions of Aussies set for pay rise

Millions of Aussies are in line for a boost on July 1, with the Fair Work Commission set to hand down their decision on minimum pay rates on Monday morning. The workplace umpire's annual wage review, which affects minimum and award wage earners, is expected to hand down an increase of between 3.5 per cent and 4 per cent on the pay rate of $23.23 an hour. These wage increases factor in economic conditions and broader goals such as closing the gender pay gap. A substantial boost was handed out last year - 5.75 per cent for awards and 8.6 per cent for the national minimum - with the commission basing their decision on factors like low unemployment, falling wages and high inflation. The Albanese government has submitted that it would prefer the “real wages of Australia’s low-paid workers do not go backwards." “We want to see strong and sustainable wages growth because we see this as part of the solution to the cost-of-living challenge, not part of the problem,” Treasurer Jim Chalmers said ahead of the decision. No number was specified but they are advocating to an increase which keeps up with inflation, which was at 4.1 per cent annually in the March quarter. In their submission, the government also said that tax relief due to kick in mid-year should not be viewed as a replacement to a wage boost. Meanwhile, peak employee representative the ACTU, has advocated for an increase of 5 per cent, arguing that workers affected by the cost-of-living pressures deserve a hike to their pay. Australian Industry Group has proposed a wage increase of 2.8 per cent, warning that an excessive pay boost could increase the risk of job losses, as the economy is slowing and labour market is weakening. Economists have also warned that an increase of over 4 per cent could further complicate the Reserve Bank’s efforts in fighting inflation, which have already slugged borrowers with 13 rate hikes in the last two years. But AMP chief economist Shane Oliver said that an increase of at or just below 4 per cent, could help the RBA return inflation back to its target band of two to three per cent. “A rise around 4 per cent would give workers a real wage rise, it’s not so high as to add to the risk of a wage price spiral, … and in line with the rough assessment that 4 per cent wages growth is consistent with 2 per cent to 3 per cent inflation.” Image: Shutterstock

Money & Banking

Racist street name set to change

The name of a street in northern NSW is set to be changed after an Uber driver stumbled across it and alerted locals to its racist background. Byron Shire Council announced that Hottentot Crescent in Mullumbimby, will soon be renamed Moonlight Close, after the council deemed Hottentot - a racist term for Indigenous South Africans - no longer appropriate for use. Jonny Simons, a local man who moved to Australia from South Africa in the 1980s, was the first person to petition for the name change back in November, after the Uber driver tipped him off. He garnered 383 signatures in the petition, but not all residents and community members supported the change. Last year, there were 12 submissions from past and present residents objecting to the council's name change proposal. One resident insisted on keeping the name saying: “My understanding is that our street name was chosen decades ago, after a tree, the Hottentot Bean Tree (Schotia Brachypetala). Never in my time as a resident here, have I heard another person ever relate the street name in regards to a racial slur." “While I appreciate the concerns raised, it is essential to acknowledge that names can change in meaning and connotation over the years. “Altering the street name would greatly impact residents and the council long term with endless administrative changes and potential financial costs.” However, five other submissions were in favour of the change, with one writing: “a racial slur is a racial slur even if a tree is named after it. As much as I loved the sound of the name, it has to go.” A few other names were put forward, including Drunken Parrot Place - named after a nearby tree full of lorikeets getting drunk in spring and summer - but the council ultimately decided on Moonlight Close. In November, following community consultation, the council’s director of infrastructure services Phillip Holloway, recommended the name change “on the basis that there is more lasting value in trying to minimise the type of hurt this particular name could cause some people over the long term", over avoiding costs to the residents in the short term. He added that many of the residents were unaware of the racist connotation of the name "beyond naming the relevant tree", and that "the tree name itself is racially loaded" because it is linked to the slur used towards the Khoisan people "who used the tree for food during South Africa’s colonisation.” Simons, who petitioned for the change, said he doesn't hold anything against the residents who were against the name change as "they didn't know what it meant". "They thought it was the name of a tree, but that tree was named as such because the Khoisan people of South Africa ate the fruit of that tree," he said. Image: Google Maps

Legal

“Turn his life around”: Paul Hogan’s grandson set to be released from prison

The grandson of Crocodile Dundee is set to be released from prison after 57 days behind bars. Jake Paul Hogan, 34, broke down in court after learning that his father has moved to Sydney to support him in living a life without crime when he leaves jail. His father Todd Hogan, who is the son of the Crocodile Dundee star, flew back from New Zealand to support his son at the sentencing at the Downing Centre Local Court, which Jake appeared at via audio link. The younger Hogan was in custody on remand after his bail was refused in March, and was sentenced on Wednesday for breaking into apartment buildings to fund his “high-level drug habit” and for breaching a court order against an ex-girlfriend. Before falling into a life of drugs, Jake worked as a carpenter but soon became homeless after his drug addiction took hold. In order to fund his drug habit, the 34-year-old began sleeping in abandoned buildings, and stealing clothes and other items to sell for cash. Deputy Chief Magistrate Sharon Freund described Jake’s actions as a “sudden escalation of offending” after his life broke down, while also telling the court she was “comforted” by the fact he was supported by his father Todd and sister in court. “This is a young man that needs some scaffolding, he totally has the ability to turn his life around,” she said. “No doubt you were having difficulty seeing the light at the end of the tunnel and managing to find your way out of the hole.” The court was told Jake’s father was having trouble contacting his son during his difficult times, and had even flown to Sydney from New Zealand to find him. “Mr Hogan you are phenomenally lucky to have these supports,” Ms Freund said. She told the court Jake’s father is set to remain in Sydney to give him support when he leaves custody. Jake was convicted of all charges and sentenced to a community corrections order for two years, and an intensive corrections order for nine months. “I wish you good luck Mr Hogan,” Ms Freund said. Image credits: Getty Images / Facebook

Legal

Hughesy spills the beans on major shows set to be axed

Dave Hughes has shared his prediction that The Masked Singer is die to be axed from Network Ten's lineup this year as the network continues to battle dwindling ratings. The host of the show made the admission on his radio show on Tuesday, saying he hadn't been given any updates on when filming was due to commence. “We’ve been waiting on a production schedule. That production schedule has not come through, so as far as I know, The Masked Singer won’t be filmed this year for Channel 10,” Hughes said on his show Hughesy, Ed and Erin on 2DayFM. “We’ve had such a great time over those years, it’s been such a fun show to be on, so many great singers have been on,” he continued. “We’ve had great panels. We started with Jackie O, Dannii Minogue, [Lindsay] Lohan, then Urzila Carlson came in, we’ve got Abbie Chatfield, Chrissy Swan, Mel B. All stars in their own right." “It’s a tough one for the production team.” Later during the radio show, Hughesy and the team called Osher Günsberg to question whether The Bachelor was facing the same grim fate as The Masked Singer. “I tell you what, I haven’t cancelled our trip to Fiji, which is in the middle of the shooting window we normally have [for The Bachelor],” Günsberg, who has been host of the dating show since 2013, said. Osher went on to criticise Australian TV for putting British and American shows on prime time, rather than favouring homegrown talent. “I personally feel we really need to value our own stories, and our culture, and our own voices far more highly,” he said. “And we’ve got to do what we need to do to make that happen on our screens." “If we’re not going to sing our own songs and tell our own stories – we’re just going to be this weird echo of the US and the UK, and that’s not going to work out well for us.” Last year's season of The Bachelor premiered to the franchise’s lowest ratings in its decade-long history, while personalities involved with The Masked Singer have repeatedly said "it is a very expensive show to produce". Image credits: Ten

Woman fined after paid car park gets set up around her parked vehicle

Josephine Williams had been leaving her car in a gravel clearing at Westgate in Auckland, alongside other commuters to catch the bus into the city for months. The New Zealand woman was left with a "nasty surprise" when she returned from work on Monday to find a NZ $85 ($77) fine sitting on her windshield. "To my unfortunate surprise - and many others - I was greeted by an $85 parking ticket for a breach and a flyer from Wilson Parking saying paid parking had started that day," Williams told Stuff. "But what breach exactly was made? How was I supposed to know paid parking started that day when there was nothing at all displayed anywhere in the car park?" Williams claimed that the Wilson Parking car park had been set up around her already parked car, even providing dash cam footage that showed her pulling into the gravel clearing at 7.45am, with no paid parking signs or Wilson branding in sight. By 6pm, a large red and white Wilson sign had been put up at the entrance, with "12 hours for $4" written on it. "Wilson deliberately put their sign up sometime after 9am and then took it upon themselves to fine every single car that was already parked there from the morning," Williams said. "$85 is a lot of money - it would have been two weeks' worth of grocery shopping for me," she added. "I'm lucky that I know the law and my rights, but some other people might not. What about students or the elderly or people who don't know English well?" She estimated that there was usually around 50 and 100 cars in the gravel clearing. Wilson argued that the carpark was always there and they had just added more signage, but have since waived Williams' fine after she lodged a request to have it reviewed by Parking Enforcement Services. Wilson Parking also said that they had started to set up the car park and installed a "clear signage" on April 22. "It was not set up around parked cars on 29 April as suggested," a Wilson spokesperson said. "Several payments were made by customers via the Parkmate app from 22 April proving that signage on the site was clear and effective," they said. They added that on April 29 more signs were added to all entry points of the car park. "In acknowledgment of the increased signage added on the 29th at the entry we've made the decision to refund all payments made until 30 April and waive any breach notices issued up to this date." They also denied issuing any breach notices before the signs were put up. "Payment options were available and signed from 22 April - but no infringement notices were issued prior to the 29th." Images: Stuff

Legal

Why this iconic view of Mt Fuji is set to be obstructed

One small town in Japan is fed up with disrespectful tourists, and is set to take drastic measures to block an iconic view of My Fuji to deter travellers. Fujikawaguchiko, at the foot of the Yoshida Trail to Mount Fuji, has long been overrun with tourists who are hellbent on getting the perfect picture of the Japanese mountain. Tourists specifically flock to the Lawson convenience store to take their pictures, with the contrast between the busy neon-lit shop and the peaceful mountain behind it making for the perfect holiday snap. However, in recent years since Japan reopened its borders to international tourists after harsh Covid lockdowns, these tourists have had the run of the town, and locals have had enough. To combat the over tourism of the area and deter travellers, local officials of the town are set to erect a giant mesh barrier atop the store, blocking the picture perfect view. One town official said that there have been ongoing problems with tourists leaving trash and not following traffic rules, despite signs and security guards being posted to warn them. "It is regrettable that we had to take such measures," the official said. The net, which measures 2.5 meters high and 20 meters long, will be erected early next week. The crowds plaguing the small town, which is in Yamanashi prefecture, to the north of Fuji and about 100 kilometres west of Tokyo, is just one part of a larger over tourism issue in the whole of Japan. "Overtourism – and all the subsequent consequences like rubbish, rising CO2 emissions and reckless hikers – is the biggest problem facing Mount Fuji," Masatake Izumi, a Yamanashi prefectural government official, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/travel/mount-fuji-overtourism-intl-hnk/index.html">told CNN Travel</a> in 2023. Some locals had even nicknamed the 3,776-meter (12,388-foot) mountain, called Fuji-san in Japanese, "trash mountain." Image credits: Getty Images

International Travel

Teen with Down Syndrome sets new world record

A 19-year-old teen with Down Syndrome has conquered the London Marathon and became a Guinness World Record after just five months of training. Lloyd Martin from Cardiff completed the 42.1 km course across the capital with his mother cheering him on. Guinness World Record has awarded him the certificate for becoming the youngest person in his learning disability category to finish a marathon. "I'm so excited to run London. I love being fit and healthy and I want to make my family and friends proud," the teenager said. Mum Ceri Hooper also told the BBC how proud she was of her son's accomplishment. "In Lloyd's words, it's achieving his dream," she said. "Really anything is possible if you put your mind to it. With a bit of work, you can achieve it." Recalling the experience, the proud mum said: "He ran continuously for 14 miles which is the longest he's ever run before." Although Lloyd walked for a bit after his 14-mile-long streak, the crowd cheered him on every step of the way, and despite the challenge the mother-and-son duo had "a ball". The pair were at a loss for words when he finally crossed the finish line and they both "burst into tears." Lloyd is also now the third Welsh Special Olympics athlete to compete in the London Marathon. Prior to completing the world-famous marathon, Lloyed had completed an astonishing 30 Parkruns. Until last Christmas the teenager had never run further than three miles, but his mother was determined to get him marathon-ready. Ceri, who has taken on the London Marathon four times, created a specialised training regime for her son which included weekly runs. Lloyd managed to secure a spot in the marathon thanks to the help of the Special Olympics GB, where he is also a footballer and a gymnast. Images: Facebook/ Twitter

Caring

The Wiggles set sail for their latest venture

The Wiggles have collaborated with an unusual partner to help Aussie families have the ultimate holiday experience. The children's entertainers have teamed up with Royal Caribbean Cruises for a series of exclusive Wiggles Sailings which will begin their voyage in the summer of 2025-2026, with the Wiggly Friends joining in the fun. Taking centre stage on the cruises are the likes of cast favourites Captain Feathersword, Dorothy the Dinosaur, Henry the Octopus, Wags the Dog and Shirley Shawn the Unicorn. Captain Feathersword spoke exclusively to <a href="https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-updates/travel-stories/the-wiggles-nextlevel-move-revealed/news-story/04d9d6be943dda7b66ea25e008a9aad4" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a> to reveal what families can expect from the unique cruising experience. “Ahoy there, me hearties! Gather ‘round and listen close. The Wiggles have been sailin’ the seas of family fun for over three decades, and now, we’re settin’ course for an even bigger adventure,” he said. “Prepare yourselves for a tidal wave of excitement. Picture this: me, Captain Feathersword at the helm, Dorothy the Dinosaur dancin’ on the deck, Henry the Octopus wavin’ his tentacles in delight, Wags the Dog waggin’ his tail with joy, and Shirley Shawn the Unicorn prancin’ about in all their splendour." “It’s a cast of characters fit for a tale as legendary as the sea itself. So, me hearties, batten down the hatches and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime with The Wiggles and Royal Caribbean. Ahoy and hooray.” Kathryn Lock, senior marketing director at <a href="https://www.royalcaribbean.com/aus/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Royal Caribbean Cruises</a>, said they wanted to take their family adventures to the “next level” and create a truly unique adventure for current fans, first time cruisers and families alike. “The Wiggles have been entertaining Australian families for over 30 years, it’s one of Australia and the world’s most iconic family entertainment brands,” Ms Lock told news.com.au. “This exclusive partnership will enrich our cruise experience for the whole family and give them an impressive array of Wiggly Friends themed entertainment and trusted friends to guide them on their adventures with Royal Caribbean. We’re extremely excited for this partnership and what’s to come.” Image credits: Getty Images

Cruising

Why a one-cent stamp is set to sell for millions

An extremely rare stamp that was once bought for a measly one cent is set to sell for millions of dollars, breaking records at a US auction house. While to the untrained eye, the blue stamp seems like any old stamp, the 1868 one-cent Z-grill is actually the rarest stamp in America due to its unique history and rarity. On June 14th, the one-cent Z-grill will be put up for sale by Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries, marking the first time the rare stamp has been on auction since 1998. Experts from the New York auction house say it could fetch $6 million to $7.5 million (AUD), which would make it the single most expensive US stamp ever sold. The reason for the extraordinary price comes down to the fact that out of the two known Z-grill stamp copies, the one up for auction is the only copy available for private purchase by collectors, while other historic copy is held at the New York Public Library. The Z-grill is unique due to its signature embossed paper, which was introduced to the US postal service after the Civil War to prevent stamps from being reused. Since 2005, the coveted stamp has belonged to billionaire investor and “bond king” Bill Gross. “It’s considered the trophy of collecting United States stamps,” said Charles Shreve, who has managed and built Gross’ extensive stamp collection for years and serves as director of international auctions at Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries. “There’s only one. If you want to brag, that’s the stamp.” Mr Gross' entire collection is estimated to be worth $22.6 million to $30 million AUD. The top 100 stamps from the collection will be auctioned off on June 14th, while the remaining stamps will be sold on June 15th. “There’s multiple stamps that’ll bring $500,000 or $750,000 (USD) but the (one-cent) Z-grill is the star of the show,” Shreve said. “I just know some people who are lusting for it, and we want to try to get as many people interested in it as possible.” Image credits: Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries

Money & Banking

Millions of Aussies set for power bill relief

Millions of Aussies are set for some financial relief, with electricity costs set to drop by up to 7 per cent in the coming months. The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) and Victoria's Essential Services Commission (ESC) both released their draft default market offers - the maximum energy retailers are allowed to charge customers - for the 2024-25 financial year. Under the AER draft, residents in Sydney, Newcastle and the Hunter on the default offer will pay between 3 and 3.4 per cent less for electricity starting from July 1. The biggest drop is set for Victoria, with the ESC proposing a 6.4 per cent decrease. Those in Western Sydney, the Illawarra, and South Coast, will see their electricity bills decrease by 1.9 to 7.1 per cent. South Australians will receive a drop between 0.5 and 2.5 per cent. A number of small business customers will also benefit from lower power bill costs with 9.7 per cent for Sydney, Newcastle and the Hunter; 4.4 per cent for Western Sydney and the South Coast; 0.3 per cent for South-East Queensland; 8.2 per cent for South Australia; and 7 per cent for Victoria. Energy Minister Chris Bowen welcomed the news of lower power bill costs, but acknowledged that it will continue to play a part in the cost of living challenges faced by many Australians. "This is encouraging news," he said. "Encouraging for those small businesses and families who will receive lower energy bills as a result. "But nobody should suggest that there aren't real cost of living pressures around the world and in Australia, and energy prices are of course part of that and will continue to be." Not everyone will see a drop, with customers in the rest of regional NSW to get a small increase of 0.9 per cent, while the default offer for South East Queensland will increase by up to 2.7 per cent. While not all households are on the default offer, Bowen said that the AER's decision will also affect those not on the offer. "This either impacts directly or indirectly your energy bill," he said. "Directly for those on the default market offer. For those who aren't on the direct market offer, indirectly - the energy companies have to benchmark themselves against this, tell their consumers how they compare to this, and it provides very real pressure on them to match it. "If they don't, consumers will know about it and will make choices accordingly. "It's partly about those on the default market offer, but it actually impacts on all our bills indirectly." AER chair Clare Savage said that the cost of living crisis was the main contributor for their draft decision. "We know that economic conditions have put pressure on many Australians and the increases in electricity prices over the last two years has made energy less affordable for many households," she said. "In light of this, the AER has, in this decision, placed increased weight on protecting consumers." The draft decision is not final, with both the AER and ESC to receive consultation and feedback from stakeholders before confirming their default market offers in May. Image: Getty

Money & Banking

Rise in insurance premiums set to devastate Aussies

Australians struggling with the cost of living are set to be hit with another blow to their wallets as health insurance premiums rise. Coming into effect on April 1st, private health insurance premiums are set to rise by more than 3 per cent, in the biggest increase in five years. The federal government has approved an average industry premium rise of 3.03 per cent, which will impact 14 million Australians paying for private health cover. The 2024 increase is slightly higher than a rise of 2.9 per cent in 2023, and 2.7 per cent in 2022 and 2021. In 2019, premiums rose by 3.3 per cent, making the 2024 rise the biggest in five years. Health Minister Mark Butler said the rise was smaller than the increase in wages, the age pension and inflation. “I wasn’t prepared to just tick and flick the claims of health insurers, as the opposition asked me to do,” Butler said. “I asked insurers to go back and sharpen their pencils and put forward a more reasonable offer for the 15 million Australians with private health insurance.” “Private health insurers must ensure their members are getting value for money,” Butler said. “When costs rise, Australians want to know that higher premiums are contributing to system-wide improvements like higher wages for nurses and other health workers and ensuring that affordable services are available.” Image credits: Getty Images

Money & Banking

"We've all gone": Why Jackie O stormed off set

Jackie O Henderson has marched out of KIIS FM in the middle of The Kyle and Jackie O show, after finding out that the station has the highest gender pay gap disparity across Australian radio. “Southern Cross Austereo has a disgraceful 5.9% pay gap. At Nova and Smooth FM it is even worse, six per cent." Kyle Sandilands told listeners on Tuesday. "But unfortunately, the number one spot is at KIIS FM, – at the top of the tree with a 12% pay gap disparity.” Sandilands, who famously fought for Henderson to secure equal pay on their radio program, then brought on one of the show’s producers Pete Deppeler and another female KIIS FM producer, who revealed she was only being paid half of what Deppeler was. “Are you freaking joking? Why is Peter getting that much money? I’m so angry about that, it makes my blood boil,” Henderson replied. She then left the studios with all her female colleagues. “We’ve all gone,” she said. "We are just here with the fellas. I don’t know whether I am enjoying this, bring the girls back!” Sandilands told listeners. On Tuesday, the Workplace Gender Equality Agency published the gender pay gap for more than 5,000 Australian companies. This was done after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese ordered the information to be made public for the first time ever, so the data can be compared within and across industries. The new data revealed that the national gap for total remuneration sits at 19 per cent and the median Australian female worker is taking home $18,461 less than their male counterpart. Despite a few criticisms on Albanese's decision to publicise this data, Workplace Minister Tony Burke has said that releasing this data is effective. “People on this side know that releasing that sort of data is effective and you will only find in the other side of politics anyone arguing that it is useless,‘’ he said. “The days of secretly paying women less than men are now over.” Images: Kyle and Jacki O Show

Money & Banking

Zimmerman founder sets new price record for Bondi home

Simone Zimmerman has set a new home price record for Bondi, and she didn't even need to take out a mortgage. The fashion guru and founder of Zimmermann has splurged $30 million for her four-bedroom, three-bathroom home just moments away from the iconic Bondi Beach. “This ocean front executive residence is tucked away in a quiet street only moments to the iconic Bondi Beach and all it has to offer,” the listing for the beachside home read. According to property records, the home - which is located just behind the popular Bondi to Bronte walk - last sold for $5.75m in June 2008. The fashion mogul is reported to have bypassed local real estate agents, purchasing the home directly from a local investor. No major changes have been made to the home since, but prior to Zimmerman's purchase it was being rented out at $4,400 per week. According to PropTrack the median house price for Bondi is around $3.75m, which went up by 4.7 per cent over the past year. The stunning home features 4 double bedrooms, all with large built-in wardrobes and a separate study perfect for the business-woman. It also has a gourmet kitchen with a stainless-steel benchtop and large open dining room. The lounge room opens onto a large deck with beautiful ocean views and plenty of natural lighting. This comes after the luxury womenswear label sold a majority stake in its company to private equity investors in August last year. Sisters Simone and Nicky Zimmerman are founders of the brand, which initially began as a stall in Sydney’s Paddington market, before the sisters opened their first local shop in Darlinghurst. It now operates across 58 global destinations in the USA, UK, Europe and China, with the sisters now having an estimated net worth of around $1bn each. Images: Realestate.com.au

Money & Banking

Crown Princess Mary set to make history

Crown Princess Mary is set to make history, after a surprise announcement from Queen Margrethe has shaken up the Danish royal family. On New Year's Eve, Queen Margrethe, who is currently Europe's longest-serving monarch, announced that she would be stepping down as the Danish monarch from January 14th, making her eldest son, Crown Prince Frederik, the country's new King. The Crown Prince will be known as King Frederik X, and his wife, Australian-born Crown Princess Mary, will be his Queen Consort, and will be known as Queen Mary. While there have been monarchs known as Queen Mary in the past, the Tasmanian native will be the first ever Australian to hold the title. Unlike the British royal family, King Frederik and Queen Mary will not be crowned in a coronation service. Instead, a proclamation of the new reign will be made at Christiansborg Palace on January 14th, as the prime minister has proclaimed each new monarch on the balcony of the Danish palace since the early 1900s. The announcement from Queen Margrethe was made during her annual New Year's Eve speech, where she reflected on having surgery on her back in February 2023. “The surgery naturally gave rise to thinking about the future – whether the time had come to leave the responsibility to the next generation,” she said in the televised speech. “I have decided that now is the right time. On 14 January 2024 – 52 years after I succeeded my beloved father – I will step down as queen of Denmark,” she said. “I leave the throne to my son, Crown Prince Frederik,” she added. Image credits: Getty Images

Family & Pets

Carer allowance and disability pension set to increase

Over 936,000 Aussies are set to see a cash boost in the new year, as indexation to government payments takes effect from January. Australians receiving youth, student or carer support will receive a 6 per cent boost to their payments, as additional support to help them navigate the rising cost of living. “Australia’s social security system is a safety net that is continually strengthened and improved to support all vulnerable Australians,” Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said. “Through regular indexation, our payments are adjusted in line with changes in the cost of living to retain their purchasing power.” For over 600,000 carers, the Carer Allowance is set to increase to $153.50 a fortnight, while the Disability Support Pension for Australians under 21 will increase by $31.10 to $44.90 a fortnight. Youth Allowance payments are also set to increase between $22.40 and $45.60 a fortnight, while Austudy payments will increase by between $36.20 and $45.60. The new year increases are being set into motion after a $40 a fortnight increase to youth and student payment rates, which was effective from September 20. A complete list of the new payment increases can be found on the <a href="https://www.dss.gov.au/about-the-department/benefits-payments/previous-indexation-rates" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Department of Social Services website</a>. Image: Getty

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